CONTENT

INTRODUCTION 1
Hypothesis 3
Research Aim 3
Research objective 4
Scope 4
Methodology 5
Limitations 6
Results 7

CHAPTER 1 – URBAN FARMING 8 - 21

1.1 – Urban Farming 9
1.2 – History 11
1.3 – Relation with architecture 13
1.4 – Problems 14
1.5 – Advantages 15
1.6 – Urban Faming Facts 19
1.7 Summary 21

CHAPTER 2 – TECHNIQUES AND EQUIPMENTS 22 - 37

2.1 – Methods 23

A. Rooftop Farming 23
B. Vertical Farming 25
C. Pot Farming 27
D. Underground Farming 28

v
 E. Hydroponics 29
F. Aeroponics 29
G. Irrigation 30

2.2 – Plant Species to Consider 35

2.3 – Good Agricultural Practice 36
2.4 – Good Architectural Practice 37
2.4 – Summary 37

CHAPTER 3 – CASE STUDIES AND ANALYSIS 38 - 61

3.1 – Urban Farm Pasona Group 39
3.2 – Dr. R. T. Doshi Farms 47
3.3 – Paharpur Business Centre 50
3.4 – The Living Green 54
3.5 – Comparison and Analysis 58
3.6 – Summary 61

CHAPTER 4 – CONCLUSION 62 - 64

CHAPTER 5 – DISCUSSION 65 - 66

CHAPTER 6 – RECOMMONDATIONS 67 - 68

CHAPTER 7 – BIBILOGRAPHY 69 - 71

vi
 LIST OF FIGURES

1. - A Reference Roof and a Rooftop Garden. (Photo Credit: KarenLiu)

2. - Rooftop Garden. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

3. - Rooftop Garden. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

4. - Vertical Gardens. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

5. - Vertical Gardens. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

6. - Pot Farming. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

7. - Underground Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

8. - Underground Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

9. - Hydroponics Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

10. - Hydroponics Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

11. - Aeroponics Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

12. - Aeroponics Farming. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

13. - Polyethylene Pipe (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

14. - Rigid PVC Pipes (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

15. - Different Types Of Pipe Connector (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

16. - Regulating Valve (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

17. - Check Valve (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

18. - Meter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

19. - Pressure Gauge (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

20. - Air Valve (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

21. - Gravel Filter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

22. - Sand Separator Filter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

23. - Screen Type Filter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

vii
24. - Disk Type Filter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

25. - Automatic Self-Cleaning Filter (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

26. - Fertilizer Tank (Closed) (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

27. - Venturi Type (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

28. - Piston Pump (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

29. - Sprinkler (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

30. - Micro-Sprinkler (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

31. - Bubbler (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

32. - Dripper (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

33. - Pressure Emitters (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

34. - Poros Pipes (Photo Credit – Google Scholar

35. - Pulsators (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

36. - Drip Tapes (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

37. - Electric Valve (Photo Credit – Google Scholar

38. - Controllers (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

39. - Volumetric Metering Valve (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

40. - Soil Moisture Sensor (Photo Credit – Google Scholar

41. - Evaporation Pan (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

42. - Conductivity Moisture Sensor (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

43. - Direct Lift Device (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

44. - Displacement Pump (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

45. - Air Lift Pump (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

46. - Impulse Pump (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

47. - Gravity Pump (Photo Credit – Google Scholar)

48. - Spinach Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

viii
49. - Potato Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

50. - Ladyfinger Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

51. - Carrot Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

52. - Tomato Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

53. - Chilli Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

54. - Brinjal Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

55. - Radish Plant (Photo Credit – Self)

56. - Satellite Image Locating The Building (Photo Credit – Google Maps)

57. - Satellite Image Of Building And Surrounding (Photo Credit – Google Maps)

58. - View during Day Time. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

59. - View during Night Time. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

60. - Pasona Green Façade. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

61. - Pasona Green Façade. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

62. - Initial Stage Of Farming Of Tomato. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

63. - Initial Stages Of Farming Of Spinach. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

64. - Ground Floor of the Building. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

65. - Typical Floor of the Building. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

66. - Conference Room (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

67. - Cafeteria. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

68. - Working Area. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

69. - Meeting Area. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

70. - Cafeteria. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

71. - People Harvesting the Crop. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

72. - Tomato Vines. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

73. - Pumpkin Vines. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

ix
74. - Flowers (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

75. - Vegetable. (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

76. - Section Through Vertical Garden (Photo Credit – Pasona Greens)

77. - Late Dr. R. T. Doshi (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

78. - Guava Growing In Drum. (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

79. - Bamboo Are Growing In Plastic Bag. (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

80. - Coconut Tree. (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

81. - Mango Tree (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

82. - Papaya Tree (Photo Credit – Cityfarming.In)

83. - Satellite Image Locating The Building (Photo Credit – Google Maps)

84. - Image Locating Building & Nearby Roads (Photo Credit – Windows Maps)

85. - Kamal Meattle. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

86. - Working Area. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

87. - Confrence Room. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

88. - Cafeteria. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

89. - Cafeteria. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

90. - Inside Of The Building (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

91. - Outside Of the Building. (Photo Credit – Paharpur Business Centre)

92. - Satellite Image Locating The Building (Photo Credit – Google Maps)

93. - Image Locating Building & Nearby Roads (Photo Credit – Google Maps)

94. - Drip Irrigation System (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

95. - Drip Irrigation System (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

96. - Brinjal Cultivation. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

97. - Broccoli Cultivation. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

98. - Hydroponics System. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

x
99. - Hydroponics System. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

100. - Aeroponics System. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

101. - Aeroponics System. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

102. - Vertical Farming. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

103. - Vertical Farming. (Photo Credit – The Living Green Organics)

xi
“YOU, AS A FOOD CONSUMER, HAVE THE PRIVILEDGE OF ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING
IN SHAPING THE WORLD YOUR CHILDREN WILL INHERIT” – JOEL SALATIN

INTRODUCTION

1
INTRODUCTION

The rapid urbanization that is taking place goes together with a rapid increase in urban poverty

and urban food insecurity. By 2020 the developing countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America

will be home to some 75% of all urban dwellers, and to eight of the anticipated nine mega-

cities with populations in excess of 20 million. [1]

Most cities in developing countries have great difficulties to cope with this development and

are unable to create sufficient formal employment opportunities for the poor. They also have

increasing problems with the disposal of urban wastes and waste water and maintaining air and

river water quality. Urban farming provides a complementary strategy to reduce urban poverty

and food insecurity and enhance urban environmental management. Urban farming plays an

important role in enhancing urban food security since the costs of supplying and distributing

food to urban areas based on rural production and imports continue to increase, and do not

satisfy the demand, especially of the poorer sectors of the population. Next to food security,

urban farming contributes to local economic development, poverty alleviation and social

inclusion of the urban poor and women in particular, as well as to the greening of the city and

the productive reuse of urban wastes. The importance of urban farming is increasingly

being recognised by international organisations like UN-Habitat and FAO (World Food and

Agriculture Organisation). [2]

[1]
- Reference taken from – www.urbanfarming.org

[2]
- Reference taken from – www.fao.org (WORLD FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANISATION)

2
In the coming future the urban will only survive if urban farming becomes more efficient and

huge volumes of effluent waste generated is reduced and reused. We can actually cultivate for

ourselves. With the instability of the petroleum market and unpredictability of climatic changes

it is becoming increasingly important to produce food close to home and become food secure.

