When one region’s temperature significantly rises above its surroundings, it stands out like an isolated island on a thermal map. In today’s world, urban areas are experiencing higher temperatures due to growing populations and climate change. As a result, people are suffering more during the summer.
Singapore city, in particular, is witnessing a gradual increase in temperature. Being located near the equator, the city’s temperature can reach as high as 32 degrees Celsius during the day. Singapore is heavily urbanized, with numerous tall buildings, which contributes to this temperature rise.
Nevertheless, the Singaporean government is taking stringent measures to control the heat. Extensive research is underway to combat rising temperatures. One notable effort is the creation of a 225-acre park on the bay’s shores known as ‘Gardens by the Bay.’ Within this park lies the Flower Dome, a greenhouse where you can experience a comfortable temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. Additionally, there are 24 cooling towers nearby.
What makes this system unique is the large underground air-conditioning system that helps maintain a cool environment. This system circulates cooling water through pipes to various buildings in the central network. When needed, machines further cool the water before delivering it to places like shopping malls, residential buildings, hospitals, and private offices. This innovative approach is called the ‘District Cooling System’ and saves forty percent more electricity compared to traditional air conditioning.
The Singaporean government has set an ambitious goal of planting 1 million trees by 2031 as part of its initiative to reduce the city’s heat. This move is crucial for mitigating the rising temperatures in urban areas. Singapore has a history of success with such strategies, and its efforts to create more comfortable and livable cities are commendable.
The increasing temperatures in urban areas, like Singapore city, pose challenges to the well-being of residents. However, the Singaporean government’s proactive approach, such as the development of ‘Gardens by the Bay’ and the innovative ‘District Cooling System,’ shows their commitment to combatting this issue. By setting goals like planting 1 million trees, Singapore is taking significant steps to create a more comfortable and sustainable urban environment.
