Natural Farm-Grown Dyes
The Urban Farm at TMU Focuses on Sustainable Fashion Solutions
Debra John — January 31, 2026
The Urban Farm at Toronto Metropolitan University supports sustainable fashion research through its Natural Dye Garden, an initiative focused on environmentally responsible textile practices. Operating across two rooftop farms, the Urban Farm advances research, experiential learning, and community engagement while expanding beyond food production into sustainable material innovation. Developed in partnership with TMU’s School of Fashion, the Natural Dye Garden is located within the Urban Farm’s Living Lab and serves as a hands-on educational space.
Led by Professor Rachel MacHenry and Urban Farm Operations Coordinator Jessica Russell, the project introduces fashion students to plant-based dyeing methods that reduce reliance on synthetic, chemical dyes. Through cultivating, harvesting, and processing natural dye plants, students explore low-impact alternatives that support healthier ecosystems and reduced water pollution. The initiative promotes circular design thinking, highlights renewable resources, and demonstrates how urban agriculture can contribute to more sustainable and environmentally conscious fashion systems.
