Inadequacy of Shade and Ecological Cover of Young Saplings That Replace Felled Trees

Mr Ng Shi Xuan asked the Minister for National Development in relation to public sector development projects (a) whether replacement trees which are similar to the age, girth and canopy cover of the felled trees are required to be planted and if not, why not; and (b) how does the Government addresses or mitigates the inadequacy of shade and ecological function provided by young replacement saplings for the felled trees.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: For public sector development projects, the National Parks Board (NParks) works with agencies to retain mature trees where feasible, unless the trees cannot be integrated or transplanted, or pose a risk to public safety.

Where trees cannot be retained, NParks requires replacement trees to be planted within the development's green buffers and peripheral planting areas. NParks also works with agencies to ensure planting areas meet or exceed the standard widths and select appropriate replacement species for different purposes, including providing shade and visual relief, supporting biodiversity and strengthening ecological connectivity, accounting for the needs and circumstances of each project. Where feasible, species selection also takes into account the growth rates and canopy forms of the replacement trees.