About us

Our story

The London Orchard Project was founded in January 2009 by Carina Millstone and Rowena Ganguli.

Carina and Rowena met in 2005 while studying for a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development, and quickly discovered a shared passion for trees and food. After graduating, Carina and Rowena spent a couple of years independently nurturing their interest in permaculture, the transition movement, and organic food. They also got involved in various business and consultancy projects. 

On a dark, wintry night in December 2008, Carina rang Rowena up with a proposition. “I've just been to a Transition Town Brixton meeting”, she said. “We've been planning our vision for food growing in Brixton. Everyone is keen on fruit trees, but no one knows where to start. There are no organisations in London dedicated to orchards.  So I've got an idea – why don't we start The London Orchard Project together?” “Er, ok”, replied Rowena, and Carina put the phone down before she could change her mind.