proposed reclamation close to a seagrass bed raises questions about the secrecy of Singapore's ecological assessment procedures
In the heart of Singapore's eastern coast lies Changi Beach, a biodiversity-rich haven that has captured the hearts of many. However, the tranquility of this beach is under threat, as the Housing Development Board (HDB) plans to reclaim approximately 193 hectares of land near Changi to build a new aviation park.
This move aims to boost Changi Airport's cargo capacity from 3 million tonnes per year to 5.4 million tonnes annually, complementing an upcoming industrial zone in Changi East. But the proposed reclamation has sparked significant public concern, with over 1,300 signatories urging the government to scale back the project.
The petition, which emphasizes Changi Beach as one of the few accessible local sites for biodiversity appreciation and related community activities, has gained momentum. Concerns have been raised about potential sediment impact on seagrass and coastal ecosystems, which are home to a variety of marine life.
The HDB, recognising these concerns, has commissioned an environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the project. The EIA, conducted between April 2022 and May 2023, led to a reduction of the project footprint by nearly one-fifth (approximately 45 hectares) to limit harm to one of Singapore’s largest seagrass meadows.
However, questions about transparency in access to EIA documents have been raised. Some community members and researchers worry that confidentiality protocols may restrict independent scrutiny of the EIA, hindering public trust and informed discussion about environmental risks.
In response, HDB and other government agencies stress that the project planning involved consultations with conservation experts, nature groups, youth representatives, academics, and the National Parks Board (NParks), aiming to balance development with biodiversity protection.
Despite these efforts, conservation biologist Debby Ng supports the call for better access to environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for stakeholders. Conservationists and environmental advocates argue that the requirement of a "blanket NDA" can undermine the process surrounding the EIA for the reclamation project.
As the debate continues, many visitors to Changi Beach Carpark 6, a popular spot for intertidal walks, are left wondering about the future of this unique biodiversity hotspot. The petition calls for a further scale-back of the project to protect Changi Beach as a site for local biodiversity appreciation.
The EIA report has been available for in-person viewing by the general public since 9 May, upon signing of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). However, calls for the removal of the NDA requirement for the public when engaging with the government persist, with environmentalists such as Ria Tan advocating for greater transparency.
As the reclamation works are expected to affect Changi Beach Carpark 6, the future of this beloved spot remains uncertain. The ongoing petition and calls for transparency serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving Singapore's unique biodiversity for future generations.
- The proposed reclamation near Changi Beach poses a risk to the seagrass and coastal ecosystems, which harbor various marine life, as per concerns raised by researchers and community members.
- The reduced project footprint, due to the EIA conducted between April 2022 and May 2023, aimed to mitigate harm to one of Singapore’s largest seagrass meadows.
- The HDB and other government agencies assert that consultations with conservation experts, nature groups, academics, and the National Parks Board (NParks) were part of the project planning process.
- However, there are concerns about transparency in access to EIA documents, with some worrying that confidentiality protocols may hinder independent scrutiny and public trust.
- The requirement of a "blanket NDA" in accessing EIA reports is under scrutiny by conservationists and environmental advocates, who argue that it undermines the EIA process for the reclamation project.
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