Climate change is one of the greatest crises of our time. This phenomenon, driven primarily by human activity, has altered the planet’s weather patterns, unleashing devastating consequences. Natural disasters such as floods, wildfires, and extreme droughts are increasing in frequency and intensity, affecting entire communities and ecosystems. A recent example was the tragedy in Valencia, where torrential rains left thousands of people homeless, a reminder that climate change knows no borders. Similar situations have occurred in regions such as Greece, which faced massive fires, or the Philippines, hit by more severe typhoons than ever before.
A 2°C increase in global temperature, considered a critical threshold by scientists, would have catastrophic impacts. This increase could lead to the melting of the poles at alarming levels, the disappearance of coral reefs, the mass extinction of species, and the intensification of extreme weather events. In simple terms, exceeding this threshold would mean a world more hostile to all living beings, with scarce natural resources and irreversibly damaged ecosystems.
Countering climate change is a shared responsibility. Regardless of our profession or field of action, all of us as citizens and inhabitants of the planet must take an active role in this fight. Although as architects we face a greater burden of responsibility due to the environmental impact our work can have, the reality is that every human being has a fundamental role in this collective effort. From small daily actions to global decisions, our choices make a difference.
What is eco-anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is an emotional response that arises from concern about environmental degradation and the feeling of facing a problem beyond our control. This form of anxiety, although not classified as a clinical disorder, can be debilitating for those who experience it. It manifests as stress, hopelessness, and sometimes, emotional paralysis in the face of the magnitude of climate change.
However, eco-anxiety can also be channeled as a driver of action. Recognizing our connection to the environment and taking concrete steps, even seemingly small ones, empowers us and restores a sense of agency.
Community Urban Gardens: A Local Solution with Global Impact
An effective way to mitigate eco-anxiety is to participate in initiatives that not only benefit the environment but also strengthen our communities. Community urban gardens are a perfect example of this. These initiatives allow us to reconnect with nature, reduce our carbon footprint, and build resilience to the effects of climate change.
From an architectural perspective, urban gardens offer the possibility of integrating productive green spaces into our cities, transforming rooftops, patios, and vacant lots into growing areas. Beyond their ecological impact, these spaces generate deeply significant social and emotional benefits:
Images created with AI by Cafeína Design
From an architectural perspective, urban gardens offer the possibility of integrating productive green spaces into our cities, transforming rooftops, patios, and vacant lots into growing areas. Beyond their ecological impact, these spaces generate profoundly significant social and emotional benefits:
- Community Empowerment:
Urban gardens foster a sense of community and belonging. According to studies by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), community gardens have been shown to increase social cohesion by 70% by bringing together people of different ages, cultures, and socioeconomic levels under a common purpose: growing sustainable food. This strengthening of relationships helps build support networks that are essential in times of crisis. - Environmental and Food Education:
In many cases, urban gardens function as educational platforms. According to a report by the University of California, children who participate in school gardens learn 40% more about nutrition and sustainability than those who are not exposed to these types of experiences. Additionally, these spaces raise awareness in communities about the importance of natural cycles, resource conservation, and the reduction of organic waste through practices such as composting. - Access to fresh and healthy food:
Urban gardens can contribute to food security in cities, especially in areas with limited access to fresh food. For example, a study from the University of Michigan showed that a well-planned network of urban gardens can supply up to 20% of fruit and vegetable needs in urban areas. This benefit not only improves the health of residents but also reduces dependence on long and polluting supply chains. - Mental well-being:
Contact with nature has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels. The University of Exeter in the United Kingdom conducted a study that found that participating in gardening activities at least three times a week can reduce symptoms of depression by 36%. Additionally, working in a garden promotes mindfulness, a practice that helps people focus on the present and connect with their surroundings in a positive way. - Resilience to climate change:
Urban gardens not only beautify cities, but also have a direct impact on their ability to adapt to climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide, reduce the heat island effect, and improve water infiltration into the soil, reducing the risk of flooding.
As architects, integrating urban gardens into our projects is not only an environmentally responsible decision, but also a strategy for building stronger and more resilient communities. From including areas for vertical farming in residential buildings to designing parks that combine growing areas with recreational spaces, every action counts. By doing so, we not only help mitigate the effects of climate change but also empower people to combat eco-anxiety through action and connection with nature.