If we start urban farming in our public buildings it will have a major on people working there.

The purpose of this dissertation is to start urban farming inside our public building and set an

example for people to start this at individual level.

HYPOTHESIS

 Is it really possible to incorporate urban farming in our public buildings? If it is then

what are the challenges we are going to face and what are their solutions?

RESEARCH AIM

 To find out ways in which the urban farming can be incorporated in our public

building.

 To make our public buildings to set an example of urban farming at very basic level.

 To involve modern technologies and irrigation system for urban farming.

3
  To understand the impacts of urban farming in architecture towards creating a better

environment.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

 Understanding various aspects of urban farming and its impact on the built

environment.

 Understanding various equipment and methods that are available and practiced in

today’s world for urban farming.

 To make people aware of benefits from urban farming.

 To understand how architecture is linked with urban farming and what could be done

to link urban faring with architecture.

 To understand the challenges in incorporating urban farming in public buildings.

SCOPE

 The scope of this dissertation is to do the detailed study of urban farming and the

methods involved in India and outside world.

 This study would depend upon the detailed study of the basic requirements for urban

farming from different methods.

4
  To prove that there is a need for all of us to understand and start urban farming at

building level.

METHODOLOGY

A research to find out the buildings in Delhi in which urban farming can be incorporated. To

go through various books, reports, magazines etc. for reference. To analyse the data for my

hypothesis. To study various aspects of urban farming and the various factors involved in urban

farming of urban farming (reusing waste, commercial greenhouse, utilization of space, food

production, active recreation, economic aspects, and social aspect).

Literature review

The author undertook a bibliographical research in order to first define what

information already exists on urban farming. From the bibliographical research, the

author was able to have an overview of such establishment and the benefits they have.

Additionally, it enabled me to identify what types of questions to formulate for the

interviews and questionnaires. Articles referred to in the literature review were searched

through Google Scholar and School of Planning and Architecture Library search

engine. Materials for the case study are mainly from their official website and reports

online.

5
 Case studies

The four case studies were done by the author (Paharpur Business Centre, Hydroponics

Farm, Aeroponics Farm, and The Living Green Organisation). On the basis of case

studies the author has done a comparative analysis of the different techniques which

can be incorporated in public buildings.

Case study analysis

On the basis of case studies analysis is done by comparing those case studies on various

aspects and factors. We are not getting into all the technical this involved in all those

case studies. We are only focusing on it from architectural point of view.

Recommendations

Certain recommendation has been made out of the conclusion of case studies for

making things clear for anyone who is interested in urban farming and wants to adopt

it.

LIMITATION

Physical boundaries will inevitable affect the scope of this dissertation. The literature case

study will discusses the impacts of urban farming in a global sense but the live case study was

conducted are local case studies. Only qualitative data were collected via interviews expressing

opinions, insights, feelings, and observations. Conclusion is made on the basis of comparative

analysis without getting into all the technicalities involved in all of the techniques mentioned

in this dissertation.

6
RESULTS

The author got mixed results about urban farm in public building. Everyone seem to be

interested in this but there are many factors on which a lot of work is to be done to incorporate

urban farming in public building.

For starting an urban farm inside the building the steps should be taken at the very basic level

that is designing level because then only it would be beneficial and easy to work with.

7
“WHY TRY TO EXPLAIN MIRACLES TO YOUR KIDS WHEN YOU CAN JUST HAVE THEM
PLANT A GARDEN” – ROBERT BRAULT

CHAPTER 1

URBAN FARMING

8
1.1 URBAN FARMING

Urban farming is also referred as urban agriculture and they both have a common principal to

cultivate for ourselves.

Urban farming is the practice of cultivating, processing, and distributing food in or around a

village, town, or city. The most striking feature of urban farming, which distinguishes it from

rural agriculture, is that it is integrated into the urban economic and ecological system. Urban

farming include the use of urban residents as labourers, use of typical urban resources (like

organic waste as compost and urban wastewater for irrigation), direct links with urban

consumers, direct impacts on urban ecology (positive and negative), being part of the urban

food system, being influenced by urban policies and plans, etc. Urban farming is not a relic of

the past that will fade away (urban agriculture increases when the city grows) nor brought to

the city by rural immigrants that will lose their rural habits over time. It is an integral part of

the urban system.

Types of actors involved

Large part of the people involved in urban farming is the urban poor. In many cities, one will

often also find lower and mid-level government officials, school teachers are involved in urban

farming, as well as richer people who are seeking a good investment for their capital.

It is however more difficult to combine it with urban jobs that require travelling to the

town centre, industrial areas or to the houses of the rich.

Types of location

9
Urban farming may take place in locations inside the cities. The activities may take place on

the residence or on land away from the residence (off-plot), on private land (owned, leased) or

on public land (parks, conservation areas, along roads, streams and railways), or semi-public

land (schoolyards, grounds of schools and hospitals). In today’s scenario urban farming is

possible indoors also.

Types of products grown

Urban farming includes food products, from different types of crops (grains, root crops,

vegetables, mushrooms, fruits) as well as non-food products (like aromatic and medicinal

herbs, ornamental plants, tree products, etc.) or combinations of these. Production units in

urban farming in general tend to be more specialised.

Types of economic activities

Urban farming includes agricultural production activities as well as related processing and

marketing activities as well as inputs (e.g. compost) by specialised micro-enterprises or NGOs,

etc. In urban farming, production and marketing tend to be more closely interrelated in terms

of time and space than for rural agriculture.

Product destination

In most cities in developing countries, an important part of urban agricultural production is for

self-consumption, with surpluses being traded. Mainly fresh products are sold, but part of it is

processed for own use.

Scales of production and technology used

10
In the city, we may encounter individual or family farms, group or cooperative farms and

commercial enterprises at various scales ranging from micro- and small farms (the majority)

to medium-sized and some large-scale enterprises. The technological level of the majority of

urban agriculture enterprises in developing countries is still rather low. However, the tendency

is towards more technically advanced and intensive agriculture and various examples of such

can be found in all cities.

1.2 HISTORY

Community wastes were used in ancient Egypt to feed urban farming (organic manure).

In Machu Picchu, water was conserved and reused as part of the stepped architecture of the

city, and vegetable beds were designed to gather sun in order to prolong the growing season.

Allotment gardens came up in Germany in the early 19th century as a response to poverty and

food insecurity. Victory gardens sprouted during WWI and WWII and were fruit, vegetable,

and herb gardens in US, Canada, and UK. This effort was undertaken by citizens to reduce

pressure on food production that was to support the war effort. Community gardening in most

communities are open to the public and provide space for citizens to cultivate plants for food

or recreation. [3]

[3]
- André Viljoen, Katrin Bohn, Joe Howe - DESIGNING URBAN AGRICULTURE FOR SUSTAINABLE

CITIES (2005)

11
Economic development in Mumbai brought a growth in population caused mainly by the

migration of laborers from other regions of the country. The number of residents in the city

increased more than twelve times in the last century. Greater Mumbai, is the largest city in

India with a population of 16.4 million, according to data collected by the census of 2001.

Mumbai is one of the densest cities in the world, 48,215 persons per km² and 16,082 per km²

in suburban areas. In this scenario, urban agriculture seems unlikely to be put into practice

since it must compete with real estate developers for the access and use of vacant lots.

