Palais des congrès de Montréal elevates commitment to urban agriculture with expanded green roof

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

After a year of extensive renovations, the Palais des congrès de Montréal is unveiling the reopening of its green roof, featuring a substantial expansion of its urban agriculture and research facilities. Covering an impressive 35,000 sq. ft (3,250 m2), this initiative underscores the Palais’ steadfast dedication to advancing sustainable practices and contributing to a greener Montréal.

Originally gaining international acclaim in 2011 at the Écocité global summit, the Palais’ green roof emerged as a crucial showcase and experimental ground for urban agriculture in Québec by 2016. Spearheaded by the team at the Laboratoire sur l’agriculture urbaine (AU/LAB), led by Science Director Éric Duchemin and Crop Manager Noémie Roy, the green roof showcased innovative projects.

During the renovation phase, significant enhancements were implemented, including an optimized drainage system, a specially designed roof lining for green roofs, and increased accessibility for visitors. With an added 15,000 sq. ft (1,400 m2) and an upgraded irrigation system, the green roof now stands as an ideal space for launching new projects, positioning Montréal as a leading research hub for urban agriculture, and serving as a model for expanding the green roof concept throughout Montréal and Québec.

Research and social projects took center stage during the inaugural season of the new green roof. Soil preparation involved the use of green fertilizers to enhance fertility, and an artificial intelligence system ensured optimal growth conditions through strategic irrigation. The installation of honey plants and the introduction of 50,000 bees from a new beehive by Alvéole not only contribute to environmental conservation but also create a habitat for native insects. The harvested honey is just one milestone, with other events including the harvesting of over 70 grape vines planted by Vignes en Ville and the establishment of Montréal’s first saffron farm in partnership with Emporium Safran Québec.

Beyond agricultural research, the green roof hosts a social project led by Éric Duchemin in collaboration with the community organization Centre social d’aide aux immigrants (CSAI). This initiative supplies vegetables from the roof to refugees at the Maison Marie-Gérin-Lajoie, fostering community engagement and providing a therapeutic outlet for newcomers.

In addition to these endeavors, AU/LAB is introducing a community garden pilot project for Palais staff during this inaugural season. Ten plots, totaling 3 m2 each, have been allocated to ten aspiring gardeners, offering an opportunity to cultivate their own fresh produce and contribute to the workplace’s greenery while receiving guidance from the AU/LAB team.

AU/LAB’s commitment to international collaboration is evident through partnerships with the University of Liège in Belgium and the JUNIA School of Engineering in Lille, France. The upcoming 2024 season promises exciting experiments, including soil fertility management tests with French company Alia-Terra (DS Instruments). With plans for various research projects and a market garden expected to yield substantial produce for restaurants and condiment shelves, the Palais continues to showcase its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and community-building.

This commitment aligns seamlessly with Montréal’s recent recognition as the world capital of urban agriculture, bestowed by the Office montréalais de la gastronomie in its August 24 report. Montréal’s position is attributed to a diverse array of social initiatives, a thriving urban farming ecosystem, and the innovative stakeholders propelling the city’s urban agriculture movement.

Quotes

“This urban farm on the roof of the Palais des congrès de Montréal is a unique space that allows us to conduct research, experiment with new technologies and grow new vegetables. In addition to its environmental and social impact, it also helps to spotlight urban agriculture as a hallmark of Montréal cuisine, while also contributing to the city’s green transition.” – Éric Duchemin, Science Director, Laboratoire sur l’agriculture urbaine AU/LAB

“This renovation and expansion of the Palais’ green roof reflects our firm commitment to sustainable development and innovation. Led by the passion and dedication of Éric Duchemin and the AU/LAB team, this research space will help us cultivate a bold vision that will bolster the city’s reputation for urban agriculture, while also serving as a launch pad for social initiatives—another aspect that is particularly important to us.” – Emmanuelle Legault, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès de Montréal

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