Cultivating Common Ground

Abstract

The importance of fostering connections between people and the natural world in urban environments becomes evident in radically inclusive co-productions or heterogenizing collective actions in a critical vision. In this context, the transformation of nature and culture in urban areas can be examined through the lens of resistance in urban green spaces. These spaces can be considered third natures, marginalized by the hygienic and modernization tendencies of urban policies. The practice of small-scale production in community gardens, informed by the expertise of local inhabitants, serves as a paradigm of sustainable agriculture for resilient cities. This approach reduces reliance on petroleum-based inputs and enhances soil fertility through the utilization of local methodologies. While such outcomes are more feasible in non-profit projects, similar practices can also beadopted in profit-driven initiatives when organic production proves to be economically viable. This paper explores productive community gardens known as "bostan" in Istanbul with the concept of third natures as sites of urban resilience situated between cultivated and natural environments. Also, the study reveals the future potentials of Bostan for the decarbonization of cities with the case of “Commonaction Gardens“by POTplus Design Research Group, which extends the collaborative food practices and permaculture principles with innovative and technological tools.