This document summarizes the efforts of a group of individuals called "Friends of Chek Jawa" who campaigned to conserve the biodiversity of Chek Jawa, an intertidal wetland area in Singapore that was slated for land reclamation. Through media coverage, exhibitions, surveys of the marine life, and presentations of data to the government, the group was able to convince the Singapore government to defer the proposed reclamation. As a result of the group's efforts, Chek Jawa's rich biodiversity was preserved for future generations.
The document provides information about Agenda 21 and sustainable development. It discusses key concepts of Agenda 21 such as eliminating private property rights, population control, restricting mobility, and indoctrinating children. It notes that Agenda 21 seeks to transform nations from lands of free to lands of collective by using environmentalism as a front. Sustainable development is presented as a strategy that restricts activities deemed unsustainable and works through unelected regional councils to implement top-down centralized control against free markets and natural rights.
Facts, environment, tourism, resource and the treaty, all about Antarctica. A comprehensive description of the environmental component of the white continent. Can be taught from Year 9 to Year 13, in Geography, Social Studies, Global Perspectives or Environmental Science. Subject taught in Geography Year 9 at Pukekohe Christian School by the geography teacher Mr. Dumitrache. PCS is a Cambridge school from Auckland, New Zealand. Please send me a message if you want to download this Power Point presentation for educational purposes.
Mangroves and their importance with Threats iucn pptAshish sahu
A mangrove is a shrub or tree that grows in coastal saline or brackish water. ... Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees, also called halophytes, and are adapted to live in harsh coastal conditions. They contain a complex salt filtration system and a complex root system to cope with saltwater immersion and wave action.
Mangroves are defined as assemblages of salt tolerant trees and shrubs that grow in the intertidal regions of the tropical and subtropical coastlines. They grow luxuriantly in the places where freshwater mixes with seawater and where sediment is composed of accumulated deposits of mud.
The document discusses an ailing planet and the role of the green movement. An ailing planet is one whose survival is difficult due to continuous destruction. The main causes of an ailing planet are overpopulation, pollution, global warming from deforestation and fossil fuel use, and climate change from industry. To prevent further damage, the document recommends educating people to control population growth, planting trees, minimizing vehicle use, supporting conservation groups, and avoiding plastic. It concludes that people must change how they use land and respect the natural order to help the ailing planet.
This presentation will help to understand more about the environment and sustainable issue. It also talks about different factors of the environment that affects sustainability. The presentation also talks about the linkage between the environment and poverty.
Forests and wildlife are important natural resources that need to be conserved. Forests preserve biodiversity, provide habitat and resources, help control climate and rainfall, and prevent soil erosion. Wildlife also preserves biodiversity and maintains ecosystems. Conservation efforts include afforestation, preventing deforestation, banning poaching, and establishing protected areas. Sustainable use of natural resources like land, water, forests and energy is important.
The document summarizes key points from the IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report and highlights of the upcoming COP26 climate conference. It discusses the urgent need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The IPCC report finds that human influence has unequivocally warmed the planet and that impacts are intensifying. Immediate, rapid and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are needed this decade to curb climate change risks. The COP26 conference aims to secure global commitments to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.
Scope and aspect of environmental resource managementAl Jubaer
Environmental resource management involves managing the interaction between human societies and the environment. It aims to protect ecosystem services for future generations while balancing human needs. Environmental resources include both natural resources like water, soil, and air as well as socioeconomic and cultural resources. Effective environmental resource management requires consideration of ethical, economic, social, and technological factors. It also requires coordination across many disciplines like geography, biology, ecology, and social sciences.
The document provides information about Agenda 21 and sustainable development. It discusses key concepts of Agenda 21 such as eliminating private property rights, population control, restricting mobility, and indoctrinating children. It notes that Agenda 21 seeks to transform nations from lands of free to lands of collective by using environmentalism as a front. Sustainable development is presented as a strategy that restricts activities deemed unsustainable and works through unelected regional councils to implement top-down centralized control against free markets and natural rights.
Facts, environment, tourism, resource and the treaty, all about Antarctica. A comprehensive description of the environmental component of the white continent. Can be taught from Year 9 to Year 13, in Geography, Social Studies, Global Perspectives or Environmental Science. Subject taught in Geography Year 9 at Pukekohe Christian School by the geography teacher Mr. Dumitrache. PCS is a Cambridge school from Auckland, New Zealand. Please send me a message if you want to download this Power Point presentation for educational purposes.
Mangroves and their importance with Threats iucn pptAshish sahu
A mangrove is a shrub or tree that grows in coastal saline or brackish water. ... Mangroves are salt-tolerant trees, also called halophytes, and are adapted to live in harsh coastal conditions. They contain a complex salt filtration system and a complex root system to cope with saltwater immersion and wave action.
Mangroves are defined as assemblages of salt tolerant trees and shrubs that grow in the intertidal regions of the tropical and subtropical coastlines. They grow luxuriantly in the places where freshwater mixes with seawater and where sediment is composed of accumulated deposits of mud.
The document discusses an ailing planet and the role of the green movement. An ailing planet is one whose survival is difficult due to continuous destruction. The main causes of an ailing planet are overpopulation, pollution, global warming from deforestation and fossil fuel use, and climate change from industry. To prevent further damage, the document recommends educating people to control population growth, planting trees, minimizing vehicle use, supporting conservation groups, and avoiding plastic. It concludes that people must change how they use land and respect the natural order to help the ailing planet.
This presentation will help to understand more about the environment and sustainable issue. It also talks about different factors of the environment that affects sustainability. The presentation also talks about the linkage between the environment and poverty.
Forests and wildlife are important natural resources that need to be conserved. Forests preserve biodiversity, provide habitat and resources, help control climate and rainfall, and prevent soil erosion. Wildlife also preserves biodiversity and maintains ecosystems. Conservation efforts include afforestation, preventing deforestation, banning poaching, and establishing protected areas. Sustainable use of natural resources like land, water, forests and energy is important.
The document summarizes key points from the IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report and highlights of the upcoming COP26 climate conference. It discusses the urgent need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. The IPCC report finds that human influence has unequivocally warmed the planet and that impacts are intensifying. Immediate, rapid and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are needed this decade to curb climate change risks. The COP26 conference aims to secure global commitments to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.
Scope and aspect of environmental resource managementAl Jubaer
Environmental resource management involves managing the interaction between human societies and the environment. It aims to protect ecosystem services for future generations while balancing human needs. Environmental resources include both natural resources like water, soil, and air as well as socioeconomic and cultural resources. Effective environmental resource management requires consideration of ethical, economic, social, and technological factors. It also requires coordination across many disciplines like geography, biology, ecology, and social sciences.
Chilika Lake is located on India's east coast between the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. It supports extensive biodiversity, including 225 fish species, 158 bird species that use the lake as a migratory stopover, and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin. However, the lake has faced threats from siltation, loss of habitat, and unsustainable aquaculture practices that have degraded the ecosystem and biodiversity. Conservation efforts include designating the lake as a Ramsar wetland of international importance and establishing the Chilika Development Authority to restore the lake and protect species.
Urban Environmental Management (UEM) Students Research Summary Dr.Choen Krainara
This document provides a summary of 124 master's and doctoral student research projects completed between 1998-2003 under the Urban Environmental Management field of study at the Asian Institute of Technology in Pathumthani, Thailand. The research covers topics such as solid waste management, water and sanitation, air pollution, urban planning, environmental assessment, and more. It includes the titles, authors, and brief summaries for each of the 124 student projects.
This document provides an overview of a class on conservation of plants and animals. It discusses topics like deforestation, its causes such as agricultural activities and logging, and its consequences including soil degradation and changes to climatic conditions. It also discusses reforestation and why it is needed to combat the huge areas of forests being damaged daily by deforestation. Reforestation can help improve quality of life by absorbing pollution, rebuilding habitats, and storing carbon to limit climate change. References used for the class include Wikipedia, Google Images, Arkive, and science texts.
History of environmental planning and management since mid 20th centuryGeofrey Yator
Environmental planning and management began in the mid-20th century due to increasing environmental degradation from industrialization and population growth. Several major pollution events in the 1940s-1960s caused health issues and brought environmental problems into focus. In 1972 the UN held its first global environmental convention, outlining 26 principles including that humans impact and rely on the environment, and international cooperation is needed to protect the environment for human well-being. Numerous national environmental laws were subsequently passed through the 1970s-1990s to regulate air, water, and hazardous waste pollution.
Four schools of thought in cultural geography (to help in school)Preston Glover
This document outlines four schools of thought in cultural geography: environmental determinism, which believes the physical environment dictates culture; possibilism, which believes cultural heritage is as important as the environment; environmental perception, which focuses on how humans perceive their environment; and cultural determinism, which believes culture is more important than the environment in shaping human actions. Examples are provided for each school of thought.
THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION ITS IMPLICATIONS AND BENEFITS TO UGANDA.
RIO Multi-lateral Environment Agreements and National Frameworks in Uganda
ON 8TH NOVEMBER 2019
By Stephen Muwaya UNCCD National Focal Point
Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
The document summarizes the report of the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), also known as the Brundtland Commission. The Commission was established in 1983 by the United Nations to address growing environmental concerns and their connection to economic and social issues. The Commission's 1987 report, Our Common Future, introduced the concept of sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." The report examined major environmental issues and proposed strategies for governments and international organizations to pursue sustainable development.
The document discusses the functional classification of Indian cities as proposed by Asok Mitra. He grouped cities into seven categories - manufacturing, artisan, mining, plantation, trading, transport and services - based on the percentage of workers engaged in different economic sectors. Mitra further classified the cities based on their degree of specialization using a triangular method to plot each city on a graph. While the classification identified specialized city types, most Indian cities were found to have a diversified economic base with no clear single function.
The Agenda 21 document was adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro with 178 nations voting to adopt the program. It serves as a comprehensive action plan for sustainable development globally, nationally and locally in the areas of environment and development for the 21st century. The document is divided into 4 sections that address social and economic dimensions, conservation and management of resources, strengthening the role of major groups, and methods of implementation. It also refers to tourism in several chapters, calling for governments to promote eco-tourism and sustainable tourism practices.
The document summarizes key events and concepts related to REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation), including the establishment of the UNFCCC in 1992, adoption of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, and introduction of REDD+ in 2005. It discusses REDD+'s scope, reference levels, financing mechanisms, and distribution of incentives. Ongoing REDD+ projects through the UN-REDD Programme are working to develop national REDD+ strategies in countries like Indonesia.