Alternative farming methods have emerged as a response to scarcity of land, water, and

economic resources. [4]

Dr. Doshi's city garden methods are revolutionary for being appropriate to apply in reduced

spaces as terraces and balconies, even on civil construction walls, and for not requiring big

investments in capital or long hours of work. His farming practice is purely organic and is

mainly directed to domestic consumption. His gardening tools are composed of materials

available in the local environment: sugarcane waste, polyethylene bags, tires, containers and

cylinders, and soil. The containers and bags (open at both ends) are filled with the sugarcane

stalks, compost, and garden soil, which make possible the use of minimal quantity of water if

compared to open fields. Dr. Doshi states that solar energy can replace soil in cities. He also

recommends the idea of chain planting, or growing plants in intervals and in small quantities

rather than at once and in large amounts. He has grown different types of fruit such as mangos,

figs, guavas, bananas, and sugarcane stalks in his terrace of 1,200 sq. ft. (110 m2) in Bandra.

The concept of urban farming developed by Dr. Doshi consumes the entire household's organic

waste. He subsequently makes the household self-sufficient in the provision of food: 5

kilograms (11 lbs.) of fruits and vegetables are produced daily for 300 days a year. [5]

12
The main objectives of a pilot project at city farm at Rosary High School, Dockyard Road,

were to promote economic support for street children, beautify the city landscape, supply

locally produced organic food to urban dwellers (mainly those residing in slums), and to

manage organic waste in a sustainable city. The project was conducted in the Rosary School,

in Mumbai, with the participation of street children during 2004. A city farm was created in a

terrace area of 400 sq. ft. (37 m2). The participants were trained in urban farming techniques.

The farm produced vegetables, fruits, and flowers. The idea has spread the concept of city farm

to other schools in the city. [6]

The Mumbai Port Trust (MBPT) central kitchen distributes food to approximately 3,000

employees daily, generating important amounts of organic disposal. A terrace garden created

by the staff recycles ninety percent of this waste in the production of vegetables and fruits.

Preeti Patil, who is the catering officer at the MBPT explains the purpose of the enterprise.

Mumbai Port Trust has developed an organic farm on the terrace of its central kitchen, which

is an area of approximately 3,000 sq. ft. (280 m2). The activity of city farming was started

initially to dispose of kitchen organic waste in an eco-friendly way. Staff members, after their

daily work in the kitchen, tend the garden, which has about 150 plants. [7]

[4]
- "RUAF Foundation. ''Hand-outs on Case Studies". Iwmi.cgiar.org. 11 January 2010.

[5]
- Roshni Udyavar et al., "Development of City Farms by Street Children"

[6]
- http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/ (INTERNATIONAL WATER MAGEMENT INSTITUTE)

[7]
- http://www.cityfarmer.info/

13
1.3 RELATION WITH ARCHITECTURE

Urban farming is a very important part of architecture and modern advancements in both

urban farming and architecture is making it possible for architects to understand the need and

benefits of many aspects of urban farming that is to grow and cultivate plants and vegetables

within the building which helps us to improve indoor air quality as well as with proper

planning we can reuse the grey water after processing within the building to serve our

purpose. In many countries both urban farming and designing of building go hand in hand to

make building energy efficient and sustainable.

History clearly shows us the harmony between urban farming and architecture in many cases.

Following are the two of the examples from history where we can see the traces of urban

farming with architecture.

 The first known historical reference to a roof garden (a technique for urban farming)

above grade is for the stone temples in the region of Mesopotamia. Civilizations in

Mesopotamia built terrace gardens thousands of years ago on the landings of Ziggurats,

or stepped pyramids. The plantings of trees and shrubs softened the climb, provided

shade and relief from the heat.

 The next known example from history are the Hanging Gardens of Babylon built by the

Persians around the 500 B.C. The roof gardens along with being a visual delight cooled

the hot landscapes and provided greenery. History shows that along with visual aspect

14
 there are chances that they are using some parts of that area for cultivation of fruits and

vegetables.

1.4 PROBLEMS

General Problems of Urban Farming

Several contaminants can be found in urban soils, and lead is the most prevalent. While there

is concern about plants taking up lead from soils, research suggests that they actually take up

very little.

Direct ingestion of soil containing lead is a bigger threat than plant uptake. Soils can be directly

ingested when children play in and eat soil, soil adheres to crops after they're harvested, or soil

particles blow in the air. Practices such as washing food well before eating and covering soils

with mulch can help decrease these risks.

Finding reliable and safe water sources can be difficult for urban farmers. Technologies such

as drip irrigation that precisely deliver water where and when it's needed can help conserve

water. Reusing rainwater and wastewater can provide additional water, but those sources must

be monitored for contaminants, and perhaps treated.

Changes in atmospheric and climate conditions in cities compared to rural areas can also be

obstacles for urban growers. For example, temperatures and vapour pressure deficits (the

difference between saturated and actual vapour pressure at a specific temperature) are often

higher in cities. Extreme temperatures during the day and higher night-time temperatures can

15
inhibit photosynthesis in plants and decrease yields. Likewise, when vapour pressure deficits

are higher, plants have to use more water creating moisture stress and reducing photosynthesis.

Urban conditions with higher temperatures, ozone, and carbon dioxide are similar to the

changes expected elsewhere with climate change. Urban gardens, then, provide a natural

laboratory for studying how these climatic and atmospheric changes will affect plants and crop

yields in the future.

Problems Related To Architecture

There are certain areas in which the work is need to be done for better experience of growing

and cultivating p inside the building. There are technologies and equipment (certain types of

pipe, connectors, flow control devices, filters, Fertigation equipment, water emitters,

automation equipment, operation equipment and water lifting devices) with the help of those

you can do urban farming but it is not feasible in many situation. All the methods cannot be

adopted and practiced at all different climates. Urban farming needs a total change in approach

toward farming which is sometimes difficult to adapt.

1.5 ADVANTAGES

Urban farming, also known as urban agriculture, essentially refers to growing plants that

produce food within a city. It may also include processing and then distributing that food

throughout the city. There are numerous benefits of urban farming, and here are some of the

most valuable.

16
Increases Food Security

Food security is having access to and being able to afford nutritious and safe. This is a major

concern for many families all over the world. Fortunately, urban farming contributes to greater

food security.

Producing food on one’s own, undeveloped or developed land is one way for the urban poor to

earn or supplement their income. Some urban farmers sell or trade their harvest, and others

keep it for themselves and their families. Either way, it’s beneficial. It’s affordable, healthy

produce and may be seen as a form of income.

Creates a Sense of Belonging

Living in the city, it’s not uncommon that we don’t know our neighbours’ names. Urban

farming is one way to bring urban dwellers together, to establish a sense of community among

people otherwise independent and, in some cases, isolated.

For instance, a community garden has neighbouring men, women and children work together

to keep the plants alive and well in the city. Family, friends, acquaintances and even strangers

come together and work toward greater food security, something positive the entire community

will benefit from. From this, a sense of togetherness develops.

Produces Healthy Food You Can Respect

The more urban farming and eating locally there is, the fewer miles food must travel before it’s

on your plate. You get fresher, healthier food and herbs, vegetables and fruits and more likely

to eat what’s in season, when you eat what’s produced on an urban farm.

