Rooftop plant production systems in urban areas

The popularity of urban agriculture and green roofs is increasing in cities around the world that recognize the multifaceted benefits to the local community. Rooftop plant production (RPP) systems can be used to grow ornamental plants or food crops using raised beds, row farming, or hydroponic greenhouse. RPP systems maximize the cultivation area of the plant factory with artificial lighting (PFAL). RPP can be used to grow crops that require higher light intensities and greater heights than those plants traditionally grown in PFAL. Further, seedlings started in a PFAL can be transferred to the roof and cultivated with RPP. The environmental benefits of RPP can be a great asset to the sustainability and resource use efficiency (RUE) of the PFAL, while also providing net-positive enhancements to the local community and urban landscape by increasing agricultural awareness, boosting the local economy, mitigating stormwater, and reducing the heat island effect.