Organic Medical Plants Urban Farming Based on Family Empowerment on Bekasi, West Java

Abstract

Increased consumption of organic medicinal plant products for health has stimulated organic urban backyard farming activities in semi-urban communities. The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of family empowerment on farmer adaptation to the market for urban farming products. The study employed participatory action research methods in which field researchers were assigned the task of analyzing the impact of family empowerment on the ability of communities to adapt to the market. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and focus group discussions among family empowerment participants and facilitators. The results of the study indicate that market and consumer demand for organic products was the driving force behind the decision of communities to engage in innovative sustainable organic urban farming activities. As part of those activities, males were found to play roles in the technical preparation of land (or planting media) and marketing, whereas females played more roles in plant maintenance and harvest processing. Families that were adaptive to the market needs of urban organic farming, including by creating innovative products, were found to be increasingly active and influential in the community, taking the initiative to develop businesses and increase productivity. Overall, the study proved that family empowerment with urban farming innovation leads to business sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Keywords: ecological adaptation, family empowerment, organic farming, urban farming.