Improving Agricultural Productivity in the Rural-Urban Interface through Recycling of Urban Waste

Urbanization is a rapidly accelerating process in developing countries. It has been estimated that, between 2015 and 2020, urban population will exceed rural for the first time and will continue to escalate sharply while rural numbers remain more or less static (UN, 2002). Rural-urban migration is one of the factors contributing to this growth. As population grows, so is the demand for urban infrastructure and food. Some of the consequences of this urban influx include the overloading of water and sanitation facilities, higher demand for food in the cities as well as increased number of urban poor (urbanization of poverty). Currently, two million tons a day of human waste are disposed of in water courses (WWAP, 2003). In addition, functional engineered landfill facilities are lacking and solid wastes (SW) are often found littering the streets. The attendant health implication of poor environmental sanitation is great. Over 50 communicable diseases are associated with poor sanitation and they bring untold suffering and premature death to millions of people every year (UN 1993). Ensuring food security and environmental health in the fast expanding cities is of paramount importance.

More research is needed to develop the potential for safe, productive and sustainable recycling of nutrients and water from liquid and solid wastes for use in peri-urban agriculture and produce appropriate tools and guidelines for planners, policy makers, farmers, communities and other relevant stakeholders. Improved productivity will ensure urban food security, safeguard farmers’ livelihood while contributing to better clean environment. Recycling of urban liquid and solid waste could be a win-win for farmers and also for planners involved with environmental management Recognising the importance of UPA, many international initiatives are promoting the concept of UPA.