Urban farming varies considerably, but researchers are the main driving body beside the community and available budget. Urban farming also varies from city to another and between provinces, however, mostly it focuses on food production and Gyeongnam possess the potential of urban farming.
In general, there is a negative opinion on urban farming that focus on food production, as there are concerns about heavy metal contamination from the polluted urban environment. Beside heavy metal accumulation in crops due to pollution from heavy traffic areas and factories, heavy fertilization from organic compost will also bring in nitric acid pollution. Therefore, urban farms in highly polluted urban areas should be protected with plastic films or other material that are capable to reduce contamination.
Phytoremediation is one potential of urban farming to reduce pollution and associated problems in city areas as well as to beautify the scenery and improve urban environment, which will be more effective and adaptable if driven by purpose and adopted by policy planners.
Recycle of resources is not fully utilized at present and there are increasing concerns about it. Yet, recycle of resources have many beneficial effects for resources circulation in rural and urban areas, which might be adaptable in this green-growth era.
Introduction of garbage recycle system will create variable beneficial chances, such as insect industry, new profit sources, creation of jobs, and other independent social strata. New business models could connect to garbage recycle that might connect to available urban farming and ultimately construct a circular structure through urban farming.
Urban agriculture should not be considered only as a farming for food production, but it should be considered in a wider spectrum, such as expansion of green areas, reduction of urban heat-island phenomenon, reduction of energy required for heating during winter and coolingin summer, and many other environment related problems. Urban agriculture may also enhance the social welfare of the community. Therefore, if there is a focus on reduction of social expenses that would improve the local profit, a creative policy is needed.
Eventually, urban agriculture in Gyeongnam as a concept should be expanded not only for food production, but for beautiful scenery, respiration, enjoyable and relaxation farming that would satisfy the demands and drive creative businesses.