Nature based solutions to protect Singapore coastlines

The Coastal Protection and Flood Resilience Institute (CFI) Singapore set up to identify innovative solutions for coastal protection, now has 17 research projects funded by PUB’s $125 million Coastal Protection and Flood Management Research Programme. Solutions considered include a flexible seawall with adjustable heights can also support a concrete structure that allows for multi-function uses, such as a road or a park. Also tube-like barriers of natural materials to line the shore which not only shield the beach from strong waves but also allow sand and soil to slowly accumulate and raise the shores, turning the beachfront into a natural sea wall of sorts, to catch up with higher sea levels. Other ideas include XblocPlus - a flexible and scalable design that minimises land take and can be integrated with urban developments or natural habitats. 

Experts highlight that there might be a situation where some parts of the island – more remote and with lower footfall – may be left to flood once in a while. These floodable areas could be coastal parks, nature spots and beach areas. “Certain places could tolerate flooding for a few hours before it subsides. If it’s a parkland, you just have to close it for a few hours… It doesn’t mean that you have to stop every centimetre of flooding. You cannot protect everything.”

Is Terumbu Bemban impacted by the Sudong reclamation?

The team surveys one of our favourite sites, a submerged reef flat that is the closest to the ongoing reclamation at Pulau Sudong.

So far, the shore is still alive! We didn't check the shore at peak mass coral bleaching last year. So it was a relief to see the coral situation seems as usual. Also a nice to surprise to see denser growths of seagrasses throughout the reef flat. The rest of team find Giant clams, encounter huge jellyfishes, special sea anemone and the usual colourful reef life.

Pulau Jong quickly

We survey this untouched island, landing at first light of the sun and last light of the full moon. Pulau Jong is very much alive, even though it lies near petrochemical plants on Pulau Bukom, the Landfill and major shipping lanes. 

This is our first survey after mass coral bleaching last year. I am relieved to see the coral situation seems as usual. The rest of the team also find Giant clams, Cushion star, nudibranchs and other colourful marine life. But our survey was cut short by heavy rain!

Happy National Day from Big Sisters Island!

On the last predawn surveys of the year, we celebrate National Day by checking up on Big Sisters Island, with permission from NParks. A night survey means more sightings of fish and other animals that hide during the day. Our last night survey here was in Sep 2020.

With a full team, we find healthy corals (except for some Boulder pore corals). A Cushion star was seen, and a large shark! As well as the usual colourful crabs, 'Nemos' and reef fishes, nudibranchs, octopuses and other familiar favourites. 

Island stories on "Tales from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum"

Stories of Singapore's many islands!

Listen to the podcast - Tales from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, exploring Singapore’s famous myths and legends: https://tinyurl.com/lkcnhmtales1

Pulau Semakau (West) is still alive

The full team survey this stretch of Pulau Semakau which used to be regularly visited as it is part of the public walk trail. We arrive at sunrise for a brief low tide window.

We didn't get a chance to survey the shore during mass coral bleaching last year, so it was relief to see the corals seemed alright. Special finds include an elusive anemone, a Giant clam and other interesting marine life. There were lots of lively sharks and sea turtles in the water too. The seagrass situation, unfortunately, remains unchanged.