Hariyo Chowk

Hariyo Chowk, meaning “green square,” is an educational space for sustainable design and urban farming in Kathmandu. We've started transforming our courtyard into a modern adaptation of the traditional chowk by building a rain collection system, a compost bin, a bamboo structure for vertical growing, a mudbrick oven with bricks we made ourselves, and a small arena for showing documentaries. By teaching economic solutions specific to the region’s resources--mud, bamboo, and junkyard scraps, monsoon rain-- we are trying to empower the community to forge a more sustainable and creative future for Kathmandu. We have already hosted workshops on Briquette-making and how to turn a bicycle into a viable electricity generator. We want keep making Kathmandu greener by planting native and edible plants and teaching seed-saving techniques. After our Grand Opening next month we want to start partnering with local sustainability organizations to help clean up pollution and start community gardens. We want to keep hosting workshops, and start attracting international and local guest teachers. And we want to start hosting class field trips and focus more on educating young Nepalis about the environment. We're so excited to officially open our space to the community of volunteers, donors and neighbors that made it all possible. We are seeking grant sustenance now to grow into our new season and to make the surrounding city more like our green square.