Reimagining Urban Agriculture: LED-Powered Underground Rice Farming for Smart Sustainable Cities

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in metropolitan regions has intensified agricultural land conversion, particularly affecting rice-based food systems that remain highly land-dependent and less adaptable to conventional urban farming approaches. This study developed a conceptual and technical model of LED-powered underground rice farming as an alternative production system to address structural constraints on urban food security and sustainable agricultural development. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, integrating secondary data analysis, comparative case studies, and content analysis to construct a system design encompassing spatial configuration, water management, and controlled lighting environments. The results indicated that the proposed system enabled precise regulation of microclimatic conditions, including light spectra, photoperiod, and water circulation, thereby supporting continuous production cycles and improving resource-use efficiency. The integration of recirculating irrigation and spectrum-adjusted LED lighting reduce water consumption and minimize dependency on chemical inputs while maintaining crop quality in enclosed environments. Furthermore, the model demonstrated strong spatial efficiency, making it applicable for high-density urban areas with limited arable land. However, implementation remained constrained by high initial investment costs and dependence on reliable energy infrastructure. These findings highlighted the strategic role of technological innovation, integrated system design, and multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing resilient urban food systems. Overall, this study provided a scalable pathway for transforming rice cultivation toward sustainable and smart metropolitan agriculture.