Transforming Unused Land into BUAH The Living Lab: A Collaborative Effort by UNPAD Graduate School, CESS, and INSUAH
Widy
UNPAD Staff Writer
Bandung, July 29, 2023 — In a groundbreaking initiative, the Graduate School of Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), the Center for Environment and Sustainability Science (CESS), and INSUAH (Integrated Study of Urban Agriculture Heritage) have collaborated to transform previously unused land into BUAH (Bandung Urban Agriculture Heritage) The Living Lab. This project is part of an international effort involving five countries: Germany, Japan, Brazil, Cuba, and Indonesia.
About BUAH The Living Lab
BUAH The Living Lab was established to detect and describe the urban agriculture heritage in Bandung, Indonesia. Located on Jl. Unpar I, Sukawarna, Kec. Sukajadi, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat, the lab serves as a dynamic space for research and community engagement. It aims to raise awareness about urban agriculture heritage among local communities and stakeholders, working together to understand and preserve this heritage. This collaborative effort also seeks to inform sustainable urban planning and policy-making through the lens of heritage preservation.
Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This initiative is a significant step towards achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being — By repurposing brownfield sites (previously underutilized or unused land), BUAH The Living Lab promotes healthier environments and communities. The transformation of these sites into productive urban agriculture spaces contributes to improving the well-being of local residents.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — The project enhances urban sustainability by integrating agricultural heritage into the urban landscape, promoting greener and more resilient cities.
SDG 15: Life on Land — By preserving and promoting urban agricultural practices, the initiative supports the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and the maintenance of biodiversity.
Community Impact
The empowerment and revitalization of this land have had a profound impact on the surrounding community. The local residents benefit from increased green spaces, educational opportunities, and access to fresh, locally-grown produce. The project fosters a sense of ownership and pride in preserving the agricultural heritage of Bandung.
Future Directions
Moving forward, BUAH The Living Lab will continue to collaborate with local government, communities, and international partners to expand its reach and impact. The ongoing research and activities at the lab will contribute to developing more sustainable and heritage-informed urban planning practices.
For more information about BUAH The Living Lab and its initiatives, please visit UNPAD Graduate School’s website. Join us in celebrating and preserving the rich urban agriculture heritage of Bandung while promoting sustainable development. (SNM)