Environmental Sustainability – Singapore Green Guardians Blog

April Events in Singapore

In April, we celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, a special time to think about our planet. Check out some events this month to join the movement for a greener world.

In April, we celebrate Earth Day! April 22nd is a special time to think about our planet. But it’s important to remember that caring for the Earth isn’t just for one day—it’s for every day! Check out some events this month to join the movement for a greener world.

1. The Young Explorers Program

Time: July through August 2024

Organiser: Oce a nX

Description:

The Ocean X Young Explorer’s Programme offers an immersive and educational experience for students aged 18-22 aboard the OceanXplorer. Participants engage in 1 to 10-day adventures, exploring marine life, ocean conservation, and the latest oceanographic research. The programme aims to inspire a deeper understanding of ocean exploration and foster a sense of responsibility towards protecting marine ecosystems. Young Explorers 2024 will feature various missions taking place in Indonesia throughout July and August.

OceanXplorer, the most advanced exploration, research and media vessel is currently based in Singapore for half of year in 2024.

Applications for the OceanX Young Explorers Program 2024 are currently open and will close on the 5th of April.

Click here to learn more.

2. Farmers’ Market: Easter Egg-stravaganza Edition

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Sat, 6^th of April

Location: City Sprouts Henderson, 102 Henderson Road

Organiser: City Sprouts

Description:

The Farmer’s Market Easter Egg-stravaganza Edition is an engaging Easter event that promotes buying local and adopting eco-friendly practices. The Farm Animal Experience includes workshops on the frog life cycle, insights into the life of chickens, and an exploration of composting creepy crawlies. Additionally, the event offers a farmer’s market showcasing a diverse range of fresh produce and artisanal products.

Click here to learn more.

3. Stride with Marcel (Clean Up)

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Sat, 6^th of April

Location: City Plaza

Organiser: Stridy

Description:

Litter poses risks to our environment by polluting the air, water, and soil, threatening wildlife, and providing habitats for pests. Join ‘Stride with Marcel’ to actively contribute to our environment! Striding entails collecting litter while walking, running, or hiking. You can make a meaningful impact by taking part in routine clean-up activities, helping to keep our urban community clean and thriving.

Click here to learn more.

4. Zero Market: Fash up by the Pond

Time: 9:00a.m. – 2:00p.m., 6^th – 7^th of April

Place: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre, 30A Yishun Central 1, Singapore 768796

Organiser: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre 慈济人文青年中心

Description:

The Zero • Market is a sustainable lifestyle market that offers fresh produce and sustainable goods, aiming to reduce waste with Zero Meat and Zero Plastic. It occurs every first and third weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of the month unless otherwise specified. Visit the Zero Market and remember to bring your own bag! This month’s event, Fash up by the Pond, features an open wardrobe, green products, and information sharing.

Click here to learn more.

5. Eco Fair @ Katong

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., 11^th to 14^th April

Location: i12 Katong

Organiser: City Sprouts & i12Katong

Description:

As April marks Earth month, City Sprouts is delighted to bring you their Eco-Fair at i12 Katong! From learning about upcycling fabric and other materials to discovering how to make natural scrubs and grow microgreens, the Eco Fair offers hands-on experiences for everyone interested in living more sustainably.

Click here to learn more.

6. Earth x Fashion 3.0 @ Weave Suites – Midtown

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., 15^th – 24^th of April

Location: Weave Suites – Midtown, 33 Jalan Sultan

Organiser: Cloop

Description:

In conjunction with Fashion Revolution Week 2024, “Earth x Fashion 3.0: Weave Suites Midtown” is a ten-day event from April 15 to 24 focusing on sustainable fashion. It showcases eco-friendly designs, materials, and production methods. Attendees can explore trends like upcycling and zero-waste design, join workshops on circular economy principles and reducing fashion waste, and engage with experts on ethical sourcing and technology in fashion. Join us in shaping a sustainable future for fashion!

Click here to learn more.

7. Wasted: What we Throw Away Doesn’t go Away

Time: 7:00 a.m, Mon, 22^nd of April

Location: Cineleisure

Organiser: The Projector

Description:

“Wasted” is a thought-provoking documentary film that explores the global issue of food waste and its environmental impact. Through compelling storytelling and interviews with experts, “Wasted” sheds light on innovative solutions and initiatives to reduce food waste and create a more sustainable food system. It challenges viewers to rethink their consumption habits and consider the environmental and social implications of food waste.

Click here to learn more.

8. For the Love of Land

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., 27^th of April

Location: Common Ground Civic Centre & Consultancy

Organiser: Moving Earth Film

Description:

“For the Love of Land” initiates a dialogue on land stewardship, spotlighting Singapore’s changing landscape. This event includes the official screening of the film “Moving Earth,” which explores themes of environmental sustainability and land conservation. The conversation will be joined by experts and activists in the field, offering insights into sustainable land management practices, biodiversity conservation, and the importance of environmental stewardship.

This event serves as a fundraising platform for #GUIsBigMove. It is jointly organised by The Roving Studio and Ground-Up Initiative (GUI) with venue support by Common Ground Civic Centre & Consultancy.

Click here to learn more.

9. Nature and Sustainability Tour: Energy and Water

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., Sat, 27^th of April

Location: Bayfront Plaza Shuttle Station, Bayfront MRT (Exit B)

Organiser: Gardens by the Bay

Description:

The “Nature and Sustainability Tour: Energy and Water” takes participants on an immersive journey through Gardens by the Bay, focusing on environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Attendees will discover energy-efficient solutions and water conservation strategies through the guided tour and interactive activities.

Click here to sign up.

There are currently 6 routes under the Nature and Sustainability tour. They are available every Saturday and Sunday.

