What is the significance of urban farming in sustainability?

Urban farming plays a crucial role in sustainability primarily because it enhances food security and reduces transportation emissions. By establishing food production systems within urban areas, urban farming allows communities to grow fresh produce locally. This not only provides access to healthy food options but also decreases the need for long-distance transportation of food items, which is often responsible for significant carbon emissions. When food is grown and consumed locally, it reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food from rural or global locations to urban centers.

Furthermore, urban farming encourages the use of sustainable practices, such as composting and recycling organic waste, which contribute to a healthier urban ecosystem. This local production helps balance the food supply chain and can lead to more resilient communities that are less vulnerable to supply disruptions.

The other options do not align with the principles of sustainability: an increase in transportation emissions contradicts the sustainability goal, exclusively relying on imported foods undermines local food systems, and focusing solely on ornamental gardening does not address food production or security concerns.

Thus, urban farming stands out as a significant contributor to sustainable practices, enhancing food security while minimizing the environmental impact associated with food transportation.