ABSTRACT

Seck Tan takes a close look at “Singapore's environmental policy.” Due to the isolation and vulnerability of islands, climate change and its associated phenomena will generate greater environmental stress on island states. Seck Tan analyzes the potential impacts of climate change on island nations and especially on Singapore, and looks at how environmental policies can be crafted in response to observations associated with climate change. This chapter also outlines the progression of Singapore's environmental policy. One significant achievement which the island-state has demonstrated is to introduce a regulatory mechanism, namely, the Environmental Impact Assessment for developments and projects in Singapore. This serves to protect and create awareness for the environment as the island-state grows and develops. However, in light of less benign challenges ahead for Singapore, future policy directions and recommendations toward sustainable development will be critical as Singapore continues to balance economic performance and environmental protection.