Balancing urban growth and green solutions: Rooftop hydroponic farming in the Czech Republic

The logistics sector has become an integral component of the urban fabric, significantly influencing the gateway areas of cities. In Central Europe, the rapid expansion of warehouse infrastructure has been particularly notable, with the total net warehouse area reaching 59 million square meters in 2023. This development contributes to the formation of urban heat islands, which adversely impact the microclimate of nearby cities, exacerbating environmental challenges. The need for sustainable solutions to balance urban not only logistics growth with environmental preservation is increasingly urgent. This article explores the benefits and challenges of rooftop hydroponic farming through a case study conducted in July and August 2024 in the Czech Republic. The presented research is based on the students’ project “Lettuce on the roof” that integrates advanced hydroponic technology with the local rooftop environment and market conditions, contributing to sustainability, food security, and urban resilience. Key findings demonstrate that the hydroponic farm effectively reduced roof and surrounding temperatures, enhancing thermal regulation and building energy efficiency. The project achieved several months production of lettuce and herbs, with a short and efficient distribution chain ensuring fresh produce reached customers quickly. However, logistical complexities and the maintenance requirements of the selected concept present challenges, highlighting areas for improvement. These results underscore the potential of rooftop hydroponics as a viable urban agriculture solution, although future research should address operational scalability and optimization financial strategies for long-term sustainability.