10. Repair Kopitiam

Time: Sunday, 28th of April

Place: Various locations

Organiser: Repair Kopitiam

Description:

Repair Kopitiam is an initiative designed to combat the disposable culture by offering a platform where individuals can mend their personal belongings with guidance and assistance from volunteer “Repair Coaches”. This do-it-yourself (DIY) repair event takes place on the final Sunday of each month at different locations throughout the country. To participate, attendees need to schedule a specific timeslot and are allowed to bring up to two items for repair during each session.

Read event house rules here.

Prioritising Animal Welfare Through Education

Prioritising Animal Welfare Through Education: A Conversation with Anbarasi (Anbu) Boopal

Singapore Green Guardians had the privilege of having an insightful conversation with Anbarasi (Anbu) Boopal, co-CEO (Advocacy) of ACRES: Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Singapore). In this interview, Anbu shared her personal journey, offering valuable insights into her unwavering passion for animal welfare and conservation. She delved into the challenges faced by ACRES in advocating for animal welfare in Singapore, highlighting the pivotal role of education in driving meaningful behavioural change.

Photo: Ellie Cheong, Singapore Green Guardians (left), Anbarasi (Anbu) Boopal, ACRES (right)

SGG: How did it all start for you, Anbu? What inspired you to become involved in animal welfare and conservation, and how did you come to join ACRES?

Anbu: Animal welfare has always been close to my heart. I initially wanted to become a veterinarian but couldn’t bear the thought of dissecting animals, so I shifted my focus to life sciences. While immersed in wildlife work in India, I noticed a significant oversight in conservation efforts, particularly towards certain animal species. It sparked my interest in understanding policy and governance, prompting me to study environmental management.

It was then when I encountered an illegally kept Indian star tortoise. And that’s how I came to know about ACRES. The organisation’s co-founder, Louis Ng, mentioned plans for a rescue centre, and I offered to volunteer. It was initially a two-year commitment, then I would return to India. I’ve now been with ACRES for 18 years.

Photo: ACRES

SGG: Time flies when you’re enjoying your work, doesn’t it?

Anbu: Yes, it does. Our lives revolve around animals, yet we often fail to recognise the many roles they play. Whether they are animals that are sources of food and clothing or serve as modes of transportation, our lives are deeply intertwined with theirs. Moreover, animals and their natural habitats are profoundly impacted by the choices that we make in our daily lives. I firmly believe that there is immense potential in the actions that humans can take. And that individuals can make a difference. That’s what I’m passionate about.

Photo: ACRES, Facebook, 2023

SGG: Speaking of work, could you elaborate on some recent initiatives and projects that ACRES has been working on?

Anbu: Absolutely. ACRES has been busy with several key projects lately. Our six focus areas are:

Tackling Wildlife Crime
Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
Promoting Coexistence With Native Wildlife
Humane Education
Community Outreach
Promoting Cruelty-Free Living

Firstly, we’re focused on educating the public about the humane treatment of animals. This includes teaching people about responsible practices without needing constant oversight. We’ve expanded our efforts, aiming to reach a wider audience, including pre-schoolers, students, and adults.

We’ve also been tackling the problem of online wildlife trade. We’ve published reports highlighting the challenges of enforcement due to the high volume and encryption of online transactions. We’re pushing for policies to hold online platforms accountable for their role in this trade.

Photo: Online Illegal Wildlife Trade on Telegram in Singapore Report, ACRES, November 2023

📝 Read the telegram report here.

On the ground, we’re running a 24-hour rescue service and expanding our sanctuary to provide better living conditions for rescued animals. We’re also working to return illegally trafficked Indian star tortoises back to their natural habitats.

In our efforts toward wildlife rescue, we’re also advocating for the regulation of harmful glue traps used for rodent control. We’ve observed a concerning trend where we’re rescuing a protected species from these traps every single day.

Photo: ACRES, Facebook, 2023

SGG: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in advocating for animal welfare in Singapore?

Anbu: Two main challenges stand out. Firstly, there’s a need for a shift in mindset towards animals. We often exhibit speciesism, valuing certain animals over others based on factors like size or charisma. For example, we may feel strongly about the trade of dog meat. But, when animals in factory farms like chickens and pigs, who are sentient or intelligent, are treated in a bad way, we may not acknowledge it because we disconnect ourselves. This mindset change is crucial for fostering compassion and tolerance towards all animals. Secondly, on the same note, perception has an impact on funding and that remains a challenge. ACRES relies heavily on public donations, and while we’re grateful for the support, more funding is needed to sustain our operations effectively. We constantly strive to bridge this gap through strategic planning and community engagement.

Photo: ACRES

SGG: Education seems to be a cornerstone of ACRES’ approach. Could you tell us more about your educational initiatives and their outcomes?

Anbu: Certainly. Our educational programs are tailored to different age groups, from pre-schoolers to adults. For younger children, we focus on fostering empathy towards animals and encouraging responsible behaviour. As they grow older, we delve deeper into topics like coexistence and advocacy, empowering them to become voices for change. We also conduct workshops for students and adults, teaching them how to engage with policymakers and advocate for animal welfare effectively. Our goal is to equip people with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in their communities.

Photo: ACRES

SGG: It’s inspiring to see how ACRES empowers people to advocate for animal welfare. How can the public contribute and actively support your initiatives?

Anbu: There are various ways for the public to get involved, from volunteering to donating. We offer volunteering opportunities in areas like outreach, wildlife rescue, and sanctuary care. Each program has specific requirements, such as public speaking skills or being comfortable working outdoors. Additionally, donations play a crucial role in supporting our work. Whether it’s through volunteering time or contributing financially, every bit of support helps us continue our mission of protecting animals and their habitats.

