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Singapore's authorities are conducting technical studies before reclamation plans for the western islands, following concerns about the impact on rich marine biodiversity. Scientists and nature groups have emphasized the need for comprehensive studies before reclamation commences, as they fear irreversible loss of mature habitats.

The intertidal habitats and surrounding reefs, covering approximately 592.8ha, are larger than Sentosa and account for more than half the intertidal areas of the Southern Islands. These habitats, including coral reefs dating back 8,000 years, are crucial for climate mitigation, ecological connectivity, science, and potential medicines.

Reefs in Pulau Hantu and Pulau Semakau have shown resilience to human activity, recovering after significant bleaching events. However, direct burial of reefs during land reclamation cannot be mitigated, as young corals do not restore the ecosystem's functions and services. Experts suggest building with nature instead of at the expense of it, potentially making the reclamation boundary flexible to avoid burying most sensitive habitats.