In 2019, Fairmont Singapore & Swissôtel The Stamford launched the hospitality industry’s first urban aquaponics farm, making a bold and innovative step toward a more sustainable future. This initiative not only enhances our guests’ dining experiences with the freshest produce but also aligns with Singapore’s “30 by 30” goal — to produce 30% of the nation’s nutritional needs locally by 2030.
The aquaponics solution at Fairmont Singapore & Swissôtel The Stamford is the result of months of careful and thorough research, looking at the best possible way to meet demand among guests and consumers for fresh food; optimise limited space for growing produce; and to save water and minimise water wastage.
Aquaponics combines aquaculture, the cultivation of fish, with hydroponics, the soil-free growing of plants. The result is a sustainable, pesticide-free farming method that operates as a natural ecosystem. Waste produced by the fish is broken down by beneficial bacteria into nutrients, which are then absorbed by the plants. In turn, the plants purify the water, which is recirculated back into the fish tanks. This symbiotic relationship significantly reduces water, usage and eliminates the need for chemical fertilisers while producing both fresh vegetables and fish protein.
The image above shows the Aquaponics Farm Cycle, a closed-loop and sustainable farming system where fish and vegetables are grown together in one integrated setup. This system works like a natural ecosystem, where each part supports the other.
The aquaponics cycle begins with the feeding of fish in specially designed tanks. As the fish produce waste, it is carried through the system by water to a filtration unit. Here, naturally occurring bacteria convert the waste into ammonia, then into nitrites, and finally into nitrates, which act as a natural fertiliser. This nutrient-rich water is then pumped into the soil, where vegetables absorb the nitrates while simultaneously purifying the water. Once cleansed, the water flows into a sump tank before being recirculated back into the fish tanks, completing the sustainable loop.
This closed-loop system significantly reduces water usage compared to traditional soil-based farming, as the water is continuously recycled. By eliminating the need for chemical fertilisers and making efficient use of space, the aquaponics method offers a highly sustainable way to grow both fresh vegetables and fish protein in an urban environment.
The 450-square-metre Aquaponics Farm at Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford produces a variety of fresh ingredients for the hotels. Each year, we harvest an average of 1,300 kilograms of vegetables and raise approximately 200 kilograms of fish.
This produce is grown in phases and featured in dishes and beverages at SKAI, JAAN by Kirk Westaway, CLOVE, Prego, Asian Market Café, and The Stamford Brasserie.
Earlier in 2020, we received the HICAP Sustainable Hotel Award in the Climate Action category, recognising our long-term commitment to reducing environmental impact. Read here to find out more.
Our dedication to sustainability has not gone unnoticed. Fairmont Singapore & Swissôtel The Stamford have been certified under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) for two consecutive years — 2024 and 2025, a testament to our commitment to environmentally responsible hospitality.
In 2024, we were honoured with the Gold Award for Best Green Hotel Initiative at the Honeycombers Sustainability Awards, celebrating our innovative approach to eco-friendly hospitality.
In May 2025, we were honoured to receive the DutchCham (Dutch Chamber of Commerce Singapore)’s Winsemius Community Impact Award, recognising our efforts to create meaningful environmental and social value within the Singaporean community. This award serves as a reminder of our responsibility to continue driving positive change through thoughtful, inclusive, and sustainable initiatives—always guided by integrity and a commitment to the greater good.
The aquaponics farm is more than just an innovation — it is a symbol of our commitment to responsible stewardship and a sustainable future. We invite our guests and community to experience the benefits of urban farming and taste the difference that fresh, home-grown produce makes.
Join us on this journey toward a more sustainable world. Learn more about our environmental efforts and see how small changes can lead to a lasting impact. Interested in seeing it for yourself? Book a tour of our aquaponics farm and experience sustainability in action.
Stay connected and inspired — follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more updates on our aquaponics farm and other sustainability initiatives.
First published on 24 December 2019.
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