Photo: ACRES, Facebook, 2022

🔎 Discover how you can get involved and make a difference by volunteering. Find out more here.

SGG: Thank you for sharing your insights, Anbu. Is there anything else you’d like to add before we wrap up?

Anbu: We have an upcoming fundraising event, the ACRES Charity Gala: Wild Second Chances, scheduled to take place at Marina Bay Sands on May 18, 2024, generously supported by Marina Bay Sands. The proceeds from this event will be directed towards expanding ACRES’ sanctuary for rehabilitated wild animals and facilitating the repatriation of rescued non-native wild animals to their native habitats.

Photo: ACRES, 2024, via giving.sg

🐒 For more details about the Gala or how you can donate, click here.

About ACRES

ACRES, Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Singapore), founded in 2001 by passionate Singaporeans, is a leading charity dedicated to animal welfare in Singapore. ACRES has tirelessly advocated for wildlife protection–– symbolised by the iconic blue logo representing its first rescued vervet monkey. Since its inception, ACRES has rescued countless animals and remains committed to providing hope and sanctuary to those in distress.

To support ACRES’ vital work, individuals can get involved by reporting suspicious activities or assisting in rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Whether through volunteering, raising awareness, or supporting advocacy campaigns, every contribution makes a meaningful impact.

If you see wildlife in distress in Singapore, contact 24-hr ACRES Wildlife Rescue Hotline +65 97837782 for assistance.

March Events in Singapore

Check out the green events in Singapore this March. Let’s raise awareness, take action, connect with nature, join the environmental movement, and meet like-minded people.

1. Open My Factory: ALBA E-Waste Logistics & Sorting Hub

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Fri, 1st of March

Location: Tuas Crescent MRT Station Exit B (Street Level)

Organiser: My Community

Description:

How do we properly dispose of our batteries, printers and light bulbs? Step into ALBA’s E-Waste Sorting & Logistics Hub and learn about the different types of e-waste collected in Singapore. Witness the drivers and sorters in action, as we unravel the practical challenges to recycling our mobile phones and tablets, printers, television and more.

Click here to learn more.

2. Singapore Maritime Gallery Tour

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Sat, 2nd of March

Location: Level 2, Marine South Pier, 31 Marina Coastal Drive Singapore, 018988

Organiser: Maritime and Port Authority Singapore

Description:

Participate a 1-hour walking tour at Singapore Martime Gallery. It will take you on a voyage to discover the story of Maritime Singapore. The gallery offers an opportunity to explore Singapore’s rich maritime heritage, the vital link between the maritime industry and our daily lives, and how Singapore maintains its position as a global hub port and leading international maritime centre, tapping on technology to remain world-class and future ready.

Click here to learn more.

3. Coral Woman — International Women’s Day Event

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Fri, 8th of March

Location: 6001 Beach Road, Golden Mile Tower, #05-00, Singapore 199589

Organiser: The Projector

Description:

Get ready for an evening of conversation, art, inspiration and activism!

In Coral Woman, we follow Uma who has been painting coral reefs as the subject of her art despite never having been underwater to see actual corals. At age 49, she learns how to dive and discovers some hard truths about the state of coral reefs in India. This isn’t just a film; it’s a story of empowerment, female resilience, growth, rediscovery and the transformative power of art. From coral bleaching to pollution to governmental passivity, Coral Woman confronts it all.

Click here to learn more.

4. SG Eco Ranger Sustainability Workshop: Eco Enzyme Making

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Tue, 12th of March

Location: PAssion Wave @ Sembawang, 60 Jalan Mempurong, Singapore 759058

Organiser: PAssion Wave @ Sembawang

Description:

Did you know that you can make your own eco-enzyme at home and old oil can be made into soap?

Find out more about being environmentally conscious and how to be sustainable in our daily lives. Learn fascinating tips with SG Eco rangers and bring home your sustainable products.

Click here to learn more.

5. WWF Earth Hour Festival 2024

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Sat, 23rd of March

Location: Wisma Atria

Organiser: WWF SG

Description:

Join the WWF Earth Hour Festival 2024 at Wisma Atria. Join WWF for a day of fun-filled activities and performances and witness Singapore’s bustling shopping district go dark for an hour as we collectively pledge our commitment to a climate-resilient future.

Click here to learn more.

6. SG Eco Arts Festival: Eco for the Sake of…

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., Sun, 24th of March

Location: 277 Orchard Road orchardgateway #03-12/#04-11 Singapore, 238858

Organiser: GoLibrary | National Library Board, Singapore

Description:

The Singapore Eco Arts Festival is an upcycling and sustainable arts festival that showcases and shares creative ways of repurposing waste in Singapore.

In this event, the co-organisers of the SG Eco Arts Festival will be sharing about their journey in bringing together creative practitioners, community initiatives, and members of the public to celebrate and learn about innovative sustainable practices as well as circular thinking.

Click here to learn more.

7. Plastic: Remaking Our World

Time: 23rd Jan. – 23rd Jun., 2024

Location: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road Singapore

Organiser: National Museum of Singapore

Description:

Plastic: Remaking Our World examines the history and future of this controversial material: from its meteoric rise in the 20th century and its environmental impact to cutting-edge solutions for a more sustainable way of using plastic. The exhibition features over 300 objects, posters, films and photographs from the Vitra Design Museum and its partners, including rarities from the dawn of the plastic age, objects of the pop era and contemporary designs and projects, with additional content on the use of plastic and sustainability in Singapore.

Learn more details her e.

8. Zero • Market

Time: 9:00 – 14:00, 1st and 3rd Saturday & Sunday

Place: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre, 30A Yishun Central 1, Singapore 768796

Organiser: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre 慈济人文青年中心

Description:

The Zero • Market is a sustainable lifestyle market, where fresh produce and sustainable goods are available! They are working towards Zero Waste, starting with Zero Meat and Zero Plastic (except for unavoidable plastic packaging). It takes place every 1st and 3rd weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of the month unless otherwise stated. Visit the Zero • Market and don’t forget to bring your own bag!

