21-27 Jan: Highlights of the week ahead

You CAN make a difference for wildlife trade. Come for the ACRES get-together to learn more about their work and how you can help.

There are three nature walks in our parks this weekend. Choose from the Heritage and Nature Walk at Fort Canning Park or the Evolution Garden tour at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Or join Shawn Lum and the Nature Society (Singapore)'s Plant Group on a Walk at Mt. Faber Park (for NSS members only)

Besides the mangrove walks at Buloh on Saturday and Sunday there's also the Sunday session of Painting with Pui San: learn how to appreciate art and nature at the same time.

And what a fabulous way to end the first month of the year! There's an environmental or nature talk on almost every weekday next week!

Tuesday
Food vs Fuel - Challenges and Opportunities in Biofuels

Wednesday
Community Conserved Areas
Biomineralisation and hot springs and coral reefs

Thursday
Energy for Growth – Singapore’s National Energy Policy

Friday
Is there a global extinction crisis for biodiversity?
How many subaerial algae are there in the tropical rainforest?

Have a wild week ahead!

27 Jan (Sun): Painting with Pui San at Sungei Buloh

Free art-and-nature appreciation at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Pui San welcomes artists of all ages or anyone who wants to learn. His objective is to encourage creativity while enjoying nature at the same time. Bring along your favourite drawing or painting supplies.

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

Time: Meet 8.30am at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve ticketing counter (Visitor Centre). Session usually lasts until about 11am.
Admission charges: While the art session is free, usual admission charges to Reserve apply. $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://artinwetlands.wordpress.com/
Contact: Tham Pui Sam at thampuisan@hotmail.com or the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jan (Sun); Dive Hantu with the Hantu Bloggers

Bookings closed! A unique and educational dive experience in our local waters. Discover what is truly, uniquely Singapore!

Your support helps us monitor and document Hantu's reef on a regular basis! Let's see what's waiting for us out there this time!

Pre-registration is required.

Organised by the Hantu Bloggers, check out their blog for more details of the trip and past exciting encounters.

Join the The Hantu Bloggers Yahoo Group to read the trip itinerary, and to be informed of future dives.

Website: http://www.pulauhantu.org/
Contact: hantublog@gmail.com

27 Jan (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

Time: 9.30 am (subject to availability of guides) for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jan (Sun): Birdwatching at Rifle Range Central Catchment Forest

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

Birdwatching at Rifle Range Central Catchment Forest with Tan Ju Lin. This is the time of the year where you will find our winter visitors and passage migrants in the forest. Avian friends like flycatchers, thrushes, babblers, woodpeckers, sunbirds, spiderhunters, leafbirds, Asian Fairy Bluebirds etc may be your ticks here.

Time: 7.30am, meet at the junction of Dunearn and Rifle Range Roads. Car pooling will be required.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

27 Jan (Sun): Plant Group Walk at Mt. Faber Park with Shawn Lum

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

It is time to rediscover the botanical wonders of this delightful coastal hill park. Come prepared for a bit of a climb and to explore the hidden treasures of the various interesting plants!

Time: 9.30am, meet at Telok Blangah Way, at the bus-stop in front of Masjid Al-Amin.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

26 Jan (Sat): ACRES get-together

Join us for the first Acres Supporters’ Get-Together of 2008, for the latest updates on the Acres Wildlife Rescue Centre, to find out about our expose of the wildlife trade and our efforts to end the trade in endangered species in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acres will be sharing our plans for the year (including our brand new education and volunteer programme) and highlighting volunteer opportunities. More than ever, we need your help as we increase the scope of our work.

Come and meet like-minded people who share your passion for making a difference in the lives of animals. Encourage friends and family to come too!

Please RSVP as soon as possible by sending an email to: charlene@acres.org.sg

Time: 1.30-4pm
Venue: National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (MPH 1)
6 Eu Tong Sen Street, #04-88, The Central, Singapore 059817
Website: http://www.acres.org.sg/
Contact: charlene@acres.org.sg

26 Jan (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30 am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

26 Jan (Sat): Evolution Garden tour

A free guided walk of this unique garden that tells the story of how our plants came to be. An easy stroll on paved paths among strange plants.

