Track: Modeling and Simulation

Abstract

One out of two households in South Africa experience hunger, approximately one out of three are at risk of hunger, and only one out of five seem to be food secure (Drimie and McLachlan 2013). This paper analyses the influence of rooftop agriculture on urban food security using three case studies in three cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban) in South Africa. This research is important as it studies a variety of rooftop gardens and farms which will help to inform policy directives as well as promote rooftop farming within cities and aid food security. The methodology used for this paper was qualitative research, based on an extensive literature review which investigated four different rooftop gardens in cities around the world. Results of the research indicated that all three rooftop gardens contributed to food security and affordability, employment and business opportunities, environmental restoration and beautification into cities. In future therefore, cities need to pass legislation making rooftop agriculture a priority, or offer a tax rebate to building owners who do comply. Furthermore, studies testing roof garden capacity need to be carried out in all cities.