Biodiversity loss is a global phenomenon as benefits from activities that destroy biodiversity - such as building roads through forested areas - are often short-term, direct and easily captured. Benefits from activities that conserve biodiversity are often long-term, indirect and spread out.

Thus, the drivers to destroy biodiversity overpower the drivers to conserve it.

This is especially true in Singapore, where nature often has to make way for urban growth.

The authorities should reconsider their nature conservation priorities.

Local species susceptible to local extinction should be identified and steps taken to protect their populations before it is too late.

Conservation work around the world has shown that it is just not enough to leave animals in the wild in the hope that they will survive.

Removal efforts should be made for invasive species - such as the South American green iguana, or the invasive Cuban lizard population from Gardens by the Bay - before they spread around Singapore.

There should be more focus on planting local plant species across the island to encourage native wildlife to prosper as it once did while reducing reliance on non-native plants.

Local species susceptible to local extinction should be identified and steps taken to protect their populations before it is too late.

This will preserve a truly unique native biodiversity in Singapore for the next few generations to enjoy.

Ong Junkai