This document discusses cyclone preparedness and management in Bangladesh. It outlines the disaster management cycle and types of structural and non-structural preparedness measures. It describes the roles of various government organizations and NGOs involved in cyclone forecasting, warning, evacuation, relief, and rehabilitation efforts. Key aspects of Bangladesh's cyclone warning system and some weaknesses are identified. Data on cyclone shelters and volunteer numbers in coastal districts is also presented.
Theme 4 - Climate Change Mitigation and AdaptationCIFOR-ICRAF
This presentation by Christopher Martius, Henry Neufeldt, Glenn Hyman and Laura Snook focuses on the objectives and structure of the climate change adaptation and mitigation program of the FTA Research Program, their evolution over time, the major accomplishments and the main obstacles and challenges.
This is the 5th lesson of the course - Foundation of Environmental Management taught at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka
Mangrove ecosystems are found along coastal areas in intertidal and supra tidal zones consisting of muddy shores. In Sri Lanka, the largest mangrove patches are located in Puttalam Lagoon, Dutch Bay, and Portugal Bay complex, while the second and third largest patches are in Batticaloa and Trincomallee respectively. Mangroves have unique adaptations such as prop roots, pneumatophores, and salt glands that allow them to survive in the fluctuating temperature, high humidity, poor oxygen, and saline soil conditions. They provide important ecological functions like protecting coastlines from erosion and absorbing pollutants. However, mangroves in Sri Lanka are declining rapidly due to destructive activities like aqu
Disaster Impact and Response- A Retrospect of 2014 Flood in Kashmir ValleyDheeraj Kumar Tiwari
Presented by ISHFAQ HUSSAIN MALIK, Research Scholar, Dept. of Geography, Aligarh Muslim University (A.M.U), Aligarh at IJSARD (International Journal of Socio-legal Analysis and Rural Development) International Virtual Conference 2017 On Law and Social Sciences.
DISASTER FOLLOWING NATURAL EVENTS-PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF DISASTERIAEME Publication
Disaster following Natural Events-Prevention and Management of Disaster. Disaster means “crises situation causing wide spread damage that far exceeds the ability to recover”. Disasters are not totally discrete events. There possibility of occurrence, time, place and severity of the strike can be reasonably and in some cases accurately predicted by technological and scientific advances. A manager needs to apply both modern management principles and a disaster control plan to handle the situation. Disasters are broadly classified as natural disaster (acts of God) and accidental disaster (man made).
The document discusses climate change policy at both the international and national (Bangladesh) levels. At the international level, it outlines several key agreements and protocols aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including the UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, and others. The Kyoto Protocol set binding emissions reduction targets for developed countries. The Paris Agreement's goal is to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees Celsius. At the national level, the document outlines Bangladesh's climate change policies, strategies and funds aimed at adaptation and building resilience.
Deforestation is destroying forests and wildlife habitats. Catholics believe humans have a duty to care for the environment given by God. The UN seeks to reduce deforestation and in 2005 forests were 3% smaller than 1990. Sustainable logging and reforestation can combat deforestation while meeting human needs.
The document summarizes the archaeological investigation of a shipwreck site in Biscayne National Park. Through analysis of artifacts, documents, and maps, archaeologists determined the site was likely that of the HMS Fowey, a British warship that sank in 1748. Key evidence included the material culture assemblage of ceramics, glass, and ballast matching a British warship from the mid-18th century time period. Documentary research, such as logs and maps, further supported the identification of the wreck as the HMS Fowey.
Chilika Lake is located on India's east coast between the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. It supports extensive biodiversity, including 225 fish species, 158 bird species that use the lake as a migratory stopover, and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin. However, the lake has faced threats from siltation, loss of habitat, and unsustainable aquaculture practices that have degraded the ecosystem and biodiversity. Conservation efforts include designating the lake as a Ramsar wetland of international importance and establishing the Chilika Development Authority to restore the lake and protect species.
Urban Environmental Management (UEM) Students Research Summary Dr.Choen Krainara
This document provides a summary of 124 master's and doctoral student research projects completed between 1998-2003 under the Urban Environmental Management field of study at the Asian Institute of Technology in Pathumthani, Thailand. The research covers topics such as solid waste management, water and sanitation, air pollution, urban planning, environmental assessment, and more. It includes the titles, authors, and brief summaries for each of the 124 student projects.
This document provides an overview of a class on conservation of plants and animals. It discusses topics like deforestation, its causes such as agricultural activities and logging, and its consequences including soil degradation and changes to climatic conditions. It also discusses reforestation and why it is needed to combat the huge areas of forests being damaged daily by deforestation. Reforestation can help improve quality of life by absorbing pollution, rebuilding habitats, and storing carbon to limit climate change. References used for the class include Wikipedia, Google Images, Arkive, and science texts.
History of environmental planning and management since mid 20th centuryGeofrey Yator
Environmental planning and management began in the mid-20th century due to increasing environmental degradation from industrialization and population growth. Several major pollution events in the 1940s-1960s caused health issues and brought environmental problems into focus. In 1972 the UN held its first global environmental convention, outlining 26 principles including that humans impact and rely on the environment, and international cooperation is needed to protect the environment for human well-being. Numerous national environmental laws were subsequently passed through the 1970s-1990s to regulate air, water, and hazardous waste pollution.
Four schools of thought in cultural geography (to help in school)Preston Glover
This document outlines four schools of thought in cultural geography: environmental determinism, which believes the physical environment dictates culture; possibilism, which believes cultural heritage is as important as the environment; environmental perception, which focuses on how humans perceive their environment; and cultural determinism, which believes culture is more important than the environment in shaping human actions. Examples are provided for each school of thought.
THE UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION ITS IMPLICATIONS AND BENEFITS TO UGANDA.
RIO Multi-lateral Environment Agreements and National Frameworks in Uganda
ON 8TH NOVEMBER 2019
By Stephen Muwaya UNCCD National Focal Point
Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
The document summarizes the report of the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED), also known as the Brundtland Commission. The Commission was established in 1983 by the United Nations to address growing environmental concerns and their connection to economic and social issues. The Commission's 1987 report, Our Common Future, introduced the concept of sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." The report examined major environmental issues and proposed strategies for governments and international organizations to pursue sustainable development.
The document discusses the functional classification of Indian cities as proposed by Asok Mitra. He grouped cities into seven categories - manufacturing, artisan, mining, plantation, trading, transport and services - based on the percentage of workers engaged in different economic sectors. Mitra further classified the cities based on their degree of specialization using a triangular method to plot each city on a graph. While the classification identified specialized city types, most Indian cities were found to have a diversified economic base with no clear single function.
The Agenda 21 document was adopted at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro with 178 nations voting to adopt the program. It serves as a comprehensive action plan for sustainable development globally, nationally and locally in the areas of environment and development for the 21st century. The document is divided into 4 sections that address social and economic dimensions, conservation and management of resources, strengthening the role of major groups, and methods of implementation. It also refers to tourism in several chapters, calling for governments to promote eco-tourism and sustainable tourism practices.
The document summarizes key events and concepts related to REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation), including the establishment of the UNFCCC in 1992, adoption of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, and introduction of REDD+ in 2005. It discusses REDD+'s scope, reference levels, financing mechanisms, and distribution of incentives. Ongoing REDD+ projects through the UN-REDD Programme are working to develop national REDD+ strategies in countries like Indonesia.
This document discusses cyclone preparedness and management in Bangladesh. It outlines the disaster management cycle and types of structural and non-structural preparedness measures. It describes the roles of various government organizations and NGOs involved in cyclone forecasting, warning, evacuation, relief, and rehabilitation efforts. Key aspects of Bangladesh's cyclone warning system and some weaknesses are identified. Data on cyclone shelters and volunteer numbers in coastal districts is also presented.
Theme 4 - Climate Change Mitigation and AdaptationCIFOR-ICRAF
This presentation by Christopher Martius, Henry Neufeldt, Glenn Hyman and Laura Snook focuses on the objectives and structure of the climate change adaptation and mitigation program of the FTA Research Program, their evolution over time, the major accomplishments and the main obstacles and challenges.
This is the 5th lesson of the course - Foundation of Environmental Management taught at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka
Mangrove ecosystems are found along coastal areas in intertidal and supra tidal zones consisting of muddy shores. In Sri Lanka, the largest mangrove patches are located in Puttalam Lagoon, Dutch Bay, and Portugal Bay complex, while the second and third largest patches are in Batticaloa and Trincomallee respectively. Mangroves have unique adaptations such as prop roots, pneumatophores, and salt glands that allow them to survive in the fluctuating temperature, high humidity, poor oxygen, and saline soil conditions. They provide important ecological functions like protecting coastlines from erosion and absorbing pollutants. However, mangroves in Sri Lanka are declining rapidly due to destructive activities like aqu
Disaster Impact and Response- A Retrospect of 2014 Flood in Kashmir ValleyDheeraj Kumar Tiwari
Presented by ISHFAQ HUSSAIN MALIK, Research Scholar, Dept. of Geography, Aligarh Muslim University (A.M.U), Aligarh at IJSARD (International Journal of Socio-legal Analysis and Rural Development) International Virtual Conference 2017 On Law and Social Sciences.
DISASTER FOLLOWING NATURAL EVENTS-PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF DISASTERIAEME Publication
Disaster following Natural Events-Prevention and Management of Disaster. Disaster means “crises situation causing wide spread damage that far exceeds the ability to recover”. Disasters are not totally discrete events. There possibility of occurrence, time, place and severity of the strike can be reasonably and in some cases accurately predicted by technological and scientific advances. A manager needs to apply both modern management principles and a disaster control plan to handle the situation. Disasters are broadly classified as natural disaster (acts of God) and accidental disaster (man made).
The document discusses climate change policy at both the international and national (Bangladesh) levels. At the international level, it outlines several key agreements and protocols aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including the UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, and others. The Kyoto Protocol set binding emissions reduction targets for developed countries. The Paris Agreement's goal is to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees Celsius. At the national level, the document outlines Bangladesh's climate change policies, strategies and funds aimed at adaptation and building resilience.