Suitable for kids.

The 4pm tour is conducted in mandarin.

This walk is held every fourth Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am (English tour) 4pm (Mandarin tour)
Venue: Register at Visitor Centre before the tour starts.
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

26 Jan (Sat): Heritage and Nature Walk at Fort Canning Park

Free guided walk to discover the most historic part of Singapore. Malay & Chinese historical records point to this hill as the centre of a kingdom that arose around 1300AD. Previously a "Forbidden Hill", Fort Canning Park once housed some ancient Malay rulers as well as Sir Stamford Raffles who had his house built in 1823 during his 3rd and last visit to Singapore.

This walk is conducted by volunteer guides every last Saturday of the month.

Time: 4-5.30pm
Venue: Meet at Cox Terrace, in front of Fort Canning Centre, Fort Canning Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Lili at 63321302 or Goh_lili@nparks.gov.sg

26 Jan (Sat): Startup@SG Panel Series: Alternative Energy at the Library

With the prices of crude oil hitting almost the hundred dollar mark, the viability of alternative energy which was once deemed to be too expensive has never looked more promising. Coupled with the Singapore government's keen interest in developing the Alternative Energy industry as evidenced by the setting up of $6.3 billion solar power plant, things have never looked more exciting right at home. Come down to find out from our panel of experts about the technologies, industry trends and market for alternative energy.

This series is organised by the NUS Entrepreneur Society.

Time: 9.30-11.30am
Venue: Possibility Room, National Library 100 Victoria Street
Website: National Library with contact link

25 Jan (Fri): How many subaerial algae are there in the tropical rainforest?

A talk by Dr Jiri Neustupa, Department of Botany, Charles University of Praque, Czech Republic.

Subaerial algae are mostly composed of microscopic plants (Chlorophyta) and chromists (Heterokontophyta). These little known organisms inhabit bark and leaves of forest trees. Diversity of subaerial algae has mostly been investigated in temperate ecosystems. Knowledge on tropical species richness is scarce.

More details on the Singapore Botanic Gardens website

Time: 4-5pm
Venue: Garden's Briefing Room, Visitor Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services (6471 7361)

25 Jan (Fri): "Is there a global extinction crisis for biodiversity?"

This talk by Nigel Stork School of Resource Management, University of Melbourne presents evidence that supports the view that most invertebrates are much less likely to become extinct than vertebrates. He will also examine current evidence that suggests that climate change may be more insidious threat to global insect diversity than habitat loss.

More details on poster uploaded to flickr

Time: 10.30am-11.30am
Venue: Department of Biological Sciences, Conference Room (Blk S3 Level 5), the National University of Singapore
Contact: Originally posted on the eco-tax mailing list

24 Jan (Thu): Energy for Growth – Singapore’s National Energy Policy

A talk by Mr Puah Kok Keong, Deputy Director (Energy Policy) in the Energy Division of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).

Energy plays an indispensable role in our economy, and will remain critical to its continued economic growth and development. The ultimate aim of our energy policy is to support Singapore’s continued economic growth.

As a small country with limited natural and energy resources, we are mindful of the impact that an energy supply disruption could have on our economy and society.

The use of energy is also closely linked to environmental concerns including climate change.

Taking cognisance of the changing global energy landscape, Energy for Growth outlines how our energy policies will evolve in tandem so as to address the global energy challenges and to capitalise on the opportunities to sustain Singapore's long-term economic growth

More details on the ISEAS website including a link to registration.

Time: 3-4.30pm
Venue: ISEAS Seminar Room II
Website: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/

23 Jan (Wed): "Biomineralisation and hot springs and coral reefs"

A talk by Bruce W. Fouke of the Department of Geology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will talk about "CaCO3 Biomineralization: A Strategy for Survial in Hot Springs and Coral Reefs.

