We were deeply honoured to have Professor William Chen Wei Ning, Michael Fam Endowed Chair Professor in Food Science & Technology, Nanyang Technological University Singapore at the launching of the FOLSUN initiative as our keynote speaker. He delivered a very insightful speech on “Future-ready and Regenerative Agri-food Systems for Global Food Security: A Singapore Perspective “ enriching the event with his expertise and perspective.
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| Professor William Chen Wei Ning, Michael Fam Endowed Chair Professor in Food Science & Technology, Nanyang Technological University Singapore |
1. The Unsustainable Linear Food System and Global Pressures
The presentation begins by highlighting the critical pressures on the current Linear Food System (Resources → Production → Utilization → Waste) , arguing that this model is no longer viable due to immense global challenges.
- Growing Demand: The world population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 , requiring a 70% increase in food demand. The planet currently requires the resources of 1.7 Earths to support humanity's demand on its ecosystems.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: The system is vulnerable to external shocks, including climate change impacting farming yield , infectious diseases affecting the supply chain , and geopolitical tensions.
- The Food Waste Crisis: Globally, 1/3 of all food produced is wasted. This waste poses a severe environmental threat, as up to 1/2 of landfill volume is composed of food waste. The food waste generates methane, which is 25 times worse for the environment than CO2. As a domestic example, Singapore alone generated 791 million kg of food waste in 2016 , equivalent to over 1,500 Olympic-size swimming pools.
2. The Evolution to a Regenerative Food System
The keynote speaker proposes a necessary evolution of the food system through two progressive stages:
- Circular Food System: This phase focuses on Mitigating and Damage Control and is defined by a Circular Economy model. Key components include:
- Zero Waste.
- Processing and Valorisation (maximizing the value of resources).
- Technological innovations like Data-driven efficiency, Waste recycling/upcycling, and Alternative foods.
- Regenerative Food System: This is the ultimate goal, which goes "Beyond sustainability" by creating Positive Changes. The regenerative model aims for broad, positive outcomes across the ecosystem:
- Rebuilds soil health.
- Restores the environment and draws down carbon.
- Improves human health and animal welfare.
- Promotes social justice and provides broad economic opportunity.
Singapore, a highly developed city-state with scarce arable land (approximately 1%), serves as a model for utilizing technology to build a resilient food supply.
- The "30 by 30" Goal: Singapore’s strategic commitment is centered on the "30 by 30" goal, which aims to produce 30% of the nation’s nutritional needs in Singapore by 2030.
- Strategic Framework: This goal is driven by a comprehensive framework based on technological innovation, regulatory agility, and collaborative partnerships.
- Alternative Foods: Investment in the alternative protein sector has surged, reaching a Total 2020 invested capital of $3.1 billion. NTU's research focuses on bringing diversity to food systems through:
- Plant-based proteins.
- Microbial protein.
- Cultivated meat.
- Insect proteins.
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- Zero Waste Innovations: NTU research emphasizes the Valorisation of food processing waste-stream. Examples include using:
- Prawn Shells to create Chitosan Packaging Film.
- Durian Husk to create biodegradable packaging materials.
- Future-Ready Technologies: Other research capabilities include Precision Fermentation and Green Extraction.
The conclusion emphasizes that Singapore is positioning itself as a hub for cutting-edge food technologies and sustainable practices. Key factors for success include robust investments in research and development and strategic leadership, with the aim to set a benchmark for resilience in food systems globally.
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