Hong Kong industrial building champions green spirit by funding rooftop farming through recycled cardboard
- YKK Building in Tuen Mun boasts a 9,000 sq ft farm that workers say boosts interaction with clients and promotes bonding and cohesiveness
At an industrial building in northwest Hong Kong, funds from selling piles of cardboard have been used to seed an unlikely endeavour on a 9,000 sq ft site on its roof – farming radishes and beans.
Workers at Tuen Mun’s YKK Building can choose to grow what they love according to the seasons, and freshly picked harvest are cooked at a staff canteen next door or given to charity.
The aim of the project – which was set up in September 2018 – goes beyond food production. Jones Lang LaSalle, the company which manages the building, launched the farm under expertise from agency Rooftop Republic to bring cheer to an otherwise dreary industrial district and for staff to bond.
Jeff Chan Ka-chu, a senior director at the firm, said it wanted to create a relaxing work environment for tenants and foster exchanges between them and building management staff.
“In the past, when property owners and tenants come to the office, it’s mostly about complaints,” Chan said. “But through this project, with a softer touch, we can share experiences with our customers, such as on farming.”