GPP Academy – Closing the Loop: Circularity Tour at Mindfield

From Coffee Grounds to Compost: Circular Economy in Action

Have you ever wondered what happens to your coffee grounds after your morning brew?

On 12 March 2026, Swire Properties and the Business Environment Council hosted the Green Performance Pledge (“GPP”) Academy’s first quarterly workshop at Mindfield, a green enterprise dedicated to promoting eco-farming and healthy lifestyles. This experiential tour highlighted the strategic partnership between Swire Properties and Mindfield, focused on the collection and upcycling of coffee grounds from office and F&B tenants throughout our Hong Kong portfolios. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to see circular economy principles being applied through dedicated eco-farming and sustainable lifestyle practices.

The half day workshop brought together a total of 25 participants from 11 companies, who were immersed in the sustainable practices championed by the Mindfield team. Led by Mr Alfred Tse, the Founder of Mindfield, participants learnt about the compost production process, observing firsthand how coffee grounds collected from Swire Properties’ offices and tenants, alongside other organic materials are transformed into nutrient-rich compost that supports local crop cultivation.

Getting Hands-On

To enrich the experience, the workshop also incorporated hands-on and interactive elements. Participants had the chance to harvest and take home some fresh vegetables from the Mindfield farm, adding a memorable farm-to-table dimension to the visit. Another highlight was the potted plant making activity, during which participants handcrafted their own potted plants under Alfred’s guidance, specifically on the optimum compost-to-soil ratios for different types of plants. This relaxing, nature-inspired activity offered a meaningful way to connect environmental awareness with personal mindfulness.

The workshop was not just an educational experience, but also a reminder of how creative initiatives can foster sustainability and wellbeing within communities. By witnessing innovative environmental solutions in action, participants were inspired on how circular economy principles can be applied beyond theory and into everyday practice.

Want to be a part of the change? Join our next GPP Academy session and discover how practical sustainability strategies can drive real impact across your business.