Resource-Efficient Urban Agriculture: Comparative Analysis of Six Farming Models in Indonesian Cities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61978/sativa.v1i3.1427Keywords:
Urban Agriculture, Resource Efficiency, Hydroponics, Rooftop Farming, Sustainability Metrics, Comparative AnalysisAbstract
Urban agriculture (UA) is increasingly vital for addressing food security and sustainability in urban environments. This study evaluates six urban agriculture models rooftop farming, vertical farming, hydroponics, aquaponics, community gardens, and backyard farming using standardized resource efficiency indicators. The objective is to compare models based on water use efficiency (WUE), energy use efficiency (EUE), land use efficiency (LUE), nutrient use efficiency (NUE), and labor productivity. A quantitative cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from field observations, secondary sources, and expert consultations. Each model was evaluated for input-output ratios per production cycle. Resource efficiency metrics were calculated and analyzed using ratio comparisons and sustainability frameworks. The findings reveal that hydroponic systems exhibit the highest efficiency across most indicators, especially in water, nutrient, and labor use. Rooftop farming also performs well in land and nutrient use, while vertical farming achieves superior land use but lower energy efficiency due to artificial lighting needs. Community and backyard models are less efficient but offer social benefits and accessibility. Case studies from Paris and Detroit illustrate successful integration of UA into policy frameworks. These results highlight the importance of resource-based planning in urban agriculture. Efficient models such as hydroponics and rooftop systems should be prioritized in sustainability-focused urban development strategies. Policymakers must balance efficiency with inclusivity, ensuring broader access to high-performing UA technologies. Future research should explore long-term sustainability impacts and economic viability across diverse urban contexts.
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