Alboom is a Hong Kong–based social enterprise tackling a critical challenge in the city’s growing urban farming sector: algae-clogged hydroponic systems and the costly loss of nutrient-rich wastewater. With limited arable land, Hong Kong increasingly relies on rooftop and indoor farming, yet many small and mid-scale farms face frequent system blockages, high water and fertilizer expenses, and rising environmental compliance pressure.

Alboom’s core solution is the ABU-100 Modular Algae Biofilter Unit, a plug-and-play system designed for urban farms operating at the building and community scale. Using immobilized microalgae biofilms, the ABU-100 passively treats hydroponic wastewater, recovers nearly all usable nutrients, and enables significant water reuse, without chemical additives. Recovered nutrients are converted into liquid biofertilizer that can be reused on-site, reducing operating costs and dependence on imported synthetic inputs.

Beyond improving farm economics, Alboom delivers measurable environmental and social benefits. The system reduces nutrient discharge linked to marine pollution, captures carbon dioxide through natural algae growth, and supports Hong Kong’s climate and circular-economy goals. By lowering recurring costs, Alboom helps small urban farms remain financially viable while improving environmental performance.

Alboom adopts an impact-first, scalable business model, generating revenue through nutrient-recovery services, recycled nutrient solutions, algae-derived products, and ESG reporting support. Starting in Hong Kong, Alboom aims to turn wastewater from a daily burden into a shared resource, supporting a more resilient, affordable, and sustainable urban agriculture ecosystem.

組長
Team Leader
朱瞬嵐
CHU Shun Laam (HKU)

組員
Team Member
李寶琳
LI Po Lam Esther (HKU)
陳學霖
CHAN Hok Lam (HKU)

院校顧問
Faculty Advisor
陳凱萱博士
Dr. CHAN Hoi Huen (EdUHK)