17
Besides consuming the food we cultivate with disease-fighting vitamins, it’s no secret that

when you grow your ingredients and prepare your meals, you gain respect for your food.

Respecting your food makes it easier to eat mindfully and maintain not only your weight but

your relationship with food.

Provides a Learning Opportunity

Urban farms give city dwellers a chance to produce their own food, and learn in the

process. They learn about various gardening techniques, the best nutrient solutions, required

sunlight, and controlling temperature, among other things.

Because urban farming requires hands-on maintenance, it’s easy to pick up tips and tricks and

truly exercise your green thumb. This is not something many people in the city have the

opportunity to do, given the lack of green space and room for a traditional garden.

Makes Efficient Use of Land and space

A growing population alongside diminishing cultivated land is a definite concern. Urban

farming is a great way to efficiently use the land we do have to feed the people. Consider

rooftop gardens: they take up minimal space but produce tons of fresh, healthy produce. What’s

more, this is space that would otherwise go unused.

Also consider vertical gardens, where many hydroponics systems are set up vertically, fitting

nearly anywhere you would like them, including indoors and making a great use of the unused

space.

Different cities have their rules which is to be followed to start urban farming. Rules are

necessary because not every method of urban farming is economical and energy saving. The

definition of economical and energy saving differs from place to place.

18
Advantage Related To Architecture

There are many advantages for having urban farming inside and outside of the building.

Following are some the areas in which we get benefited for doing urban farming.

 It has both long term and short term benefits. Short term benefits includes the good air

quality, good ambience, positivity in air etc. long term benefits includes the

sustainability of the building and making it more energy efficient.

 Good indoor air quality which has become the very basic need for everyone, it is

becoming quite impossible to breathe easily.

 While designing if urban farming is planned properly then it increases the sustainability

of the building by consuming less resources and at the same time giving more output.

While some of the buildings just swallowing the resources you can make yourself and

your building energy efficient by adapting any of the techniques in your building while

designing the building.

To conclude, urban agriculture is positive in several ways: it increases food security among the

urban poor; creates a sense of belonging in the community; gives you vitamin-dense foods you

can respect; provides urban dwellers a learning opportunity; and makes efficient use of the land

and space.

19
1.6 URBAN FARMING FACTS

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Urban and peri-

urban farms already supply food to about 700 million city dwellers — one-quarter of the

world’s urban population — and nearly all of the world’s population growth between now and

2030 will be concentrated in urban areas in developing countries, so that by then almost 60%

of people in developing countries will live in cities. With this rapid growth in our cities, farming

in and around urban areas needs to play a bigger role in feeding city populations.

Involves using small plots such as vacant lots, gardens or roof tops in the city for growing

crops. Can take many forms, from small “micro farms” to larger operations. This can also

involve animal husbandry, aquaculture, agroforestry and horticulture. Is generally practiced for

income-earning or food-producing activities, contributing to food security and food safety.

Provides an outlet for better health and nutrition, increased income, employment, food security

within the household, and community social life. Shows that planting increased numbers of

gardens in a city environment improves air quality close to pollution sources. This can help in

climate regulation through the absorption of greenhouse gases.

Urban Farming has been viewed for ages, and only for subsistence purposes; however the

production of crops directly in the urban areas has many additional economic, social and

ecological benefits. Improves nutrition, as produce is fresh and less damaged when grown and

20
distributed locally. Closes the nutrient loop, as domestic organic waste can be composted and

processed into the soil for added nutrients and soil structure. Has the potential to alleviate two

of the world’s most crucial problems: poverty and waste. Has the potential to provide economic

regeneration and stability to the growing population. Organic city farming diverts nutrient rich

waste from landfills or export and returns it to the land. Promotes sustainable development by

reducing the vulnerability of the world’s urban populations to global ecological change. Youth

stay busy and feel useful when participating in these programs. Naturally restores the human

connection to nature by instilling a sense of stewardship in the farmer, creating a better

appreciation of the land’s natural processes. Creates a feeling of community between people,

which can facilitate further collective action on issues of local importance. Improves the

aesthetics of the city by increasing the ‘green spaces’ in an otherwise concrete landscape while

providing recreational opportunities for those who work the land. Increased gardens and plants

in cities improve air quality close to pollution sources. On a large scale, it reduces

transportation of produce; thus, less fuel is required by vehicles and less protective packaging

is needed for the produce. Encourages the production of rare varieties of fruits and vegetables,

as urban gardeners tend to cultivate a wider variety of crops, conserving unique cultivars and

enhancing agricultural diversity. [8]

[8]
- Reference taken from – www.fao.org (WORLD FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANISATION)

21
1.7 SUMMARY

In this chapter we got to know that urban farming is not a new and out of the box concept

and idea, since ages it is in practice and many advancements are made in techniques from

time to time. We also got to know about its various benefits about how it is related to

architecture and how it increases the sustainability of the building.

Let’s move onto the next chapter in which we will be discussing and understanding the

various techniques and equipment for urban farming.

22
“CREATING YOUR URBAN FARM IS AS SIMPLE AS PLANTING YOUR FLOWERBEDS
WITH EDIBLE” – G ERG PETERSON

CHAPTER 2

TECHNIQUES
AND
EQUIPMENTS

23
2.1 METHODS OF URBAN FARMING

A. ROOFTOP FARMING

The practice of cultivating food on the rooftop of buildings is sometimes referred to as rooftop

farming. Rooftop farming is usually done using green roof, hydroponics, aeroponics systems

or container gardens.

Roof gardens are most often found in urban environments. Plants have the ability to reduce the

overall heat absorption of the building which then reduces energy consumption. "The primary

cause of heat build-up in cities is insolation, the absorption of solar radiation by roads and

buildings in the city and the storage of this heat in the building material and its subsequent re-

radiation. Plant surfaces however, as a result of transpiration, do not rise more than 4–5 °C

above the ambient and are sometimes cooler. This then translates into a cooling of the

environment between 3.6 and 11.3 degrees Celsius (6.5 and 20.3 °F), depending on the area on

earth (in hotter areas, the environmental temperature will cool more). The study was performed

by the University of Cardiff. [9]

[9]
- Michelle Nowak (May 2004). "Urban Agriculture on the Rooftop". City Farmer.

24
A study at the National Research Council of Canada showed the differences between roofs

with gardens and roofs without gardens against temperature. The study shows temperature

effects on different layers of each roof at different times of the day. Roof gardens are obviously

very beneficial in reducing the effects of temperature against roofs without gardens. “If widely

adopted, rooftop gardens could reduce the urban heat island, which would decrease smog

episodes, problems associated with heat stress and further lower energy consumption.” [10]

Image 1: components of a reference roof and a rooftop garden. (Photo credit: Karen Liu)

Image 2 & 3: rooftop gardens. (Photo credit: The Living Greens)

[10]
- http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/ (NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA)

25
Besides providing resistance to thermal radiation, rooftop gardens are also beneficial in

reducing rain run-off. A roof garden can delay run off; reduce the rate and volume of run off.

“As cities grow, permeable substrates are replaced by impervious structures such as buildings

and paved roads. Storm water run-off and combined sewage overflow events are now major

problems for many cities of the world. A key solution is to reduce peak flow by delaying (e.g.,

control flow drain on roofs) or retaining run-off (e.g., rain detention basins). Rooftop gardens

can delay peak flow and retain the run-off for later use by the plants.

