Hong Kong team sows seeds to protect traditional grains for future generations

In a bid to revive the agricultural heritage of Hong Kong, scientists and farmers are working diligently in a paddy field on the city’s outskirts to resurrect dormant rice varieties that once flourished in the region. Despite agriculture contributing minimally to the finance hub’s GDP, researchers believe that nurturing local grains could serve as a crucial food security measure in the face of climate change, while also fostering a sense of pride in the city’s history and culture.

Mercury Wong, a researcher leading the initiative, highlighted the significance of the 20 remaining Hong Kong rice varieties, sourced from seed banks in the Philippines and the U.S. These seeds, once abundant in Hong Kong’s landscapes over 50 years ago, hold a special place in the hearts of those dedicated to preserving the city’s agricultural legacy.

Recently, the team made a breakthrough by identifying two new types of the popular “See Mew” rice variety, shedding light on the rich history that urban development had obscured. The quest to uncover the true origins of “Hong Kong rice” faces challenges due to the lack of official records and fading memories of past generations.

As Hong Kong grapples with food security concerns exacerbated by climate change, the revival of local rice varieties takes on added significance. With the city heavily reliant on imported grains, the need for a diverse and resilient food supply has never been more pressing.

While the current crop may be modest in scale, the hope is that these efforts will pave the way for wider production and contribute to a more sustainable future. As one farmer involved in the project aptly put it, “There is no future possibility without a seed being saved.” The journey to rediscover Hong Kong’s agricultural roots is not just a scientific endeavor but a quest for identity and resilience in the face of an uncertain future.