My thesis focuses on the issue of global food security and the rising concern that our industry andproduction methods are damaging the environment.

The United Nations predict there will be 9.8 billion people on the planet by 2050 and estimates suggest that food production must increase by 70% if we are to feed everyone. How can our food supply be made more sustainable while avoiding deforestation to provide for agriculture – could utilizing neglected urban spaces be the answer?

Glasgow’s urban layout will be explored in depth considering where current vacant and derelict spaces and the areas of highest deprivation, as well as the available opportunities for fresh food i.e. allotments, markets, and supermarkets. To address Glasgow’s reputation for poor health and diet a connection between Glaswegians and their food could be encouraged by providing education on the process of “farm to fork”.

Included in this citywide improvement will be the proposal of an urban agriculture building hybrid within the city centre. Different processes of urban farming, LEDs and greenhouse farming will work together to produce fresh food whilst also providing an education hub. The creation of a market space will create an opportunity to buy and sell fresh food while opening the building to the public. This epicentre showcasing while educating will become a building typology to be spread as a network across the city.