Messy, jagged city borders are actually better for keeping people fed than clean, straight ones.
Using fractal analysis, researchers found that the 'rugosity' (complexity) of the urban-agricultural boundary increases the contact points between farmers and city markets. While planners often prefer orderly borders, a more complex, interlocking boundary actually makes it easier for residents to access local produce.
Fractal Analysis of the Urban-Agricultural Boundary Rugosity: A Case Study in Provence (France)
SSRN · 6437875
The rugosity (complexity) of the urban limit may positively influence connections between local agriculture and nearby markets. A more complex boundary between urban and agricultural zones increases potential contact, which can improve urban access to nearby agricultural production. However, measuring the shape of this boundary remains a challenge due to its complexity and heterogeneity. We argue that the town-agriculture relationship strongly depends on this complexity. To address this, we prop