The artificialization of the nature in the construction of the building environment in Singapore

Introduction

??????????? At the beginning of the 21st century there was a wave of global urbanization in which more than half of the world's population moved to cities, a trend that is expected to exceed 60% by 2050, driven mainly by the growth of Asia and Africa. (Zipperer et al., 2020). Amid this urban surge, Singapore faced its own set of challenges, struggling with a population density of 7,688 people per square kilometer by 2022. With an urban population of approximately 5.69 million in 2020 and a land area spanning just 720 square kilometers, Singapore emerges as the third most densely populated territory in the world. This density will only increase as the population is projected to grow by 6.52 million by 2035 (Statista Research Department, 2023).

??????????? In response to these challenges, Singapore prioritized effective urban planning as critical to its sustainability. The city-state designed a strategy focused on optimizing land use while preserving habitability. High-rise buildings, mainly public housing facilitated by the Housing Development Board, emerged as a prominent feature of Singapore's urban landscape. To balance the dominance of concrete and steel, Singapore integrated green elements such as rooftop gardens, tree-lined streets, vertical farming and "breathing walls", earning it recognition as the "Garden City" (Statista Research Department, 2023).

??????????? In the 1960s, Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew laid the foundation for Singapore's green vision and planned to transform the city-state into a garden city. Recognizing the potential to improve the quality of life of residents and attract foreign investment, Lee embarked on a mission to develop a green urban environment with parks, gardens and open spaces connected by tree-lined paths and park connectors, a vision that continues defining Singapore's identity today (National Parks Board, n.d.). Since its independence in 1965, Singapore has undergone a remarkable transformation, overcoming the initial obstacles of fragmented land ownership, crowded urban centers, high unemployment, and homelessness, to evolve into a first-world city with modern infrastructure and green landscapes. This remarkable evolution has been meticulously planned and executed by the State, positioning Singapore as a global example of urban development and economic prosperity (Bin & Low, 2019).

??????????? Despite the abundant greenery visible throughout Singapore, there is a darker narrative of continued development and environmental degradation. Although the island has approximately 20% green cover, only 0.3% of its territory is designated as primary forest, much of which is fragmented and limited to natural reserves, threatened by invasive urban expansion (Hicks et al. al., s.f.). Furthermore, Singapore's ecological footprint extends beyond its borders, with one of the highest per capita deforestation rates in the world, indicating a significant impact on forests both domestically and internationally.

??????????? Given these challenges, it is important to delve deeper into the connection between nature and urban planning and its implications for the relationship between humans and nature. Therefore, this article seeks to explore the imaginary of nature within Singapore's urban planning and its impact on the human-nature relationship within the city, seeking to address the question: What role does nature play in Singapore's urban planning and how does this influence the human-nature relationship in the city? This paper delves into the instrumentalization of nature in shaping Singapore's built environment and the subsequent artificialization of natural elements. As Singapore move towards a more sustainable future, it must confront tensions between development goals and ecological imperatives. Through a critical examination of the nature imaginary in Singapore's urban planning, valuable insights can be explored on how cities can effectively balance human needs with the preservation of natural ecosystems, creating the way for more sustainable urban development.

What does it mean to be urban in the Anthropocene?

??????????? Historically, urban planning has often treated cities as separate from nature, viewing them from a perspective of human exceptionalism. This perspective sees cities as exclusively human spaces, built using natural resources without recognizing the interconnection between humans and the environment. In the Anthropocene, characterized by a significant human impact on Earth systems, human activity is altering the composition of the planet, affecting both the physical environment of cities and the social dynamics that guide urban planning (Houston et al., 2017).

