Vertical Farming Systems: A Lifecycle Assessment of Resource Efficiency in Urban Canada

Beyond the Hype: Quantifying Energy, Water, and Carbon Footprints in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)

Abstract

As urban populations grow and arable land becomes increasingly scarce, Vertical Farming (VF) has been proposed as a sustainable solution for local food production. This article presents a comprehensive Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) of vertical hydroponic systems within the Canadian urban context. The study quantifies the "Resource Efficiency Gap" by comparing the electricity-intensive requirements of LED lighting and climate control against the significant water savings and reduced transportation emissions inherent in urban food loops. Focusing on operations in Southern Ontario and British Columbia, the research evaluates the grid-dependency of VF and proposes a renewable-integrated model for 2026. The findings provide a critical baseline for urban planners regarding the long-term sustainability of indoor cultivation.