Deforestation is destroying forests and wildlife habitats. Catholics believe humans have a duty to care for the environment given by God. The UN seeks to reduce deforestation and in 2005 forests were 3% smaller than 1990. Sustainable logging and reforestation can combat deforestation while meeting human needs.
The document summarizes the archaeological investigation of a shipwreck site in Biscayne National Park. Through analysis of artifacts, documents, and maps, archaeologists determined the site was likely that of the HMS Fowey, a British warship that sank in 1748. Key evidence included the material culture assemblage of ceramics, glass, and ballast matching a British warship from the mid-18th century time period. Documentary research, such as logs and maps, further supported the identification of the wreck as the HMS Fowey.
Examples of Aquatic Protected Area Assessment Frameworks and IndicatorsMekong Fish Network
This presentation was given at a workshop to select indicators for Fish Conservation Zone assessments on November 7 and 8, 2016, in Vientiane, Lao PDR. It provides examples of aquatic assessment frameworks and indicators that informed the development of FiSHBIO's freshwater protected area guidebook project in Laos. In particular, the project was inspired by How is Your MPA Doing? (Pomeroy et al. 2004), which is an assessment guidebook for Marine Protected Areas developed by the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas, WWF, and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The presentation also provides two case studies of freshwater protected area assessments in Southeast Asia. One was contributed by Ian Baird, who has used local ecological knowledge of fishers to assess FCZs in Champasak Province. Villagers from 53 villages named 51 fish and turtle species that benefited from FCZs. Their knowledge included fish surfacing in deep pools, fish croaking during spawning, fish catch outside the FCZ. A second case study was contributed by Aaron Koning, who is assessing FCZs on the Salween River in northern Thailand. His methods include snorkel surveys to count large fish inside and outside of the FCZ, quadrat surveys to count small fish hiding in rocks. and surveys of invertebrates and algae inside and outside the FCZs. Finally, the presentation discusses a literature review that FISHBIO has conducted to identify potential freshwater indicators for FCZs in Lao PDR.
Restore Ubin Mangroves (R.U.M.) Initiative pamphlet (Malay)Ria Tan
Inisiatif Restore Ubin Mangroves (RUM) bertujuan untuk memulihkan hutan bakau di kolam akuakultur tidak terpakai di Pulau Ubin, Singapura dengan menggunakan pendekatan Ecological Mangrove Restoration (EMR) yang membiarkan alam semula jadi melakukan penanaman. Inisiatif ini melibatkan beberapa agensi kerajaan dan NGO untuk membersihkan pantai, mengukur ketinggian air pasang surut, dan menanam benih bakau secara sem
Restore Ubin Mangroves (R.U.M.) Initiative pamphlet (English)Ria Tan
This document discusses ecological mangrove restoration (EMR) and the Restore Ubin Mangroves (RUM) initiative. EMR focuses on restoring suitable site conditions for natural mangrove regeneration rather than manual planting. The 6-step EMR process involves understanding mangrove ecology and hydrology, assessing barriers to natural establishment, selecting restoration sites, designing sites to restore hydrology, and supplemental planting if needed. RUM aims to restore abandoned aquaculture ponds in Pulau Ubin, Singapore through regular cleanups, biodiversity surveys, elevation and tidal mapping, and involving groups like NUS and nature societies.
Restore Ubin Mangroves (R.U.M.) Initiative pamphlet (Chinese)Ria Tan
A community project to restore mangroves in abandoned aquaculture ponds at Pulau Ubin. Why restore mangroves? Who are involved? What will we be doing? Where will we be working?
Also, what is Ecological Mangrove Restoration (EMR)?
More details on the RUM blog http://rum-initiative.blogspot.sg/
Nearly 71% of Earth's surface is covered by the global ocean. The ocean floor can be divided into four main regions: continental margins, ocean basin floors, and mid-ocean ridges. Continental margins are the zones between continents and ocean basins, and include continental shelves and slopes. Ocean basin floors contain features like abyssal plains, seamounts, and deep-ocean trenches. Mid-ocean ridges are underwater mountain ranges found near the centers of ocean basins where new seafloor is formed through seafloor spreading.
- The Aquamarine Fund returned 27.8% in 2012, outperforming the S&P index which returned 16%. Over its lifetime, each $1 invested in the fund is now worth over $4.
- The fund manager prefers to compare performance to the S&P index rather than other indices to avoid "index shopping".
- In 2012, the fund received $3.47 million in new subscriptions and $2.69 million in redemptions, resulting in $0.78 million in net new capital, down from $3.9 million in 2011.
- A basket of Japanese "net-net" stocks purchased in 2011 was substantially exited by the end of 2012, returning approximately
Park lighting, architecture of lighting, yazoo parkRiya Bagchi
This document summarizes the lighting design for a 12-acre park in Mumbai. It describes various types of lights used including LED flood lights, focus lights, inside-fixed lights, uplights, wall-washers, bollards, and pole lights. It provides details on the location, operating hours, landscape architect, and goals of creating an eco-friendly and engaging light design. Specific lighting is outlined for areas like name boards, walkways, entrance walls, restaurants, and performances. Backup generator power is also discussed.
This document is a presentation about the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in Australia. It contains photos from the park as well as screenshots from websites related to the park. The presentation is licensed to allow others to adapt and reuse it with attribution. It encourages interaction through comments, questions, and sharing information about the park.
Staff from Bali Safari Park went on a study tour to zoos in Australia in 2012. Woko and Adis, staff members from Bali, learned about animal care by observing keepers at Monarto Zoo and Adelaide Zoo. They helped with enrichment activities for primates, cleaned exhibits, and prepared food. Woko and Adis were fascinated by the many animals they had never seen before, like bongos and bison. They enjoyed learning about the jobs of different zoo staff. The trip provided an unforgettable experience and memories for Woko and Adis.
A slide I thrown together for my class to introduce them to chek jawa and the concept of a contested landscape. This is quite an outright form. I definitely would have to do a better job if I really want to tell the story of chek jawa
This document provides information about Daniel Devlin's work placement with Wildlife Sense, a sea turtle conservation organization in Greece. It describes Wildlife Sense's mission and operations, including managing 10 beaches. It outlines Daniel's tasks such as participating in daily beach patrols to locate turtle nests and track nesting activity. Beach patrols allow collecting data on nesting numbers, which provide estimates of local turtle populations. Daniel's placement also included learning about EU laws on sea turtle protection and the impacts of tourism and development on turtle habitats.
This document discusses nature conservation efforts in Singapore. It begins by listing some natural areas in Singapore and noting that there are still some native species found there, such as coral reefs and dolphins. It then discusses what constitutes "nature" and different approaches to conservation. Several conservation groups in Singapore working on issues like terrestrial and marine conservation are highlighted. A case study of Chek Jawa wetlands discusses how public awareness and opposition helped defer a large reclamation project there in the early 2000s. The talk emphasizes the importance of public participation and involvement of different stakeholders in conservation.
The document summarizes a study on the mass mortality event that occurred at Chek Jawa, Singapore in January 2007 following heavy rainfall. Field surveys found many marine invertebrates like anemones, sponges, sea stars and sea cucumbers dying. The study aimed to understand the causes and monitor recovery. Prolonged rainfall and low tides were found to have discharged freshwater from the Johor River into Chek Jawa, causing osmotic stress on marine animals. Surveys since have shown signs of recovery with some populations returning. The future of Chek Jawa relies on continued protection and understanding to safeguard its biodiversity.
This document discusses the ecology of waters around Java, Indonesia. It aims to compare the health of two coral reefs, examine why a beach is changing after building a pier and planting mangroves, and explain why removing organisms from a food chain can be problematic. Specifically, it analyzes the 1000 islands off Jakarta and the impacts of building infrastructure like piers. It also describes how removing all sea urchins from a reef near a resort damaged the reef's ecology by allowing algae to overgrow the corals.
Underwater image conveying awareness of coral ecosystem conservationyenn88
The document discusses using underwater photography to raise awareness of coral reef conservation. It outlines the threats facing coral reefs from pollution, overfishing, and tourism activities. Underwater photography is highlighted as an effective way to convey the importance of conservation to tourists by showing them the beauty of coral ecosystems. The study will examine the persuasiveness of different underwater photography techniques in convincing tourists to support conservation efforts.
Re-Colonizing Soft Corals on the Degraded Coral Reefs of Gulf Of Kachchh Mari...paperpublications3
Abstract: Coral reefs of the Gulf of Kachchh are in a highly degraded condition, when compared with other three major coral reef regions of India. In correlation with geographical and oceanographical changes, its arid climate and the semi-diurnal tidal amplitudes fluctuations hamper the recovery of the reef. Soft corals may play the alternative key role in maintaining the ecological role in the degraded reef ecosystem in the absence of hard corals. Re-colonization of soft corals on the degraded reefs is among the first steps to make them to recover gradually. Present Line Intercept Transect survey (LIT) conducted in a reef of the Gulf inferred the possibility to recovery of the reefs due to the colonization of soft corals on the bare coral boulders.
Marine trash poses threats to Singapore's marine life and oceans globally. Plastic pollution has increased dramatically and plastic waste accumulates because it is non-biodegradable. This waste harms marine animals through entanglement, ingestion, and transporting toxic chemicals up the food chain. While some plastic enters oceans from ships and offshore platforms, most originates from land-based sources. Addressing this problem requires efforts from government, organizations, and individuals to reduce plastic use, properly dispose of waste, clean beaches, and advocate for more sustainable practices.
Geotourism - Opportunities for Global Employment, AUGEN 2017, Sydney Universi...Leisure Solutions®
This document discusses opportunities for geotourism to provide global employment. It defines geotourism as tourism focused on an area's geology and landscape. The document outlines several geotrail and geopark developments in Australia to enhance regional development through geotourism. It discusses a memorandum between Australian and Chinese geological societies to collaborate on growing nature-based tourism, and opportunities for tourism park managers to establish sister park relationships. The concept of tourism earth sciences is introduced as a way to study and utilize tourism resources through an earth sciences lens.
This document summarizes the results of fish surveys conducted from 2008-2010 in 137 streams located in and near proposed mine claims in Bristol Bay, Alaska. The surveys found salmon in 76 of the streams, as well as resident fish species in 33 additional streams. This was the first documentation of salmon in many of these streams, which are important habitats that support the world's largest wild salmon fishery. The surveys aimed to establish an environmental baseline on fish populations before any potential impacts from future mining activities.
