TangoW - Analysis of synergies between food, water, and energy

Transformative capacity refers to an organisation's or society's ability to manage and adapt to change, whilst actively reshaping and developing new structures, working methods and norms to achieve a sustainable and equitable future. This involves identifying challenges and opportunities, creating conditions for innovation, strengthening collaboration between stakeholders, adapting governance and regulatory frameworks, and changing norms and behaviours. In Stockholm Royal Seaport, this approach has been examined in relation to urban farming.

About TANGO-W

TANGO-W (Transformative cApacity in eNerGy fOod and Water) is an applied research and collaboration project aimed at strengthening urban transformative capacities. The project focuses on developing systems at the intersection of food, energy and water. To enhance this capacity at city level, urban laboratories have been established where local stakeholders collaborate, test new ideas and develop practical solutions. These laboratories provide space to shape new roles, work processes and technical tools adapted to local conditions. This includes finding integrated solutions, creating new business models and transforming urban challenges and dilemmas into opportunities for sustainable urban development.

TANGO-W in Stockholm: Focus Areas

Food security is a fundamental issue for all cities. Urban farming and food production have always been integral to city life. Today, residents cultivate on a small scale on balconies, in raised beds and allotment gardens. Commercial urban cultivation has grown and become an increasingly significant part of cities' food supply.

New forms of urban cultivation in greenhouses or other protected growing environments can make a significantly larger contribution and increase cities' food security and self-sufficiency. According to the study '10% Food from the City - Impact and Feasibility Analysis for Food Production in Urban Environments in Stockholm', areas suitable for greenhouses and indoor cultivation have been identified. This could provide a substantial contribution to local food production. In Stockholm Royal Seaport, urban planning allows for spaces to be reserved for cultivation on roofs, walls, courtyards and public spaces, as well as identifying unused dark spaces such as basements and caverns suitable for urban cultivation.

Purpose and goal

The urban laboratory in Stockholm Royal Seaport aims to explore ways of integrating urban cultivation into city planning by identifying suitable sites, areas and spaces for both city farmers and recreational growers.

The goal is to develop a deeper understanding of how to incorporate urban cultivation into urban planning.

Results and experience

Local stakeholders participated in interviews and workshops during the project's first year to identify needs and challenges. Participants included city officials, researchers, property developers and other interested parties. This process shaped a vision for designing a district with extensive urban cultivation.

A feasibility study conducted in 2024 explored methods for integrating urban cultivation into buildings, courtyards and public spaces. The study mapped suitable areas and identified appropriate crops for urban conditions. Key synergies emerged, including reduced food waste through shorter supply chains, improved temperature regulation and enhanced biodiversity. The study also showed how greenhouse-covered walls and roofs could contribute to noise reduction. The City of Stockholm's landscape architects undertook a study visit to observe practical examples of urban cultivation in the region.

The project has increased awareness of urban cultivation's potential contribution to sustainable development in Stockholm Royal Seaport. It has also deepened understanding of building-integrated cultivation as part of the city's overall cultivation strategy. Initial steps have been taken to secure additional funding for the development and implementation of demonstration facilities.

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