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Green Plans in Action: Singapore: Challenges
Loss of Biodiversity
The loss of biodiversity in Singapore is tremendous. The first systematic study of species disappearance in Singapore shows a loss of at least 28% of its biodiversity in the past 183 years. This loss is the result of the near-complete devastation of forests that followed Singapore's establishment as a colonial trading post in 1819. It is considered a "worst case scenario". (More#1) Butterflies, fish, birds and mammals have been particularly affected. Singapore has had 95% of its native lowland rainforest cleared. Most of the rainforest was lost in the mid- to late-nineteenth century. The forests that remain today are protected. More than three quarters of Singapore's species are considered "threatened", according to World Conservation Union criteria. The incessant activity that has made Singapore an economic powerhouse in the region also decimated coastal biodiversity. The Singapore Green Plan, published in 1993 by the Ministry of the Environment, identified a total of 19 areas as designated for conservation. These areas represent about 5% of the total land area and include 2,100 hectares of forests. In addition, some 940,000 trees and more than 8 million shrubs have been planted in public spaces islandwide according to the Initial National Communication Report submitted to UNFCC by Singapore in 2000.
Particulate Matter (PM)2.5 Emissions
Although Singapore enjoys some best air quality in the world, it has yet to meet the recommended standard for PM2.5 (diameter less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers) set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Like many other major cities, PM2.5 is the most important air pollutant for Singapore (21 μg/Nm). While all fuel engines produce PM2.5 pollutants, diesel engines alone account for 50% or more of the PM2.5 emitted. Recent studies indicate PM 2.5 can lead to higher risks of bronchitis, asthma and upper respiratory tract infection. (More#1) However, since October 2006, it is mandated that all new diesel vehicles registered must meet the Euro IV emission standards. (More#2) This move towards Euro IV standards is a vital step in ensuring cleaner air for the long-term. New measures such as the clean air component of the Singapore Green Plan 2012 addressing local and regional air pollution may help keep PM2.5 and other pollutant levels at bay.
Land Scarcity
Densely urbanized, Singapore is considered a city-state. Land reclamation continues to be used extensively; Singapore has grown at least 100 sq.km. (38.6 sq.mi.) from its original size before 1819, and may grow another 100 sq.km. by 2030. With a current land mass of about 699 sq.km., Singapore faces immense challenges in meeting housing needs for its growing population. Not all lands can be developed, with water catchment areas taking up 40% of the landmass. Other lands are set aside for military use, and height restrictions have been imposed on buildings in several towns due to flight paths from Changi International Airport. In addition, due to competing demands for limited land, Singapore has no land for waste disposal. Their only landfill was constructed in the sea at a cost of $610M. (More)
Dense and Rising Population
Singapore is the second most densely populated independent country in the world, with a current population of about 4.5M people, of which 18% are foreigners. After two decades of a successful family planning policy, Singapore is now facing the threat of an aging population with declining birth rates of Singaporeans, and an influx of foreigners. (More#1) In February 2007, Singapore announced its "population parameter" with plans for a long-term population of 7M people, to create a viable and self-sustaining population profile, bigger economic pie, and more vibrant society. Concerns have been raised over possible ramifications from the rising population to the quality of life from overcrowding, environmental damage and strained ties between the local population and foreign workers. (More#2)
Limited Fresh Water Resources
Without natural freshwater rivers and lakes, 50% of the primary domestic source of water supply in Singapore is rainfall collected in catchment areas. Through diversification of water resources, such as recycled and desalinated water, Singapore is continuing to grow and thrive. However, nearly 40% of their fresh water is imported from Malaysia, and one of Singapore's biggest challenges in coming years will be to ensure the sustainability of a fresh water supply. (More#1) Water catchment areas now account for 1/2 of Singapore's land, and in the future will take up to 2/3 of the island with the building of more reservoirs, canals, and drains to catch and channel rainfall. Singapore strives to secure an adequate supply of water to actively manage their water demand through diversification, research and development in water technologies, promotion of water-efficient household appliances and water saving devices, and encouraging the public to take ownership of and enjoy Singapore's water resources. (More #2)
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