Paris’s Urban Rooftop Farm: Nature Urbaine
Paris is cutting back on its carbon footprint by growing its own produce right in the heart of the city with its innovative urban rooftop farm. Conveniently located just minutes from the Eiffel Tower, this eco-friendly initiative aims to provide fresh, local produce while promoting sustainable practices.
Nature Urbaine: A New Green Paradise
Porte de Versailles, nestled in the 15th arrondissement, is home to what is reported to be the world’s largest urban rooftop farm. The first phase opened in May, following a brief delay due to the lockdown. This green oasis will serve as a source of nourishment for the city, boasting a bar and restaurant operated by Le Perchoir, featuring a farm-to-fork menu rich in fresh ingredients grown on-site.
Space and Sustainability
Spanning an impressive 14,000 square meters (approximately the size of two football pitches), this rooftop farm will host over 20 market gardens. In season, it is expected to yield more than 2000 pounds of fruits and vegetables daily, featuring around 30 different varieties. Utilizing vertical aeroponic farming techniques—a soil-free method that employs nutrient-rich mist and rainwater—this farm requires only 10% of the water needed in traditional agriculture. As a result, it represents a more sustainable approach to urban farming.
Community Engagement and Educational Opportunities
In an effort to engage the local community, Nature Urbaine will not only provide fresh produce but also a variety of services related to urban agriculture. This includes educational tours and team-building workshops for companies. Moreover, local residents will have the opportunity to secure about 140 vegetable plots for personal use, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship.
Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
The ambitious rooftop farm project is a collaborative effort led by Viparis, alongside two companies specializing in urban agriculture: Agripolis and Cultures en Ville. Agripolis operates the farm while Cultures en Ville manages services and events. Their goal is to cultivate community collaboration and supply low-carbon food options to homes and restaurants throughout southern Paris.
According to Pablo Nakhlé Cerruti, CEO of Viparis, “By installing working farms on the sites we operate, we are helping to foster environmental and economic resilience in tomorrow’s cities. This is our guiding principle.” The initiative aims to supply restaurants in the complex, particularly those in the Le Perchoir chain, and residents of southern Paris through various distribution channels.
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