This document summarizes Ken Buesseler's presentation on the spread and levels of radioactive cesium from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in the ocean. It discusses multiple sources of radionuclides entering the ocean from the plant. While cesium levels peaked in 2011 near the plant, exceeding safety limits, they declined and are now considered safe for human and marine life exposure. Cesium continues to be transported by ocean currents, and is predicted to reach the US west coast in 2013-2014 at levels that are also safe. However, groundwater leaks at the plant remain an ongoing source of radionuclides like cesium and strontium to the ocean. Long term monitoring of the ocean, bi
A study on the biodiversity of snake island in South Andaman - JBESInnspub Net
Snake Island is an uninhabited small rocky islet off Carbyn’s Cove in Port Blair, Andaman. The biodiversity of this rocky island is its distinctive feature as it becomes a small habitat for various organisms close to the open sea. During this present study a total no. of 217 species were recorded out of which 205 has been identified. Pisces was the dominant group, followed by cnidarians, molluscs, arthropods etc. The island is highly influenced by sea water as during high tides nearly 75 % of the island is submerged by seawater. This is the reason of dominance of marine organisms (94 %) over terrestrial organisms (6 %) in the island. Another characteristic feature of the island is the formation of numerous rocky and sandy water channels and the presence of a ‘coral pool’ at the end of one such channel on the north-eastern part of the island. During high tide these channels are filled with water and exchange of seawater takes place in the coral pool, where highest diversity of species was observed. Lack of intertidal species in the island is evident due to the high action of waves from the open sea and lack of hiding areas other than rocky crevices. Get more articles at: http://www.innspub.net/volume-6-number-4-april-2015-jbes/
The Ash Creek Conservation Association aims to preserve and protect the Ash Creek tidal estuary, one of the few remaining in an urban area in the US. It provides habitat for migratory birds, oysters, and other wildlife. ACCA works to educate the public, advocate for protection from development, and encourage ecological uses like birdwatching. Through cleanups, restoration efforts, and preventing docks and fills, ACCA has helped Ash Creek avoid development and continue as an important natural area amid urban surroundings.
Post December 24, 2004 and 28 March, 2005 Sumatera Tsunami Damage Assessment.
In Aceh most remote Banyak Archipelago, which consist of 99 islands. One of them is the biggest green turtle rookery in Western Indonesia.
The document summarizes programming and events at the Kelly Adirondack Center at Union College from winter/spring 2015. It discusses upcoming events focusing on Lake George and the Adirondacks, including discussions on the Apperson papers and the Jefferson Project. It also previews the center's 2015 Adirondack Week in May exploring the role of women in conservation. The summary provides an overview of staffing changes and introduces the new Kelly Adirondack Center Fellow managing programs and communications.
1) A mass mortality event occurred at Chek Jawa intertidal flat in January 2007, killing many soft-bodied invertebrates like sea anemones, sponges, sea stars, and sea cucumbers.
2) The student conducted an independent research project through the UROPs program to investigate the causes of this mass death, examining factors like changes in salinity from rainfall and river outputs.
3) Through field surveys over multiple months, the student monitored recovery of affected species and populations at Chek Jawa, finding signs that it was rebounding with recruitment of larvae from nearby areas.
This newsletter provides an overview and updates on the Northwest Arctic Borough Subsistence Mapping Project. Key points include:
- The project is documenting traditional subsistence knowledge through interviews and youth activities to create maps showing subsistence areas, important ecological areas, and potential development areas.
- Youth subsistence education activities are being held to pass on traditional knowledge to younger generations.
- Draft maps of important ecological areas were reviewed at the recent mapping workshop to finalize the project results.
- The project has accomplished interviews in 7 communities, involved advisory groups, created databases and conducted outreach. It aims to be completed by May 2015 with final approved maps and a report.
Similar to Conserving marine biodiversity and the role of individuals: A case study of Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin, Singapore (20)
Singapore wild marine mammal survey(marine mammal identification chart)Ria Tan
This document provides information to identify several marine mammals that can be found in Singapore waters. It describes the physical characteristics of five species: Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, finless porpoise, bottlenose dolphin, Irrawaddy dolphin, and dugong. For each species it notes details like skin color, presence of a dorsal fin or beak, maximum body length, and general swimming speed. The document aims to help identify these marine mammals based on visual characteristics.
Singapore wild marine mammal survey (marine mammal identification sheet)Ria Tan
Identification sheet (English) on how to identify wild marine mammals in Singapore. By the Singapore Wild Marine Mammal Survey (SWIMMS) http://www.tmsi.nus.edu.sg/mmrl
with permission from SWIMMS.
Singapore wild marine mammal survey (english brochure)Ria Tan
Brochure in English on how to identify wild marine mammals in Singapore, their behaviour, location map for sightings and sightings form by the Singapore Wild Marine Mammal Survey (SWIMMS) http://www.tmsi.nus.edu.sg/mmrl
with permission from SWIMMS.
Singapore wild marine mammal survey (chinese brochure)Ria Tan
Brochure in Mandarin (Chinese) on how to identify wild marine mammals in Singapore, their behaviour, location map for sightings and sightings form by the Singapore Wild Marine Mammal Survey (SWIMMS) http://www.tmsi.nus.edu.sg/mmrl
with permission from SWIMMS.
Singapore wild marine mammal survey (malay brochure)Ria Tan
Brochure in Malay on how to identify wild marine mammals in Singapore, their behaviour, location map for sightings and sightings form by the Singapore Wild Marine Mammal Survey (SWIMMS) http://www.tmsi.nus.edu.sg/mmrl
with permission from SWIMMS.
Find out more about the the Comprehensive Marine Biodiversity Survey of Singapore: action plan, operational set up and deliverables, in this powerpoint shared by NParks.
The document summarizes a study monitoring the recovery of corals in Singapore that bleached during the 1998 global bleaching event. Surveys of coral reefs in June 1998 found 50-90% of corals were bleached. A monitoring program tagged 35 coral colonies over 10 surveys. Some corals recovered but others died. Recovery varied between genera. Chlorophyll levels increased over time. Sea surface temperatures in early 1998 were unusually high, likely causing the bleaching. Continued monitoring is needed to understand bleaching and aid coral reef recovery.
Pangolins are in trouble due to illegal international trade. They are poached in Southeast Asia for their scales which are used in traditional medicine. Over the past 8 years, authorities have seized 30,000 pangolins from illegal traders. Pangolin populations cannot sustain this level of hunting as they only birth one young per year. If the illegal wildlife trade is not stopped, experts fear pangolins will disappear completely from Southeast Asia.
Assessment and Planning in Educational technology.pptxKavitha Krishnan
In an education system, it is understood that assessment is only for the students, but on the other hand, the Assessment of teachers is also an important aspect of the education system that ensures teachers are providing high-quality instruction to students. The assessment process can be used to provide feedback and support for professional development, to inform decisions about teacher retention or promotion, or to evaluate teacher effectiveness for accountability purposes.
Physiology and chemistry of skin and pigmentation, hairs, scalp, lips and nail, Cleansing cream, Lotions, Face powders, Face packs, Lipsticks, Bath products, soaps and baby product,
Preparation and standardization of the following : Tonic, Bleaches, Dentifrices and Mouth washes & Tooth Pastes, Cosmetics for Nails.
The simplified electron and muon model, Oscillating Spacetime: The Foundation...RitikBhardwaj56
Discover the Simplified Electron and Muon Model: A New Wave-Based Approach to Understanding Particles delves into a groundbreaking theory that presents electrons and muons as rotating soliton waves within oscillating spacetime. Geared towards students, researchers, and science buffs, this book breaks down complex ideas into simple explanations. It covers topics such as electron waves, temporal dynamics, and the implications of this model on particle physics. With clear illustrations and easy-to-follow explanations, readers will gain a new outlook on the universe's fundamental nature.
it describes the bony anatomy including the femoral head , acetabulum, labrum . also discusses the capsule , ligaments . muscle that act on the hip joint and the range of motion are outlined. factors affecting hip joint stability and weight transmission through the joint are summarized.
ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
Denis is a dynamic and results-driven Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a distinguished career spanning information systems analysis and technical project management. With a proven track record of spearheading the design and delivery of cutting-edge Information Management solutions, he has consistently elevated business operations, streamlined reporting functions, and maximized process efficiency.
Certified as an ISO/IEC 27001: Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Lead Implementer, Data Protection Officer, and Cyber Risks Analyst, Denis brings a heightened focus on data security, privacy, and cyber resilience to every endeavor.
His expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of reporting, database, and web development applications, underpinned by an exceptional grasp of data storage and virtualization technologies. His proficiency in application testing, database administration, and data cleansing ensures seamless execution of complex projects.
What sets Denis apart is his comprehensive understanding of Business and Systems Analysis technologies, honed through involvement in all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). From meticulous requirements gathering to precise analysis, innovative design, rigorous development, thorough testing, and successful implementation, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Throughout his career, he has taken on multifaceted roles, from leading technical project management teams to owning solutions that drive operational excellence. His conscientious and proactive approach is unwavering, whether he is working independently or collaboratively within a team. His ability to connect with colleagues on a personal level underscores his commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive workplace environment.
Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Find out more about ISO training and certification services
Training: ISO/IEC 27001 Information Security Management System - EN | PECB
ISO/IEC 42001 Artificial Intelligence Management System - EN | PECB
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) - Training Courses - EN | PECB
Webinars: https://pecb.com/webinars
Article: https://pecb.com/article
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For more information about PECB:
Website: https://pecb.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pecb/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PECBInternational/
Slideshare: http://www.slideshare.net/PECBCERTIFICATION
Main Java[All of the Base Concepts}.docxadhitya5119
This is part 1 of my Java Learning Journey. This Contains Custom methods, classes, constructors, packages, multithreading , try- catch block, finally block and more.
This presentation includes basic of PCOS their pathology and treatment and also Ayurveda correlation of PCOS and Ayurvedic line of treatment mentioned in classics.
A review of the growth of the Israel Genealogy Research Association Database Collection for the last 12 months. Our collection is now passed the 3 million mark and still growing. See which archives have contributed the most. See the different types of records we have, and which years have had records added. You can also see what we have for the future.
Thinking of getting a dog? Be aware that breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds can be loyal and dangerous. Proper training and socialization are crucial to preventing aggressive behaviors. Ensure safety by understanding their needs and always supervising interactions. Stay safe, and enjoy your furry friends!
