In 2021, the reality docuseries Clarkson’s Farm, chronicling an irascible old farmer’s attempts to run a working farm, scored a stellar 9.6 out of 10 on Douban. Season Two is set to premiere on 10 February this year. Why does wealthy, somewhat irascible old chap Jeremy Clarkson—who once hosted the…
Foodthink Says How exactly is agriculture being shaped by climate change? Foodthink has already published a series of articles exploring this question. Today, we share insights from a grower working on the front lines. Zhao Fei graduated from the College of Agronomy at China Agricultural University before joining Pingren Farm,…
Towards the end of 2021, while still working for an internet company in Shanghai, I came across a recruitment notice from Foodthink for their Ecological Agriculture Internship Programme. It was as though something had struck a chord within me. Once my application was accepted, I selected Yuanjian Farm in Meishan,…
For most people, 2022 was a real rollercoaster of highs and lows. Our colleagues at Foodthink shared the same sentiments. Our work plans shifted from the bold ambitions of 2021—aiming to tackle every challenge head-on—to a state of anxious uncertainty.
In 2022, Foodthink launched our podcast Food Talk, releasing 12 episodes throughout the year. Moving beyond our familiar written pieces and events, we could finally connect with friends across the country through the medium of sound. We were absolutely delighted to welcome over 1,400 subscribers to the platform, and we…
Once pioneer species take root in an ecosystem, they gradually enhance its carrying capacity, paving the way for a growing number of other species to enter. The rise in biodiversity within the system is, at the same time, the process through which the pioneer species themselves are marginalised. —— Pioneer…
I. I. First Snow It was the eleventh lunar month. A light first snow dusted the town, accompanied by a sudden drop in temperature that caught even the weather forecasters off guard. We had only just emerged from a temporary lockdown a week earlier. Though local shops and courier services…
Those stifled by the pandemic are longing to reconnect with nature. Around urban areas, picnics, camping, and nature education are becoming increasingly popular. Yet, in a world of rapid change, what do “the countryside” and “nature” actually signify for contemporary Chinese families and children? Is this merely a passing trend,…
In early November, Odesa had not yet been gripped by widespread missile strikes or power cuts, and shops along the streets remained open for business. I met farmer Aleksey at a café in the city centre. Aleksey’s farm is situated near Odesa. He says it covers 1,000 hectares and includes…
I. I. Head to the Farm! On the journey back to Kunming from Chengdu, I drove through a succession of long tunnels. My mobile signal flickered in and out, mirroring the ebb and flow of my mood. One moment I was still at the Chengdu Life Market selling luffa for…
