Environmental Impacts of Hydroponic Green Roof Systems: A Case Study

Promoting soil-less systems as an alternative to traditional agriculture can support the need of ensuring food security and environmental protection in urban contexts. In this context, the aim of the study is to investigate, from a life cycle perspective, the energy and environmental impacts of Hydroponic Green Roof Systems installed on building rooftops in the Mediterranean region. A case study is examined by applying the Life Cycle Assessment methodology. The objective of the analysis is to evaluate the potential energy and environmental performance of such systems for urban food production. The results, taking into account different impact categories, allow identifying the components/materials of HGRS that cause the higher impacts. In particular, water tank and platform significantly influence the results and should be taken into account for future eco-design strategies.