VOL. XIII, ISSUE XXXXVIII, Nov to Jan 2024 MULTILOGIC IN SCIENCE ISSN 2277-7601 An International Refereed, Peer Reviewed & Indexed Quarterly Journal for Applied science NAAS Rating – 04.17 180 EDIBLE LANDSCAPES: THE ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL BOUNTY Nibir Pratim Choudhury, Prerna Deka 1.PhD Scholar, Department of Business Administration, University of Science & Technology Meghalaya 2. Assistant Project Scientist, APART, Assam Agricultural University Horticulture Research Station, Kahikuchi (MS Received: 26.11.2023; MS Revised:30.12.2023; MS Accepted:02.01.2024) MS 3155 (RESEARCH PAPER IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION) Abstract Edible landscaping, a mix of beauty and bounty, is emerging as a game changer in sustainable living. This novel practice, which combines aesthetics and practicality, reimagines our landscapes as dynamic, productive areas. Beyond the appeal of exquisite gardens, edible landscaping has economic potential—it promotes local entrepreneurship, creates jobs, and diversifies income streams. Its environmental benefit is as compelling, as it promotes biodiversity, water conservation, and soil health, which are all permaculture concepts. Socially, it promotes participation in the community, education, and well-being, strengthening the structural integrity of our neighbourhoods. The present research explains the ideas and techniques of edible landscaping, investigates its economic potential, and reveals its deep environmental and social consequences. The recommendations for smooth integration emphasise the importance of supportive legislation, community participation, and education. Edible landscaping is more than simply a visual feast; it's a formula for resilience, a greener future, and sustainability in which our landscapes not only look good but also benefit our communities and the environment. Keywords: Edible, landscape, innovation, sustainable, entrepreneurship, biodiversity. Introduction Landscapes and food are important and necessary subjects (Zeunert & Waterman, 2018). The edible landscape is a relatively new multifunctional landscaping approach. As a landscape made up of plant species that humans can eat, it emphasises the purpose and value of the landscape and is distinguished by edibility, economy, and ornamentation (Zheng, 2010). Landscape architecture and urban planning began to trend towards modern pastoral cities in the nineteenth century (Cui, 2010). In the context of the struggle between urban landscape building and agricultural cultivation, the edible landscape considers both functions and addresses the need for cooperation between healthy and environmentally friendly urban agriculture and habitation. However, certain edible sceneries are acceptable. For instance, the food safety of certain edible landscapes placed near roadways may be questioned. The rational growth of edible landscapes must adhere to the following principles. First, it must adhere to the principles of sustainability and organic cultivation. The fundamental concept of an edible landscape is to ensure it is sustainable and ecologically sound, with planning and planting based on environmental protection principles. To maintain food safety, edible landscapes on the premises should be grown organically. Second, edible landscapes' diverse purposes and values should be completely developed, with multi- functional synergies realised in regards to ornamental and practical usage, and also popular education and research (Lin, et al., 2022). Edible landscaping has been increasingly popular in recent years as towns and individuals seek long-term solutions to environmental problems, food security challenges, and economic difficulties (Zheng & Chou, 2023). Traditional landscaping frequently prioritises aesthetics above practicality, employing decorative plants that may provide little practical benefit beyond their visual appeal (Brook, 2018). Edible landscaping, on the contrary, is the deliberate cultivation of plants that have both aesthetic and edible properties, transforming places into productive and sustainable ecosystems (Rupprecht et al., 2023). Increasing global population and urbanisation have increased the demand for food, putting a strain on traditional methods of farming and land resources (Satterthwaite, McGranahan, & Tacoli, 2010). Simultaneously, the negative consequences of climate change, including extreme weather and dwindling biodiversity, highlight the importance of innovative and sustainable approaches to agricultural production and environmental protection. Edible plant integration into landscaping designs is based on permaculture, sustainable agriculture, and agroecology ideas. These concepts emphasise the need to work with nature rather than against it, so boosting biodiversity, water conservation, and soil health (Yadav et al., 2023). Edible landscaping adheres to these ideals by blending the beauty of ornamental vegetation with the practicality of food-producing ones, resulting in landscapes that are both visually appealing and environmentally sustainable. As the globe grapples with 21st-century challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and economic inequality, there is a growing realisation of their interdependence. Edible landscaping evolves as a comprehensive solution that solves numerous difficulties at once. It can boost local economies by providing new job possibilities, improving food security by encouraging local food production, and developing community resilience through communal spaces and collaborative activities (Karaca, 2019). This research paper will look at the ideas and methods of edible landscaping, as well as its economic potential for generating livelihoods and appraising its social and environmental effects. Understanding the various benefits of edible landscaping allows communities, individuals, and policymakers to make informed decisions about incorporating this sustainable practice into overall development efforts. Finally, the examination of edible landscaping as an appropriate strategy reflects an overall trend towards sustainable as well as regenerative techniques that benefit both people and the environment. Principles and Practices of Edible Landscaping Edible landscaping blends the visual attractiveness of traditional landscaping with the practical advantages of growing edible plants. Edible landscaping combines permaculture, sustainable agriculture, and agroecology concepts to create mutually beneficial, productive areas that benefit the environment and community well-being. 1. Biodiversity and Plant Selection (FAO 2010) i. Native and Climate-Appropriate Plants: Consumption of native & climate-appropriate edible plants to promote resilience and reduce water, pesticide, and fertiliser usage. ii. Polyculture: Plant a varied range of food species to promote biodiversity by supporting growth, resistance to insects, and nutrient cycling. 2. Water conservation (Zhang et al., 2021). i. Use water-efficient practices like drip irrigation and mulching to conserve water and keep soil moist. ii. Implement rainwater harvesting systems to gather and use rainfall for irrigation, reducing reliance on traditional water sources. 3. Soil Health and Fertility (Reddy, 2017): i. Companion Planting: Use companion planting to improve soil fertility, repel pests, and promote beneficial interactions between plants. ii. Organic Practices: Instead of using synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, prioritise soil health, nutrient cycling, and microbial diversity.