Commitment to Biodiversity and Education Highlighted Ahead of Global Conference
On October 20, 2024, Singapore submitted 20 national nature conservation targets to the UN ahead of the COP16 biodiversity conference in Colombia. These targets aim to align with the Global Biodiversity Framework, focusing on halting and reversing nature loss. A key initiative includes raising awareness among students about native wildlife, such as sunbirds and hornbills, with the goal of incorporating biodiversity education into school curricula by 2030.
Other targets include hosting regional biodiversity events, reducing illegal wildlife trade to below 0.5%, and enhancing the public database of native plants. Singapore also plans to conduct species recovery efforts for 100 plant species and 60 animal species, as well as restore 80 hectares of natural habitats by 2030. The country has already made progress with species like the Johnson’s freshwater crab, which has benefited from recovery programs.
Minister for National Development Desmond Lee emphasized the importance of community-based conservation and early education in fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among Singaporeans. Singapore’s efforts aim to balance conservation with development while positioning the country as a leader in global biodiversity initiatives.
