Singapore Coastal Resilience and Flood Protection

Data from the Meteorological Service Singapore in 2020 reveals that sea levels in Singapore have risen by 14cm since pre-1970 levels, with projections indicating a further increase of approximately 0.2m by 2050 and 1m by 2100. This sea-level rise is primarily attributed to climate change, prompting Singapore to explore protective measures in four key coastal areas slated for completion by 2030.

Proposed coastal protection strategies encompass a range of options including sea walls, polders, and nature-based solutions such as the cultivation of mangroves. Mangroves, situated at the interface of land and sea, possess exceptional carbon sequestration capabilities, storing approximately three times more carbon than dryland tropical rainforests. Their ability to trap sediment within their intricate root systems allows them to adapt to rising sea levels by migrating further inland.

The Singapore Public Utilities Board (PUB) is spearheading the development of a comprehensive coastal-inland flood model to mitigate the risks associated with both inland and coastal flooding. A substantial investment of US$1 billion over the next five years will be directed towards drainage infrastructure enhancements. Collaborating with the National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Hydroinformatics Institute, PUB aims to refine this flood model to effectively manage flood hazards.

In addition to fortifying against rising sea levels, Singapore is actively seeking opportunities for sustainable urban development while preserving its natural green spaces. Plans include reclaiming a series of offshore islands and linking them with barrages, creating cohesive community hubs that serve both recreational and water resilience purposes.

For more information, please contact Regional Commercial Assistant, Sherry Ng.