Straits Times Forum 28 May 13;
BEFORE replacing tall trees with shorter ones, the National Parks Board (NParks) should note that tall trees act as a barrier against noise pollution, especially for HDB flats facing expressways ("Some tall trees being replaced"; May 19).
Also, tall trees take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen during the day. This is helpful as residents who live near expressways are subjected to air pollution.
Replacing tall trees with shorter ones will only make the existing noise and air pollution worse.
If it is indeed necessary to replace the tall trees, NParks should plant more clusters of shorter plants near the expressways, which help to reduce the noise and air pollution.
Trees such as the leyland cypress, which can grow up to 15m tall, and crape myrtle are good sound barriers and thrive well in hot and humid climates.
Francis Cheng
Clustered planting carried out at appropriate locations: NParks
Straits Times Forum 31 May 13;
WE THANK Mr Francis Cheng for his feedback ("Tall trees reduce noise and air pollution"; Forum Online, Tuesday).
We are heartened that members of the public recognise the many benefits of having trees in our built environment. As Singapore continues to urbanise, trees and greenery will play an increasing role in mitigating the effects of dense urban living.
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We carry out periodic clustered planting at appropriate locations, such as along the Central Expressway and Pan-Island Expressway. This involves planting a mix of tall and small trees densely together, which helps provide a range of benefits for city dwellers, such as a sense of privacy and visual relief against heavy traffic.
Oh Cheow Sheng
Director (Streetscape)
National Parks Board