Learn more here.

9. Repair Kopitiam

Time: Sunday, 24th March

Place: Various locations

Organiser: Repair Kopitiam

Description:

Booking opens on 8th March through 20th March. Read event house rules here.

February Events in Singapore

Check out the green events in Singapore this February. Let’s raise awareness, take action, connect with nature, join the environmental movement, and meet like-minded people.

1. Edible Garden Volunteers

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sun, 11th, 18th, and 25th of Feb.

Location: Roof Top Garden @ 506, 506 Yishun Avenue 4, Singapore, 760506

Organiser: Tony the Farmer

Description:

Visit the community garden and help out with basic garden chores like weeding, composting preps, harvesting, soil mixing, and watering. Produce from the garden goes to the community fridge, which helps families in need.

Click here to learn more. .

2. Litter Vanture (Clean up)

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Sat., 17th Feb.

Location: Boon Keng MRT Station (NE9), 900 Serangoon Road, Singapore, 328260

Organiser: Stridy

Description:

Get an hour of walking exercise in, maybe meet some interesting people, do some good and learn all about the waste management challenges in Singapore.

Litter picking equipment will be provided so you won’t get your hands dirty.

Click here for more information.

3. Urban Farming Workshop

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., 23rd Feb., 2024

Location: Choa Chu Kang Public Library – Programme Room 1 (Level 4), 21 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 4, Lot One Shoppers’ Mall, #04-01/02

Organiser: GoLibrary | National Library Board

Description:

The programme will cover Singapore’s food story as well as the “30 by 3o” mission. Participants will learn about urban farming and the science behind Controlled Environmental Agriculture.

Learn more about the event here.

4. NUS Social Impact Catalyst: Project Demo Day

Time: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., 24th Feb., 2024

Location: 180 Kitchener Road #06-10, Singapore, 208539

Organiser: NUS Social Impact Catalyst

Description:

NUS Social Impact Catalyst’s annual Project Demo Day (PDD) showcases top-tier student talent and explores groundbreaking student-led projects focusing on sustainability and innovation.

Witness a competitive pitch battle where NUS students contend for grants totaling $65,000, driving their projects towards real-world impact.

Learn more about the event here.

5. Plastic: Remaking Our World

Time: 23rd Jan. – 23rd Jun., 2024

Location: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road Singapore

Organiser: National Museum of Singapore

Description:

Learn more details her e.

6. Zero • Market

Time: 9:00 – 14:00, 1st and 3rd Saturday & Sunday

Place: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre, 30A Yishun Central 1, Singapore 768796

Organiser: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre 慈济人文青年中心

Description:

Learn more here.

7. Repair Kopitiam

Time: Sunday, 25th February

Place: Various locations

Organiser: Repair Kopitiam

Description:

Booking opens on 9th February through 21st February. Read event house rules here.

Fostering Communities of Change, One Repair at a Time

In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, a transformative initiative known as Repair Kopitiam has been quietly revolutionizing the way residents approach their belongings.

Introduction

In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, a transformative initiative known as Repair Kopitiam has been quietly revolutionizing the way residents approach their belongings. Founded in 2014 by Veerappan Swaminathan and Farah Sanwari and currently run by SL2 Impact, the non-profit arm of Sustainable Living Lab, Repair Kopitiam has evolved into a force combating the prevalent “Buy and Throw Away” culture. By encouraging residents to repair rather than discard, the initiative aims to create a sustainable society that redefines the lifecycle of products.

Monthly Repair Meetups

The heartbeat of Repair Kopitiam is its community-driven approach, evident in the monthly repair meetups held on the last Sunday of each month. At these events, diverse groups of people converge, bringing with them malfunctioning or broken household items in need of repair. The initiative not only addresses the immediate issue of item repair but also fosters a collective responsibility towards a circular economy.

Volunteer Repair Coaches

Central to the success of Repair Kopitiam is the passionate volunteer Repair Coaches who guide participants through the repair process. The transfer of knowledge from those proficient in repairs to eager learners forms the backbone of a sustainable community model. Beyond one-off repair events, Repair Kopitiam offers workshops where participants delve into the intricacies of tinkering, gaining technical prowess and the mindset of a lifelong learner.

Community Impacts

With a cumulative impact of training approximately 4,500 volunteer Repair Coaches since its inception, Repair Kopitiam currently operates with over 100 Repair Coaches across nine event locations. The initiative serves as a filter for recycling, focusing on the importance of repairing items before resorting to recycling. By promoting pre-repair maintenance, replacing broken parts, and salvaging functional components, Repair Kopitiam seeks to lower the barrier for the general public to engage in repair activities.

A Vision for the Future

Repair Kopitiam recognizes the pivotal role that the youth play in shaping the future, and as such, the initiative actively engages this demographic through collaborations with educational and youth organisations in Singapore. Extending beyond the monthly repair meetups, these programmes emphasize the importance of pre-repair maintenance, instilling in the youth a proactive mindset regarding the maintenance and repair of everyday items.

Conclusion

photo: Repair Kopitiam

In the hands of Repair Kopitiam, discarded items find new life, and communities are woven together through shared experiences of repair and resilience. Repair Kopitiam stands as a powerful exemplar of grassroots initiatives, showcasing that by addressing the specific needs of individuals within communities, a ripple effect of positive change can be sparked, fostering a collective ethos of responsibility and environmental stewardship.

