Linda Silka discusses how models of interdisciplinary environmental work with refugee and immigrant groups are under way at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and bridging cultural traditions, environmental outreach and economic development. Three multi-level partnership projects that the university is involved in - the Southeast Asian Environmental Justice Partnership, the Urban Aquaculture Initiative, and the Immigrant Communities Clean Production Initiative-are analysed to understand the promise and challenges that lie ahead in terms of developing community-university partnerships. © 2002 The Society for International Development.

Identity Urban agriculture Environmental justice Refugees Aquaculture University of Massachusetts Ethnic food

research and development partnership approach environmental research university sector