“Life cycle thinking and the revitalization of abandoned urban areas” – Holcim Awards Jury
This project is located in the city of Campinas, Brazil, but it is transferable to any other place. Its core strategy consists of the occupation of urban voids and inactive real estate properties by agriculture. It dialogues with the city at several layers and scales.
Last updated: July 10, 2013 Mexico City, Mexico
By the use of a technique of agricultural production with no land (hydroponics) and use of different substrates (mainly building materials), agricultural production can be taken to the interior of buildings located in strategic places that are close to the consumers, such as city centers, harbors or shopping areas.
The program also offers research and learning facilities for the development of new plantation techniques, leisure areas and street markets. The buildings will be equipped with photovoltaic panels generating electrical energy. Rainwater will be collected for irrigation and the organic waste is treated and reused as fertilizer. The jury has commended this project due to its innovative and novel approach to life cycle thinking and the revitalization of abandoned urban areas.