Keywords
grassroots activism
place attachement
placemaking
urban gardens
How to Cite
Abstract
In the context of the climate crisis and people’s growing disconnection from their urban environment, this study explores the role of placemaking in restoring emotional bonds with the city. We conducted a case study at the Huerto Roma Verde (HRV) in Mexico City to understand the causes and manifestations of this disruption in land attachment, evaluate the potential of community gardens to reverse it, and analyze their effects on social mobilization for sustainability. Through a qualitative methodology that included participant observation and semi-structured interviews, we analyzed the results from the sociocultural perspective of emotions. The results indicate that placemaking at the HRV is a social process that offers a green refuge in the city, strengthening the sense of belonging and reactivating local attachment. In turn, collaborative activities and workshops facilitate emotional management and the construction of support networks to address the climate crisis. Furthermore, pro-environmental practices and spaces for dialogue foster awareness and attachment to the planet.
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