Saving native plants here from extinction

THE silver bush, a native plant reputed to possess medicinal properties, was discovered on Lazarus Island - one of the Southern Islands here - about a decade ago.

Education is the best ally of conservation, believes Prof Tan (left), who has written a book about indigenous plants such as the Elephant Apple, which is being examined by Mr Chan. -- DESMOND FOO

But last year, the last lone plant was found dead.

The silver bush joins the ranks of many other native plants which have become extinct here.

In fact, the rate of extinction is so high that only 10 per cent of native plants are commonly-found now, said Associate Professor Hugh Tan, who is from the Department of Biological Sciences at the National University of Singapore.

Hoping to raise awareness, Prof Tan and his colleague, Ms T. Morgany, have written a book called Growing The Native Plants Of Singapore.

Prof Tan said: 'Education is the best ally of conservation.'

He suggested that the National Parks Board grow suitable native plants in parks and along the roads to prevent their extinction and conserve their valuable genes.

The book was launched with another, called Common Seashells Of Singapore, by the Singapore Science Centre on Tuesday.

The launch was held in conjunction with Earth Day 2001, which falls on Saturday.

Mr Chan Soo Sen, Parliamentary Secretary (Prime Minister's Office and Health), was the guest of honour at the event.

Mr Chan said that the balance between urban development and the preservation of nature was a difficult one to strike.

Better knowledge would enable the Government to make more informed decisions, he said.

The Science Centre has also organised a series of activities for the public from now until April 29.

These include an exhibition on the native plants and seashells of Singapore; two shows, entitled 'Man and Environment' and 'You, Me & Ecology'; and demonstrations.