CommunoSerre: Issues facing urban community greenhouses in disadvantaged neighborhoods - A toolkit for practioners and decision-makers

The objectives of the research project were to examine the technical, socioeconomic and political challenges associated with urban community greenhouses’ integration, particularly in Montreal's disadvantaged neighborhoods. More specifically, the research team examined the potential of geothermal technologies, water management strategies and various greenhouse designs to improve their energy efficiency performance in Quebec's harsh climate. A greenhouse gas emissions calculator was developed to inform decision-making on how to reduce the ecological footprint of urban community greenhouses with technologies adapted to community groups and urban realities. The team also analyzed the socioeconomic and political issues arising from the motivations driving community greenhouse projects, as well as the partnerships and financing required to make them a reality. Inclusive measures deployed by project leaders are also identified to reach a diversity of Montrealers, particularly the most vulnerable, and address the risks of ecogentrification associated with greenhouses. This toolkit explores the sociopolitical issues at stake and proposes technical recommendations to consider when planning an urban community greenhouse.