B VERTICAL FARMING

Vertical farming as a component of urban agriculture is the practice of cultivating plant life

within a skyscraper greenhouse or on vertically inclined surfaces. The modern idea of vertical

farming uses techniques similar to glass houses, where natural sunlight can be augmented with

artificial lighting.

Vertical farming is the practice of producing food in vertically stacked layers, vertically

inclined surfaces and/or integrated in other structures. The modern idea of vertical farming

uses controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) technology, where all environmental factors

can be controlled.

These facilities utilize artificial control of light, environmental control (humidity, temperature,

gases...). Some vertical farms use techniques similar to greenhouses, where natural sunlight can

be augmented with artificial lighting and metal reflectors.

26
The term "vertical farming" was coined by Gilbert Ellis Bailey in 1915 in his book Vertical

Farming. His use of the term differs from the current meaning—he wrote about farming with

a special interest in soil origin, its nutrient content and the view of plant life as "vertical" life

forms, specifically relating to root structures underground.

Modern usage of vertical farming refers to skyscrapers using some degree of natural light. [11]

Image 4 & 5: vertical gardens. (Photo credit: The Living Greens)

Vertical farming, used in conjunction with other technologies and socioeconomic practices,

could allow cities to expand while remaining largely self-sufficient food wise. This would

allow for large urban centres that could grow without destroying considerably larger areas of

forest to provide food for their people. Moreover, the industry of vertical farming will provide

employment to these expanding urban centres. This may help displace the unemployment

created by the dismantling of traditional farms, as more farm laborers move to cities in search

of work.

[11]
- https://vertical-farming.net/ (GLOSSARY FOR VERTICAL FARMING)

27
C POT FARMING

Pot farming, flowerpot farming or pot agriculture is the practice of growing edible plants,

exclusively in containers (flowerpots), instead of planting them in the ground.

The balcony, backyard, patio or even the doorstep can all be turned over to vegetable

production. It is important to select appropriate species to ensure success in the urban garden.

Species such as tomato, spinach can even be grown inside the house, if there is adequate light

and ventilation.

Some other species which could be grown using pot farming outside are carrots, radish, mint,

basil etc.

Special care must be taken to grow these plants in pots. This practice is associated with trends

as Zero Kilometres, where the consumption of local vegetables is encouraged, to reduce carbon

emissions related transporting food.

Image 6: pot farming. (Photo credit: The Living Greens)

28
D UNDERGROUND FARMING

Underground farming is the practice of cultivating food underground. Underground farming is

usually done using hydroponics, aeroponics systems or container gardens. Light is generally

provided by means of artificial lighting or day lighting systems. [12]

Image 7 & 8: underground farming. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

E HYDROPONICS

Hydroponics is a subset of hydro culture, the method of growing plants without soil, using

mineral nutrient solutions in a water solvent. Terrestrial plants may be grown with only

their roots exposed to the mineral solution, or the roots may be supported by an inert medium,

such as gravel. The nutrients are from fish waste, duck manure, or normal nutrients. [13]

Image 9 & 10: hydroponics farming. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

29
F AEROPONICS

Aeroponics is the process of growing plants in an air or mist environment without the use

of soil or an aggregate medium (known as geoponics).

The word "aeroponics" is derived from the Greek meanings of aero- (air) and ponos (labour).

Aeroponics culture differs from both conventional hydroponics, aquaponics, and in-vitro (plant

tissue culture) growing.

Unlike hydroponics, which uses a liquid nutrient solution as a growing medium and essential

minerals to sustain plant growth; or aquaponics which uses water and fish waste, aeroponics is

conducted without a growing medium because water is used in aeroponics to transmit nutrients,

it is sometimes considered a type of hydroponics. [14]

Image 11 & 12: aeroponics farming. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

[12]
- http://growing-underground.com/

[13]
- http://www.indianhydroponics.com/

[14]
- http://aeroponicsdiy.com/

30
G IRRIGATION

Irrigation is the method in which a controlled amount of water is supplied to plants at regular

intervals for agriculture. It is used to assist in the growing of agricultural crops, maintenance

of landscapes, and re vegetation of disturbed soils in dry areas and during periods of inadequate

rainfall. Additionally, irrigation also has a few other uses in crop production, which include

protecting plants against frost, suppressing weed growth in grain field and preventing soil

consolidation. In contrast, agriculture that relies only on direct rainfall is referred to as rain-fed

or dry land farming. Irrigation systems are also used for dust suppression, disposal of sewage,

and in mining. Irrigation is often studied together with drainage, which is the natural or artificial

removal of surface and sub-surface water from a given area. Irrigation has been a central feature

of agriculture for over 5,000 years and is the product of many cultures. Historically, it was the

basis for economies and societies across the globe, from Asia to the South-western United

States.

In urban farming irrigation is the most important part. In general words the urban farming is

possible because of proper irrigation methods and techniques.

Irrigation system installations consist of various pipes, fittings, valves and other equipment

depending on the kind of system and the type of installation. Most installations have the same

structure, and thus a relatively small range of equipment can meet the requirements of a whole

region. Irrigation equipment can be divided into:

31
Pipes

Steel Pipes

Aluminium Pipes

Polyethylene Pipes
Image 13 & 14: Commonly used pipe
Rigid PVC Pipes (Photo credit – google scholar)

Pipe Connector Fittings

Iron Fittings,

Polypropylene Fittings,
Image 15: Different types of pipe connectors
PVC Fittings (Photo credit – google scholar)

Flow Control Devices

Shut-Off Valves

Check Valves

Regulating Valves

Meters

Pressure Gauges

Air Valves Image 16 to 20: Different types of flow control device

(Photo credit – google scholar)

Safety Valves

Filters

Gravel Filters

Sand Separator Filters

Screen Type Filters.

Image 21 to 25: Different types of filters control device
(Photo credit – google scholar)
Disk Type Filters

32
Fertigation Equipment

Fertilizer (Closed) Tank

Venturi Type

Piston Pump Image 26 to 28: Different types of fertigation equipment

(Photo credit – google scholar)

Water Emitters

Sprinklers

Micro Sprinklers

Micro-Jets and Sprayers

Bubblers

Dripper

Drip Tapes

Pressure Emitters
Image 29 to 36: Different types of Water Emitters
(Photo credit – google scholar)
Porous Pipes

Automation Equipment

Electric Valves

Controllers
Image 37 to 39: Different types of Automation Equipment
(Photo credit – google scholar)
Volumetric Metering Valves

33
 Operation Equipment

Soil Moisture Sensors

Conductivity Meters

Class A Evaporation Pan Image 40 to 42: Different types of Operation Equipment

(Photo credit – google scholar)

Water-Lifting Devices

Direct-Lift Devices

Displacement Pumps

Velocity Pumps

Air-Lift Pumps

Impulse Pumps Image 43 to 47: Different types of Automation Equipment

(Photo credit – google scholar)

Gravity Devices

The main characteristics of the irrigation equipment are:

Material, e.g. galvanized steel, rigid PVC, etc.

Size, i.e. the nominal diameter (DN) of the ISO metric range in millimetres (16-160 mm)

Type of joint, e.g. threaded, quick coupling, and solvent welded, etc.

