Hydroponic Gardening

Don Foley / Courtesy of FastCompanyRooftop gardens are springing up all over New York, however, thanks to a recent Eater article, I learned that the first inspired by a martian garden model is breaking ground--err, roof--in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Jennifer Nelkin, co-founder of Gotham Greens, New York's only rooftop hydroponics operation, is using her knowledge of designing sustainable gardens on Mars or the South Pole to produce high quality produce for local markets, grocery stores, and restaurants. Ever the scientist, Nelkin is waiting for data before telling people this is a more environmentally friendly option than conventional farming, but I'm convinced. The 12,000-square-foot greenhouse is slated to produce 30 tons of produce annually. I can't wait!