Review of Structural and Functional Characteristics of Greenhouses in European Union Countries: Part I, Design Requirements

The present work is an overview of the factors influencing the greenhouse design such as the climate, the local building regulations the indoor climate requirements and the necessary functional characteristics. The variations with respect to these factors observed throughout most of the European Union countries are described in detail and their influence to the greenhouse design is critically investigated. Such an analysis of the main factors influencing the greenhouse design is considered necessary before the most common greenhouse types used in Europe are presented (Part II). This systematic review is expected to support the effort for developing a common design methodology for greenhouses at European level.