Challenges in Implementing OneMillionTrees Movement

Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the specific challenges faced in implementing the OneMillionTrees movement; (b) whether the selection of tree species for planting is based on specific metrics, such as green foliage; and (c) if so, what are the specific metrics or criteria used and how are they determined.

The OneMillionTrees movement is a key initiative in our effort to transform Singapore into a City in Nature. To date, we have planted more than 540,000 trees under the movement, with the support of more than 75,000 members of the community.

In implementing the OneMillionTrees movement, National Parks Board (NParks) has to work within Singapore's constraints as a land-scarce city-state with many competing land uses, such as housing, transport, healthcare and more. Accordingly, NParks has found opportunities to optimise spaces for greening and tree-planting within our urban environment. We have received overwhelming support from the community for our OneMillionTrees events and are working to provide more of such greening opportunities for the public.

In selecting tree species for planting, NParks takes into account the growth form and hardiness of the species, as well as the site context and conditions. In particular, NParks prioritises planting native tree species in our nature parks, as part of our habitat restoration efforts. Finally, NParks also considers the species' functional benefits, such as the provision of shade. For example, species with wide and dense canopies are planted along our streetscapes to cool the environment.