Types of Vertical Smart Farms and Awareness of their use in Korean Cities Types and Feasibility Analysis of Vertical Smart Farms in Korean Cities

Abstract

Background and objective Vertical smart farm (VSF) is an alternative that contributes to solving various problems such as climate change and food shortage. This study focused on the types and awareness of VSF to introduce and diffuse VSF. We aimed to investigate the types of VSF and citizens’ awareness on VSF. We analyzed 1) where the smart farm technology could be implemented on a building; 2) what citizens think about VSF; and 3) suggested what is most necessary for the introduction and diffusion of VSF in the future based on citizens’ perception. Methods VSF types were investigated through case studies on VSF in Korea and overseas. Citizens’ perception on VSF was investigated through a questionnaire survey. A statistical analysis was conducted with the survey results for implications of the introduction and diffusion of VSF. Results Four types of VSF were derived: rooftop farms, facade farms, indoor farms, and farms using the whole building. The survey showed that 29.2%, 27.8%, and 22.2% of respondents knew well about urban agriculture, smart farms, and vertical smart farms, respectively. Respondents answered that improving awareness is the most important factor to introduce VSF. According to the statistical analysis, it was determined that education and promotion of the necessity of VSF would be important to diffuse the VSF. Conclusion VSF can be a solution to a variety of problems we face. The results of this study suggest a direction for the introduction and diffusion of VSF. In order to introduce VSF in the future, additional studies must be conducted on the legal system.