Rooftop farm above a Berlin supermarket is revolutionizing how fresh salad reaches your plate. At the REWE supermarket in Lankwitz, customers can now buy lettuce grown just metres above the tills. This innovative approach, part of a growing urban farming trend, promises to cut transportation emissions and deliver ultra-fresh produce.
Germany's Largest Rooftop Farm Opens in Berlin
In a groundbreaking move for urban agriculture, REWE and ECF Farm Systems have launched Germany's largest rooftop farm atop the Lankwitz supermarket. Spanning 2,760 square metres, this farm produces a variety of leafy greens, including romaine, rocket, and a special loose-leaf mix. The produce is sold under the brand "Frisch Vom REWE Dach" (Fresh from the REWE Roof) and is already a hit among shoppers.
How Does a Rooftop Farm Work?
Using advanced hydroponic systems, the farm grows plants without soil, relying on nutrient-rich water. This method uses 90% less water than traditional farming and eliminates the need for pesticides. The farm operates year-round, unaffected by weather, and delivers freshly harvested greens directly to the store below within hours.
Environmental and Economic Benefits of Rooftop Farming
Rooftop farms offer a multitude of benefits. They reduce the distance food travels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and costs. They also mitigate the urban heat island effect by providing insulation and reducing stormwater runoff. Moreover, they utilize otherwise dead space, turning unused rooftops into productive green areas.
| Aspect | Traditional Farming | Rooftop Farming |
|---|---|---|
| Transport Distance | Hundreds to thousands of miles | 0 miles (on-site) |
| Water Usage | High | Up to 90% less |
| Pesticides | Often used | None |
| Seasonality | Seasonal | Year-round |
Key Takeaways for Urban Agriculture
- Reduced carbon footprint: No transportation emissions.
- Ultra-fresh produce: Harvested and sold within hours.
- Space efficiency: Utilizes unused rooftop areas.
- Water conservation: Hydroponic systems use minimal water.
- Community engagement: Connects consumers with their food sources.
The Future of Rooftop Farms in Germany and Beyond
Germany is no stranger to rooftop farms; the first REWE-ECF farm opened in Wiesbaden-Erbenheim in 2021. The Lankwitz farm is a significant scale-up, signaling growing interest in local, sustainable food production. Similar farms exist in Paris, Hong Kong, Copenhagen, and New York, each contributing to greener cities.

FAQ
What is a rooftop farm?
A rooftop farm is an agricultural system that grows food on the roof of a building, often using hydroponics or soil-based methods, to supply local markets or restaurants.
How does rooftop farming benefit the environment?
It reduces transportation emissions, lowers water usage, mitigates urban heat, and eliminates pesticide use, among other benefits.
Can rooftop farms be profitable?
Yes, by cutting transportation and storage costs and commanding premium prices for ultra-fresh produce, rooftop farms can be economically viable.
As cities seek sustainable solutions, rooftop farms like the one above REWE Lankwitz offer a blueprint for the future of food. They bring fresh, healthy produce closer to consumers while reducing environmental impact—a win-win for urban areas worldwide.
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