In the bustling city of Coimbatore, India, a novel approach to urban sustainability is taking root—literally. Researchers have uncovered a treasure trove of opportunities hidden in plain sight: the rooftops of buildings. A recent study published in *Computational Urban Science* (which translates to “Computational Urban Science” in English) reveals that these often-overlooked spaces could be key to addressing food, water, and energy security in urban areas. The lead author, V. S. Manivasagam from the Amrita School of Agricultural Sciences at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, and his team have developed a geospatial framework to assess the potential of rooftop gardening, rainwater harvesting, and photovoltaic installations.
The study leverages open-access geospatial datasets to evaluate the feasibility and economic potential of these sustainable practices. With 368,748 rooftops in Coimbatore, the findings are promising. Photovoltaic systems alone could generate a staggering ₹ 28.58 billion in revenue, while rooftop gardens and rainwater harvesting could contribute ₹ 15.79 billion and ₹ 0.34 billion, respectively. “This is a game-changer for urban planning,” Manivasagam explains. “By utilizing rooftop spaces, we can create a more resilient and sustainable urban environment.”
The economic potential doesn’t stop at energy generation. The study also conducted a crop-specific analysis, identifying chillies as the most profitable rooftop crop with a potential revenue of ₹ 38.51 billion. Coriander, on the other hand, showed the lowest potential revenue at ₹ 4.57 billion. These findings highlight the economic and environmental opportunities associated with rooftop agriculture and renewable energy systems.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. As cities grapple with increasing energy demands and climate change, rooftop photovoltaic systems offer a scalable and sustainable solution. “This research provides a roadmap for urban planners and policymakers to integrate renewable energy systems into the urban fabric,” Manivasagam notes. “It’s not just about generating energy; it’s about creating a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.”
The study also underscores the importance of open-access satellite imagery in assessing the potential of rooftop spaces. This tool offers valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions about sustainable urban development.
As cities around the world face similar challenges, the insights from this study could shape future developments in the field. By harnessing the power of rooftop spaces, urban areas can become more self-sufficient and resilient, paving the way for a sustainable future. The research published in *Computational Urban Science* serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that innovative solutions to urban sustainability are within reach.