Rooftop Greenhouse : A Financial Perspective

Land consumption is a major issue worldwide as it contributes to loss of fertile soils,
biodiversity and ecosystem services (1). Every day, approximately 52 ha of land is lost this
way in Germany (2). Along with the land consumption, the demand for food is growing
proportionally with the population. It is therefore necessary to find holistic solutions to
feed the humankind in the future while addressing the issue of climate change.
Urban farming is an emerging trend worldwide that can be part of the solutions.
Specifically, rooftop greenhouses (RTGs) using existing urban roof space and fall out of the
competition for land use. The fact that they can form synergies with their support buildings
(use of waste heat, CO2 from respiration, urine, grey- and rainwater) gives them an
additional environmental benefit. Urban farming can also provide employment
opportunities to less secure social groups and serve as education points (trainings, visits) in
urban settlements.