Growing sustainable capitalism: The environmental politics of agri-tech in Singapore

About Paper

This research paper explores the relationship between soil health, human health, and environmental sustainability, inviting a deeper awareness of soil as a living system that nourishes food, water, and life. It reflects on how industrial agriculture has weakened these relationships, and points toward regenerating soil as a way to support climate resilience and collective wellbeing.

Key points:

• The paper examines the “30 by 30” initiative, which aims to increase local food production through innovation and technology.

• Vertical farming and other agri-tech solutions are presented as climate-resilient approaches, but the paper argues that they may not fully overcome the deeper challenges of existing agricultural systems.

• The study critiques “sustainability capitalism,” where technological solutions can sometimes maintain existing systems rather than create deeper environmental transformation.

• The paper highlights the importance of examining how sustainability policies, investment, and technology interact in shaping future food systems.

This paper may resonate with readers interested in sustainable agriculture, food security, climate adaptation, agri-tech innovation, and the politics of environmental solutions.

Authored by Vanessa Koh

Journal Environment and Planning A: Economy and Space