Working pressure PN (nominal pressure) or PR (pressure rating) in bars. [15]

[15]
- A. Phocaides, FAO Consultant, TECHNICAL HANDBOOK ON PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION

TECHNIQUES

34
2.2 PLANT SPECIES TO CONSIDER

This is one of the important aspect of urban farming. The plant should be carefully chosen

because the requirements varies from species to species. Some require less maintenance and

more resources or vice versa and others require less maintenance and less resource. So the

various factors (climate, required resources, and water, soil requirements, equipment

required) should be taken care before selecting a plant for cultivation.

At the same time properties of plant will also matter. Availability of space becomes very

necessary while opting for a particular plant. The foliage of both roots and branches should

be considered first.

In Indian context following are some of the species which can be easily grown and cultivated

and at the same time they have many befits.

Tomato, Brinjal, chilli, potato, spinach, ladyfinger, carrot, radish, herbs, creepers etc.

Image 48 to 55: plants to consider (Spinach, Potato, Ladyfinger, Carrot,

Tomato, Chilli, Brinjal, and Radish)
(Photo credit – self)

35
2.3 GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE

Good agricultural practice (GAP) are specific methods which, when applied to agriculture,

create food for consumers or further processing that is safe and wholesome.

To enable farm produce to be internationally competitive innovative farming practices

incorporating the concept of globally accepted Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) within the

framework of commercial agricultural production for long term improvement and

sustainability is essential.

GAP in addition to improving the yield and quality of the products, also has environmental and

social dimensions. Implementation of GAP would promote optimum utilization of water

resources such as pesticides, fertilizers, and water and eco-friendly agriculture. Its social

dimension would be to protect the agricultural workers’ health from improper use of chemicals

and pesticides.

It is a particularly opportune time to promote GAP when second generation of reforms in

agriculture which would have a Critical impact on Indian agriculture, are planned by the Indian

Government

For urban farming good agricultural practice in necessary for making urban farming successful.
[16]

[16]
- http://www.qcin.org/documents/GAP/INDIAGAP-FINAL.pdf (QUALITY CONCIL OF INDIA)

36
2.4 GOOD ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE

In context with urban farming good architectural practice can be classified on the basis of

following factors.

 Whether the adopted method is energy saving or not.

 How much water is it reusing, and what are the various methods adopted for the same.

 What are the different methods that has be adopted for urban farming.

2.5 SUMMARY

In this chapter we got to know about various methods (rooftop farming, vertical farming,

hydroponics, and aeroponics) and equipment (pipes, fittings, valves etc.) by which the urban

farming can be started and properly irrigated and taken care of. We also got to know about

good architectural practice.

Let’s move onto the next chapter which is of case studies. We have done a case study

for each type of urban farming method.

We have chosen these four methods only because these four methods are commonly

practiced and majority of people know about these four types of urban farming

methods. In the end of next chapter we’ll be comparing all four methods on the basis of

requirements and resources available.

37
“GROWING YOUR OWN FOOD IS PRINTING YOUR OWN MONEY” – RON FINLEY

CHAPTER 3

CASE STUDIES

38
CHAPTER – 3

3.1 URBAN FARM PASONA GROUP

ARCHITECT : NEW YORK FIRM KONO DESIGNS (2010)

LOCATION : DOWN-TOWN TOKYO

SITE AREA : 215,000 square foot (9 STORY HIGH)

LANDUSE : CORPORATE OFFICE BUILDING

Image 56 & 57: URBAN FARM PASONA GROUP (photo credit: GOOGLE MAPS)

IMPORTANT FEARTURES OF THE BUILDING

 Double-skin green façade – flower and orange trees.

 Offices – people work for themselves.

 Auditorium

 Cafeterias

 A rooftop garden.

39
  Urban farming facilities integrated within the building

 The green space totals over 43,000 square feet with 200 species

including fruits, vegetables and rice that are harvested, prepared and

served at the cafeterias within the building.

 Maximum height with exposed ceilings between the beams.

 Using both hydroponic and soil based farming.

 Crops and office workers share a common space.

 People cultivate for themselves at the same time revenue is generated

by selling the surplus amount.

 There people are seem to be more dedicated towards their duty.

Image 58 & 59: Urban farm Pasona Green view during day and night. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

40
 Image 60 & 61: Urban farm Pasona Green façade. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

Image 62 & 63: Initial stages of farming of tomato and spinach. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

They have incorporated the urban farming methods and its practice into their curriculum very

well. While designing the building the architect visualised this and then designed accordingly

and the people accepted it very well. [17]

[17]
- http://www.dezeen.com/

41
Following are the two plans of the building which shows the green area that have been

designed at the time of designing.

Image 64 & 65: Ground floor and typical floor of the building. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

They have utilised almost every inch of the space which could be used, for urban farming.

The green areas in the above plan shows the relation between the working area and green

area.

People working there is always getting fresh air and sense of belongingness while working

there which is very mush essential for productivity and excellence at work place or any place.

42
Following are some of the images showing the harmony of the working area with farming area.

Image 66 & 67: conference room and cafeteria. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

Image 68 & 69: working area and meeting area. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

Image 70 & 71: cafeteria and people harvesting the crop. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

43
 Image 72 & 73: tomato vines and pumpkin vines. (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

Image 74 & 75: flowers and vegetable (Photo credit: Pasona Greens)

Following are some of the ways in which they are practicing urban farming inside the urban

farm:

 Tomato vines are suspended above conference tables.

 Lemon and passion fruit trees are used as partitions for meeting spaces.

 Salad leaves are grown inside seminar rooms.

44
 Bean sprouts are grown under benches.

 The main lobby also features a rice paddy and a broccoli field.

 An intelligent climate control system monitors humidity, temperature and

breeze to balance human comfort during office hours and optimise crop growth

during afterhours. This maximises crop yield and annual harvests.

Image 76: Typical section of vertical garden of Pasona Urban Farm (Photo credit: Pasona Greens).

45
CONCLUSION

The above case study is sufficient enough to prove that it is possible to cultivate with the help

of available resources. Urban farming can be incorporated in the buildings and it will only

be successful if people working their take it up as their own responsibility to look after the

crops and take care of them.

New planning principles and resources should be there so that urban farming can be practiced

inside of the building very easily.

46
3.2 Late DR. R. T. DOSHI TERRACE FARMS

This case study is of terrace garden. This is one of the very common methods which is in

practice for very long time. I have chosen this case study to prove that it is really possible

to incorporate urban farming in our day to day life with the help of our surrounding.

ABOUT : He was a retired industrialist who lived in Bandra. He started

farming on his terrace.

LOCATION : Dr Doshi's house "Jamunotry" on the 26th Road Bandra.

SITE AREA : 1200 square foot

METHODS : Community farming. (Organic waste is collected by community and

used as manure)

PLANTS : All types of vegetables and fruits that are suitable for our climate he

even succeeded in growing strawberry.

The "Doshi method" involves planting in polyethylene bags or

45 gallon drums with the bottoms stuffed with biomass, such

as sugarcane stocks from sugarcane juice vendors (something

that normally goes to waste).

Image 77: Late Dr. R. T. Doshi

One quarter of the bag is then filled with compost and the remainder with soil.

