Enhancing Local Capacities for Conservation of Native Biodiversity in Nature Reserves, Parks and Marine Parks, and Involving Public in These Efforts

65 Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Minister for National Development (a) how the Government intends to enhance local frameworks and capacities to strengthen Singapore’s conservation of our native biodiversity in our nature reserves, parks and marine parks; and (b) how can the public be involved in these efforts.

Mr Desmond Lee: NParks adopts a science-based approach to strengthen the conservation of our native biodiversity. This is guided by the Nature Conservation Masterplan (NCMP), which sets out strategies to safeguard key terrestrial and marine habitats, as well as plant and animal species in Singapore.

Under the NCMP, NParks works with the community to continually review and enhance its conservation approach. In February 2021, NParks launched the Ecological Profiling Exercise to study the ecological profile of green spaces in Singapore and to better understand their role in strengthening ecological connectivity. This exercise is being carried out in consultation with the nature community and academics, as part of our science-based approach towards the conservation of green spaces.

NParks will also continue to involve the public in our biodiversity conservation efforts, as Singapore transforms into a City in Nature. For example, under its Species Recovery Programme, NParks works closely with the community, to carry out habitat restoration and implement species recovery plans for our native plant and animal species. In addition, young Singaporeans can participate in conservation-related projects and outreach activities under the Youth Stewards for Nature programme. Members of the public may also participate in citizen science programmes such as biodiversity surveys, under the Community in Nature initiative.