More details on the news from raffles museum blog

Time: 3pm
Venue: Department of Biological Sciences, Conference Room (Blk S3 Level 5), the National University of Singapore

23 Jan (Wed): Talk about Community Conserved Areas

Community Conserved Areas (CCAs) can be defined as natural and modified ecosystems with significant biodiversity, ecological and related cultural values, voluntarily conserved by indigenous peoples and local communities through customary laws or other effective means. Join us for this sharing session on CCAs by Vilma D'Rozario who attended the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity Regional Workshop on CCAs in Palawan, Philippines, last November. Vilma will share what she learnt at the workshop and her experience visiting the stunningly beautiful island of Coron and the indigenous Tagbanwa people who manage it as a CCA. What may be the benefits of CCAs and how may we apply this concept to the Singapore context?

All are welcome.

Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Nature Society (Singapore), 510 Geylang Road, The Sunflower #02-05 Junction of Geylang Road and Lorong 28 Closest MRT is Aljunied.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

22 Jan (Tue): TeamSeagrass monitoring at Sentosa

Date of monitoring changed to 24 Jan (Thu). Ordinary people CAN make a difference! This team of volunteers from all walks of life regularly monitor our seagrasses. The data gathered will help us better understand and manage our seagrass meadows.

Pre-registration and interview required to join the Team. Please contact the team ONE MONTH before the trip.

More details on the TeamSeagrass blog

Time: 4.30-7pm
Website: TeamSeagrass blog
Contact: Ria Tan hello@wildsingapore.com please put 'teamseagrass' in the subject line.

22 Jan (Tue): Intertidal walk on Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin

An easy stroll along seagrass meadows to view rich marine life. Large sea anemones, sea stars, strange crabs and more! Also learn more about the other rare marine habitats on one of our last vast natural shores. You will get your feet wet, and must wear covered footwear for your safety.

Suitable for young children 5 years and above.

Pre-registration required. See the Ubin NParks website for booking instructions.

As of 1 Jan 08, the intertidal tour will be charged at $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants.

More about Chek Jawa on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. The intertidal walks at Chek Jawa are conducted by the volunteers of Ubin NParks.

Time: 4pm
Venue: Meet at the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk.
Cost: $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants
Contact: Ubin NParks at 6542-4108

22 Jan (Tue): Food vs Fuel - Challenges and Opportunities in Biofuels

Public Lecture by Professor Nam-Hai Chua, Rockefeller University.

While the prediction of a Malthusian catastrophe some 200 years ago never came true, the new demand for renewable energy has rekindled the old debate about competition between food and fuel and has led The Economist to coin the term “agflation” and to declare the end of cheap food. In this lecture, I will trace factors that drive the sudden growth of corn-based biofuels in the last two years and its consequential impact on crop production and food prices world-wide. I will discuss the challenges associated with the use of different types of plants to produce bioethanol and biodiesel and the opportunities to enhance productivity of biofuel plants with minimal pressure on food production systems using modern plant biotechnology.

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Classroom 1, NTU School of Biological Sciences, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637551
Website: NTU website with online registration, location map and more details on the speaker.
Contact: SBS-RSVP@ntu.edu.sg or 63162811

21 Jan (Mon): Intertidal walk on Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin

An easy stroll along seagrass meadows to view rich marine life. Large sea anemones, sea stars, strange crabs and more! Also learn more about the other rare marine habitats on one of our last vast natural shores. You will get your feet wet, and must wear covered footwear for your safety.

Suitable for young children 5 years and above.

Pre-registration required. See the Ubin NParks website for booking instructions.

As of 1 Jan 08, the intertidal tour will be charged at $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants.

More about Chek Jawa on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. The intertidal walks at Chek Jawa are conducted by the volunteers of Ubin NParks.

Time: 3pm
Venue: Meet at the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk.
Cost: $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants
Contact: Ubin NParks at 6542-4108

14-20 Jan: Highlights of the week ahead

This weekend, choose from TWO mangrove walks! Explore the mangroves at Pasir Ris or join the marine fish tour at Sungei Buloh. The regular mangrove walks at Sungei Buloh are also on for Saturday and Sunday.

Nature Society (Singapore) is also conducting a walk at Changi and at Punggol.

There's also two exciting talks this week! Dr Ahmed Djoghlaf (Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity) gives the Singapore Environment Lecture 2008 on "Biodiversity & Climate Change"; while at ISEAS there's a seminar on "Post-Bali UN Climate Change Conference: What lies ahead?".

Have a wild week ahead!

