Tragedy of the Commons

To remain economically competitive, we have no way out but to continue to use what is left of our depleting land.

Singapore’s population tragedy is the large and growing population (increased 5 folds over 6-7years). A projected 6.5-6.9 million people by 2030 is a big strain on the pasture since population density is so high (currently we are the 2nd largest populated nation). Although our fertility rate has declined since the post-war baby boom, our population is generally not decreasing due to foreigner influx- shrinking is only reflected in native population size. 1947-1957 is the implementation of housing plan with regards to concerns of slums, mowing away what little forested areas we have.

The logic of use of common pool resource (CPR) is,

Self-interest; highly competitive society of Singapore looking towards the 5Cs (cash, condo, credit card, club membership, car) and other material projection leaves leopard cat conservation in the dust.

See little harm in their own use of resources; people tend to underestimate the impact they make on the environment. Each person in Singapore generates about 0.87kg per person per day (2013) accumulating to about the weight of an adult leopard cat in just a week!*

High levels of population and utilization due to reproduction of human population. Singapore’s output of solid waste has increased significantly over the years: from 1,260 tonnes per day in 1970, to a high of 8,289 tonnes per day in 2013.**

OVERARCHING CONSEQUENCE: LEOPARD CAT ENDANGERMENT

*http://app.mewr.gov.sg/web/Contents/contents.aspx?ContId=680
**http://app2.nea.gov.sg/energy-waste/waste-management/overview