The Weird and Wonderful: Sea Star

Sea Stars, commonly called Starfish, are not fish. They don’t have gills, fins, scales, and no backbone. These star-shaped invertebrates are related to sea urchins and sea cucumbers, which all belong to the group Echinodermata––meaning spiny skin.

In this series, we showcase the diversity of rare, peculiar, and fascinating native flora and fauna in Singapore. We enthusiastically invite you to explore our nature reserves and gardens, urging you to pause and observe your surroundings—whether by looking up or down—to see if you can catch a glimpse of these unique wonders.

Sea Stars

Image courtesy of Profmauri

Sea stars can be found in every ocean of the world. Most species have five long arms that join a central disk, although some may have more like the Eight-armed Sea Star!

Common name: Eight-armed Sea Star

Scientific name: Luidia maculate

The Eight-armed Sea Star is native to the Indo-Pacific region. It is one of the largest species of sea stars in Singapore and can grow up to 60cm across in diameter. The number of arms can range from five to nine, but it is commonly observed that they have eight arms. It is often spotted in sub-tidal waters or near areas with seagrass or coral rubble in Northern shores. It feeds on both algae, rotting plants, mussels, clams, snails, worms, and other small creatures.

Image courtesy of Walaa

Sea stars are known for their five-point radial symmetry. Some sea stars have arms so short and stubby that they resemble a pentagon, like the Cushion Star.

Common name: Cushion Star

Scientific name: Culcita novaeguineae

The Cushion Star is a small sea star that grows up to 5cm. It has very short, broad arms and a puffy appearance, resembling a pentagonal pin cushion. It varies in colour and can be found in tropical waters in the Indo-Pacific. It feeds on algae, barnacles, and other invertebrates. To catch its food, the cushion star inflates its “cushion”, and deflates on top of its prey.

Image courtesy of Shizhao

Sea stars have hundreds of suction-bottomed tube feet on the underside of their arms. These tube feet serve various functions such as helping sea stars move, attach to surfaces, and collect food.

Most sea stars are carnivores, feeding on sea urchins, clams, oysters, crabs, and snails. They display a scavenging behaviour, devouring nearly anything they can grasp with their arms. Certain species are omnivores, also incorporating algae and decaying plant matter in their diet.

Image courtesy of California Sea Grant

In numerous ecosystems, sea stars play a vital role as keystone species, contributing to the maintenance of a healthy marine ecosystem. Their position as natural predators of sea urchins enables them to effectively control the population of sea urchins. Sea urchins have a voracious appetite for kelp and other vegetation, which serve as critical habitat and a food source for a wide variety of species. If sea stars were to decline or die off, the sea urchin population would multiply unchecked, leaving them to consume kelp uncontrollably. In Northern California, for example, the sunflower sea star’s disappearance has turned kelp forests into “urchin barrens”.

In any ecosystem, including marine ecosystems, a keystone species plays a vital role in maintaining the overall structure and function of the system. Without their presence, ecosystems would experience significant alterations and may struggle to adapt to environmental changes. The disappearance of a keystone species can have far-reaching consequences, potentially disrupting the intricate balance and stability of the entire ecosystem.

Sea stars face a range of threats, including habitat loss in reef flats and seagrass habitats due to human activities such as coastal development, land reclamation, and dredging. In addition to these localized threats, the broader issue of global warming and rising temperatures poses a significant risk to sea stars as well.

Sea stars have a unique respiratory system as they do not rely on gills or lungs to breathe. Instead, they absorb oxygen through specialized structures called papulae, or skin gills, which are distributed all across their outer surface. These papulae enable the sea stars to facilitate the process of oxygen diffusion. However, a recent study conducted by Cornell University highlights that current ocean conditions have created an environment favourable for increased bacterial growth. Unfortunately, this excessive bacterial growth has led to a depletion of oxygen in the surrounding water––essentially depriving sea stars of the oxygen they need to survive.

Image courtesy o: Joi Ito

That being said, sea stars are incredibly resilient. They possess an incredible ability to regenerate parts of their body. Even if they lose an arm or a significant portion of their body, they have the remarkable capacity to regrow those sections. As long as at least one-fifth of the central disk and one arm remain intact, the sea star can fully recover. The process of regeneration may take up to a year.

There are at least 31 species of sea stars on the shores of Singapore. Here are two more remarkable species you might be fortunate enough to spot!

Common name: Knobbly Sea Star

Scientific name: Protoreaster nodosus

The Knobbly Sea Star, also referred to as the Chocolate Chip Sea Star, stands out as one of the largest sea stars found in Singapore, growing up to an impressive 30cm in diameter. It has distinctive brown knobs that look like chocolate chips on its body and arms. These sea stars are commonly observed in areas abundant in coral rubble. Their diet consists of a diverse range of food sources such as clams, snails, sponges, as well as organic matter such as dead plants and animals.

Image courtesy of Rob

Common name: Common Sea Star

Scientific name: Archaster typicus

The Common Sea Star, which is also known as the Sand Star, is typically found in the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Despite its name, this sea star has become increasingly rare on the shores of Singapore. With a maximum diameter of around 15cm, these sea stars usually exhibit gray or brownish colors. They prefer habitats in shallow, sheltered areas with silty or sandy substrates, often in proximity to seagrass beds and mangroves. Their diet consists of decaying plant matter as well as small creatures. One fascinating aspect about them is their ability to swiftly move using their tube feet, accomplishing speeds of up to 70cm per minute.

Image courtesy of Ria Tan

A key consideration when you spot a sea star: don’t pick it up!

You may have heard of the Starfish Story, where a man throws sea stars back into the ocean to save them. Contrary to this tale, picking up sea stars is not encouraged. Sea stars have soft and thin tissues and can become contaminated with bacteria passed on through human touch. The sunscreen or oils on our hands may also harm them.