??????????? Urbanization doesn't just break up habitats; it changes the environment itself. One big change is the urban heat island effect, where cities get hotter than surrounding rural areas. This heat can mess with rainfall, make more ozone (especially in summer), change how chemicals move around, and stress out people and local wildlife (Zipperer et al., 2020). This is because the human being created an artificial environment from which, to the maximum extent possible, nature was excluded (...) through the very domination of nature that made it possible, so that the crisis caused to through the meeting of man and nature and the application of modern sciences to technology it became a matter of common interest. (Hossein, 1982)

??????????? The need for an ecological paradigm shift becomes evident considering the current planetary environmental crisis resulting from human actions on Earth. When talking about sustainable cities, the point is that development (urban, social, economic, etc.) can occur without growth, which means that there is no need for quantitative expansion on the physical scale or the incorporation of energy and materials excessive. As Macedo (2005) suggests, this change requires deliberate and well-guided planning and design efforts.

??????????? Efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of urban sprawl and urbanization can be achieved through thoughtful planning and design. While the concept of integrating nature into planning is not new, there is growing recognition that human survival depends on harmonious coexistence with biodiversity and native communities (Zipperer et al., 2020). Ultimately, the degree to which cities adopt sustainable practices depends entirely on the choices and actions of the people involved, from residents to decision-makers.

??????????? Ecosystem services, which are vital benefits derived from ecosystems, natural or altered by humans, are fundamental to human well-being and social function (NatureScot, 2022). In urban planning, recognizing, and integrating ecosystem services is crucial to creating sustainable, resilient, and liveable cities. This involves strategies such as incorporating green infrastructure, conserving natural habitats, and promoting a balanced relationship between urban development and the environment. By prioritizing these approaches, cities can ensure the well-being of both residents and the ecosystems that support urban life.

Nature imaginary in Singapore’s urban planning

??????????? The foundation of Singapore's green vision dates to the 1960s, when Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew envisioned transforming the city-state into a Garden City, with the aim of improving quality of life for residents and attracting foreign investment. This vision prompted the launch of a national tree-planting campaign in 1963 and the establishment of the Garden City Action Committee in 1970 to oversee green policies. In 1975, the Department of Parks and Recreation was created, and the Parks and Trees Act was introduced to advocate for the conservation of vegetation and ensure landscaping in development projects. Concrete structures were adorned with vegetation and parks were integrated into urban areas to provide green spaces for residents (National Parks Board, n.d.).

??????????? In 1990, the National Parks Board (NParks) was established to oversee national parks and nature reserves, and later merged with the Department of Parks and Recreation in 1996. NParks expanded its mission to create a "City in a Garden" for 2011, inviting public participation. to shape a greener urban environment. In 2019, the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) became part of NParks, managing human-animal interactions and diseases. Today, NParks aim to integrate nature into Singapore's urban landscape to address urbanization and climate change, fostering a cleaner, cooler, and healthier city for its residents (National Parks Board, n.d.).

??????????? The Singapore Green Plan 2030 presents ambitious strategies to reshape the city-state into a "City in Nature," emphasizing the development of nature parks, naturalized gardens, and green spaces, as well as efforts to restore nature within urban areas, enhance veterinary care, and manage animals (City in Nature, n.d.). Yet, this vision may appear paradoxical considering Singapore's past rapid urbanization and deforestation.

??????????? Historically, Singapore faced extensive deforestation in the mid-19th century, with only isolated patches of vegetation remaining on hilltops and steep slopes. However, Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew's vision of a "clean" and "green" "garden city" in 1963 created a new focus on restoring nature and protecting water resources (Rowe & Hee, 2019). This initiative retroactively integrated nature into the city's urban development, becoming a defining identity for residents and a source of national pride.

??????????? As David Harvey (1996) suggests, our perception of cities shapes the policies and actions we take. Since Lee Kuan Yew's vision of a "Garden City" for Singapore, nature has been a central focus in its urban development, propelling Singapore to the top ranks of the world's greenest cities. This transformation has earned Singapore the reputation of being a consciously built metropolis, harmoniously integrated with lush greenery. The city-state has cultivated its identity as a 'City in Nature', where natural areas are integrated into one of the most biodiverse cities in the world (Robin Hicks, 2017).