20 Jan (Sun): TeamSeagrass monitoring at Chek Jawa

Ordinary people CAN make a difference! This team of volunteers from all walks of life regularly monitor our seagrasses. The data gathered will help us better understand and manage our seagrass meadows.

Pre-registration and interview required to join the Team. Please contact the team ONE MONTH before the trip.

More details on the TeamSeagrass blog

Time: 12.30-5pm
Website: TeamSeagrass blog
Contact: Ria Tan hello@wildsingapore.com please put 'teamseagrass' in the subject line.

20 Jan (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

Time: 9.30 am (subject to availability of guides) for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

20 Jan (Sun): Intertidal walk on Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin

An easy stroll along seagrass meadows to view rich marine life. Large sea anemones, sea stars, strange crabs and more! Also learn more about the other rare marine habitats on one of our last vast natural shores. You will get your feet wet, and must wear covered footwear for your safety.

Suitable for young children 5 years and above.

Pre-registration required. See the Ubin NParks website for booking instructions.

As of 1 Jan 08, the intertidal tour will be charged at $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants.

More about Chek Jawa on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. The intertidal walks at Chek Jawa are conducted by the volunteers of Ubin NParks.

Time: 2pm
Venue: Meet at the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk.
Cost: $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants
Contact: Ubin NParks at 6542-4108

20 Jan (Sun): Punggol Grassland Ramble

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

By the Nature Ramblers led by Ho Wah Loong. The development of Punggol into a vibrant HDB estate withwaterfront recreational facilities and a canal joining Punggol and Serangoon Rivers was featured in the news lately. Work has already started near the old Punggol Port Road. Construction of a barrage across the mouth of the two rivers has also started. The 8km ramble will take a look at the fast disappearing grasslands from the mouth of Punggol River to Serangoon River. Bring a hat/cap and sunglass. Ramble will end at Punggol Drive. No booking is required.

For more about about plans to develop Punggol see
Punggol's 'vibrant' coast: Green groups concerned about impact
$13m waterfront plan to jazz up its rustic charms
Zul Othman, Today Online 19 Nov 07;

Time: 7.30am, meet at the Punggol Bus Interchange canteen. Those driving can
park at Blk 292 Punggol Central
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

20 Jan (Sun): Nature walk at Changi Point

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

Goh Si Guim shares this corner of Singapore that has not seen many changes other than some enhancements to attract more visitors. The new coast-hugging boardwalk is one such change. Mature greenery also confers lushness to the area. One indelible setback has been the loss of the old-stand Hopea sangal to indiscriminate destruction. Come for this educational experience and discover more.

Time: 8.30am, meet at the Changi Ferry Terminal
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

19 Jan (Sat): Marine Fish Tour at Sungei Buloh

Free guided tour to spot and learn more about the marine fishes at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 3.30 pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: 30 mins. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

19 Jan (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30 am for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre. (The Marine Fish Tour will be conducted at the 3.30pm time slot)
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

19 Jan (Sat): Mangrove Walk at Pasir Ris Park

A free guided walk through this precious pocket of mangrove around Sungei Tampines which was preserved when Pasir Ris Park was created. A boardwalk weaves through this important ecosystem, bringing visitors closer to its plants and animals.

More about the walks on the NParks website.
The free guided walks are conducted every third Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Wei Teng chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

19 Jan (Sat): Walk at the National Orchid Garden

A leisurely stroll through a garden of orchids and other special plants.

This walk is conducted by the volunteers of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every third Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am and 4pm, register at Visitor Centre 15 minutes before the tour starts. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis.
Tour duration: One hour.
Cost: While the tour is free, admission charges to the Orchid Garden applies: $5/adult, $1/student, $1/senior citizens (above 60 years) , Child below 12 years - Free
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

16 Jan (Wed): "Biodiversity & Climate Change" Singapore Environment Lecture 2008

For the 2008 Singapore Environment Lecture, the Singapore Environment Council proudly presents Dr Ahmed Djoghlaf (Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity). The Singapore Environment Council is pleased to work with National Parks Board to for this year's Singapore Environment Lecture.

