Alexis Cai, Straits Times 9 Jan 10;
AN ABUNDANCE of green is set to take root near Pandan Gardens in Jurong East. Residents there can look forward to not only more flora but also more birds and butterflies around their estate.
The plot of land stretching the length of a soccer field at nearby Sungei Pandan has been set aside to recreate a countryside scene.
The three-year collaboration between the South West Community Development Council and Borneo Motors aims to have more than one million native trees planted there by 2020, an extension of a previous project launched by the council in July 2007. The previous target of 100,000 trees was surpassed in November last year.
It is hoped that the greenery will be able to absorb some 22,000kg worth of carbon dioxide annually, the equivalent to that emitted by four flights around the earth.
At yesterday's launch, the Mayor of South West District, Dr Amy Khor, planted the first senna alata, a shrub which features yellow flowers.
'Such an initiative helps ensure that the future generations will continue to have an environment for quality living,' she said.
Also at the mass planting session were 57 Borneo Motors management staff members who were each given a plant for the site.
Managing director Koh Ching Hong hopes the initiative will inspire other corporations to join them in efforts to create sustainable habitats for nature within the community.
The plot of land was chosen by the National Parks Board and the Nature Society for its prime location, so that some of the creatures that live in neighbouring woodlands can be lured over to Sungei Pandan.
At the moment, only three butterfly species and eight bird species can be found in the area.
'It is a stepping stone we are creating,' said Dr Ho Hua Chew, deputy chairman of the conservation committee within the Nature Society.
It is hoped that at least 30 species will settle down at the new site within a year, eventually reaching about 100.
Sungei Pandan to see a more diverse ecosystem by 2012
Evelyn Choo, Channel NewsAsia 8 Jan 10;
SINGAPORE: Sungei Pandan will take on a greener lease of life by 2012.
The South West Community Development Council (CDC) aims to plant 1,000 native plants around the area.
Friday morning's efforts marked the first step to reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere - almost 22,000 kilogrammes per annum by the time the project is completed.
The South West CDC has partnered Borneo Motors, which is embarking on its first community project. They hope this mass tree planting initiative will help attract 200 species of birds and butterflies with Sungei Pandan's lush greenery.
About 5,000 residents and students are also expected to take part in the project.
Dr Amy Khor, Mayor, South West District said: "This will give our residents a chance to enjoy nature. It will also build a greener district. At the same time, this could ensure there is room for development."
- CNA/sc