??????????? Despite its dense urban population, Singapore has made impressive efforts to integrate greenery into its landscape. This includes incorporating green building requirements into legislation and promoting renewable energy sources and rainwater harvesting, highlighting the city-state's dedication to environmental sustainability (Guide, 2021). However, instead of transforming into a "City in Nature," Singapore seems to be integrating nature into its urban environment while continuing its urbanization efforts.

??????????? The evolution of Singapore's green vision from Garden City to City in a Garden, Biophilic City, City in Blue and Green and finally City in Nature, has significantly shaped the country's identity. This connection between nature and national identity has fostered various cultural identities in Singapore (Puay Yok, 2016). It is intriguing to explore how this relationship has evolved into a source of national pride, making it difficult to imagine Singapore without the greenery that is so integrated into its urban planning development throughout its history, despite the challenges of the scarcity of land.

??????????? According to NParks, its history is deeply intertwined with Singapore's tree planting efforts. Lee Kuan Yew's vision involved creating a city within a garden environment, complete with parks, gardens and open spaces interconnected by tree-lined paths and park connectors for cyclists and pedestrians, believing that this would cultivate a well-maintained Garden City that would not only They improve the quality of life of residents, but also serve as a compelling factor to attract foreign investment to the country (National Parks Board, n.d.).

??????????? The emphasis on attracting foreign investment reflects how Singapore's urban planning views nature from a utilitarian perspective. Nature is seen as a tool to address environmental concerns such as air and water pollution, as well as to improve mental well-being amid the stress of urban life and promote foreign investment by incorporating green spaces into the urban landscape, creating a more attractive and beautiful city environment that improves the overall quality of life of residents.

Human-nature relation in Singapore

??????????? While recognizing Singapore's efforts to integrate greenery into its urban landscape, the concept of "City in Nature", rather than simply integrating nature into the city, emphasis should be placed on cultivating a harmonious relationship between development urban and natural ecosystems. This approach involves recognizing the intrinsic value of nature beyond its utilitarian benefits and prioritizing sustainable coexistence with the environment. By shifting focus from simply incorporating greenery to promoting a deeper connection with nature, Singapore can create a more holistic and sustainable urban environment for its residents (Jiménez Vásquez, 2024).

??????????? The imagery of nature in Singapore's urban planning reflects an anthropocentric perspective, using it for its practical benefits. However, it is crucial to recognize that nature has intrinsic value beyond human utility. As mentioned by Nisbet et al., (2009), an ecological identity encompasses not only individuals but also broader human and non-human communities, as well as the planet's ecosystems, therefore, the damage inflicted on the environment is considers harm to oneself, which fosters a deep appreciation and respect for all forms of life.

??????????? An example of this utilitarianism is Gardens by the Bay, part of Singapore’s “City in a Garden” strategy, which envelops office and residential areas in a network of parks and nature reserves (Robin Hicks, 2017). Described by its creators, Gardens by the Bay embodies the National Parks Board Singapore's vision of establishing a City in a Garden. The Gardens epitomize Singapore as a premier tropical Garden City, providing an ideal environment for living and working, thus positioning Singapore as a leading global city of the 21st century (Our History, n.d.).

??????????? In his Eco-Business opinion report, Robin Hicks (2017) discusses a BBC nature documentary that portrays Singapore as a green urban utopia where nature has been reintegrated into the city. Hicks describes Gardens by the Bay as a park renowned for its two air-conditioned biodomes and towering metal "super trees," resembling props from the sci-fi movie Avatar. While the documentary portrays the super trees as vibrant with life and emblematic of a new urban world designed for everyone, conservation experts deem this portrayal misleading. They argue that none of the hundreds of plant species growing on the super trees are native to Singapore, limiting their appeal to local wildlife (Robin Hicks, 2017).

??????????? Robin Hicks (2017) highlights the discrepancy in portraying Singapore as a city designed with "others in mind" when much of its wildlife and natural areas face an uncertain future. Despite being a city-state, Singapore has the lowest forest cover among Southeast Asian countries, with only three percent remaining. Additionally, just 0.5 percent of primary forest remains in the country. Hicks underscores concerns raised by the documentary Planet Earth II, which depicts artificial nature parks as acceptable substitutes for forests in Singapore. This portrayal raises worries about the city's future direction (Robin Hicks, 2017).