Climate change has become one of the "hottest" issues on the global agenda. It will have varying effects on different parts of the world with a potential to change our social, economic and environmental landscape. According to the latest United Nations Human Development Report, the poorest nations risk a downward spiral of malnutrition, water scarcity and ecological damage.

Biodiversity is threatened by climate change. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment highlighted that climate change will be one of the key drivers of biodiversity loss. Plants, animals and their habitats have always adapted to changing climate. However, with the very rapid pace of change, they are unable to adapt quickly enough to the new conditions. Biodiversity also has an important role to play in mitigating and minimising the impacts of climate change.

Dr. Djoghlaf has noted, "climate change and biodiversity are two faces of the same coin of life". He will give insight into what his organisation is doing to address these two interlinked environmental challenges. The event will also serve as a platform to exchange ideas on the role that Singapore can actively play in addressing these challenges.

The talk is free, all are welcomed.

Pre-registration is required. RSVP before noon on 15 Jan.

More details on the eco-tax mailing list.

Time: 9am-noon
Venue: The Auditorium, Civil Service College
31 North Buona Vista Road, Singapore 275983
Dress Code: Business Attire
Website: http://www.sec.org.sg/
Contact: Joe Lim joe@sec.org.sg 6337 6062

16 Jan (Wed): ISEAS seminar on "Post-Bali UN Climate Change Conference: What lies ahead?"

The Bali UN Climate Change Conference which ended on 15 December has been hailed a success by some quarters and a dismal failure by others. This event marks the first of a series of international summits scheduled for the next two years work out a successor to the Kyoto Protocol which ends its first phase in 2012 via the Bali Road Map.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has stated that there will be no “one size fits all approach” in the post 2012 agreement for signatories. An equitable solution will have to take into account the diverse national circumstances present in each country.

Part of the Environment and Climate Change Seminar Series, this seminar will explore "Political Economy and Economics of Climate Change" and "Role of ASEAN and Singapore".

Register by 15 Jan (Tue). More details and registration form on the ISEAS website

Time: 10am-12.30pm
Venue: Seminar Room II, Institute of Southeast Asia Studies (ISEAS) location map
Website: http://www.iseas.edu.sg/index.htm
Contact: may@iseas.edu.sg

7-13 Jan: Highlights of the week ahead

This week come see SharkWater, a charity premier that supports the "Say No to Sharks Fins" campaign in Singapore. Biologist and investigative reporter, Rob Stewart who follows the trail of the multi-billion dollar shark fin trade and sets off a chain of events that has to be seen to be believed.

There are two weekday talks; one on the Asian Waterbirds Census and another on the Cambrian Explosion.

This weekend, two forest walks to join. Stroll through the rainforest at the Botanic Gardens (a real relict of the old rainforests that used to cover the whole of Singapore), or enjoy forest and reservoir view at the MacRitchie Prunus Trail walk. You might spot colugos and eagles. But please DON'T feed the monkeys!

Explore the mangroves of Sungei Buloh mangrove through guided walks on Saturday or Sunday (Sunday walks are subject to availability of guides).

13 Jan (Sun): Nature walk at MacRitchie Prunus Trail

Free guided nature walk along boardwalks hugging the MacRitchie Reservoir. Learn about this mature secondary, spot forest and aquatic wildlife, enjoy panaromic views of waters surrounded by luxuriant forest.

Suitable for young children.

Pre-registration required.

More about the MacRitchie Prunus Trail on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks Central Nature Reserve and is held every second Sunday of the month.

Time: 9.25am. Meet at entrance of the trail, about 50m after the canoe kiosk on the eastern side of MacRitchie Reservoir Park.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg or call 6554 5127.

13 Jan (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

Time: 9.30 am (subject to availability of guides) for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

12 Jan (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30 am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

12 Jan (Sat) Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail

A free guided nature walk through a rainforest right in the heart of the city! Along paved trails, under the shade of giant trees, learn about our rainforests, spot forest creatures and strange plants.

Suitable for young children.

More about the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail on the wildsingapore website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NPark's Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every second Saturday of the month.

