Method’s rooftop greenhouse will be world’s largest

The 75,000 square foot rooftop greenhouse, part of Method’s newest soap manufacturing plant, that opened on Chicago’s South Side in April, will be fully planted this fall.  When complete, Method’s rooftop greenhouse will be the largest in the world. The rooftop greenhouse is the most innovative element of Method’s newest manufacturing plant, designed by William McDonough + Partners.  The new factory demonstrates Method’s commitment to sustainability by achieving the highest level of LEED® certification—Platinum.

Saskia Van Gendt, Method’s Chief Greenskeeper, stated “We need to use our urban spaces more efficiently,” adding “Rooftop greenhouses are a representation of a model of doing that.”

The greenhouse will produce up to one million pounds of pesticide-free greens each year, once completed.  Plants will be grown using a hydroponic system, which requires no soil.  Gotham Greens, a leader in urban farming, built the greenhouse and will distribute the produce to local stores, restaurants, and farmer’s markets in the Chicago area.

Learn more about the world’s largest rooftop greenhouse on Business Insider.