[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 214 (Thursday, December 17, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1167]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             URBAN FARMING

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                            HON. KWANZA HALL

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 17, 2020

  Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on the importance of 
urban farming.
  Urban Farming first had its start during World War II where it 
supplied over 40 percent of produce.
  But in recent days, it is making a comeback, and just in time. As our 
population grows, it is unrealistic to expect that urban farming will 
meet all of our food needs.
  But, it will most certainly make a dent. But it will also do other 
things. It will encourage healthier diets, which is a much-needed skill 
for many in urban areas, who often resort to fast food and other 
conveniences of big city life.
  It will also do must erode the large caloric diets that many in 
cities follow. Urban farming also bolsters local communities by 
bringing folks together, which itself foster greater collaboration and 
understanding of other people.
  It can deliver produce at a lower cost, leaving families to spend on 
other costs of living, like housing.
  It can also be good for the environment, as it can reduce CO2 
emissions attendant with transporting food from faraway farms to urban 
centers.
  And, it can also be another source of minority entrepreneurship by 
encouraging ownership of these farming centers with those who live in 
the buildings where the food is grown.
  There are many benefits to this practice and I hope that we can take 
advantage of them in the days ahead.

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