Sara Grosse Channel NewsAsia 17 Nov 13;
SINGAPORE: Residents in South West District were encouraged to become environment advocates, with the launch of a new eco-trail on Sunday.
"Discovering GEMs@South West" showcases selected sites recognised for their environmental achievements.
Among the GEMs or 'Green EnviroMiles' are a small wetland system to channel rainwater used to irrigate at Fuhua Primary School's aquaponics farm and the wormery at Siloso Beach Resort.
Senior Minister of State for Health, Dr Amy Khor, said: "Go and visit these projects. Talk and interact with the advocates for these projects, so they can be inspired and learn from the environmentally-friendly practices that have been put in place and then they can go back into the community or into the organisations or schools and implement similar green projects."
Dr Khor is also the Mayor for South West District.
The eco-trail was launched by Health Minister Gan Kim Yong at the annual South West Clean and Green carnival.
Mr Gan said Singapore is experiencing its worst outbreak of dengue fever since the 1980s, and he highlighted the district's initiatives to combat such public health issue.
He also encouraged residents to promote a better environment for their community.
The inaugural South West District eco-trail was embarked by a group of teachers, grassroots and youth leaders. It is the first of ten tours to be conducted over the next year.
- CNA/ir
