Page 30 - Visionary Arts 2019

Surprisingly, Singapore has only 700 square kilometers of

land area, but they achieved to conserve 9% of the total land to
nature reserves. Moreover, Singapore is not only committing to

expand green areas but also planning to conserve natural
biodiversity. “Fortunately, Singapore is rich in biodiversity despite

our small landmass. The island has some 360 species of birds …

Interestingly, some species thought to be extinct on the island, like
the Oriental Pied Hornbill, are now establishing healthy colonies here

because of the lush green environment.” (Lang, 2008) Additionally,

the development plan is legalized by the Government to protect the
country’s ecosystem. There are institutions provided to undertake

research and to conduct biodiversity surveys to ensure the
sustainability of species in long term.

Community is the essence of the greenery development

plan. As it is said that the pioneer generation understood the purpose
and dedicated to the plan. In the present, Singaporeans and green

areas are symbiotic as there are parks all over the city where people

can come and spend leisure time. The roadside greenery has plants
that are similar to rainforests to attract animals, for example, birds

and butterflies. Despite the urban life that most Singaporeans face in
their routines, they can have a simple way of pleasure by hanging out

in the park, which is a good hideout. Nevertheless, Singapore is
developing more connecting bikeways which can increase the green

space in the city and can give the people opportunities to connect

with nature and to do outdoor activities. Therefore, it could be said
that community is “a self-help network among residents, schools, and

organisations” (Biophilic City in a Garden, 2019) since now there are
more than 1,400 community gardens where people are helping to

conserve the nature as the city’s heritage.

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