Whole Foods Announces Plans for 20,000 Sq. Ft. Rooftop Farm Atop New Gowanus Store
August 16-2013
Whole Foods Announces Plans for 20,000 Sq. Ft. Rooftop Farm Atop New Gowanus Store
NYC foodies will soon be in for a real treat as Whole Foods has announced they’ll be operating a rooftop farm right atop their forthcoming Gowanus, Brooklyn store. The 20,000 sq. ft. greenhouse will produce fresh veggies and other greens to be delivered to the market below. Now that’s what we call locally-grown food!
Slated to open as early as late fall of this year, the Gowanus Whole Foods location will employ Gotham Greens to grow high-quality, pesticide-free produce year round. The new greenhouse will integrate advanced irrigation systems using recycled and mineral-enhanced water which will use up to 20 times less water compared to conventional farming practices. Glazing materials and electrical equipment will also be utilized to reduce overall energy use.
“Gotham Greens has been a valued local supplier of high quality, flavorful and fresh produce to Whole Foods Market since early 2011, making this greenhouse project a natural and extremely exciting next step in our relationship,” said Christina Minardi, Whole Foods Market Northeast Regional President. “We’re particularly excited to partner with a local organization with roots right here in Brooklyn and a mission in line with our own, in that we both care deeply about providing local, fresh and sustainably produced food.”
Businessweek reported earlier this year that Gotham Greens was the only rooftop greenhouse in New York City to produce vegetables on a commercial sale. When Superstorm Sandy halted much of food delivery operation into the city as a result of the damage, Gotham was the only farm able to deliver fresh food to Whole Foods stores. Plans for the opening include creation a hub for green collar jobs and economic development opportunities in the borough. The new location also plans to serve as a hub for educational opportunities for local schools to learn about agriculture, farming and environmental initiatives.