Planting the Future: Singapore's Adopt-a-Tree Program Merges Technology with Green Ambitions

In an innovative blend of technology and environmental conservation, Singapore's Adopt-a-Tree program is a cornerstone of the city-state's ambitious OneMillionTrees movement. This initiative showcases how digital platforms can revolutionise our approach to greening urban environments.

As part of the visionary OneMillionTrees movement, the Singapore National Parks Board's Adopt-a-Tree program aims to enrich the city's green landscape by planting one million trees across Singapore by 2030. This initiative seeks to enhance Singapore's greenery and biodiversity and leverages technology to foster a deeper connection between the community and the environment.

Harnessing Technology for Good

The Adopt-a-Tree program uses an online platform that simplifies the process of tree adoption. Individuals and organisations can register, choose a tree species, and select a planting site in designated parks and nature reserves. It also uses a web-based map to show the locations and details of the planted trees, as well as the benefits they provide to the environment and the community. This tech-savvy approach makes it easier for everyone to contribute to the greening of Singapore, reflecting a modern take on environmental stewardship.

Individuals and organisations can register, choose a tree species, and select a planting site in designated parks and nature reserves.

The Environmental and Social Impact

The benefits of the Adopt-a-Tree program are manifold. It is crucial in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the program enhances Singapore's residents' physical and mental well-being by cooling the air, beautifying the landscape, and offering a tranquil retreat from urban life. It also promotes social bonding and community involvement, encouraging a collective effort in environmental conservation.

• As of 2024, 369,000 trees have been planted by individuals and organisations.

• More than 200 tree species have been planted, representing the diversity of Singapore's flora.

• Over 50 parks and nature reserves have been involved in the program, covering various regions and habitats of Singapore.

• More than 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide have been sequestered by the planted trees, equivalent to the annual emissions of 2,000 cars.

• Over 5,000 people have participated in the program as donors, planters, or volunteers.

Adopt a tree

Contribution and Benefits

Individuals and organisations can contribute to the movement by donating to the Plant-A-Tree Programme, managed by NParks' registered charity and IPC, Garden City Fund. A donation of $300 allows the donor to plant a tree in one of the NParks-managed green spaces. ATC supports the movement by matching donations under certain conditions, enhancing the impact of individual contributions. 

More than 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide have been sequestered by the planted trees, equivalent to the annual emissions of 2,000 cars.

Donors receive several benefits, including an e-Certificate after the planting session. Recognition on ATC's community site. A 2.5 times tax deduction for the donation amount, with automatic reflection in the donor's tax assessment for the following year.

As the OneMillionTrees movement progresses, each tree planted through the Adopt-a-Tree program weaves a greener, more sustainable fabric into the urban landscape of Singapore, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.