Sea stars have a crucial dependence on seawater and have limited survival capabilities outside of their watery habitat. Notably, according to Ria Tan from Wild Singapore, if you happen to come across sea stars outside of water, they are likely alive and belong to intertidal species accustomed to enduring periods without water during low tide.

All sea stars that you see are probably alive, [since] dead sea stars disintegrate quickly and don’t leave behind whole skeletons.
Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

If you come across sea stars in the wild, we encourage you to (safely and respectfully) capture photos and document your observations. We especially recommend using the local SGBioAtlas app, or the iNaturalist app, which enables you to share and validate your findings within the community.

Discover the wonders of nature, observe the intricacies of the world around you, and let curiosity be your guide. Happy exploring!

📷 Post your findings on social media and tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

References and further reading:

Sea Stars – Wild Singapore

Predator Overlap Keeps Prey From Getting out of Control

The Weird and Wonderful: Dragonfly

With their voracious appetite, dragonflies help regulate the populations of insects that potentially carry diseases, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.

Dragonflies

Dragonflies play a crucial role in ecosystems––their roles as predators and indicator species contribute to environmental health.

Image courtesy of: Schnobby

Dragonflies are a predatory species that eat all types of small insects. They primarily feed on mosquitoes, gnats, and flies. They are extremely skilful as hunters and catch up to 95% of the prey they go after–– much higher than other predators. Their impressive success rate is attributable to their exceptional flying skills, spectacular eyesight and lightning-fast neural systems.

Dragonflies have two pair of wings that extend out horizontally at rest, much like an airplane. They can flap and beat their fore and hind wings independently and hover and fly in any direction, including backwards. They see much faster than we humans do. Each compound eye covers most of the dragonfly’s head, and allows it to see almost 360 degrees around it. Once dragonflies focus on a prey, they can predict its future location and swoop in on it with great accuracy.

Even as nymphs, baby dragonflies eat small aquatic creatures like mosquito larvae, worms, tadpoles, and even small fish!

With their voracious appetite, dragonflies help regulate the populations of insects that potentially carry diseases, reducing the need for chemical insecticides. A team of researchers from Nparks and the National University of Singapore are conducting a study on how to maximise the potential of dragonflies as natural pest control to combat dengue in Singapore.

Image courtesy of: Schnobby

Dragonflies play a vital role as indicator species. They are highly sensitive to changes in water quality and habitat conditions, and dragonfly larvae require clean, unpolluted water to thrive. By monitoring dragonfly populations in certain areas, scientists can assess the health of aquatic ecosystems. A decline in the population or a decrease in diversity may be a sign of pollution, habitat loss, or other environmental disturbances. On the other hand, a good population of dragonflies is an indication of a healthy ecosystem.

The presence, absence, or abundance of an indicator species reflects on a specific environmental condition. They can signal that something has changed or is going to change in the ecosystem and diagnose the health of an ecosystem.

Dragonflies also serve as an important food source for other animals including a wide range of birds, fish, frogs, and spiders. Their larvae are often prey to fishes and frogs.

Image courtesy of: Strange Ones

According to Nparks, there are over 123 dragonfly and damselfly species in Singapore. Dragonflies and damselflies belong to same order of insects called Odonata, meaning toothed jaws. Sometimes, they are both collectively referred to as dragonflies. You can tell a dragonfly from a damselfly by looking at how its wings look like at rest. Unlike the dragonfly, whose wings rest horizontally, the damselfly’s wings fold back in line with its abdomen. Damselflies also have a thin body and smaller eyes than the dragonfly.

Common dragonfly species you may spot in Singapore:

Image courtesy of: (left) Gido, (right) Nparks Flora & Fauna Web

Common name: Crimson Dropwing

Scientific name: Trithemis aurora

The Crimson Dropwing is a common native dragonfly species that can be found in urban wetlands––in ponds and lakes. The males are a luminous fuchsia pink and females are golden yellow with black markings on the side.

Image courtesy of: (left) Renee Grayson, (right) Gail Hampshire

Common name: Blue Dasher

Scientific name: Brachydiplax chalybea

The Blue Dasher is an abundant native species. They live near still calm bodies of water and particularly like lotus ponds. The males are a chalky blue colour with a black tip at the end of its abdomen and females are black with yellow stripes along the side and top.

Image courtesy of: (left) Jeevan Jose, (right) Charles J. Sharp

Common name: Common Scarlet

Scientific name: Crocothemis servilia

The Common Scarlet is a common native species and are one of the larger red dragonflies found in Singapore. The males are red from head to tail and the female is light brown. Both males and females have a dark vertical line down the centre of their abdomen.

Image courtesy of: (left) Charles J. Sharp, (right) Green Baron

Common name: Common Parasol

Scientific name: Neurothemis fluctuans

The Common Parasol is the most common dragonfly species in Singapore. The males are reddish brown with maroon wings and transparent tips. Females are a dull brown with clear wings.

Image courtesy of: (left) Bill Higham, (right) John Tann

Common name: Yellow-barred Flutterer

Scientific name: Rhyothemis phyllis

The Yellow-barred Flutterer, also known as the Yellow-striped Flutterer, is common throughout Singapore and have been spotted far away from water. Swarms of the Yellow-barred Flutterer are often seen fluttering over grassy field in search from prey. Both males and females look similar. They are dark with a metallic sheen and have distinctive yellow and black bars on the base of their hind wings.

A key consideration when spotting dragonflies:

Watch your step near water bodies, keep your distance, and be careful not to stomp on dragonflies. The best time for dragonfly watching is from 9 am to 5 pm!

If you come across dragonflies in the wild, we encourage you to (safely and respectfully) capture photos and document your observations. We especially recommend using the local SGBioAtlas app, or the iNaturalist app, which enables you to share and validate your findings within the community.

