Greening urban spaces: a review on the implementation of edible vertical gardening for human wellbeing enhancement.

Abstract

A total of 22 million people and 17% of families in Sri Lanka are considered to be food insecure. Malnutrition affects one-third of children under the age of five, while 40% of women are either overweight or obese. Changes in the climate are the root cause of extreme weather. Both an increasing population and crowded cities contribute to the occurrence of extreme weather events. As a result of paving surfaces absorbing more solar energy than vegetation, temperatures can rise by 6°C. Green architecture and more environmental consciousness are contributing to the expansion of urban gardening. Within the urban residential zones of Sri Lanka, vertical green spaces are preferable over horizontal ones due to the limited space available and the rising cost of those places. It is possible for the construction industry to adopt environmentally friendly building practices in order to address climate change, carbon emissions and concerns related to resource utilization. Vertical farming is a method of planting crops in a vertical orientation by using hanging pots or structures. This review examined the efficacy, environmental impact, and socio-economic benefits of edible vertical gardening in urban areas to improve human health. The direct benefits of edible vertical gardening include the cultivation of homegrown herbs and vegetables that are organic and healthy. High levels of nutrients derived from herbs and vegetables produced at home. There is a correlation between the presence of vertical gardens and a reduction in the occurrence of several respiratory disorders, as well as Sick Building Syndrome, cancer, stroke, and depression. Improve the indoor air quality, as well as urban farming, social functions and urban physical relief, all increase. In addition to fostering selfsatisfaction, vertical gardens also strengthen family and intergenerational bonds. Accreditation from the National Green Building Council indicates that vertical gardening contributes to the improvement of society. The provision of a sustainable lifestyle, food security and the modernization of buildings is made available. Enhanced living circumstances, improved health and ecological landscape restoration are all benefits of city facade gardening. There are numerous advantages associated with vertical gardens, including environmental, economic, social, psychological, aesthetic, and socioeconomic.