Family experience of urban agriculture and solid waste management in the municipality of Emiliano Zapata, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

At the global level, there is concern about reducing the ecological footprint, generating strategies to adapt to climate change and achieving food security and sovereignty. Local initiatives in urban areas, such as the promotion of agroecological gardens, contribute to achieve these goals. The objective of this work was to describe a family experience of urban agriculture and solid waste management in the municipality of Emiliano Zapata, Veracruz, Mexico. A qualitative approach was applied, exploring and describing the experience under study through an open interview, with the participation of a family of 4 members. Three chronological stages are identified in the development of this experience: the initial stage (2001-2013), the stage of integration into the network of urban and peri-urban agriculture of Xalapa-Veracruz (2014-2020), and the stage of permanence at home derived from the COVID-19 pandemic. The separation of solid waste began in 2001. Organic waste is used to produce organic fertilizers through composting and vermicomposting, and inorganic waste is classified as non-recyclable and recyclable, the latter being taken to collection centers or used to make handmade parasols and magazine racks. Among the eco-techniques adopted are rainwater harvesting, which captures 24 m3 per year; and the living pharmacy, with more than 40 species of medicinal and aromatic plants. Over time, agrobiodiversity has increased in the orchard and agroecological pest management practices have been implemented. Another productive activity is raising chickens for egg production. The study shows that the benefits of urban gardens are multidimensional, as they contribute to protecting biodiversity, are living pharmacies, preserve biocultural memory and are spaces for learning and social participation. Political actors should promote initiatives in favor of urban and peri-urban agriculture.