Discover the wonders of nature, observe the intricacies of the world around you, and let curiosity be your guide. Happy exploring!

📷 Post your findings on social media and tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

The Weird and Wonderful: Saga Tree

The Saga, also known as the Lucky Red Seed or Red Bead Tree, is an iconic tree in Singapore’s landscape. It is a large tree that grows up to 20 metres tall. It belongs to the legume family and, like other legumes such as soybeans and peanuts, their seeds come in a pod.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa la la la la la 🎵 🎶

It’s holiday season! There are many traditions associated with the Christmas season. And many of these traditions involve plants. Evergreen trees are typically used as Christmas trees, poinsettias are well-liked for their red ornamental leaves, and holly adorn the halls with its bright red berries. However, it is worth noting that these plants do not thrive in tropical regions and are certainly not found in the Singapore landscape.

Saga

Common name: Saga

Scientific name: Adenanthera Pavonina

The Saga, with its lush green foliage and vibrant red seeds, resemble the holly in some ways.

Both plants have evergreen leaves, which means they retain their green colour throughout the year. The holly has red berries and spiky leaves and adds colour to the dark days of Yule. It symbolises peace and goodwill during the holiday season.

The saga is best known for its brilliant red seeds. The glossy heart-shaped seeds symbolise love in many cultures and are used as decoration or as lucky charms.

Image Courtesy of Mauricio Mercadante

In the past, saga seeds were tools used to measure silver and gold in ancient India and Sri Lanka. The seeds have a uniform weight and size: four seeds make up exactly 1 gram.

Image Courtesy of Dinesh Valke

The saga bears long curved fruit pods. When young, the fruit pods are green and nearly straight. As they mature, they transform into a woody brown colour, curl and twist, and eventually split open to reveal the striking red seeds.

Image courtesy of JNZL

The saga is native to India and Southern China , but has been naturalised in many countries in the tropics––throughout Singapore, Malaysia, Africa, Pacific and the Caribbean Islands. It is grown for forage, as a medicinal plant, or an ornamental tree in gardens and park. Its young leaves can be cooked and eaten, and the raw seeds are toxic but maybe be eaten when cooked.

Naturalised plants are plants that have been introduced to non-native environments and are able to grow and reproduce in the wild in their new home. All “alien invasive plants” or “non-native invasive species” are considered naturalised.

The saga is a common shade tree. It has a large spreading crown, and light feathery foliage, and are ideal for providing cover. It is hardy, fast growing, and easy to care for. They grew along the roadsides in Singapore during the 1970s and 1980s.

The leaves of saga trees undergo seasonal shedding for brief periods every 6-8 months, when the pale-green leaflets turn yellow and fall off. However, due to the significant amount of leaf litter and seeds they drop, saga trees have been deemed unfit for roadside locations. They can make roads messy and pose risks to motorists. Furthermore, saga trees are susceptible to damage in cases of strong winds.

Image Courtesy of Nparks Flora & Fauna Web

Today, saga trees can be found in secondary forests, but few remain in our urban landscape. Several aged saga trees have become landmarks across Singapore, and serve as symbols of historical significance.

A saga tree with Heritage Tree status is at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, near the Lady on a Hammock sculpture. It is a large tree with a girth of 4.68 metres and a height of 13.1 metres. According to Nparks, this tree is believed to be well over 100 years old.

Image Courtesy of Nparks

You will also find a saga tree grove at Gallop Extension. Spot the larger-than-life saga seeds by Singapore-based contemporary artist Kumari Nahappan that mark the grove. Amongst the cluster of Adenanthera Pavonina saga trees, there is one much rarer native Adenanthera malayana species whose saga seeds are black and red.

Image Courtesy of Global Cultural Aliance

If you come across saga trees in the wild, we encourage you to capture photos and document your observations. We especially recommend using the local SGBioAtlas app or the iNaturalist app, which enables you to share and validate your findings within the community.

Discover the wonders of nature, observe the intricacies of the world around you, and let curiosity be your guide. Happy exploring!

📷 Post your findings on social media and tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

Sustainable Gift-Giving Practices for a Green Christmas

The festive season is a time for joy, gratitude, and sharing love with family and friends. It is also an opportunity to practise sustainable gift-giving that shows appreciation not only to your loved ones but also to our planet. Here are some ideas that can get you started.

Mindful Gift Selection

Choose gifts with a minimal environmental impact. Opt for items made to last longer and from eco-friendly materials. Products that encourage a sustainable lifestyle, such as reusable stainless steel straws, bamboo utensils, or beeswax wraps, not only delight your loved ones but also contribute to a greener planet.

Experience over Materialism

Consider shifting the focus from material possessions to memorable experiences. Gift tickets to the zoo, spa vouchers, or cooking classes for an eco-friendly alternative that creates lasting memories. Experiences often come with a smaller environmental footprint, aligning perfectly with the spirit of sustainable living.

Sustainable Packaging

Use sustainable wrapping options such as recycled paper, fabric gift bags, or reusable wrapping materials. Encourage recipients to further reduce waste by reusing or recycling the packaging.

DIY and Upcycled Gifts

Embrace your creative side by making your gifts or upcycling old items into something new and useful. Handcrafted presents, whether it’s a knitted scarf or repurposed ornament, not only express thoughtfulness but also reduce the need for mass-produced items. Your efforts will be appreciated, and your gifts will carry a unique charm.

Regifting with Grace

Regifting, often considered a taboo, can be an environmentally friendly way to share items that might have lost their appeal for you but could be cherished by someone else. Ensure that the gift is in good condition, matches the recipient’s tastes, and doesn’t carry any sentimental value that might be awkward if revealed. Regifting allows for a more sustainable circulation of items and reduces the need for new production.

