WEEK 1 REFLECTION –NATURE SOCIETY TALK

1. After listening to the talk, are you able to explain in Singapore's context, what it means to achieve "sustainable development"?

Sustainable development is the usage of our current limited resources to spearhead progress in the country while preserving our natural environment. It is not only about financial development and successes in our economy; it is also about maintaining the natural elements of our country to ensure the survivability of Singapore’s unique flora and fauna. We must create a balance between nature and urban development by trying to incorporate green fundamentals into urban planning. For example, the Butterfly Trail in Orchard Road, where butterflies unique to our region are attracted to the foliage that were specially planted along the roads. This way, nature is integrated into one of the bustling shopping districts in Singapore. Greenery can also help enhance the aesthetic aspect of our country and is a welcome change from the hulking masses of concrete and glass that our eyes are so accustomed to. It propels growth in the tourism sector. Therefore, striking a balance between urban and nature is a crucial aspect to achieving sustainable development.

2. If you were to select an issue of foremost concern to Singapore out of those which were raised during the talk on sustainable development, which would that be? Why is this such a major concern?

One major concern for Singapore is land scarcity.  Singapore has a high population density with the population nearing 6.5 million people as compared to 5 million in the much larger country, New Zealand.  Therefore, land is scarce in Singapore, with majority of the land already set aside for housing and little left for other areas of development. Housing units are becoming smaller and smaller in terms of floor area so that the government can cope with the rising demand for housing due to increasing population size. Future generations are unable to reclaim any more land to maintain their competitiveness in the world by building more infrastructures for the growth of economy as the government has reached its territorial limits and it has come close to disputes with Malaysia and Indonesia regarding boundary issues.

3. Find out more about current College efforts to contribute towards sustainable development. Suggest one or two ways in which you as students can contribute towards this effort too. 

College efforts:

Recycling of newspapers (competition between houses): Reducing wastage of paper and increasing awareness of the importance of their roles no matter how small it may seem

Gardening project at NJC (an initiative by JH students): The horticultural exposure cultivates their appreciation for nature therefore bringing out their passion to participate in green movements.

NE trail: Educate students about our natural heritage and thus encouraging them to play a part in conserving and preserving such locations.

Ways to contribute:

As an NJCian, we should play our part by contributing and participating actively in the activities. We can help in the publicity of such efforts by encouraging our peers to donate their old newspapers or advertise through online platforms such as Facebook. We can encourage further preservation of natural heritage by reaching out to other schools and the community through our NE trails i.e. bringing them onto our trails and carry out the planned activities