Sze Keed Wong’s Post

On this 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲, we reflect on our ongoing collaboration with Ebony Forest to conserve the Lowland forest day gecko, Upland forest day gecko, and Macchabé skink in Mauritius. 🦎 These species face severe threats due to habitat loss, invasive plants, and introduced predators. 🎯 To address these challenges, this project will: • Establish new subpopulations in three predator-controlled areas; • Engage 2,500 students and 20,000 visitors annually in hands-on conservation efforts, • Train locals in advanced conservation techniques. • Restore critical habitats to ensure these species can thrive. 💭 Mickaël APAYA, Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasises, "𝐁𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐧-𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐰𝐞 𝐚𝐢𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞." This initiative aligns with the biodiversity focus of our Sustainability and Inclusive Development (S&ID) framework. By involving local communities, promoting environmental education, and supporting sustainable economic growth, the Group is making a significant impact on both ecosystems and livelihoods. #RogersGroup #MeaningfulChange

This insightful article by Hanna Ollos and Jonas Sommer provides a snapshot of how I became actively involved in advocating forest conservation in Singapore, in collaboration with like-minded individuals (such as Roxane Uzureau Zhu and M Saniroz) who share the same passion for Nature, with which we are all interconnected. In retrospect, my stint as a full-time editor in the educational publishing industry working on geography textbooks for secondary schools serves as a stepping stone to put into practice the knowledge, skills and values that I have acquired to be a voice for the flora and fauna threatened by unrelenting development. I am grateful for the article amplifying our collective voices in protecting Nature, which is also a good reminder that each of us can be a naturalist in our own ways to help preserve our natural heritage both for ourselves and our future generations. “He started being involved in activism during the Covid pandemic in 2020, when, as he recalls, there was a momentum for nature protection causes in Singapore. Alongside his involvement in NSS activities, Jimmy has been observing land use changes in Singapore, since he worked as a Geography editor in educational publishing for about 20 years. He noticed the destruction happening to Tengah Forest, a biodiverse forest in midwest Singapore, which is set out to be transformed into “Tengah Forest Town ”. According to the development plan, this town is supposed to be a sustainable, green and forest-themed residential area. However, Jimmy started a petition together with two other nature advocates to call for a significant reduction of its impacts, as its construction is causing widespread destruction of an extensive secondary rainforest, while not offering enough space and ecological connectivity for wildlife (such as critically endangered Sunda pangolins, leopard cats and straw-headed bulbuls) to move between the western water catchment and central nature reserves. The petition has been signed by over 10,000 residents.” #natureconservation #sustainability #environment #geography

Many of my connections reacted on my post about becoming member of the Board of Advisory of NAGA MARINE PARK. Let me explain a little bit more about the initiative. Let's see if you're just as enthusiastic as I am. 😀 Let me tell you first how I got to know about this project. Recently I was in Phuket for a sustainability event organised by the Netherlands-Thai Chamber of Commerce (NTCC) at Royal Phuket Marina. It was about carbon neutrality. A very interesting and inspiring meeting. After that I stayed two more days in Phuket and a friend of mine owns the Nina Beach Camp on the little island of Naga Noi, just a 15 minute boat trip from mainland Phuket. I stayed on the island for those two days and I met Peter Andreas Mølgaard, CEO of NAGA MARINE PARK. Immediately we had a click, together with his business partners Alex and Nancy. They explained me about the initiative of a Marine Research Center on the island, Naga Marine Park. Naga Marine Park is an innovative initiative dedicated to marine conservation, sustainable aquaculture, and eco-tourism in the Andaman Sea. I'm happy to be part of this initiative. At Naga Marine Park, we're committed to protecting the oceans through cutting-edge research, conservation programs, and educational outreach. The Marine Research Center focuses on restoring marine habitats, such as coral reefs and seahorse populations, while the eco-friendly glamping resort, blended into nature and designed with a minimal environmental footprint, offers guests a unique experience to connect with nature sustainably and be actively involved in the preservation activities. My role will be focused on the sustainability part of the project and the international relations. It's good to see that research institutes and universities are already linked to this project. The next couple of months the project will be launched, construction already started. I'll post updates to inform about the progress. If you have any questions about this project or want to be involved, please feel free to reach out to me or Peter Andreas Mølgaard. #climatechange #sustainability #marineecosystems #aquaculture #coralreefs #coral UrbanSphere Solutions

