1. The challenge of land scarcity
Singapore imports more than 90% of its food due to its limited cultivable land.
To counter this, it launched the ambitious “30 by 30” initiative, which aims to locally produce 30% of its nutritional needs by 2030, starting from less than 10% today.
2. Innovative strategies
The government promotes urban farming on public housing (HDB) rooftops, vertical buildings, and parking lots through incentives and leasing schemes.
Notable examples include:
- ComCrop: a pioneer in urban farming, with rooftop facilities such as the one at SCAPE and a hydroponic greenhouse in Woodlands. It uses 90% less water than conventional farming and produces up to one ton of vegetables per month.
- Other projects such as Sky Greens (rotating vertical farm), Sustenir Agriculture (indoor controlled farm), and the 1-Arden Food Forest on the 51st floor of the CapitaSpring skyscraper.
3. Environmental, social, and urban benefits
These farms act as natural air-purifying systems, regulate temperature, and help fight the urban heat island effect.
They enhance urban biodiversity by attracting birds, insects, and fostering local ecosystems.
They also strengthen community resilience: NParks launched the first Social Enterprise Community Urban Farm (SECUF) of 5,000 m² in West Coast Park, combining community gardens, greenhouses, and socially oriented cafés.
They serve as educational spaces and promote mental well-being. During the pandemic, NParks encouraged home gardening by providing free seeds and online resources.
Opportunity for Colombia
Cities with large available rooftops such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali could adopt this model to increase urban food security.
Techniques such as hydroponics, vertical farming, and community gardens could be used to optimize space, reduce carbon footprint, and create new social opportunities.
Projects like SECUF could serve as a model for social integration and community well-being.
However, addressing the economic challenge would be key, by seeking sustainable models with adequate costs or strategic subsidies.
