Achieving coordinated development of multi-functional urban agriculture in Xiamen, China

Abstract

Urban agriculture's multi-functional coordinated development is an important approach for achieving sustainable development in urban areas. This study developed a comprehensive theoretical framework for evaluating, diagnosing, and optimizing multi-functional urban agriculture by integrating a TOPSIS evaluation model with the coordination degree model and the obstacle degree model. The framework was applied in Xiamen, China to identify the obstacles that impede its coordinated development. Subsequently, four optimized modes for the coordinated development of urban agriculture were proposed. Results showed that: (1) Urban agriculture in Xiamen exhibits the characteristics of "sound social function, moderate economic function, and poor ecological function". (2) The main obstacles affecting the coordination of urban agriculture's multi-function in Xiamen are the average grain crop output, level of agricultural mechanization, arable land carrying capacity, and amount of carbon sequestration. (3) Four optimized development modes for urban agriculture in Xiamen are identified. Through formulating customized strategies that align with the distinctive optimization development mode of each district can promote the sustainable development of urban agriculture in Xiamen. In conclusion, this framework provides a valuable tool for policymakers to explore effective strategies for promoting the multi-functional development of urban agriculture in China and can be expanded to other highly urbanized regions.