Enhancing the Greenery for Existing Residential EstatesSingapore
■ Overview
With rapid industrialization and urbanization, sealed concrete surfaces have supplanted much vegetation and trees of the past. Studies have shown that urbanized areas with dense concrete developments could register a higher ambient temperature as compared to developments with more greenery coverage, a phenomenon known as the Urban Heat Island Effect (UHIE).
Over the years, Housing & Development Board (HDB) has proactively introduced more green spaces in HDB estates through the enhancement of landscaping and introduction of sky-rise greenery for its development. These features help to soften the urban environment, enhance the aesthetics and thermal comfort of the living environment.
Besides new development, HDB has also looked into innovative ways to enhance the greenery for existing estates. The Prefabricated Extensive Green (PEG) Roof Tray system is developed as a cost effective ‘instant greening’ solution that can be easily installed in various types of buildings with minimal retrofitting works. A total of 3.9 hectares of PEG system was successfully implemented in 17 existing residential blocks and 14 existing multi-storey carparks(MSCPs). Besides greening up the estates, community gardening were also piloted in some MSCPs to promote social interaction and bonding among the residents.
■ Period of Implementation
■ Features
- Modular, lightweight and portable system to facilitate installation
- Water storage compartment for plants to weather through dry spell
- Allows pre-propagation off-site- Instant greening solution
- Requires minimal maintenance
■ Outcomes / Achievements
- Reduction in surface heat absorption by up to 15oC as compared to exposed concrete surfaces.
- Inject greenery into urban living and enhance the aesthetics of estates
■ Cost
■ Inquiries
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