Singapore’s plan to clear forest for housing faces a backlash

Singapore is confronting public pushback over plans to clear significant portions of its dwindling secondary forests for housing development. The densely populated city-state, akin to Hong Kong, London, and Sydney, aims to boost housing capacity amidst soaring property prices. However, the government's proposal to clear two-thirds of the 23-hectare Maju Forest in the island's west has ignited outrage.

Over 49,000 individuals signed petitions urging the government to instead build on existing brownfield sites and densify older public housing estates. A rally attended by more than 2,000 people demonstrated support for preserving the forest, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of the land.

In response, the government announced adjustments to the proposal, promising to retain more greenery than initially planned. However, details remain unclear. According to the Ministry of National Development, fewer homes will be constructed as a result.

Singapore's limited land area of 744 square kilometers poses unique challenges, with only 9.3% currently designated for parks and nature reserves. As of 2020, housing consumed 14% of the island's land. Despite its efforts to plant a million trees to maintain its "Garden City" status, the clearance of secondary forests could exceed the combined area of all parks and nature reserves in the city-state.

Critics argue that mature forests offer significant environmental benefits, including heat reduction in an era of rising temperatures. They contend that preserving these green spaces is crucial for public health and climate resilience. The Ministry of National Development has not yet commented on the controversy.