47
Dr. R.T. Doshi attributes his success to the ideas of Shripal Achyut Dabholkar from Kolhapur

who set up an institution called "Prayog Parivar" devoted to "natural" farming based on

indigenous practices with a community focus. [18]

Following are some of the images of plants that are growing on his terrace.

Image 78 & 79: Guava and bamboo are growing in drum and plastic bag respectively. (Photo credit: cityfarming.in).

Image 80, 81 & 82: Coconut, Mango and Papaya tree. (Photo credit: cityfarming.in).

[18]
- http://www.Cityfarming.in/

48
CONCLUSION

The above case study is sufficient enough to prove that in Indian context it is possible to

cultivate with the help of community farming.

It is the most cost effective techniques available till date.

The equipment he used were plastic bags, drums, sugarcane waste and no automated

irrigation system he used to manually irrigate the garden.

From this case study we can say that terrace can easily be used for farming and with proper

guidance and assistance many species can be grown and cultivated.

49
3.3 PAHARPUR BUSINESS CENTRE

LOCATION : NEHRU PLACE

LANDUSE : CORPORATE OFFICE BUILDING

Image 83 & 84: location of PAHARPUR BUSINESS CENTRE. (Photo credit: Google Maps).

Wellness refers to a high dimension focus on the

occupants of the building. Up-scaling the health and

wellness quotient in a building indicates a “People

First” approach by providing superior quality of

Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) to the occupants,

results in 360 degrees health and business benefits to

all.

Image 85: Kamal Meattle. (Photo credit: Paharpur

Business Centre).

People working in Buildings need to keep well and it

is a well-known fact that indoor air is 10 times more polluted than outside or ambient air.

50
PBC has found solutions for it through its new business vertical that provides indoor air quality

solutions -Breathe Easy.

They are pioneers in air quality solutions and have capabilities in testing, remediation and

improvement of indoor air quality for homes, and large commercial establishments, like

hospitals, malls, hotels, schools, office buildings, etc. So far they have helped over 800 homes

in Delhi-NCR breathe easy. It is this thought process that has led them to opt for National

Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) and DELOS WELL certifications.

Given that Delhi’s air is practically unfit for breathing, it is great that they have a third party

verification of good air quality at PBC – for wellness and productivity of our occupants.

They hope to become the first building in the country to achieve these two milestones, thus

committing ourselves to a healthy work environment that aids productivity and profitability.
[19]

Following are some of the images of inside of Paharpur Business Centre that shows the various

steps they have taken to achieve their goal.

Image 86 & 87: Working place and confrence room. (Photo credit: Paharpur Business Centre).

[19]
- Eighth Cooperative Sustainability Report, Paharpur Business Centre, 2014

51
 Image 88 & 89: Cafeteria. (Photo credit: Paharpur Business Centre).

Image 90 & 91: Inside and Outside of the building. (Photo credit: Paharpur Business Centre).

52
CONCLUSION

By incorporating the green inside the building they are able to maintain a good indoor air

quality.

The people working there are also seem to be very positive.

They are using pot farming methods but they are not cultivating anything in them, they have

planted mainly money plants all over the business centre just for maintaining good indoor air

quality.

53
3.4 THE LIVING GREENS

This case study is of vertical farming, hydroponics and aeroponics. I chose this case study

because all three type of farming can be seen at one place. So it become quite easy to

understand what the difficulties that are faced and what are the equipment used for various

farming method.

ABOUT : These two methods are much more advanced than terrace and pot

farming.

LOCATION : 583 – 584 Nirman Nagar, AB King’s Road, Jaipur

METHODS : Vertical Garden, hydroponics and aeroponics

The living greens Living Greens Organics Pvt Ltd is one of the first Urban Farming companies

in India and it specializes in Rooftop Organic Farming, Rooftop Farming of fruits, Rooftop

Organic Farming kit, Organic Kitchen Gardening, Live Green Walls, Indoor Green Walls,

Outdoor Living Green Walls, Self-irrigating balcony stands, Herb stands, Leafy Stands,

Organic Balcony stands, consultancy for organic farming, Medicinal Plants stand etc. [20]

[20]
- http://thelivinggreens.com/

54
Their vision is to grow organic vegetables on every roof and to convert every building into a

living green building, thus generating the largest number of urban carbon credits in the world.

This case study helped me to know the ground reality of all the farming techniques and the

challenges related to them.

This also helped me to experience the opportunities that we can have by adopting these

methods of urban farming.

Image 92 & 93: Location of the LIVING GREEN ORGANICS Pvt. Ltd. (Photo credit: Google Maps).

Image 94 & 95: Drip irrigation system at The Living Green. (Photo credit: The Living Green Organics).

55
Image 96 & 97: Vegetable farming (Brinjal and broccoli) at The Living Green. (Photo credit: The Living Green Organics).

Image 98 & 99: Hydroponics system at The Living Green. (Photo credit: The Living Green Organics).

56
 Image 100 & 101: Aeroponics system at The Living Green. (Photo credit: The Living Green Organics).

Image 102 & 103: Vertical Farming at the Living Green. (Photo credit: The Living Green Organics).

CONCLUSION

From the above case study it is clear that we can adopt these (vertical farm, hydroponics and

aeroponics) different methods of urban farming with proper irrigation method for urban

farming in our buildings.

57
 3.5 COMPARISION

CASE STUDY -1 CASE STUDY -2 CASE STUDY - 3 CASE STUDY - 4

COMPARISION FACTOR PASONA GREEN PAHARPUR R.T. DOSHI FARM LIVING GREEN

METHODS ADOPTED

ROOF TOP FARMIG YES YES YES YES

VERTICAL FARMING YES YES YES YES
POT FARMING YES YES YES YES
UNDERGROUND FARMING YES NO NO NO
HYDROPONICS FARMING YES NO NO YES
AEROPONICS FARMING YES NO NO YES
ORGANIC FARMIG YES YES YES YES
COMMUNITY FARMIG NO NO YES YES

AVAILABLE RESOURCE

IRRIGATION EQUIPMENT AUTOMATED MANUAL TRADITIONAL LATEST

MONITORING EQUIPMENT AUTOMATED MANUAL TRADITIONAL TRADITIONAL

WATER REUSE YES YES YES YES

RAIN WATER COLLECTION YES YES YES YES

ACHIEVEMENT
YES YES ----- YES
GOOD INDOOR AIR QUALITY YES YES ----- -----
GOOD WORKING CONDITION

CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS

PEOPLE WORKING THERE THEY GET FRESH THEY GET GOOD THEY GET FRESH THEY GET FRESH
FRUITS & VEG. INDOOR AIR FRUITS & VEG FRUITS & VEG.
QUALITY.

SURPLUS IS THEY ARE ALSO IT WORKS AS AN

NEIGHBOUR TRADED IN IT WORKS AS AN PART OF IT. INSPIRATION.
NEIGHBOUR. INSPIRATION.

SOCIETY IT WORKS AS AN THEY ARE ALSO IT WORKS AS AN

INSPIRATION. IT WORKS AS AN PART OF IT. INSPIRATION.
INSPIRATION.

CONTRIBUTION OF PEOPLE THEY ARE THEY ARE NOT THEY ARE ONLY
WORKING THERE RESPONSIBLE INCLUDED IN RESPONSIBLE SPECIALISED
FOR EACH AND FARMING. FOR EACH AND PEOPLE ARE
EVERYTHING. EVERYTHING. ALLOWED TO
WORK.