Strategies for Effective Upskilling is a presentation by Chinwendu Peace in a Your Skill Boost Masterclass organisation by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan on 08th and 09th June 2024 from 1 PM to 3 PM on each day.
This slide is special for master students (MIBS & MIFB) in UUM. Also useful for readers who are interested in the topic of contemporary Islamic banking.
Chapter 4 - Islamic Financial Institutions in Malaysia.pptx
Conserving marine biodiversity and the role of individuals: A case study of Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin, Singapore
1. Conserving marine biodiversity and the role of individuals:
A case study of Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin, Singapore
By
Teh Tiong Sa1 and K. Raju2
1
Visiting Senior Research Fellow,
2
Research Fellow,
Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore
Abstract
Marine biodiversity can be conserved through various means. In countries with marine
parks, the mechanism and authority entrusted for the various tasks are clear. However, in
countries where marine areas are not protected, the role of individuals becomes of greater
importance in promoting awareness regarding marine habitats and life of ecological
significance that should be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
This paper documents the role of a group of committed individuals and events that
brought about the conservation of intertidal Chek Jawa, which was earmarked for
reclamation. The about-turn by the Singapore government to defer the proposed land
reclamation was proclaimed as the first time in its history that public opinion and field
data provided by the public had helped to bring about a change in policy. This data was
not provided by renowned marine scientists or academics but was collected by a group of
individuals and students committed to preserving nature, and presented to the government
without recommendations to help it make a decision.
Paper presented in Seminar on ‘Growth, Equity and Environment: Missing Link between
Academic Research and Policy Matters in Marine Park Areas’ 15th April 2010, FEA, UM,
Kuala Lumpur
2. Introduction
Like the legendary mountain-top Shangrila that comes into rare view with the lifting of
the shrouding mists and clouds, the marine wonderland of Chek Jawa (CJ) reveals its full
glory to fortunate visitors for a few hours with each low spring tide (Figure 1). It
disappears beneath the waves again as the tide rises only to reveal a new assemblage of
marine life with the following low spring tide. This constantly changing face is what
brings repeat visitors to CJ again and again. They can be assured that each visit will
represent a new experience. CJ has captured the heart of ordinary Singaporeans who are
amazed that such a marine wonderland can be so close to their doorstep and yet lay
‘undiscovered’ for so long. This wonderland was nearly lost to reclamation if not for the
efforts of mainly individuals who came together as ‘Friends of CJ’ in the ‘Save CJ’
campaign.
PAIR OF MATING BLUE CRABS
Figure 1. Selected marine life of Chek Jawa
This paper documents the efforts and activities of ‘Friends of CJ’ as well as
others in saving CJ, and discusses the importance of individuals in conserving marine
biodiversity, even in countries without a marine park system. Although there are five
designated marine parks totaling 500ha, managed by the Agri-food and Veterinanry
Authority in Singapore, these parks are for rearing commercial fish (Ministry of
Environment, Singapore 2000). Unlike most other countries, the marine parks in
Singapore are not for protecting and conserving marine life. Sometimes individuals can
3. achieve what organizations cannot, because of their freedom on act on their own and their
willingness to take responsible for their actions. Organizations on the other hand are
constrained by group agenda and responsibilities.
Background
In 1992, the government of Singapore announced the proposed plan to reclaim Chek
Jawa located at the eastern tip of Pulau Ubin (Figure 2). The plan was confirmed in the
PROPOSED RECLAMATION A
Draft Concept Plan of 2001 with the announcement on 1 January that the intertidal area
of CJ was to be reclaimed for military use (URA 2001).
TEKONG
ongoing
Deferred
Figure 2. Proposed land reclamation of Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin, Singapore
On 22 January 2001, the rich intertidal marine life of the wetlands was discovered
by Joe Lai, a nature lover, during a fieldtrip with students (Figure 3). This rich
biodiversity was raised by him during a forum on 11 May 2001 organized by Urban
Development Authority of Singapore (URA) chaired by the Minister for National
Development (MND). This issue was pursued by the print media and the first report was
published on 3 June by a Chinese newspaper, followed soon by Straits Times report on
8th July (Chek out this hidden Eden) and 16th July (CJ’s natural beach should be
preserved). In response, URA in a letter to the Straits Times on 27 July explained that
‘The Housing Development Board had commissioned a study to determine the impact of
the reclamation on dugongs. The study concluded that the sea grass in the area is patchy
and not abundant, and the area does not appear to have a resident population of dugongs.
Hence, the reclamation would not have any significant impact on a dugong population. In
addition, the study concluded that the area does not have any established coral reefs or
reef communities, nor would the conditions favour their development’
4. Figure 3. Chek Jawa Wetlands in 2001
Conserving Biodiversity and the Role of Individuals in Saving Chek Jawa
The explanation given by URA was rejected by nature lovers familiar with the rich
biodiversity of CJ, and questioned the adequacy of the terms of reference in the EIA,
which was not made public. An awareness campaign by ‘Friends of Chek Jawa’ through
road shows, media and websites began. On the same day in which the URA letter was
published, the first TV coverage on CJ was screened in Mediacorp Channel 8 Chinese
Frontline Programme, and a week later CJ was featured in Channel News Asia
Assignment Programme. Journal articles by Chua et al (2001, Lai (2001), Lum (2001)
and Sivasothi (2001) complemented by media reports and websites on CJ quickly
followed (Table 1).
Table 1. Media reports, journal articles and websites on Chek Jawa, 2001-2002
Date Announcement/Reports/websites
3 June 01 First media report on CJ by ZaoBao’s Ye Xiao Zhong
8 July 01 Straits Times (ST) published its first CJ article `Chek out this hidden Eden’
10 July 01 CJ website on the internet
16 July 01 ST published letter ‘Chek Jawa’s natural beach should be preserved’
27 July 01 ST published URA’s letter ‘Chek Jawa reclamation decided after careful study’
27 July 01 First TV coverage (in Chinese): CJ featured in Mediacorp Channel 8 ‘Frontline Programme’
28 July 01 ST published letter ‘Destruction of Chek Jawa will be a loss for all’
2 Aug 01 Habitatnews announced the hosting of its own CJ website
2 Aug 01 CJ featured in Channel News Asia’s ‘The Assignment Programme’
5 Aug 01 EARTH-WORMS Website on the internet to post details of ecological survey
15 Aug 01 TODAY letter by Joy Frances ‘Is there life on this stretch?-Nature lovers intrigued but HDB not convinced’
16 Aug 01 TODAY letter by Sivasothi ‘Exciting finds at Pulau Ubin’
17 Aug 01 TODAY letter by Tan Choon Ming ‘Sad tale of Chek Jawa-Don’t we want to keep this wetland for our children’
7 Sept 01 Nature Watch Journal featured several articles on CJ (Vol. 9(3))
15-16 Sept 01 Asian Geographic featured CJ in the Exhibition at SUNTEC City in conjunction with World Animal Day
20 Sept 01 Asian Geographic Journal (Sept-Oct issue) featured a 14-page article on CJ by Sivasothi.
5. 19 Oct 01 Webshot of CJ photos taken posted on the net
11 Nov 01 An article on CJ in Wetlands (Vol. 8 (3), published by Sg. Buluh Nature Reserve to coincide with the opening of the
park’s new facilities
9 Dec 01 CJ featured in Channel U’s ‘Inside Out’ programme
21 Dec 01 ST published MND’s press release ‘Ubin’s nature beach gets a reprieve’
24 Dec 01 In ST forum ‘Chek Jawa has unique ecosystem’
27 Dec 01 ST published NPark’s press release ‘New rules for visiting Chek Jawa’
27 Dec 01 In ST forum ‘Chek Jawa an ideal outdoor classroom’
29 Dec 01 ST published a comprehensive report on the CJ saga ‘Pulling together to turn the tide’
6 Jan 02 ST published Editorial ‘Saving Chek Jawa’
Source: ‘Friends of Chek Jawa’
The media blitz was complemented by guided walks, exhibitions, road shows and
a series of public talks which brought the marine life of CJ to the heartland of the island
state (Table 2).
Table 2. Guided walks, exhibitions, talks and others on Chek Jawa 2001-2002
Date Activities
May-Aug 01 Guided walks to CJ, many of participants later played active roles in the CJ issue.
7 Sept 01 Public education weekend at CJ organized by Raffles Museum Biodiversity Research
12 Sept 01 Talk on ‘Pulau Ubin-Treasure Island’ at Ang Mo Kio Library
15-16 Sept 01 Asian Geographic featured CJ in the Exhibition at SUNTEC City in conjunction with
World Animal Day
21 Sept 01 Talk on CJ to students at National University of Singapore (NUS)
22 Sept 01 Guided walk to CJ for NUS
26 Sept 01 Talk on `Tanjung Chek Jawa’s Marine Treasures’ at Ang Mo Kio Library
7 Oct 01 CJ Exhibition at Singapore Zoological Gardens
15 Oct 01 A talk on CJ to HSSE, NIE
18 Oct 01 Visit to CJ by HSSE, NIE staff and family
19-20 Oct 01 RMBR organized the largest ever turn out for nature walks in the history of Singapore,
about 1,000 visitors
22-23 Oct 01 Photo-exhibition of CJ at Raffles Girls’ School
24 Oct-9 Nov 01 CJ Exhibition at Temasek Polytechnic
27 Oct 01 A talk on CJ at Kinokuniya Bookstore, Ngee Ann City
30 Oct 01 A talk on CJ at Department of Biological Science, NUS
1-18 Nov 01 CJ Exhibition at Singapore Science Centre Life Sciences gallery as part of the ‘Web of
Life’ Exhibition
5 Nov 01 A talk on CJ at Woodlands Regional Library
12-25 Nov. 01 CJ Exhibition at Marine Parade Community Library
18 Nov 01 A talk on CJ at Singapore Science Centre
16 Dec 01 A talk on CJ at the Singapore Science Centre
9-10 Jan 02 RMBR workshops for CJ volunteer guides I: NParks staff
22, 24 Jan 02 RMBR workshops for CJ volunteer guides II: NParks staff
Source: Friends of Chek Jawa
Individuals and nature groups appealed to the authorities to reconsider the
decision to bury the rich marine life. An inventory of the marine life and an ecological
survey along six transects was carried out to document the marine life to be lost.
