A multifuncionalidade da agricultura urbana e a sua integração no ecossistema urbano da ilha de São Luís

Abstract

Serious urban problems in the cities occurred because of the continuous increase of the urban population, such as: food supply, especially the vulnerable social strata. Urban agriculture has a great potential for the useful lives of marginalized populations, and their relation between the city and the environment. The objective was to know the urban agriculture and socio-spatial characterization in São Luís. Quantitative and qualitative surveys were conducted to know the agriculture in their spaces and the actors in the current urban planning model of the municipality. The methodological course consisted in the accomplishment of bibliographical research, field research and qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The theoretical support was: Mougeot and Smit, in urban agriculture; Lefevbre and Harvey, for the relations between city and country; Ascher, Maricato and Burnett, for urban planning. The production of vegetables in the municipality of São Luís is insufficient for domestic supply, considering the production of the state of Maranhão, and the high number of imports of products from other states was verified. The lack of discussions and actions of the various actors in the formation of public policies for the development of urban agriculture were evidenced. In addition, the urban fragmentation in the municipality of São Luís was observed. Urban agriculture is feasible to increase internal food production in the municipality, seizes idle spaces, contributes to food security and conserves natural resources.