PRESS RELEASES
In a first for Cambodia, Rosewood Phnom Penh has proudly partnered with Vattanac Properties to launch an indoor hydroponic garden, where the hotel grows fresh vegetables and herbs for its restaurant menus.
December 29, 2023
Fueled by a commitment to positively impact Cambodia, Rosewood Phnom Penh has spearheaded several Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives rooted in circular hospitality practices. In its latest endeavor, the hotel has proudly partnered with Vattanac Properties to develop an innovative hydroponic garden – the first sky garden of its kind in an office tower in Cambodia.
Located on the 9th floor of the iconic Vattanac Capital Tower, the 50-square-meter indoor garden harnesses hydroponic techniques to cultivate an array of herbs and leafy vegetables that feature prominently across the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants, including the award-winning Cuts, a World’s 50 Best Discovery restaurant specializing in premium steak and seafood; Brasserie Louis, where stunning views pair with French and Cambodian cuisines; Zhan Liang, a celebration of Chinese flavors in a sophisticated setting; Iza, known for its authentic Japanese noodles, sushi and grilled delicacies; and Sora, where stunning city views and handcrafted cocktails await.
While traditional gardens rely on soil, the hydroponic garden uses nutrient-rich water solutions to grow fresh, pesticide-free produce. The controlled indoor environment also allows for a better-monitored growing process while minimizing the risk of pests, disease, and contamination.
These innovations allow Rosewood Phnom Penh to overcome seasonal limitations and provide guests with natural, farm-to-table ingredients year-round. They also help the whole property lower its carbon footprint by reducing the length of the supply chain.
When provided by outside suppliers, vegetables often endure a lengthy supply chain that increases the risk of produce going to waste. Up to 30% of vegetables can be lost or wasted along the supply chain, according to studies conducted by Rosewood Phnom Penh.
Offering a more sustainable solution, the hotel’s new hydroponic garden eliminates the need for extensive transportation and storage. Now, the farm is just floors below the kitchen rather than hours or even days away.
“Our hydroponic garden gives us a consistent supply of fresh, pesticide-free produce regardless of the time of year,” says In Seyha, Assistant Manager of Hygiene and Sustainability for Rosewood Phnom Penh. “We are able to take control of the entire growing process, from seed to harvest, guaranteeing the highest quality ingredients for our guests.”
Currently, the hydroponic garden supplies 70% of the hotel’s leafy vegetables and herbs. But Seyha says Rosewood Phnom Penh plans to expand production capacity and further other sustainability projects involving local farmers to source locally, ethically, and naturally from outside the hotel as necessary.
These initiatives not only enhance the hotel’s self-sufficiency but also reduce its environmental impact. They also contribute to the livelihoods of local farmers, foster enhanced community connections, and highlight the advantages of a thriving agricultural sector – all central to the Rosewood Impacts ethos, a sense of purpose that drives the property to inspire, enrich, and positively impact both people and the planet.
Among its Rosewood Impacts efforts, the hotel composts most of its food waste and has eliminated plastic amenities. Rosewood Phnom Penh also donated 2 tons of glass bottles to the Coconut School, which were used to build schools, and associates have participated in river cleanups, the monthly Clean City program, and mangrove-planting efforts to protect the coastline and support marine life.
“We actively engage with various stakeholders, including local suppliers, farms, NGOs, and schools, to support the local community and protect our precious environment for generations to come,” says Daniel Simon, Managing Director of Rosewood Phnom Penh. “We are committed to embracing more sustainable strategies in the future while pioneering circular hospitality practices in Cambodia and beyond.”
Try fresh produce from Rosewood Phnom Penh’s indoor hydroponic garden during your next visit to one of the hotel’s world-class restaurants. Meanwhile, learn more about Rosewood Phnom Penh’s commitment to supporting people and planet here.
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