Rosario, Argentina, has developed one of the most established examples of agroecological urban and peri-urban agriculture as part of a broader strategy for social inclusion, food security and urban resilience. Two initiatives sit at the centre of this approach: the Urban Agriculture Program, launched in 2002, and the Green Belt Project, introduced in 2016. Together, they support agroecological food production while creating green jobs, strengthening links between producers and consumers, and promoting access to healthy food.

The report highlights how these programmes evolved beyond food production alone. They became part of a multi-level governance model addressing social, economic and environmental challenges at the same time. Co-production of knowledge and co-management are presented as key features, helping ensure that local actors are involved in shaping and implementing the transition.

Rosario’s experience also connects agroecology with climate and urban planning objectives. Urban and peri-urban agriculture is framed as an ecosystem service, a way to reduce pressure from urban expansion, strengthen climate resilience and potentially lower the city’s environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. The case therefore shows how agroecological transition can be embedded in city policy, combining food production, employment, equity and climate action within the same territorial strategy.