Results of the surveys were sent to the government. In damage control, Nature
Society of Singapore (NSS) relocated sea grass to the shallow seas in front of Ubin
Lagoon Resort and the sea off Tanah Merah. Nature walks were organized by the RMBR
6. so that Singaporeans would realize the part of their natural heritage that would be lost
forever. The response was the largest ever turn out for nature walks in the history of
Singapore when a total of about 1,000 visitors came on that Friday and Saturday to bid
farewell to CJ (Figure 4). Something was brewing when on 2 December the Senior
Parliamentary Secretary and Permanent Secretary of National Development, and URA
Board Members visited CJ. The event was hosted by NParks, assisted by RMBR staff,
students and volunteers.
Figure 4. Public walk bidding farewell to Chek Jawa, 19-20 October 2001
In response to the appeals and evidence presented on the rich biodiversity of CJ,
and the ‘turun ke padang’ by decision-makers, on 29th December, the Minister of
National Development invited groups/concerned individuals to announce the deferment
of reclamation at CJ (Appendix I). The group (Friends of CJ) was then invited to submit
an assessing of the various options of land reclamation for the rest of Pulau Ubin. The
minister recalling his first visit to CJ and witnessing a father explaining the marine life to
his son ‘it struck me that what we are doing is really not for us, it’s for our children. We
are really custodians of this land for future generation’ (The Straits Times 15/1/02).
The caveat remains though and that when land is needed for development, the
reclamation will proceed. It is important to put a high value for CJ so that any hint of its
loss will be strongly resisted. And this value is tightly linked to the marine life, which
was in danger of being loved to death by the hordes of visitors (Figure 5). The CEO of
NParks was so concerned about this possibility that he warned that it would be tragedy if
the public ruins what is going to be saved for them (The Straits Times 29/12/01). A
visitor management system with the help of volunteers was set up by NParks to control
visitors and minimize impacts. Soon after, Friends of CJ started a study on the impact of
trampling on carpet anemones.
7. Figure 5. Hordes of visitors wandering all over CJ caused concern about trampling
effects on carpet anemones
The assessment was submitted on 2nd January 2002. The report also included a
proposal by Joe Lai to create a marine park at CJ. He wrote that ‘For some, CJ is a
giant touch pool, a playground, and a poet’s corner. For others, Chek Jawa is a natural
wonder with huge potential for education and research. It is a pity that such a wonder of
nature may soon be lost. If there is any way in which Chek Jawa can be conserved for the
enjoyment of future generations of Singaporeans, then every attempt should be made to
explore this possibility. We may be judged harshly by future generations of Singaporeans
if we fail to do so’.
The proposal suggests that CJ be protected and gazetted as a Marine Park under
the stewardship of the NParks, for recreation, education, conservation and research. This
will be a first for Singapore to have a conservation area designated as Marine Park - a
very natural feature for an island nation. Among the many suggestions are a visitor centre
(House Number One to be renovated), low concrete boardwalks, viewing tower and a
landing pontoon. Although CJ had been saved, the proposed reclamation for the rest of
Pulau Ubin was slated to begin at the end of 2001. The contractor had already started
preliminary preparations for reclamation.
Nature lovers in Singapore were caught completely by surprise when on 14
January 2002 the government announced that land reclamation for the rest of Pulau Ubin
had been deferred for 10 years. There was overall jubilation and tears flowed freely, even
among non-Singaporeans. CJ had bonded Singaporeans and non-Singaporeans in a
common cause. Friends of CJ partly anticipated the decision but kept the optimism to
themselves as they had received an email on the 4th of January thanking them for their CJ
submission, which was considered well thought out, was being considered and that there
is a good chance that the proposals will be adopted in total. Although CJ was not declared
a marine park, it was beyond the wildest dreams of many nature lovers who rallied to the
8. call to save CJ. In the press release, (Appendix II), MND explained that a team made up
of experts from the National Institute of Education of Nanyang Technological University,
the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research in NUS and other interested individuals
submitted a report which highlighted that in order to ensure the survival of the marine
ecosystems at CJ, reclamation works on Pulau Ubin should be put off. It added that
research and surveys will also be conducted to monitor the health and condition of the
marine flora and fauna at CJ. More importantly, MND considers the episode as a positive
example of consultation and collaboration between the Ministry and stakeholders which
has resulted in a win-win situation. Mr. Mah, however, said that his ministry was not
ready to discuss the gazetting of CJ as a nature area yet and will leave that decision to the
next Concept Plan to be reviewed in 2011(The Straits Times 15/1/02). The chronology of
events starting with the announcement of land reclamation in 1992 and ending in the
announcement of deferment of land reclamation in Pulau Ubin is documented in Table 3.
Table 3. Selected chronology and events of Chek Jawa, 2001-2002
Date Milestones
1992 Government approved plans to reclaim Pulau Ubin, including Chek Jawa (CJ)
Jan 01 Announcement in Draft Concept Plan 2001 to reclaim Pualu Ubin and Chek Jawa
11 May 01 CJ issue raised by member of audience during public forum organized by URA and chaired
by Mr. Mah Bow Tan, Minister of National Development
22-24 June 01 Nature Society of Singapore (NSS) damage control experimental transplanting of marine
plants to the sea off Ubin Lagoon Resort
22-24 July 01 NSS experimental transplanting of marine plants from CJ to the sea off Tanah Merah
27 July 01 ST published URA’s letter ‘Chek Jawa reclamation decided after careful study’
5 Aug 01 Preliminary ecological and geomorphological survey of CJ
20-21Aug 01 RMBR organized expedition to collect marine life at CJ
21-22 Aug 01 Ecological survey of CJ on biodiversity of surface and subsurface marine life, leveling along
transects, sediments of habitats collected for analysis and sampling points recorded by GPS
4 Oct 01 A checklist of the fauna of the intertidal ecosystem of CJ P. Ubin submitted by RMBR, NUS
to the Nature Conservation Branch, Nparks Board, MND.
2 Dec 01 Visit to CJ by Senior Parliamentary Secretary, National Development, Permanent Secretary,
National Development and URA Board Members. Event hosted by NParks, assisted by
RMBR staff, students and volunteers.
20 Dec 01 Mr. Mah Bow Tan invited groups/concerned individuals to announce deferment of
reclamation at CJ and invited feedbacks on the rest of the proposed Ubin reclamation.
26 Dec 01 An invitation to selected individuals from URA to submit reclamation options, as an
individual or as a group, for Pulau Ubin. Proposal submitted as a group.
27 Dec 01 ST published NPark’s press release ‘New rules for visiting Chek Jawa’
End Dec 01 Land reclamation due to start at Pulau Ubin
2 Jan 02 Group submission of report and CD-ROM on reclamation options for Pulau Ubin
14 Jan 02 Press Release by MND on 10 year deferment of land reclamation at Pulau Ubin
15 Jan 02 ST reports on deferment of land reclamation at Pulau Ubin. Mr. Mah Bow Tan, MND
mentioned custodianship (stewardship) and the CEO of URA BG (NS) Tan Yong Soon
referred to the process leading to the change in decision as ‘not a turning point in
government policy but as a good model of public consultation at work’
Source: ‘Friends of Chek Jawa’
Soon after the 14th January press release by MND, Chua (2002) brought out a
coffee table book on Chek Jawa, which documented in images its biodiversity and the
events leading to it being saved. To help visitors identify the myriad life there, a
9. guidebook on Chek Jawa was put together by Tan and Yeo (2003) in association with
MBR, with contributions by volunteer guides of CJ.
Mapping and Ecological Survey
The mapping, marine life survey, ecological survey and monitoring of CJ were carried
out by individuals in their own capacity although many of them were members of nature
groups or research institutions.
A need to know more about CJ resulted in a preliminary habitat and
geomorphologic map, with a description of the surface and dynamics of the low-tide
lagoon and cuspate bars. The map showing the distribution of sea grass and the intertidal
morphology was compiled from field mapping using DGPS (Figure 6), supplemented by
interpretation of satellite images and aerial photographs. The maps served as a base map
for planning the ecological survey.
Volunteer mapping team of CJ using DGPS Levelling across CJ by students from NIE-NTU
Figure 6. Mapping and levelling in Chek Jawa
In the ecological survey, a preliminary survey was carried out on 5 August 2001
during which six profile lines were laid down, and the actual survey was carried out early
in the morning on 22 August (Figure 7). The ecological survey compiled biodiversity of
surface and subsurface marine life, leveling along transects collection of marine life and
sediments of habitats for analysis. All sampling points were recorded by GPS. The
marine life collected was sent to RMBR. About the same time, another group of
volunteers collected marine life at CJ.
10. Ecological survey along six transects Members of survey team 4 sieving
Quadrat sampling of surface/ subsurface marine life Reccy on 22 July 2001 to lay down transects or
ecological survey
Figure 7. Ecological survey carried out by volunteers, 22nd August 2001
The ecological surveys by volunteers were captured by Eric Lim in a
documentary ‘Remember Chek Jawa’. It chronicles the efforts of individuals from all
walks of life who volunteered to help the biodiversity survey, one of several efforts that
would provide feedback to the government. Eric Lim was particularly inspired by their
efforts to participate in a tiring, muddy and apparently incomprehensible biodiversity
survey, at a time when all hope had virtually been lost. At that time, most felt that this
record would simply serve as an obituary for CJ, as the reclamation was to begin in just a
few months. Later they were elated to be proven wrong.
Developing a GIS Database for Chek Jawa
The geomorphological and habitat maps and ecological data collected were integrated
into a preliminary GIS (Raju, 2002) and used for exhibitions and talks on CJ. Additional
data were later developed to build the various GIS layers (Figure 8). Developing the CJ
geo-database is ongoing and recently a dense network of elevation points has been
collected using total station to assess the impacts of a rising sea on intertidal lagoon and
cuspate bar of CJ. The CJ GIS has no single ownership; it belongs to all.
