Singapore is high on the list of eco-friendly cities. Since becoming independent in 1965, the city has made sure its growth aligns with sustainability. For a compact city-state, Singapore has plenty of green spaces. With its collection of tropical parks and botanical gardens, Singapore is well on their way to becoming the greenest city in the world.

Back in the 1960s, Singapore wasn’t the clean, green city you see today. The city was dotted with dirty canals and slums back then; wastewater was a cause for concern as well.

However, Prime Minister Lee Kuan had a vision and wanted to turn Singapore into a lush garden city. This meant that a tidy-up was in order. As a result, the slums and dirty waterways were cleared out.

Lee Kuan’s vision of a clean city set the tone for years to come. The public was educated on the importance of green initiatives, and the government launched massive clean-up operations.

Singaporeans are also aware that a green city is a draw for investors. Just have a look at the number of hotels and resorts in Singapore. For instance, the likes of Pan Pacific Singapore have set up shop here, and these hotels also contribute to the sustainability efforts of the nation.

Green wall of the Li Ka Shing Library, Singapore Management University | Image via Wikimedia Commons

At the heart of everything the Singaporean government does is the wellness of its citizens. Going green and having plants all around isn’t only a matter of aesthetics but also an essential feature for the future of the nation. Over a 30-year stretch, the government invested in cleaning up the city and establishing green bodies like the National Parks Board. This whole green attitude has shaped rules and policies and inspired the public to get involved in sustainability efforts.

Singapore is a compact city of 700 square kilometers, and there are nearly five million people living in the city. There’s no denying that it’s a bit of a squeeze, and trying to fit in green spaces was a challenge. But the city found a solution: a

seamless fusion of architecture and vegetation.

The city takes inspiration from biophilic design principles and has started intertwining architectural aesthetics with swathes of green. This strategy has worked well in the city’s attempt to become a green city.

Since the dawn of 2008, green construction has become the gold standard in Singapore. As a result, towering edifices and diverse spaces now stand testament to sustainable ecosystems. Verdant expanses are no longer restricted to parks; you can see them enveloping building exteriors and even interiors.

Marina Bay, for example, emerges as a striking symbol of Singapore's commitment to blending the natural with the man-made. If you want to get up close and personal with this verdant urban wonder, then staying at a hotel near Marina Bay doesn't just place you right in the midst of Singapore's eco-dreams but also gives you a prime vantage point over its stunning waterside and renowned landmarks.

While many nations focus on economic growth rather than green efforts, Singapore has managed to strike a balance between the two. For years, the government has masterminded a strategy that capitalizes on the nation’s tight resources and space. Their eyes were set on the long game, aiming to forge a sustainable and pleasant urban space, backed by sound financial planning and science-driven rules.

As the younger people grow up amidst pristine parks and spotless streets, there's a risk they might overlook the efforts that have gone into achieving the nation’s green status. To ensure the legacy continues, Singapore has put environmental awareness at the forefront for its inhabitants.

Singapore believes that cultivating a sense of responsibility and awareness about the planet's health in youngsters is key. This will ensure they are all clued up on tackling urban challenges, especially with the looming shadow of climate change. Moreover, a growing number of university courses are now tailored around sustainable design and tech – proof that Singapore’s future is looking pretty green!