This thesis investigates how to sustainably meet the thermal demand of an Indigenous-led Aquaponic Greenhouse in Alberta’s Boreal Forest using renewable heating technologies. Drawing on systems engineering, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), and an integrative design framework grounded in Value Sensitive Design (VSD) and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), the study balances technical, economic, environmental, and social dimensions to inform decision-making.

A conceptual greenhouse design was developed, incorporating nutrient-film technique and soil-based growing systems alongside passive solar measures such as south-facing glazing, night curtains, and thermal energy storage. These passive features alone were found to reduce the greenhouse’s thermal load by up to 47%. Three renewable heating technologies including biomass boilers, biodigester systems with biogas, and ground source heat pumps were evaluated, individually and in hybrid configurations, against a natural gas baseline. A multi-criteria assessment using the Best-Worst Method revealed that hybrid systems generally outperform single-technology options by balancing cost, reliability, scalability, and environmental impact. Specifically, a biodigester–natural gas combination proved more cost-effective and flexible, while a ground source heat pump–biomass boiler system offered greater potential for off-grid operation and lower emissions.

The findings highlight that scaling up the greenhouse size enhances financial viability, though a pilot phase is recommended to address uncertainties and ensure reliability. Overall, this research demonstrates the feasibility of integrating TEK and community engagement with robust engineering methodologies to support food sovereignty, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster Indigenous self-determination in remote communities. The proposed framework can guide similar socio-technical projects, promoting holistic, value-driven innovation in community-scale infrastructure systems.