A buzzling and thriving green community across Singapore
The story of City Sprouts begins during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the world came to a standstill, and nature started flourishing in unexpected ways. For Simone Lim, this stark contrast sparked a realization: humans, in their pursuit of progress, have distanced themselves from nature, contributing to environmental decline. The lockdowns forced people to slow down and rethink their relationship with the environment. For Simone, it was a turning point that led her to embrace urban farming as a means to reconnect people with the earth and cultivate a deeper understanding of their impact on the planet.
Urban farming and community building
Simone highlights how urban farming creates a sense of community by encouraging people to slow down and engage with those around them. Within fast paced cities, community farms offer a space for neighbors to connect over shared interests. These farms, often located within residential areas, become hubs where friendships blossom. Urban farming helps people not only cultivate food but also nurture relationships, easing the stress of modern life.
The impact on children
For children, urban farming offers a unique learning experience. Many kids have never seen a chicken or an egg outside of a supermarket, and City Sprouts changes that. Through hands-on experiences, children learn where their food comes from, which is crucial in addressing issues like food waste. By understanding the origins of their meals, children develop a deeper appreciation for food and the environment. The lessons learned on the farm often stay with them long after their visit, influencing their attitudes towards sustainability and healthy living.
Educating for a sustainable future
Simone sees urban farming as an essential part of educating the next generation about sustainability. As the global population grows, the need for sustainable food sources becomes more critical. Urban farming, with its innovations like vertical farming and hydroponics, will play a vital role in meeting future food demands. Simone believes that farming, in some form, will always be relevant because food is a basic human need.
Memorable moments
One of Simone's most memorable experiences at City Sprouts involves the excitement of preschoolers seeing a chicken for the first time. The joy and curiosity of these young children remind her of the impact that simple, yet profound, experiences can have on a person’s understanding of the world. These moments are a testament to the power of urban farming in shaping young minds and fostering a lifelong respect for nature.
What City Sprouts can teach
City Sprouts is known for transforming old, unused spaces into vibrant community hubs through the medium of urban farming. Simone is proud of how the organization uses green spaces to bring people together. However, she acknowledges the challenges of finding the right people to join their mission. It’s not just about skill sets but also about mindset. The focus remains on building strong, connected communities through the shared love of sustainability and nature.
Eager to learn and grow
Simone is keen to learn more about sustainable farming practices that can be adapted to small urban spaces. She is particularly interested in discovering new methods for improving soil health and water conservation. Simone also wants to explore how technology can be better utilized in urban farming, from efficient irrigation systems to data-driven planting strategies. By expanding her knowledge, Simone hopes to make her farm even more sustainable and to contribute more effectively to the broader urban farming movement.
Find out more about urban farmers worldwide like Simone in our community!