58
3.5 CONCLUSION

PASONA GREEN

 They are using almost every method of urban farming (roof garden, vertical garden,

pot farming, underground farming, hydroponics and aeroponics) with advanced

irrigation method.

 They have achieved a lot by urban faming. They supply organic food grown there to

all the workers and they even sell them and earn a profit. They are able to cultivate

various types of fruits and vegetables throughout the year.

 The people working there are happy that they get to eat what they are growing there.

The people working there are actively taking part in urban farming. No extra labour

is hired for this urban farming everything is done by the people working there.

 They are responsible for all sorts of activity in farming inside the building. They are

involved at every stage of urban faming. After work hours they used to look after all

the crops and plants grown there. They all knew the basics of urban farming so they

can take care of the urban farming that is practiced there.

 There are following every rules and regulation that has been made for urban farming,

they are using the latest technologies, and they keep a check on every step of urban

farming.

 They have all the latest technologies available to them and they are making a very

good use of those. They have got the latest irrigation equipment, lighting fixture,

monitoring systems etc. Urban farming gets proper funding and it is very successful.

59
PAHARPUR BUSINESS CENTRE

 They are using only pot farming and soil base method of urban farming with manual

irrigation method. They are not cultivating anything.

 They are only achieving good indoor air quality for them it is the main reason to have

green inside the building.

 It is only helping them in maintaining good indoor air quality by that they are able to

maintain a good working environment and thus the productivity has increased.

 The good indoor air quality has increased the productivity of the people working

there. Extra labour is deployed to take care of the plants and regularly water them

manually.

 They are not contributing much to it, they are just taking benefits (fresh air, good

indoor air quality) of the pot farming practiced there.

 They have got the limited resources. They are not thinking to include the people

working there in urban farming. Urban farming is not that much important to them.

 They are only focusing on maintaining good indoor air quality and they are taking

care of each plant manually.

TRADITIONAL FARMING METHOD

It involves old practices which consumed more resources and production rate is very low.

The desired growth can never be possible, we don’t have the control over the growth and thus

we don’t know what will be the final outcome.

60
TRADITIONAL FARMING METHOD

It involves the modern practices which are invented and tested by scientists in lab under

various circumstances. It involves the technologies and methods which are economical and

at the same time uses less resources. By adopting this we save our natural resources, we

increase the productivity of crops. The modern farming method emphasises mainly on one

thing that is “provide what is required” and save rest for others.

3.6 SUMMARY

In this chapter we looked into various case studies and found that some of common requirement

is there in all the places like water recycling, water reuse, rain water harvesting are present in

all case studies. We tried to compare them on various factors.

Let’s move onto the next chapter in which we will be making conclusion on the basis

of above case studies and its analysis.

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“YOU CAN’T BUY HAPPINESS BUT YOU CAN BUY PLANTS”

CHAPTER 4

CONCLUSION

62
METHODS THAT CAN BE ADOPTED FOR OUR PURPOSE

 Roof top farming

 Pot farming
 Vertical farming
 Hydroponics
 Aeroponics

TO INCORPORATE URBAN FARMING INSIDE OUR PUBLIC BUILDING WE

SHOULD HAVE TO FULFIL THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA

 Steps should be taken while designing the building.

 Water recycle and reuse should be taken care of because it is the basic requirement for

urban faming inside the building and then only we will be able to increase sustainability

of that building.

 People working there should be familiar with the urban farming and they should have

the basic idea about it and its equipment and most importantly they should understand

the need of urban farming inside the building in coming future.

 Modern equipment should be preferred above traditional one because of its benefits like

easy to operate, easy to install moreover all of them are somewhat automatic so a little

care would be enough.

 Overall it is possible to incorporate urban faming in public buildings but with proper

planning and technology.

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FROM THE ABOVE CASES STUDIES AND COMPARISON FOLLOWING THINGS
CAN BE CONCLUDED

 Initially it is difficult to adopt urban farming techniques at public places.

 All the methods mentioned here can be opted depending upon the availability of space

and requirements of that area.

 Hydroponics is more preferable as compared to aeroponics.

 In India there is a need to work on vacant urban lands because we have plenty of them,

and so we don’t feel a need to cultivate in our public areas but at the same time a vision

should be made for future requirements and start working accordingly.

 It is also very clear that there is no harm in incorporating green in public buildings it is

beneficial on various aspects like good working environment with good indoor air

quality etc.

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“IT TAKES EFFORT TO PROMOTE WHAT YOU DO UNTILL IT BECOMES A HABBIT” –
GERG PETERSION

CHAPTER 5

DISCUSSION

65
There are certain things in this dissertation which I found difficult to conclude so I’m leaving
it for discussion.

 In Indian context is it possible to practice urban farming inside the building, do we

have that much resources and planning to incorporate urban farming in our public

buildings.

 Can we make effort at our design level to incorporate these methods in our building

and make our building more productive and happy.

 Can we teach our younger generation the basics of farming so that if we are able to

incorporate urban farming inside our public building in coming future we don’t need

to teach the basics to the person working there because they had already learnt that in

their schools and colleges.

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“THE EARTH IS WHAT WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON” – WENDELL BERRY

CHAPTER 6

RECOMMONDATIONS

67
Following are some of the reconditions that we would like to make

 Before taking any decision it would be very beneficial for you to look for experienced

person in this field who are experienced in this field to tell you the dos and don’ts about

this subject.

 I would sincerely recommend the city farming by R. T. Doshi for all the interested

aspirants who really want to go for urban faming at their level.

 There is a need to work on vacant area first because if we utilise all our agricultural

land with modern technologies there is nothing better than this, we would be self-

sufficient and we could even export the fruits and vegetables

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“LET NATURE BE IN YOUR YARDS” - G ERG PETERSON

CHAPTER 7

BIBILOGRAPHY

69
1. City farming – R. T. Doshi

2. Urban farming –Thomson J. Fox

3. Irrigation & water resources – Apoorva Oza

4. Urban Agriculture in India –G. Yasmeen

5. Urban Agriculture and Sustainable cities – Tjeerd Deelstra & Herbert Girardet

6. Pressurized Irrigation Techniques – A. Phocaides

7. Good Practice Urban Agriculture and Better Built - Hordas Emu

8. A Systematic Overview of Urban Agriculture in Developing Countries - Hordas Emu

9. IS 13488 (2008)_ Irrigation equipment -Emitting pipes system

10. http://www.cityfarmer.info/

11. http://www.cityfarming.in/

12. http://www.urbanleaves.org/

13. http://www.dezeen.com/

14. Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer - Novella Carpenter

15. Grow Great Grub: Organic Food from Small Spaces - Gayla Trail

16. Hydroponics basics – George F. Van Patten

17. The EZ Guide To Aeroponics, Hydroponics and Aquaponics: How to Create

Sustainable Food Supply - Mr Bob Long

18. Fundamentals of Vegetable Production – M. K. Rana

19. lentilunderground.com/

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20. https://www.theguardian.com

21. www.ecohome.net/guide/landscaping-outdooring-urban-farming

22. thelivinggreens.com/

23. www.technologyforthepoor.com/UrbanAgriculture/

24. https://en.wikipedia.org/

25. inhabitat.com/

26. www.urbanorganicgardener.com

27. http://thelivinggreens.com/

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