At the end of last year, Korindo received a Padmamitra+ Award for its “Hydroponic Village” program, a project created as part of Korindo’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts to achieve a better and more sustainable Indonesia.
But, what are Hydroponic Villages and why are they so special?
A Hydroponic Village uses aquaponics[1] to grow fruits and vegetables as well as to raise freshwater fish within the city.
They are a great step towards sustainability because they help populate the streets with plants and serve as a sustainable local source of food for the community. In addition, they also provide access and opportunities for the development of local entrepreneurship.
How did the program start?
The program started in 2015, when Korindo helped create the first Hydroponic Village in Rawajati, a neighborhood located in the district of Pancoran, South Jakarta, by funding a community-based initiative led by a local cooperative.
Due to the success in Rawajati, Korindo sought to expand the project to Pengadegan, another neighbourhood in the same district. The development of a second Hydroponic Village started in 2017 thanks to the partnership between Korindo and a local farmer group, “Hidrofresh”.
What impact has the program had in the communities?
The program has given the communities greener streets, a local source of food and new business opportunities.
But don’t take our word for it — Read the testimonies below.
“The program supported by Korindo continues until now and has shown valuable results for us.”, said Suparno, Head of the Hidrofresh Farmer Group.
“The increase of catfish farming and the development of hydroponic plants are making the alley greener and environmentally friendly. We hope this program continues. We also want to thank the company, hopefully the support provided can be developed and utilized to the fullest extent” said Ashari, Head of the Pengadegan District.
What’s next for the program?
At the 2019 Padmamitra+ Awards Ceremony, the General Secretary of Korindo Foundation, Mr. Yi Sun Hyeong, said:
“This program is Korindo Foundation’s pilot project, and will be implemented in other locations, not only in DKI Jakarta but also other regions by adjusting to the condition and local wisdom in each region, so the community can also enjoy the benefits from our social program.”
For now, there are two more Hydroponic Villages in the making, both in South Jakarta. The first one in Pancoran Village and the second one in Pengadegan Rusunawa.
The implementation of the villages will take approximately 2 years and improve the lives of thirty families. (*)
[1] Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants in water without soil) that grows fish and plants together in one integrated system.
