Green Roofs in Cairo: A Holistic Approach for Healthy Productive Cities

In Cairo, the amount of green space per inhabitant is roughly equivalent to 0.33 square meters per person (3.5 square feet), one of the lowest proportions in the world. Green roofs are presented in this study mainly as an urban landscape for healthy and productive cities. This paper describes the idea of green roofs as platform for urban faming that is considered as a holistic approach to solve environmental, spatial, social and economic problems in large cities in the developing countries. The first part of the study, presents the theoretical framework for roof farming. Potentials and problems of green roofs are analyzed and mapped in a multilayered method. The goal is to find out what the maximum potentials of productive green rooftops and determine the best techniques for maintaining them. As a result, the research presents a set of design principles, guidelines and tools that can assist in transforming existing roofs into productive roof farms. The second part of the study examines successful case studies in Cairo, including schools and residential units and introduces a broader function of roof gardens, as well as the barriers for successful implementation. The final result, point to the importance of considering green roofs as creative development opportunity for urban open spaces, responsive support for bio and food security, in addition to the climatic, environmental and aesthetical benefits. Finally, the paper presents the more interesting results and explains why this approach is successful and how the results can be extended to other cities.