Aquaponics, a method of sustainable farming, has gained significant popularity in recent years. The ability to cultivate both fish and plants in a symbiotic environment has captured the attention of Edmund Ruhle and Elisa Canon, the couple behind Aquaponics Go Green. From humble beginnings to becoming pioneers in the aquaponics industry, they have transformed their passion into a successful venture.
Edmund, coming from a construction background rather than farming, initially viewed aquaponics as a hobby. After discovering the concept while studying fish farming, he built their first aquaponics setup in Taal, Batangas. However, the lack of available materials in the Philippines posed a challenge. Still, Edmund sourced fish tanks and other equipment from abroad, modifying them to suit their needs. Encountering such difficulties led them to realize the demand for aquaponics materials in the country.
From hobby to business
Elisa recalls how they started importing hydroton, a growing medium, due to its high price in the Philippines. However, upon receiving the items three weeks later, the sellers increased the prices, citing an unannounced change in supplier prices. As a result, Elisa decided to cancel the order.
Edmund said that “it is overpriced. It [was] very difficult to get something at that time in the Philippines to go to one shop and buy everything to build an aquaponics system.”
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