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Singapore, Biodiversity, and a Thriving City
Singapore has, through visionary leadership, progressive policies and skilful management of green spaces transformed its identity as a “Garden City” to become a “City in Nature”. This is the first of three IPS-Nathan Lectures that explore the role of nature in Singapore and the role of Singapore in the wider world of nature conservation, beginning with an examination of the state of biodiversity in Singapore. The protection of green areas and the conservation of Singapore’s biodiversity presents an interesting paradox for its leaders and for the public. Conserving nature makes less land available for various critical needs; conversely, a Singapore with less nature could result in it becoming a less liveable — and less lovable — home. How can we maximise green areas and biodiversity in our city home without denting the engines of economic, infrastructural and societal needs? More importantly, how vital is nature to a successful, thriving Singapore?