IN FOCUS: How climate change can threaten food production in Singapore

Published 2020년 12월 19일

Tridge summary

Singapore, with its aim to produce 30% of its nutritional needs by 2030, is facing challenges in local food production due to climate change, which has led to increasing temperatures and more frequent, heavier rainfall. This is particularly concerning for farmers like Chai Nian Kun who grow organic vegetables outdoors, as excessive rain can lead to pest problems and reduced crop yields. The urban heat island effect and rising sea levels further exacerbate these issues. Climate change is impacting egg production and fish farming, with concerns about water quality and harmful algal blooms. To address these challenges, farms are investing in surveillance technology and shifting towards high-tech and indoor farming methods. Additionally, efforts are being made to promote local 'kampong' vegetables that are better suited to changing weather conditions, and to educate consumers about reducing food waste and shifting towards a more vegetable-based diet. The article also discusses the importance of international cooperation to develop climate-resilient production systems and the need for social policies and community engagement to support these initiatives.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

SINGAPORE: While some cheer the cool weather when storms hit Singapore, 40-year-old farmer Chai Nian Kun says to himself: “Jialat” – an expression of concern over what is to come. Heavy rain is not uncommon in tropical Singapore. But days of continuous downpours can wreak havoc on many of his organic vegetables, which grow outdoors on a three-hectare plot in Lim Chu Kang. Too much rain can inundate the greens or encourage the growth of pests that feed on them. Last month, short but heavy thundery showers across several days did just that to his crops. Even though it is the monsoon season, Mr Chai said it has been raining “much more than it should”, an assessment he has made about the past few years as well. Too much rain encourages the growth of pests that eat the leaves of the vegetables, according to Fire Flies Health Farm. (Photo: Cheryl Lin) Not only has rain been beating down harder, but it has been getting warmer too, he said. “If you compare this to many years ago, the ...

Source: Channel News Asia