Page 44 - HSBC NYAA Youth Environmental Award 25th Anniversary

Dr Justin Tan Ting Hao

Dr Justin Tan Ting Hao's environmental conservation
journey began in 2004, spurred by his recognition as a
young botanist under the Singapore Science Centre's
Young Scientist Programme. This early exposure
to biodiversity sparked a lifelong dedication to
environmental stewardship.

His involvement with Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS)
significantly shaped his understanding of the delicate
balance between human activity and local wildlife.
He was awarded the 'Most Versatile Conservation
Ambassador' award in 2013-2014. Justin's growing
knowledge and commitment also led him to intern Dr Justin Tan Ting Hao
with NParks at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, where Clinician-Avian Medicine,
his work directly supported biodiversity studies and Mandai Wildlife Group
population census projects.

Justin honed his skills in avian care, working with of the Murdoch Association for Companion Exotics
penguins, injured birds, and other species. He became (MACE), where he educated his peers about wildlife
adept in artificial incubation and veterinary care, and his conservation. Justin also volunteered at a local wildlife
commitment to rehabilitating injured birds for release rehabilitation facility, caring for ambassador animals
into the wild showcased his scientific and practical and assisting in rehabilitating native wildlife.
contributions to conservation. In recognition of his
leadership and impact, Justin was awarded the 2015 In 2024, when he returned to Singapore, Justin continued
HSBC NYAA Youth Environmental Award and participated his conservation efforts as a locum veterinarian at Bird
in a fully sponsored climate change expedition to Acadia Paradise, where he provided care for a wide range of
National Park in Maine, USA. During the expedition, he species, many of which were vital to conservation efforts.
worked with scientists to gather data on the effects of These efforts play a crucial role in preventing species
climate change on biodiversity, gaining valuable insight extinction, and Justin's dedication to this cause reflects
into ecosystem shifts and climate challenges. his long-term commitment to wildlife conservation.

Justin pursued a degree in Veterinary Medicine at Justin's work since 2015 has focused on the intersection
Murdoch University in Perth, where he focused on of veterinary medicine, conservation, outreach, and
wildlife and zoo medicine. He served in leadership roles, wildlife rehabilitation. Whether caring for endangered
including on the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical species or advocating for sustainable conservation
Association (WAVMA) committee and as President practices, his contributions continue to impact
biodiversity preservation.

42 The Journey of Sustainability: 25 Years and Beyond