AN ANALYSIS OF ECO COMMUNITY TOWER FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVING THROUGH VERTICAL FARMING APPROACH

Abstract

The Eco Community Tower for Sustainable Living is a project involving waste-to-energy vertical farming systems with renewable energy assuming a site near the Pallikaranai marshlands in Chennai, India. This study focuses on the impact of unregulated bio-waste dumping, the loss of biodiversity, and marsh groundwater contamination.This paper presents a thorough experimental and analytical study of the proposed Eco Community Tower. First, bio-waste samples collected from the Pallikaranai marshlands were examined for their organic constituents, decomposition rates, and potential to generate methane. Laboratory anaerobic digestion systems indicated that one ton of processed marsh bio-waste can produce 90 – 110 m3 of biogas allowing the generation of 180 – 220 kWh of electricity from biogas burner generators.Along the same lines, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations worked on the tower's aerodynamic features and wind-resistance systems confirming 25 – 30% drag force reduction from conventional high-rise forms. Vertical farming modules were kept under controlled hydroponic systems where the average yield was 95 kg/m2/year, almost 24 times greater than traditional outdoor farming. In addition, models for rainwater aqueducts and wastewater recycling systems suggest that 65 – 70% of the freshwater needed is saved due to the systems in place.The study highlights the possibility of including waste-to – energy systems, vertical farming and biomimetic architectural approach systems within a single model of an urban high – rise. This research provides a quantitative model for policymakers, architects, and urban planners to practice high-rise ecosystems in sensitive ecological regions, achieving self-sufficient energy, food security, and environmental restoration.