A special Mandarin version of this tour is at 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm; Register 15 minutes before the tour at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One hour.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services, 64717361 or NPARKS_SBG_Visitor_Services@NPARKS.GOV.SG

12 Jan (Sat): [minus] Plastic Campaign Launch

Launch of the website resource how to use plastic responsibly. The launch is a special opportunity to meet up with Rosalyn and Paul and watch them complete one of their 7-day challenges right on the spot. Nominated Member of Parliament, Ms Eunice Olsen would also be present as the guest of honour for the event.

See also the [minus]plastic blog where celebrities take a 7-day challenge to reduce their plastic bag use and the [minus]plastic forum where you can learn and discuss plastic issues.

[minus] Plastic Campaign is organised by ECO-Singapore

Time: from 1.30pm onwards.
Venue: atrium@orchard (next to Plaza Singapura)
Website: http://www.minusplastic.org/
Contact: minusplastic@gmail.com

11 Jan (Fri): The Cambrian Explosion: failed experiments or evolution’s big-bang?

A talk by Charles Marshall (Curator in Dept of Invertebrate Paleontology, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University).

The Cambrian 'explosion' is a unique episode (~543 to 515 million years ago) in Earth history, when essentially all the animal phyla first appear in the marine fossil record. A variety of environmental, developmental (gentic), and ecological explanations for this complex event have been suggested. During the talk, the speaker shares a new explanation that he has developed.

More details on the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity news blog

Time: 4pm
Venue: Department of Biological Science Conference Room, the National University of Singapore
Website: http://rmbr.nus.edu.g/

11 Jan (Fri): The 20 years development of the Asian Waterbird Census - Where we heading?

In this talk, David Li of Wetlands International, KL, Malaysia will share the status of the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) in the past 20 years, and its direction for the future (2007-2015). The AWC is the largest biodiversity monitoring programme in the Asia-Pacific region initiated in 1987 within the framework of the International Waterbird Census. To date, more than 6,300 sites in 27 countries have been surveyed, with the active participation of tens of thousands of volunteers.

Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Nature Society (Singapore), 510 Geylang Road, The Sunflower #02-05 Junction of Geylang Road and Lorong 28 Closest MRT is Aljunied.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

11 Jan (Fri): Colour for Camouflage and Communication in Rocky Shores and Mangroves Crabs

A talk by Dr. Peter Alan Todd from Department of Biological Sciences, NUS.

On an imaginary scale of animal conspicuousness, camouflage and communication represent opposite ends. At one end (camouflage) the animal does not want to be seen, at the other (communication) it does. The great majority of research on these topics has been conducted on terrestrial animals.

In this talk, however, I shall focus on how colour is used for camouflage in the European shore crab (Carcinus maenas) and communication in two local species of mangrove crab (Perisesarma eumolpe and Perisesarma indiarum).

Time: 9am
Venue:
Department of Biological Science Conference Room, the National University of Singapore (Block S3 Level 5)
Website: RMBR news blog

11 Jan (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

Time: 9.30 am (subject to availability of guides) for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact:
info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

10 Jan (Thu): "SharkWater: Protect them, not eat them" a Charity Premiere

This fund-raiser by the Singapore Environment Council features biologist and investigative reporter, Rob Stewart who follows the trail of the multi-billion dollar shark fin trade and sets off a chain of events that has to be seen to be believed.

Proceeds from this premiere support Singapore Environment Council and OceanNEnvironment’s SAY NO TO SHARK FINS campaign in Singapore.

Official film website http://www.sharkwater.com

More details on Ashley Ng's facebook

Time: 6.30-9.30pm
Venue: Lido Cineplex, Shaw House
Price: Tickets are $50 each. A Goodie Bag worth $68 and a chance of winning a Shark Dive Holiday Prize await all patrons of this premiere.
Websites:
Singapore Environmental Council http://www.sec.org.sg/
OceanNEnvironment http://www.oceannenvironment.org/
Contact: Ms Liang Xinyi, Singapore Environment Council, 6337 6062 info@sec.org.sg

8 Jan (Tue): Intertidal walk on Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin

An easy stroll along seagrass meadows to view rich marine life. Large sea anemones, sea stars, strange crabs and more! Also learn more about the other rare marine habitats on one of our last vast natural shores. You will get your feet wet, and must wear covered footwear for your safety.

Suitable for young children 5 years and above.

