Westside Community Organic Garden: Growing Together for Sustainability 

Dec 13, 2024 | biodiversity, Case Studies, food

In the heart of Galway’s Westside, a city community turned land that was not being used into a growing centre for biodiversitythe joined up web of living things sustainability, and connections between people. Set up in 2011, this project which is led by volunteer gives locals the power to grow local food. It helps people in the community work together and improve how we look after the land. It’s more than just a garden—it’s a living space where people come together to look after both the land and each other.

Read the full case study to learn more about Westside Community Organic Garden’s journey and impact. 

Where is this?

Galway City

Who started this?

Westside Resource Center

Fast Facts About Westside Community Garden
  • Established: 2011
  • Participants: 40+ local volunteers engaged annually
  • Features: Polytunnel, fruit trees, vegetables, flowers, and herbs
  • Infrastructure: Rainwater harvesting system and accessible paths
  • Recognition: Galway City Mayor’s Award in 2022
What makes this stand out?
  • Repurposes urban land to create a productive and inclusive green space
  • Empowers residents through hands-on education and sustainable practices
  • Serves as a model for year-round community engagement
Highlights from the Case Study
  • How It Started: Addressing the lack of green spaces in an urban setting.
  • Key Actions: Installing infrastructure, planting pollinator-friendly gardens, and hosting annual events.
  • Challenges Addressed: Limited resources, volunteer retention, and navigating local bureaucracy.
  • Impact Achieved: Strengthened community bonds, reduced food miles, and increased biodiversity.
SDG Alignment & Keywords
  • SDG 13: Climate Action
  • SDG 15: Life on Land
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Keywords: Urban Green Spaces, Biodiversity, Community Gardening, Local Food Production, Environmental Education

Why This Matters

The Westside Community Organic Garden shows how even small urban spaces can make a big difference. By creating a sustainable, inclusive environment, it empowers individuals, strengthens community ties, and inspires others to reimagine how green spaces can transform cities. 

Explore the Full Story

The Westside Community Organic Garden shows how even small urban spaces can make a big difference. By creating a sustainable, inclusive environment, it empowers individuals, strengthens community ties, and inspires others to reimagine how green spaces can transform cities. Case Study Document

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