Conversion of Coastal Habitats in Singapore: Indications of Unsustainable Development

Abstract

The Republic of Singapore, a small island state lying at the southern extremity of Peninsular Malaysia has, along with other ASEAN nations, stated its commitment to the principle of ‘sustainable development’ and ecological sustainability. This paper presents an assessment of the impact of post-World War II development on the extent and quality of intertidal coastal ecosystems and ecocomplexes in Singapore — specifically on coral reefs, mangroves, and intertidal sand- and mud-flats — and hence an evaluation of Singapore's commitment to maintaining coastal ecosystems and coastal biodiversity. The extent of these habitats was mapped from topographic and hydrographic maps, and estimates of their future area was derived from the Singapore Concept Plan for the year ‘x’ (AD c. 2030).