This holiday season, let’s celebrate not just with joy and warmth but also with a commitment to sustainability. May this season be a time of meaningful connections, shared experiences, and a dedication to living in harmony with our environment.

The Weird and Wonderful: Seagrass

Seagrass

Seagrasses are underwater plants that are commonly found in both tropical and temperate coastal waters. Seagrass is often confused with large seaweed. Unlike seaweeds, which do not have a root system and reproduce by releasing spores, seagrasses are true flowering plants and belong to the same group of plants as land grasses and lilies. They have leaves, roots and veins, and produce flowers and seeds––the roots absorb nutrients from soft sediment and the leaves make food through photosynthesis. Seagrasses thrive in shallow, protected coastal waters with sufficient sunlight. They can exist as a few plants or clumps, but generally form dense underwater meadows.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Seagrass habitats provide crucial services such as acting as shelters and nursery areas for numerous species––including animals like seahorses and juvenile fishes of larger commercially valuable fishes and marine creatures, contributing to nutrient cycling, improving water quality, stabilising sediments for coastal protection, and playing a big part in carbon sequestration by retaining carbon within their leaves and roots.

In addition, seagrasses support a complex food web. They serve as the primary food source for sea turtles and dugongs in our waters. Sea turtles and dugongs eat seagrasses, including the seeds of the plants, and play a role in seed dispersal as they pass the seeds through their digestive systems and excrete them. Seagrasses also indirectly contribute to the food chain by hosting microscopic algae on their leaves. Smaller animals feed on these algae and, in turn, are prey for larger animals.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Seagrasses are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world and are vital for climate change mitigation. Seagrass ecosystems can sequester up to twice as much carbon from the atmosphere as land forests. They store large amounts of carbon through photosynthesis by trapping them in their stems. And when parts of the plants die and decay, they collect on the seafloor, eventually getting buried in sediment and effectively trapping carbon for hundreds of years. Although seagrasses account for less than 0.2% of the world’s oceans, they sequester roughly 10% of the carbon stored in ocean sediment annually.

Over the past fifty years, there has been significant and widespread decline in global seagrass cover, primarily attributed to human activities such as changes in land-use, coastal changes, dredging, and declining water quality. They are among the world’s most threatened ecosystems, experiencing an annual loss of approximately 1.5%. and accelerating in recent decades. It is estimated that at least 29% of the global coverage of seagrass meadows have been lost. The ecosystem services they provide make seagrasses a high conservation priority.

Seagrasses were previously abundant on Singapore’s shores, but their diversity and extent were never rigorously documented until recently. There are three major seagrass meadows in Singapore. They are at Chek Jawa Wetlands, Pulau Semakau, and Cyrene Reef.

Locations where seagrass (including total number of species) has been reported from around Singapore.

Image credit: McKenzie et al, 2016

There are about 72 different seagrass species in the world. These are some of the species that are found in Singapore.

Common name: Tape Seagrass

Scientific name: Enhalus acoroides

Tape Seagrasses have long ribbon-like leaves that can grow up to 150cm long. They are often found close to mangrove forests. Tape Seagrasses are abundant at Pulau Semakau and Cyrene Reef.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Smooth Ribbon Seagrass

Scientific name: Cymodocea rotundata

Smooth Ribbon Seagrasses have flat narrow leaves that look like straps with a smooth rounded leaf tip.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Serrated Ribbon Seagrass

Scientific name: Cymodocea serrulata

Serrated Ribbon Seagrasses have a similar shape as Smooth Ribbon Seagrasses, with slightly wider leaves and a serrated leaf tip instead.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Sickle Seagrass

Scientific name: Thalassia hemprichii

Sickle Seagrasses have hooked curved-shaped leaves with short black bars on its leaf blade.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Noodle Seagrass

Scientific name: Syringodium isoetifolium

As its common name suggests, Noodle Seagrasses mimic spaghetti. The leaves are cylindrical and grow up to 30cm long.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Needle Seagrass

Scientific name: Halodule uninervis

Needle Seagrasses are long and narrow with a leaf tip resembling the letter “W”. They are the preferred food for Dugongs.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Fern Seagrass

Scientific name: Halophila spinulosa

Fern seagrasses look like… ferns! Tiny leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, and the “fronds” grow up to 15cm long. They can be found at Check Jawa.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

Common name: Hairy Spoon Seagrass

Scientific name: Halophila decipiens

Hairy Spoon Seagrasses have small oval leaves and leaf hairs on both sides of the leaves. They were discovered on Singapore shores only in 2007.

Image credit: Ria Tan, Wild Singapore

A key consideration when visiting seagrass meadows:

The roots and rhizomes (underground stems) of seagrass are often buried in sand or mud. When trampled on, the underground stems can damage and take a long time to recover. So keep off the seagrass!

Join a conservation initiative!

Consider becoming a part of Team Seagrass–– a volunteer team working in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Centre of the National Parks Board and Seagrass-Watch. Help contribute to the monitoring of seagrasses along Singapore’s shores!

If you come across seagrass in the wild, we encourage you to (safely and respectfully) capture photos and document your observations. We especially recommend using the local SGBioAtlas app, or the iNaturalist app, which enables you to share and validate your findings within the community.

Discover the wonders of nature, observe the intricacies of the world around you, and let curiosity be your guide. Happy exploring!

📷 Post your findings on social media and tag us on Instagram or Facebook.

References and further reading:

🌱 What are seagrasses? (Team SeaGrass)

🌱 Seagrasses on the Shores of Singapore (Wild Singapore)

📄 The Diversity And Distribution Of Seagrass In Singapore

📄 Seagrass habitats of Singapore: Environmental Drivers and Key Processes