Social enterprises demonstrate sustainable food solutions

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan entrepreneurs showcased agricultural and food innovations at the Social Enterprise World Forum Tuesday (Oct. 29). Climate change and shifting consumer habits drive social enterprises to develop sustainable solutions for farming and seafood industries. The forum highlighted how local businesses balance environmental protection with economic viability in Taiwan's food systems.

AgriWeather founder Riddler Lu (盧安邦) presented technology solutions helping farmers adapt to climate challenges. Fish Bar CEO Gigi Huang (黃紋綺) demonstrated how locally sourced seafood reconnects communities with ocean conservation. Both entrepreneurs showcased Taiwan's innovative approaches to sustainable food production and environmental protection at the forum.

Lu's AgriWeather collects real-time environmental data to help farmers make evidence-based decisions. "When the weather is hot, there are many more pests," Lu explained. "These pests all appear due to climate change, so it's important to consider how to help farmers manage them and stop them from damaging crops."

Lu emphasized that consumer support drives the sustainability of organic farming beyond technological solutions. "When you support and buy from an organic farmer, they will have the strength to keep moving forward," he advised. "That's why it's important to notice what you buy and where it's going. That's the biggest support you can give farmers."

Huang's Fish Bar transforms locally caught fish into dishes, connecting small-scale fishers with conscious consumers. Her approach focuses on educating customers about sustainable seafood choices and Taiwan's coastal culture. "We're actually educating people about eating fish because they're the closest thing linking us humans to the sea," Huang said.

Huang views food as a tool for rebuilding relationships between consumers and marine ecosystems. "Consumers are increasingly aware of their food choices, which is a reward for us," she said. "When they think: where did this fish come from? Should I eat it? They're already protecting the ocean."

Taiwan's social enterprises demonstrated solutions addressing local food challenges while contributing to global sustainability efforts at SEWF 2025. The innovations showcase how local agricultural and seafood businesses drive broader environmental conversations. These enterprises prove local action creates significant impact on sustainable food system development worldwide. ◼