Ryerson University, located in downtown Toronto, boasts a rooftop urban farm that builds a strong community through principles of ecological consistency and inclusivity-favoring safe spaces. The initiative hosts programs that engage Ryerson students, faculty and the public with the value and potential of an agriculture system that is established within a metropolitan infrastructure. It explores production through a sustainability-focused lens, as well as builds awareness and research within the field of city-based agriculture.
The size of the rooftop urban farm equates to a quarter of an acre. It delivers about 10,000 pounds of produce annually, which is distributed between the Ryerson Market, Ryerson Eats, the Good Centre, local restaurants and a Harvest Share program. In addition, the educative institution houses three beehives that are maintained with the help of Alveole.
Inclusive Rooftop Urban Farms
Ryerson University's Farm Advocates for Sustainability and Tolerance
Trend Themes
1. Urban Farming - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing new technologies and techniques for efficient and scalable rooftop farming in urban areas.
2. Sustainable Agriculture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating innovative solutions to maximize yield and reduce resource consumption in urban farming environments.
3. Community Engagement - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Designing interactive programs and platforms to foster community participation and education in urban agriculture initiatives.
Industry Implications
1. Agriculture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrating urban farming practices into traditional agriculture systems to enhance sustainability and productivity.
2. Food Services - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating locally grown produce from rooftop urban farms into the menus of restaurants and food service providers.
3. Education - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing curriculum and training programs to educate individuals on urban farming techniques and their environmental benefits.