Pre-registration required. See the Ubin NParks website for booking instructions.

As of 1 Jan 08, the intertidal tour will be charged at $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants.

More about Chek Jawa on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. The intertidal walks at Chek Jawa are conducted by the volunteers of Ubin NParks.

Time: 4pm
Venue: Meet at the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk.
Cost: $60 per group of a maximum 15 participants
Contact: Ubin NParks at 6542-4108

31 Dec-6 Jan: Highlights of the week ahead

Happy New Year!

Upcoming events for the year
iyorsp4
2008 is International Year of the Reefs and many groups in Singapore have come together to consolidate events in celebration of our reefs. Check these out on the IYOR Singapore blog. Among the highlights are free talks offered by volunteers about our marine life.

Support our reefs by coming for the many events organised this year. Display the IYOR logo on your blog or website. If you have an event that you'd like to include in the celebrations, we'd love to hear from you! Drop an email to iyor08singapore@gmail.com

Upcoming events this week

The year begins with the steadfast tours at our wild places: at the mangrove boardwalk at Sungei Buloh, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Lower Peirce boardwalk.

There's also a tour of a vegetable garden at Bishan Park.

There has been no signs up for the Naked Hermit Crab's Chek Jawa Boardwalk tour so it might be cancelled. But if you have a big group and sign up early, they might do it for you.

Upcoming events next week

Next week's big event is SharkWater a charity premier in aid of the "Say No to Shark's Fins" campaign in Singapore.

More upcoming events

Bookings are now open for the first dive at Pulau Hantu of the year on 27 Jan. Join the Hantu Bloggers to learn more about our very own wild reefs.

6 Jan (Sun): Rainforest walk at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Free guided nature walk along natural winding hillside trails under tall rainforest trees. Learn about our only substantial patch of primary rainforest, spot forest creatures and strange forest plants.

Suitable for children aged 9 and above. The trail is not accessible to prams and wheelchairs.

Pre-registration is required.

More about the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Central Nature Reserve and is held every first Sunday of the month.

Time: 3.55pm. Meet at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, gather at the ranger counter.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg or Tel:6554 5127

6 Jan (Sun): Chek Jawa Boardwalk Tour

now open for bookings!
A guided nature walk on the Chek Jawa Boardwalk along the breezy coast and through the mysterious mangroves. Learn more about this special shore, see rare coastal plants, cute fiddler crabs, aggressive mudskippers, sturdy mangrove trees, interesting bugs and more!

Suitable for children.

Pre-registration required.

This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of the Naked Hermit Crabs.

Originally scheduled for 5 Jan (Sat), due to unforeseen circumstances, the tour date has been changed to 6 Jan (Sun).

More about the walk on the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.
More about Chek Jawa on the wildsingapore website.

Time: 2.30pm, meet at the Chek Jawa Information Kiosk
Tour duration: About two hours
Cost: $4 per person (does not include transport charges to Ubin and Chek Jawa)
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: To register, email nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com with "Chek Jawa Boardwalk Tour" in the subject line and these details: name and contact of lead person; number of adults; number and age of children.

5 Jan (Sat): Green Vibes at Bishan Park

A free educational tour of a vegetable garden with more than 100 species of vegetables and herbs. Don't just eat your vegies, learn more about them. Something for everyone in the family.

More details on the NParks website.

This event is held every first Saturday of the month.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Bishan Park (next to Bishan Road)
Contact: Register with Gin Chua at 64597744 or chua_tiong_ghim@nparks.gov.sg

5 Jan (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30 am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

5 Jan (Sat): Nature walk at Lower Peirce Trail

Free guided nature walk along boardwalks through cool, shady forests and by the Lower Peirce Reservoir. Learn about our forests, spot forest and aquatic wildlife, enjoy panaromic views of waters surrounded by luxuriant forest.

Suitable for young children.

Pre-registration required.

More about the Lower Peirce Trail on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks Central Nature Reserve and is held every first Saturday of the month.

Time: 9.25am and 10.25am. Meet at Casuarina Entrance of the trail along Old Upper Thomson Road, which is a 2-minute walk from Casuarina Road.
Tour duration: One-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg or call 6554 5127.