4 environmental research projects focused on Mandai area to get $600,000 in grants
SINGAPORE — Analysing the possibility of using black soldier flies to manage carnivore dung and the influence of the Mandai district’s developments on the movement of the Sunda flying lemur - these are among four environmental research projects to receive $600,000 in grants under the Mandai Research Fund.
The projects were selected after a call for proposal last year, where a closed-door workshop was first held to discuss research themes with individuals from different fields, said the Mandai Park Holdings (MPH) in a press release on Monday (29 July).
Individuals from different fields were invited to identify and shortlist research studies, as well as address knowledge gaps that are relevant to the Mandai project.
Four research proposals were then selected based on submissions arising from the discussion.
These also include a 18-month project on how thermal environment impacts the effectiveness of education message retention by guests visiting the Mandai precinct and a two-year project on understanding insect diversity in the area.
Mandai Park Development’s Vice President for Sustainable Solutions Dr Lee Hui Mien said that the research will allow them “to proactively identify knowledge gaps and delve deeper into specific issues which may be unique to the Mandai district”.
“New data collected could also add to the scientific advancement of our local biodiversity knowledge. It will take at least 12 months to see tangible results, but we are excited to see the formulation of innovative solutions,” said Dr Lee.
“These new opportunities will help create more conducive habitats for our local flora and fauna, and also enhance the environment for our guests as we present them with windows into the wild to connect with and appreciate nature.”
The grants will be disbursed over a two-year period. The four projects also received endorsements from the Environmental Advisory Panel.
The Mandai Research Fund was set up in late 2017 to help gain greater understanding of local biodiversity, and bolster efforts to strengthen Singapore’s environmental knowledge base.
It is disbursed by Mandai Park Development, the development arm of MPH, which is overseeing the rejuvenation of the Mandai precinct.
The Mandai project includes the development of a 338-room resort, operated by Banyan Tree Holdings, set to open in 2023.
It also includes the relocation of Jurong Bird Park and the development of a new Rainforest Park in the same area as the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari.
The Bird Park and the new Rainforest Park are scheduled to open by 2020 and 2021, respectively.
The rejuvenated Mandai Precinct is expected to generate 400 more jobs in conservation research, tourism and hospitality.
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