??????????? Linked to this vision, Gardens by the Bay is situated on reclaimed land as part of Singapore's government efforts to expand its territory by constructing artificial man-made islands. This underscores how the perception and relationship with nature in Singapore's urban planning can be viewed as utilitarian and superficial. Nature is often treated as a mere object to brand the country, resembling a greenwashing campaign where the absence of genuine natural environments is replaced with artificial scenarios attempting to replicate nature but ultimately diverging from its essence and contributing to its destruction.

??????????? Exploring the essence of nature inevitably reveals a dichotomy between the natural realm and the artificial. The artificial, shaped by human hands to fulfill specific aims and desires, starkly contrasts with the spontaneity of natural phenomena (Kotusev, 2018). While everything in the artificial realm is human-made and goal-oriented, it remains subject to the laws of nature. In contrast, the natural world operates according to its own mysterious principles, free from human-centric intentions (Kotusev, 2018). This perspective challenges anthropocentrism, emphasizing the autonomy of nature and reshaping our understanding of humanity's role within it.

??????????? The Anthropocene highlights humanity's significant impact on Earth's systems, emphasizing the inseparable link between society and nature. In this era, understanding one necessitates understanding the other; society cannot be isolated from nature, and vice versa (Glaser et al., 2021). This recognition underscores the interconnectedness between human civilization and the natural world, advocating for a holistic approach to environmental stewardship and societal development.

??????????? Nature's interconnectedness fosters a profound appreciation and reverence for all forms of life, transcending any utilitarian exploitation of nature for human purposes. However, it's essential to acknowledge that the nature of this connectedness varies among individuals, shaped by personal, social, cognitive, affective, experiential, and personality factors. Together, these elements contribute to the formation of an individual's connection with nature.

Conclusion: Re-thinking nature in Singapore

??????????? After considering these reflections, concerns arise regarding the imagery of nature in Singapore urbanism. Despite being marked as a global example of a green city and sustainability, there are concerns about the superficiality of the relationships between man and nature in its development. Nature seems to be treated simply as an object to attract investment, beautify the city, and reinforce its global brand in debates about climate change and resilience. In this context, nature is used as an urban planning tool, responding to human needs and well-being, but without recognizing the intrinsic value of its natural essence.

??????????? This concern brings up the concept of Plant Blindness, as an alert to this approach, referring to the lack of recognition of the crucial role of plants on Earth. It arises from a misconception that plants are inferior to animals (Achurra, 2022), reflecting a lack of deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature. Recognizing our place within this intricate network is vital as human beings. However, it is essential to note that the artificial world often operates separately from this natural network, without integration into the ecosystems that sustain us. This disconnection underscores the need for introspection, recognizing that our well-being is intertwined with the broader web of life.

??????????? Unsurprisingly, plant blindness leads to a lack of appreciation for plants, resulting in decreased interest in their conservation. While research is lacking on the extent of plant blindness and its progression, increased urbanization and screen time are contributing to a rise in "nature deficit disorder," which causes harm by disconnecting humans of nature. This trend exacerbates plant blindness, as Schussler noted, “humans can only recognize (visually) what they already know” (Ro, 2019).

??????????? In Singapore, the imaginary of nature in urban planning, as seen in the case of Gardens by the Bay, reveals a tendency to substitute or compensate for the absence of natural environments with artificial ones. This substitution creates an invisible barrier between humans and nature, hindering a genuine connection. Recognizing the crucial relationship between humans and nature is vital for understanding the profound impact of their interactions. Research suggests that these interactions shape individuals' attitudes and behaviors towards nature and influence the future of biodiversity (Nisbet et al., 2009). Moreover, this detachment from the natural world may worsen environmental degradation, further contributing to the planet's decline.

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