Local Species of Flora and Fauna Classified as Extinct and Endangered and Efforts to Raise Students and Young Singaporeans' Awareness of Biodiversity Conservation Issues
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the extinction and endangerment status of Singapore’s native flora and fauna alongside efforts to raise biodiversity awareness among students and the youth. Dr Tan Wu Meng enquired about recent extinction rates and initiatives to educate young Singaporeans on the consequences of species extinction. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee replied that while no species became presumed extinct in the last five years, 857 remain critically endangered and 352 are endangered. He highlighted NParks’ engagement through the Greening Schools for Biodiversity and Biodiversity Friends Forum programmes to develop conservation knowledge and future leaders. Additionally, young citizens participate in biodiversity surveys to support the national vision of transforming into a City in Nature.
Transcript
39 Dr Tan Wu Meng asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many local species of flora and fauna have become extinct in the last five years; (b) how many local species are currently endangered; and (c) what efforts are being made to improve students and young Singaporeans' awareness of biodiversity and the risks and consequences of species extinction.
Mr Desmond Lee: There are an estimated 35,000 to 45,000 species of flora and fauna native to Singapore. No species of flora or fauna native to Singapore has been classified as presumed nationally extinct in the last five years. 857 species of native flora and fauna are currently classified as critically endangered, while 352 species are classified as endangered.
Youth engagement is a key component of NParks' biodiversity conservation efforts. NParks conducts programmes for students and young Singaporeans to raise awareness of biodiversity conservation issues, and to encourage them to participate in nature conservation-related projects. This includes the Greening Schools for Biodiversity programme, which equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out habitat enhancement within their campus. There is also the Biodiversity Friends Forum programme, which nurtures young Singaporeans to become future leaders in biodiversity conservation. In addition, NParks involves young Singaporeans in its biodiversity surveys.
NParks will continue to find new ways to improve awareness by involving students and young Singaporeans in biodiversity conservation efforts, as we transform into a City in Nature.