Singapore, a global leader in urban planning, is constantly pushing the boundaries of sustainable development.  Tengah, its newest residential town, embodies this vision. Rising on 700 hectares of former industrial land in western Singapore, Tengah aspires to be a model for future cities, seamlessly integrating nature, technology, and community living.  This article delves into the innovative design principles and sustainable features that make Tengah a beacon of urban sustainability.

From Brickworks to Forest Town: A Sustainable Transformation

The land where Tengah now flourishes once housed brickworks and served as a military training ground. Recognizing the potential for a transformative project, Singapore’s Housing & Development Board (HDB) embarked on an ambitious plan to create a sustainable town unlike any other.  Key aspects of this vision include:

• Preserving Nature: Tengah prioritizes the integration of existing greenery and the creation of new green spaces. A 100-hectare Tengah Park forms the heart of the town, acting as a recreational space while providing natural water filtration and enhancing biodiversity.
• Underground Infrastructure: To prioritize pedestrian and cycling experiences, essential utilities and traffic will be directed underground. This frees up surface areas for parks, plazas, and community spaces, fostering a car-lite environment.
• Smart and Connected: Tengah embraces smart technology solutions like smart grids, sensors, and data analytics to optimize energy and resource usage, creating a more efficient and responsive living environment.
• Community-Centric Design: The town is designed to foster a strong sense of community. Housing options cater to diverse needs, while well-connected public spaces encourage interaction and social connections.

Greener Living in Tengah: Nature at Your Doorstep

Tengah’s commitment to sustainability starts with its abundant green spaces. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Forest Corridor Connectivity: A 100-metre wide ecological corridor will connect Tengah Park to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, creating a crucial green link for wildlife and enhancing biodiversity.
• Biophilic Design Principles: Buildings in Tengah will incorporate elements of biophilic design, integrating nature into living spaces through sky gardens, vertical greenery, and natural lighting. This fosters a connection with nature and improves well-being.
• Sustainable Landscaping: Landscaping will be designed with native and low-water-use plants, reducing reliance on irrigation and promoting a more sustainable ecosystem.

Tengah Township: Innovation Meets Sustainability

Tengah goes beyond green spaces, integrating innovative technologies to create a smart and sustainable town:

• Pneumatic Waste Collection System: A futuristic solution, this system utilizes underground tubes to transport waste efficiently, minimizing reliance on garbage trucks and reducing noise and air pollution.
• Smart Grid Technology: A smart grid will manage energy distribution within the town, optimizing energy usage and potentially incorporating renewable energy sources like solar power.
• Data-Driven Management: Sensors and data analytics will be used to monitor and optimize resource usage throughout the town, from water consumption to energy efficiency in buildings.

Building a Sustainable Community in Tengah

Tengah’s vision extends beyond just technology and infrastructure. It aims to foster a vibrant and sustainable community:

• Mixed-Use Development: The town will feature a mix of residential, commercial, and community spaces, allowing residents to live, work, and play within walking distance, reducing reliance on cars.
• Active Transportation: A network of dedicated cycling paths and pedestrian walkways will encourage walking and cycling as primary modes of transportation, promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing carbon emissions.
• Community Gardens and Urban Farming: Spaces will be designated for community gardens and urban farming initiatives, encouraging residents to connect with nature and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

Living in Tengah: A Sustainable Future Awaits

Tengah offers a glimpse into the future of urban living, where sustainability and livability go hand-in-hand. Here are some of the benefits of residing in this innovative town:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: With a focus on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green spaces, Tengah offers residents the opportunity to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Proximity to nature, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and a strong sense of community contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling living environment.
• Smart and Connected Living: Residents will benefit from smart technology solutions that optimize resource usage and create a more convenient and efficient living experience.

Tengah: A Work in Progress, A Beacon of Hope

Tengah is still under development, with the first residents expected to move in by 2027. While the complete vision unfolds, Tengah serves as a powerful example of what sustainable urban development can achieve. As construction progresses, this article will be updated to reflect the latest advancements and showcase Tengah’s transformation.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities for Tengah

Developing a city from the ground up presents both challenges and exciting opportunities. Here’s a closer look at some key considerations for Tengah’s future:

• Balancing Innovation and Affordability: Implementing cutting-edge technologies like pneumatic waste collection systems requires significant investment. Ensuring these advancements translate into affordable and accessible living for residents is crucial.
• Building a Smart and Inclusive Community: While smart technologies offer numerous benefits, it’s vital to ensure they are accessible and user-friendly for all residents, regardless of age or technological expertise.
• Fostering a Culture of Sustainability: The success of Tengah hinges on residents embracing sustainable practices. Educational programs and community initiatives can encourage residents to actively participate in reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting the environment.

Tengah in the Context of Singapore’s Sustainability Goals

Tengah aligns perfectly with Singapore’s ambitious sustainability goals outlined in the Singapore Green Plan 2030. Here’s how:

• Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Tengah’s smart grid technology and focus on energy-efficient buildings contribute to Singapore’s target of reducing its carbon footprint by 65 million tonnes by 2030.
• Building Resilience to Climate Change: Green spaces, sustainable water management practices, and a focus on walkability in Tengah contribute to Singapore’s strategy for adapting to the effects of climate change.
• Creating a Sustainable Living Environment: Tengah serves as a model for future developments in Singapore, promoting sustainable living practices and fostering a connection with nature for residents.

The Future of Urban Living: Lessons from Tengah

Tengah’s groundbreaking approach to urban sustainability offers valuable lessons for cities worldwide:

• Prioritizing Green Infrastructure: Integrating nature into urban design is crucial for creating healthy and livable cities.
• Embracing Smart Technologies: Smart solutions can optimize resource usage and create a more efficient and responsive urban environment.
• Building Strong Communities: A successful city fosters a sense of community and empowers residents to contribute to a sustainable future.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Urban Future Takes Root in Tengah

Tengah is not just a new town; it’s a testament to Singapore’s commitment to sustainable development and a blueprint for future cities. By prioritizing nature, embracing innovation, and fostering a strong community, Tengah paves the way for a more sustainable and livable urban future not just for Singapore, but for cities around the world.  As Tengah continues to develop, it will be a fascinating example to watch, offering valuable  insights and  inspiration for  other  cities  aspiring  to  create a more sustainable  urban future for their residents.

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