11. 103°59'20" 103°59'30" 103°59'40" 103°59'50" MALAYSIA
Pu la u Ubi n
1°25'10"
1°25'10"
CHEK JAWA LANDFORMS SINGAPORE
BEACH
1°25'00"
1°25'00"
SA
N
D
LOWLAND
BA
Pulau Ubin
R
Mangroves
LAGOON
1°24'50"
1°24'50"
Abandoned pond
Beach
Coastal Forest
Coastal Forest Coral rubble Coral rubble
Land > 5m
1°24'40"
1°24'40"
Sandflat Lowland
N
Mangroves
0.1 0 0.1 0.2 Kilometers W E
Quarry
S
Sand bar
Sandflat
Lagoon
103°59'20" 103°59'30" 103°59'40" 103°59'50"
Coastal landforms Sediments
Seagrass meadows Locationof carpet anemones in quadrat samples
Figure 8. Selected layers of GIS database of Chek Jawa
Monitoring Impacts of Trampling on Carpet Anemones
In the early stages when CJ was open to the public, there was concern about the effects of
trampling by visitors and this led to a monitoring study by ‘Friends of CJ’, with
volunteers from mainly NIE doing the monthly carpet anemone monitoring. Monitoring
covered 73m length across the lagoon and 85m length along the bar. The methodology
for the monitoring is shown in Figure 9. Monitoring started in August 2002 and ended in
July 2004.
12. Methodology
• The belt transects uses the original poles planted
by National Parks
• A 3-m belt on one side of the survey line forms
the sampling area.
• All Carpet Anemones within the sample area were
recorded in a log sheet.
• Information collected on each anemone includes
– Distance along transect
– 0ffset from the transect line,
– Diameter and the color of anemone.
• A photographic record collected of each CA and
its position and offset along the transect.
• Monitoring was carried out at 1-2 monthly
intervals
• The data from the log sheet after the field survey
are keyed in Microsoft Excel spread sheet for
further analysis.
Figure 9. Methodology of carpet anemone monitoring in CJ
Over the two year period of monitoring the number of carpet anemones,
especially on the bar, surprisingly remained nearly the same, showing their resilience to
trampling. Part of the reason could be that the anemones on the bar were clearly visible to
the visitors who had been instructed by guides to avoid stepping on them. The
preliminary result of the survey including an evaluation on the reliability of the data
collected had been reported by Teh et al (2004). The total anemone count on the lagoon
was about 35 and that on the bar about 80. Stayers, quitters and newcomers were
identified (Figure 10).
13. Data Analysis/Belt Transect
24-12-03
Carpet Anemones (Sandbar)
28-10-03
29-09-03
320
310
300
290
280
270
260
250
240
230
220
210
Distance from transect (cm)
200
190
180
170
160
150
140
130
120
110
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0
100
200
600
800
900
1100
300
400
500
700
1000
1200
1300
1400
1500
1600
1700
1800
1900
2000
2100
2200
2300
2400
2500
2600
2700
2800
2900
3000
3100
3200
3300
3400
3500
3600
3700
3800
3900
4000
4100
4200
4300
4400
4500
4600
4700
4800
4900
5000
5100
5200
5300
5400
5500
5600
5700
5800
5900
6000
6100
6200
6300
6400
6500
6600
6700
6800
6900
7000
7100
7200
7300
7400
7500
7600
7700
7800
7900
8000
Distance along transect (cm)
Figure 10. Selected result of carpet anemone monitoring showing stayers, quitters and
new comers
Managing Chek Jawa
A Chek Jawa Working Group was set up soon after with representatives from NSS,
Singapore Environment Council, RMBR and NUS. NParks took over the management of
CJ and nature walks, in which participants have to register months in advance, were
organized during low spring tides. Members of staff from NParks and volunteer guides
were trained by RMBR with the help from ‘Friends of CJ’. The volunteer guides play a
vital role in helping to mange the wetlands. CJ immediately became a ‘must visit’ place
for Singaporeans, and the myriad of marine life there surprised many who never
imagined that such a marine paradise could exist so close to their doorstep and wonder
how such a wonderland could elude ‘discovery’ by even nature lovers for so long.
HSBC adopted CJ and contributed S$800,000 towards Pulau Ubin conservation
fund for setting up of the Ubin-HSBC volunteer club and the HSBC gallery at the visitor
centre. In early 2007, CJ was closed to the public after heavy rains in December 2006
and January 2007 caused massive death of marine life, especially the carpet anemones.
Freshwater rains and discharge from Sungai Johor upset the wetlands' saltwater balance,
and intertidal walks were stopped in March 2007 to let the wetlands recover. On 7th July
2007, the nature reserve with boardwalks, a viewing tower and a visitor centre costing the
government S$7 million were re-opened to the public (Figure 11). The marine life was
observed to be recovering slowly. Unlike before, visitors can conduct their own tour.
However, those interested to go down to the intertidal areas during low spring tides still
have to register for guided tours. Since 2002, more than 20,000 visitors have participated
14. in guided walks and the boardwalk will allow visitors to see CJ on all days. However,
those on guided walks must still register their interest.
Coastal boardwalk CJ Pontoon leading to cuspate bar
CJ from Jejawi viewing tower Visitor Center (House No. 1)
Figure 11. New facilities built for visitors at Chek Jawa
It is ironical that the marine life of CJ saved from human actions of reclamation
and trampling was nearly lost because of natural events of excessive rain. This make
managers realize how little was known about the dynamics of CJ and the natural cycle of
destruction and recovery of marine life there. Added to this complex process is that of
global warming and potential impact on CJ and its marine inhabitants.
Discussion
In this section, I will touch on a few areas of generic interest before returning to CJ.
These are on the role of research findings on policy formulation, the role of NGOs and
individuals in marine biodiversity conservation and on what can be learnt from CJ.
Research and management policies
Although it is obvious that to manage an area or a particular resource well we must know
the area and the resources found within it, it is surprising that too often attempts at
management are carried out with insufficient knowledge. At times, there is little baseline
15. or longitudinal data to guide how an area should be protected. Usually, the authority
entrusted with managing the area does not have a research arm, capacity, or funds to do
the research to understand the ecological processes operating. It may also focus more on
management and not on scientific issues. How then can such a problem be addressed.
It is often said that scientific research should be left to scientists, management left
to managers and policies left to senior administrators and decision makers. Hence, it can
be argued that research should be carried out by scientists to seek the truth and be without
any given agenda. There is independent research, collaborative research, joint research,
commissioned research and in-house research. Each has its implications. Independent
research may not be welcomed in a protected area because it may not fit in with the
agenda of the approving authority. On the other hand scientists may not want to conduct
research in such areas because of the often long delay in getting approval and the
conditions imposed on them. In-house research would be ideal as objectives would be
more targeted towards the needs of the authority. Where funds are available, consultants
can be commissioned to carry out the research. Findings from in-house and
commissioned research for obvious reasons usually influence decision making and have a
better chance of being translated into policies.
Scientists conducting independent research should just present their findings and
in my opinion not try to influence policies. Leave the scientific facts to speak for
themselves and researchers should not feel disappointed when their findings are not
translated into policies. In addition, research findings can be conflicting and confusing to
policy makers. There is good research methodology and bad research methodology. And
there is good and poor analysis and interpretation of data. Like Climate Change, there are
also uncertainties. Policy formulation is a complex process and has many ramifications,
affecting people and their livelihood. Scientists should not try to carry this extra burden
and leave policy formulation to others.
Role of NGOs and the public in conservation management and planning
It is crucial that planning balances development and environment and that the planning
process be inclusive and seeks the help of NGOs, stakeholders and the public. The
planning process must have their confidence, and allows them to participate in all stages
of planning. The inclusive approach is new to both government and people and it will
have initial teething problems. The people will take time to respond to this new
responsibility and play their role properly. Patience is required.
The CJ saga would probably have a different outcome if not for the inclusive
planning approach in Singapore, in which transparency and public consultation make
possible for people to know what is happening and provide insightful feedback. Of
course, some will argue that more can be done in terms of transparency and public
consultation.
The public is encouraged to participate at all stages of planning. Even when the
Draft Master Plan is exhibited, the message is that what is presented is not final, and that
16. the public is invited to share their views, opinions and ideas so that the plan can be
refined. The public should be realistic regarding their role. Their feedback may or may
not be acted upon or only partially accepted. The then Prime Minister Mr. Goh explained
that government does listen to feedback from the public but that government cannot be
run based just on feedback, as on any one issue there are 101 opinions and many
interested parties (The Straits times 19/8/2002).
The public and feedback
The mechanism for public feedback is usually in place for most countries and despite the
usual invitation by government to form a partnership with the community and
encouraging the public to take ownership of their resources and environment, there are
questions whether the public or middle level managers of government are ready for the
new paradigm (Teh 2003). The skeptics may view the call for a partnership to be a trick
to flush out environmental dissidents; others may argue why do the work for them or
complain that there is no money in it. It may not be part of the culture to be involved or
that they may seriously question their ability to make a meaningful contribution. This
may explain the usual poor feedback received in some countries. On the other hand,
feedback may be looked upon by some middle managers as a nuisance, requiring the
redrafting of plans and questioning about who knows best. Solicited feedbacks and
unsolicited feedbacks may also be received differently. Feedbacks required by regulation
may be better received than uninvited feedbacks.
Role of individual in promoting awareness
Useful data may be collected by the public who may set up their websites to report on
their observations and post photographs, some of which may have a GPS position. Local
residents have historical data and divers provide continual observations. School groups
may also be a useful source of information. Authorities can help pool the data to be
shared by all. The inclusive approach in tapping knowledge from the public helps build
up local knowledge.
Those involved in management should be equipped with as much knowledge as
possible about the area and resource they are managing and the policies and regulations
applied. How best the required knowledge should be easily disseminated to them? The
data derived from mapping, surveys, research and feedbacks should be integrated for easy
retrieval and should be updated from time to time. A GIS database is usually the
recommended means to integrate all the data. Capacity building within the organization is
required and this often takes time and outsourcing may be the initial and temporary
solution. In CJ, the initial GIS database was developed by individuals to be shared by all
but a comprehensive database may be beyond the capacity of any individuals.
Why was Chek Jawa ‘undiscovered’?
Sivasothi (2001) questioned ‘How did we miss CJ?’, described by the then NSS president
as a 'gift from heaven'. In recent debates on conservation in Singapore, the name CJ has
17. not been a familiar one. According to him, the reasons are numerous. The strategy
generally adopted by nature groups have been directed to saving the whole island of
Pulau Ubin, thus losing out on specifics like CJ. At the time, most of the expertise and
interest in NSS lay with birds and mammals. Lack of public access to CJ was a
significant problem, and the path land leading to the coast was marked ‘private property’.
