Solar irrigation system for pepper farmers in Cambodia

Dear Friends, Clients, and Partners,

We, Julien Royer of Odette, Bruno Menard, Dominique Crenn of Atelier Crenn, and Norbert Binot of Fair Farms, are reaching out to you today to ask for your support in a cause dear to us. “Bonnes Etoiles” (meaning "Lucky Stars") represents a connection between renowned chefs and farmers who need shining stars above to support them.

For years, Odette has proudly used Fair Farms' Kampot pepper to elevate its signature dish — Kampot Pepper Crusted Pigeon. This pepper, with its unique aroma and flavor, is a result of the dedication and hard work of the Kampot farmers in Cambodia. Fair Farms is committed to supporting these farmers with sustainable and ethical practices, ensuring fair wages and healthy working conditions.

However, Kampot farmers are now facing an unprecedented crisis. In 2023 and 2024, record temperatures and drought have devastated production, resulting in a loss of over 50% of the crops, with many farmers being forced to abandon their farms. We encourage you to watch this video to better understand the challenges our farmers are facing.

In response to this crisis, we have launched the Bonnes Etoiles initiative to install modern, sustainable irrigation systems for Kampot farmers. These systems include wells, solar pumps, and reservoirs, providing a reliable and environmentally friendly water supply. Each system costs approximately 2,000 USD, and we are committed to overseeing its installation, ensuring transparency and efficient use of funds.

We believe that together, we can make a real difference. As chefs, partners, clients, and members of the global community, we have the power to support these farmers, preserve this extraordinary pepper, and secure a sustainable future for Kampot's agricultural heritage.

Join us in supporting the Bonnes Etoiles initiative. Every contribution matters and will directly help Kampot farmers rebuild their livelihoods and ensure the continuation of this exceptional culinary treasure.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Julien Royer – Chef-Owner, Odette***

Bruno Menard – Chef***

Dominique Crenn – Chef-Owner, Atelier Crenn ***

Norbert Binot – Founder, Fair Farms

More about Fair Farms

OXFAM - Impact Enterprise in Cambodia, Fair Farms (English and Khmer video )

How To Bring Social Responsibility and Organic Farming to the Next Level In Cambodia (English video )

Fair Farms - Pepper harvest (video )

Climat et biodiversité - Impact of climate change on pepper & bio (French Video )

United Nations Development Program - Fair Farms finalist of the Impact Ventures Program for Climate Adaptation in Cambodia (United Nations press release )

Shake Your City - Video "Un poivre de qualité supérieure qui respecte l'environnement" (french video )