Community Garden, Ambedkar Nagar, Mumbai

Mumbai’s Ambedkar Nagar slum is a successful example of a community converting an enormous dump site and breeding ground for vermin and disease into a recreational community garden. In 2009, a women’s self-help group from the slum began to mobilize residents, educate families, conduct workshops, segregate and recycle garbage, and manage composting. Biodiversity has since increased, and health problems have been reduced. Compost and recyclables generate revenue. The garden also functions as a marriage venue for residents.