A map of Pulau Ubin published in the society's Nature Watch magazine does not reflect
the true nature of the site. Ironically, the resettlement of these residents affected by the
proposed land reclamation resulted in easy access to CJ. Although CJ was poorly known
to NSS members, the local residents knew of its rich marine life, collecting sea horses for
drying and harvesting shellfish from the intertidal mud. Marine life was also being
collected for the aquarium trade. Fish traps dot the area and fish nets criss-crossed the
mud flats. Chua (2002) lamented that divers had visited CJ but they were more interested
in taking photos of marine life. They lost interest in the place because of the poor
visibility. Too many threatening signage island-wide warning about trespassing and their
consequences did not help. Some may have visited CJ during high tide and missed the
wetland wonderland; others may have been there during low tide but failed to see the
ecological significance because they did not believe their eyes. The mentality that the
grass is greener across the hill and the water more blue on the other side of the sea was in
play. A more simple reason may be that urbanized Singaporeans had lost their spirit of
adventure and too few were venturing out to enjoy and explore nature areas. Hopefully,
the discovery of CJ will help change this and reignite their exploratory spirit.
Why the deferment?
The press release to announcement the deferment of land reclamation at Pulau Ubin was
considered the first time the government made a U-turn in reclamation issues. The New
Straits Times (2/1/2002) was very close to the mark on the reason for the U-turn when it
reported that It was a day the government proved itself responsive to public feedback, a
day it showed itself open to the merits of persuasive argument from citizens, and that on
the part of the CJ activists, they showed how to make their case and win it. On the
internet, in the newspapers and in public forums, they pleaded their cause, passionately
but rationally and with civility at all times. The URA CEO considered the CJ deferment
as not a turning point in government policy but as a good model of public consultation at
work, in which they partnered the government in a search to come up with alternative
reclamation profiles (The Straits Times 15/1/2002). He considered what had happened in
CJ as a good model to work on.
Some considered the decision as all about timing and that if it had happened 10
years earlier, the result would have been different, as the conservationists would have
fought a lonely battle, their voices lost in a wilderness of booming economic growth,
without public support and against an unsympathetic government. In an era of public
awareness about state of earth’s health and the impacts of global climate change, attitudes
from both sides had changed. And let us not forget about the individuals who fortuitously
came together and help to save CJ.
18. Various people and organizations will look at the CJ story differently and ponders
about the reasons for the U-turn. Some will claim that they role was the main reason for
the deferment. Was it really about natural heritage and the new found respect for nature?
Or, was it really still about economic benefits, about the potential billions to be reaped
from biomedical research products from the marine life of CJ. The true reasons may
never be known and the true story may never be told. Who were these ‘Friends of CJ’
and how did this group of individuals, many of whom met for the first time when brought
together by Joe Lai on the wetlands of CJ on the 5th of August 2001, embarked on a ‘Save
CJ’ campaign, trekked across the mud flats of CJ and travelled on many different
journeys and helped bring about the U-turn by the government. Some of them have
continued to promote nature appreciation and conservation and look forward to each low
spring tide to happily spend their time exploring the intertidal flats around Singapore;
others have gone back to what they were before the ‘Save CJ’ campaign; a few have
moved on to other interests and the remaining few continue to tell their untold story of
CJ. It will never be known whether CJ would be what it is today without ‘Friends of CJ’.
Conclusion
The Chek Jawa story has many lessons to offer on natural history, active citizenry and
smart partnerships between government and people. The call to save CJ brought together
brave, committed` individuals of various nationalities, ages, experiences, training and
backgrounds. ‘Friends of CJ’ selflessly lend their time and expertise for a worthy cause.
Their vast pool of experiences, wisdom and contacts help to strategize an approach that is
apolitical and non-confrontational, more acceptable to government, to plan a biodiversity,
ecological and mapping survey, organize public walks, mobilize volunteers, enlist the
help of media and bring the CJ issue to the public. The CJ saga also shocked
Singaporeans and made them realize how little they know about marine life in Singapore
and sparked off follow-up surveys of marine life in Beting Bronok, Sekudu, Cyrene Reef
and Semakau among other places. The marine life there was equally fascinating as that
found in CJ. Singapore is so much richer in its knowledge of marine biodiversity and for
this it has to thank the individuals who came together as Friends of Chek Jawa.
Acknowledgement
We gratefully acknowledge the images and other information generously provided by
‘Friends of Chek Jawa’, the help of NIE trainee teachers in mapping and surveying Chek
Jawa and in monitoring the carpet anemones, and NParks for allowing us to conduct the
various activities in Chek Jawa. Last but not least we thank Joe Lai for introducing us to
the wondrous wetland of Chek Jawa.
References
Chua, E. K. 2002. Chek Jawa: Discovering Singapore’s Biodiversity. Simply Green:
Singapore.
Chua S.C, Lum, S. and Leong, K.P. 2001. Pulau Ubin Tanjung Chek Jawa: A Treasure
to Behold. Nature Watch Vol. 9(3):2-6.
19. Lai, J. 2001. Chek Jawa’s Wet Wonderland. Wetlands Vol. 8(3):3
Lum S. 2001. Nature as model teacher. Nature Watch Vol. 9(3):7
Raju D. R. 2002. Developing a Chek Jawa GIS database. Presented in HSSE-NIE
seminar, Singapore
Ministry of Environment, Singapore 2000. Republic of Singapore Initial National
Communication. Singapore
Sivasothi, N. 2001. Chek Jawa, lost forever? Asian Geographic 10:12-25
Tan, R. and Yeo, A. 2003. Chek Jawa Guidebook. Simply Green: Singapore
Teh T.S. 2003. Role of public consultation in environmental management: some
examples from Malaysia and Singapore. Presented in Social Studies Symposium 2003
Establishing New Frontiers: Social Studies in the 21st Century, 17-18 March 2003,
Singapore
Teh T.S., Raju K., Lai J., Tan R. & Yap H.B. 2004. Monitoring Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin,
Singapore. Paper presented in 7th SEAGA-Khon Kaen Conference, Thailand 29 Nov-2
Dec 2004
The New Straits Times, various issues
Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Singapore 2001. The Concept Plan 2001. URA:
Singapore
20. APPENDIX I
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PRESS RELEASE
DEFERMENT OF RECLAMATION WORKS AT TANJUNG CHEK JAWA
1. The Ministry of National Development (MND) has decided to defer thr reclamation works at
Tanjung Chek Jawa originally slated for the end of 2001. This will allow MND to discuss with the
relevant experts on how best the marine life there can be protected. Chek Jawa is located at the
eastern tip of Pulau Ubin.
2. Groups and individuals with special interest in Tanjung Chek Jawa have given MND detailed and
insightful feedback since the area was first brought to public attention at the URA Public Dialogue
on the Concept Plan 2001 this year.
3. The decision to defer the reclamation works at Chek Jawa comes after MND has carefully
considered all public submissions and also following extensive consultations among various
government agencies including URA, NParks and HDB. MND has also consulted with marine life
experts from NUS and other institutions and societies.
4. This afternoon, Mr. Mah Bow Tan, Minister for National Development, met with some
representatives of nature and biodiversity groups and some members of public who have shown
strong interest in protecting the marine life in this area. The meeting was called to discuss the best
option to protect the marine life at Chek Jawa. More details will be announced later after studying
the various options.
5. With the deferment of reclamation works, the immediate need is to conserve biodiversity and
prevent deterioration of the mudflats and injury to the marine organisms. Hence, we wish to advise
members of the public that there is no longer an urgent rush to visit Chek Jawa.
6. NParks will put in place a system to manage the flow of visitors during low tide. Visitors will be
advised to keep to the designated routes and refrain from collecting any plants or animals. NParks
is also exploring with nature and biodiversity groups to provide guides. NParks will release more
details at a later date.
7. We seek the cooperation of the public to protect the habitats and to ensure long-term enjoyment of
this natural heritage.
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
20 DECEMBER 2001.
APPENDIX II
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PRESS STATEMENT
DEFERMENT OF RECLAMATION WORKS AT PULAU UBIN
1 The Ministry of National Development (MND) has decided to put off the land reclamation works
at Pulau Ubin for as long as the island is not required for development. This will allow Chek Jawa
to be retained in its natural state. The rustic nature of Pulau Ubin will be preserved for as long as
possible. The long-term planning intention for Pulau Ubin remains as stated in the Concept Plan
2001.
21. 2 The reclamation works at Chek Jawa was originally scheduled to begin in Dec 2001. Since the
middle of 2001, nature groups and individuals with special interest in Chek Jawa have highlighted
the rich biodiversity of the area and provided insightful feedback.
3 On 20 December 2001, MND announced the interim decision to defer the reclamation to study
how the reclamation profile at Pulau Ubin could be modified such that the marine life at Chek
Jawa would not be adversely affected.
4 A team made up of experts from the National Institute of Education, the Raffles Museum of
Biodiversity Research and other interested individuals submitted a report which highlighted
that in order to ensure the survival of the marine ecosystems at Chek Jawa, reclamation
works on Pulau Ubin should be put off.
5 The Nature Society, in a report coordinated by its conservation committee, came to the same
conclusion. Both reports ascertained that if reclamation must be carried out, it should be limited
to only a very small area of Pulau Ubin in order not to harm the fragile ecosystems at Chek Jawa.
6 MND has assessed that it is not cost-effective to reclaim such a small area and has therefore
decided not to proceed with reclamation works at Pulau Ubin for as long as the island is not
required for development.
7 In order to protect the marine life at Chek Jawa, NParks is setting up a committee comprising
representatives from the Nature Society, Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research and other
experts to work out a comprehensive plan to maintain Chek Jawa’s unique ecosystem for the
continued enjoyment of all.
8 Among other things, the committee will look into the provision of appropriate amenities like
board-walks and trained guides. Research and surveys will also be conducted to monitor the health
and condition of the marine flora and fauna at Chek Jawa.
9 Minister for National Development says, “Land in Singapore is scarce. There will always be
competing needs for land for development and national security needs. The decision not to
reclaim Pulau Ubin at the moment has been made only after we have weighed the trade-offs and
carefully considered the land use implications. This episode is a positive example of consultation
and collaboration between the Ministry and the stakeholders which has resulted in a win-win
situation. The Government will continue to take a balanced and pragmatic approach to land use
planning.”
MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
14 January 2002