as shown in (Figure 3). The sub variables based on the interviews were then reduced from 137 to 52 by combining
some variable details into general terms, which could then be summarized to include any linkages to other variables
(Figure 2) based on the expert’s comments in the context of Thailand, as shown in (Table 3) and (Table 4).
VI. CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION
This research studied the possibility of implementing vertical farming in Bangkok, Thailand by synthesizing ideas and
opinions from 11 experts under three pertinent paradigms which had not previously been reported. The results showed
that the vertical farming concept could be adopted in Bangkok in a certain manner that covered several variables that
were required to succeed. The relevant variables were grouped into 15 main variables with 52 sub variables. Each
variable was related to the others. These variables will be utilized in the future design of vertical farming applications
in the city.
At present, there are not many vertical planting products or construction projects in the market. The data surveyed
suggested a preference for a non-toxic planting system, preferably, a system that could serve the mid- to low-income
population, enable the development of a better quality of life, reduce the need for health care and provide toxin-free
vegetables.
In the area of urban agriculture in Bangkok, rooftop vegetable gardens have been in place for quite some time.
Awareness about the importance of self-reliance and responsibility for the environment has been widely acknowledged
among certain groups and is gaining popularity. However, the numbers of vegetable gardens in the city which are
capable of reducing food transportation costs and promoting self-reliance are still limited and the concept of vertical
farming in buildings is very new to Thailand and its cost of implementation is still too high.