Understanding urban agriculture in context: environmental, social, and psychological benefits of agriculture in Singapore

ABSTRACT The purported environmental, social, psychological, and economic benefits of urban agricultural initiatives (UAIs) are context-dependent. However, little research has been done on UAIs in Asia, and to our knowledge, no research conducted in Singapore. This study investigated the benefits perceived by employees and volunteers at an UAI in Singapore, an Asian city–state, and how these benefits were achieved or impeded. A secondary aim was to examine differences in participants’ perceptions. To address these aims, in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 employees and volunteers, followed by a Q-sort of 36 interview statements delivered to the same participants. The results suggested that the UAI had environmental, social, and psychological benefits which include fostering a genuine connection with nature and facilitating pro-environmental behavioural spillover; enabling friendships and learning to communicate with diverse peoples; and increasing self-awareness and gratitude, respectively. These are facilitated through tactile involvement with nature, exposure to pro-environmental behaviours, a culture of open-mindedness that encourages social interaction and encouragement of reflection. On the other hand, the UAI’s economic impact in terms of employment and food production was impeded by its financial difficulties. While both volunteers and employees perceived the psychosocial benefits, it was employees who emphasised the UAI’s financial difficulties. These benefits and impediments and how they manifest reflect Singapore’s communitarian worldview and accompanying social norms, and demonstrate the local and global relevance of situating UAIs in context. Relevant areas of future research are suggested. (234 words)