GBA Lifestyle News
What is it?: Rooftop Republic is a social enterprise that has been pioneering urban farming in Hong Kong for over six years. The three founders realized that people have become disconnected with the food they eat, thereby impacting the environment, people’s health, and the community.
Co-founder Pol Fàbrega says Rooftop Republic’s vision is to bring urban farming into people’s everyday life. This is especially true for people living in cities. And the brand helps by providing design, installation and maintenance advice, and community engagement initiatives. These urban farms can be set up at home, at school, or even at offices. Fàbrega wants people to have access to these farms and to experience the process of cultivating their own produce.
Rooftop Republic manages the largest rooftop urban farm atop Metroplaza shopping center in Kwai Fong. And it’s open to the public. Occupying some 13,000 sqft, there are weekly farm tours, sustainable workshops, and farmers’ markets. Rooftop Republic has also partnered with some restaurants at Metroplaza so they can use vegetables grown at the mall itself in their menus.
Fàbrega says not to worry if you think you don’t have a green thumb. He encourages those that are interested to just keep going. It’s through experience that you learn. And by trying, you’ll soon hone your skills well enough to succeed in your farming endeavour.
Rooftop Republic has already set up 40 urban farms across the city. Have of these are managed by Rooftop Republic, while the rest are managed by clients.
How much does it costs?: Rooftop Republic offers interactive workshops where staff take you through the fundamental principles and practices of organic farming through talks, group discussions, games and practical farming. Led by experienced organic and urban farmers, workshops are suitable all ages and levels of experience. Prices range from HK$300-HK$380 for a 2-hour urban farming workshop. For more information about their upcoming workshops, visit: http://www.rooftoprepublic.com/upcoming-events
For more information, please reach out to hello@rooftoprepublic.com
Want more Spotlight Videos? Check out our most recent highlights here.