I cannot sustain Nature-Environment without sustaining my Inner Self. And You? Studies show that wellbeing accounts are normally perceived separately to nature-environment and sustainability, despite both concepts are considerably intersecting, and both are priority topics in global policies. This highlights the need for interdisciplinary integration. Some of you know me from my career in Sustainability consultancy in Denmark, with a master in Sustainable Business, or even before, as a former naturalist guide from the Galapagos National Park. However, behind my care and love for nature-environment (land and marine ecology, biodiversity, and protected area management), since early age in my hometown, I developed my essence and first passion: interacting with People. When you live in a Protected Area such as Galapagos National Park, you realize that biodiversity conservation is clearly prioritized over the human wellbeing of its local inhabitants and main stewards of the natural resources. This is not only not fair, but it is also not holistically sustainable. Now, for the first time I understand, it is my responsibility to focus on my personal well-being, to sustain my inner essence, with the same deep intention and firm commitment as I have done it, for nature-environment conservation, my whole life. For you and for me, I need to speak up, to be true to myself, to be myself. I am awakening to work and to find the sustainability that comes from within us as humans, appreciating our uniqueness and diversity, and listening to our inner voices for creating value for both, People and the Planet in a more equitable way. Somehow, we all come from the simple, where everything matters. However, sometimes that simplest is the most complex part to dig in, unveil, and realize. A good friend to me reminded me "our life has different layers, which need to be peeled as an orange, to get into its inner self". I am sharing this post, to hear if these thoughts maybe resonate with a similar, complementary, or different personal/professional journey any of you is going through, for awakenings that I would simply love to connect with You then. #sustainablewellbeing #experienceeconomy #innovation #sustainability #peopleandplanet #connectingworlds #denmark #ecuador #galapagsoislander Inspired by the paper “Toward Sustainable Wellbeing Advances in Contemporary Concepts” by Tadhg O’Mahony from Finland Futures Research Centre, University of Turku.

#Sustainable #Development #Practices #Innovations Global Low-Carbon Ecological Scenic Spot 2023--Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is the perfect #HolidayDestination in Vietnam for regenerative travel, allowing guests to actively participate in #sustainability and #conservation projects with the resort to preserve the marine #ecosystem and #biodiversity of the Bay. With 19 years of establishment and growth, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay has earned widespread recognition as a trailblazer in sustainable practices within the hospitality industry. It has showcased how a strong commitment to local communities and ecosystems can be successfully combined with uncompromising top-tier facilities. The Sustainability Fund allocates 0.5 percent of net revenue, 50 percent of house-bottled water sales, and 100 percent of soft toy sales and donations to be spent on community and conservation projects. The objective of this fund is to enhance the quality of life and resilience of local communities, protect and restore ecosystems, and improve the living environment for wildlife populations in the Hon Heo area. This is achieved through collaborative partnerships working together towards predefined goals aimed at tackling local social and environmental issues. One such issue is the destruction of natural habitats, which poses significant threat to local wildlife and ecosystems. As the number of endangered species continues to rise, the work undertaken to protect wildlife becomes increasingly crucial. The aspiration of Ninh Van Bay is to protect and preserve the local communities, culture, environments, and wildlife, which needs to be done this through a long-term, multi-disciplinary approach. More info about SCAHSA 2023, please refer to: https://lnkd.in/g-peYpcW

Envisioned as a smart and sustainable city 🛤️, Nusantara will be a cornerstone of Indonesia's 🇮🇩 progress to net zero emissions. This ambitious metropolis aims to become a "city in the forest with a forest in the city," targeting carbon negativity by 2045, a full 15 years ahead of the nation's goal. Nusantara commitment to biodiversity conservation, with a focus on protecting species like the Bornean orangutan and Irrawaddy dolphin, further underscores its holistic approach to sustainability. Read the slides to understand how Nusantara is planned to become a zero-carbon city by 2045! 🌱🏙️ #Nusantara #NetZero #Indonesia #ClimateAction #Sustainability #Equatorise

🌱 As we step into the 43rd Macao Green Week, it's crucial to highlight the remarkable and continuous commitment of the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) towards restoring biodiversity and the lush canopy that crowns our city. This year, under the theme of "passing on the love of nature to build a beautiful city together," IAM's concerted efforts in ecological conservation and tree restoration stand as a testament to their unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship. 🌿 The IAM's proactive approach, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating typhoons "Hato" and "Mangkhut," demonstrates resilience and foresight in ecological recovery strategies. With the planting of over 125,000 seedlings, including more than 120 species of native trees, IAM is not just aiming for green landscapes but nurturing ecosystems rich in biodiversity. This initiative showcases a deep understanding of the role of native species in ecological balance and their importance in fostering a sustainable urban environment. 🌳 Moreover, IAM's meticulous care in preserving endangered trees, like the ancient camphor tree in Avenida do Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida, echoes their broader commitment to maintaining Macao's green heritage. Through collaboration with experts and continuous monitoring and treatment measures, IAM is ensuring that these natural treasures continue to thrive, contributing to the city's cultural and ecological richness. 🍃 In alignment with the principles of the "Lei de Salvaguarda do Património Cultural," (Law for the Safeguarding of Cultural Heritage), IAM's efforts in tree conservation and biodiversity restoration also highlight the intrinsic connection between our natural heritage and cultural identity. By safeguarding and revitalizing our natural landscapes, IAM is preserving a crucial part of our cultural heritage, underscoring the importance of trees in our ecosystem and as bearers of historical and cultural significance. 🌎 As we celebrate Green Week, we acknowledge and commend the IAM's ongoing commitment to environmental excellence. Their dedication to restoring and protecting our city's natural beauty is inspiring, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and vibrant Macao. The IAM's endeavors remind us of the critical role of nature in our lives and the importance of collective action in preserving it for future generations. #GreenWeekMacao #sustainability #TreeConservation #biodiversity #culturalheritage

After the success of the second edition of KiSS Motegi, the FIM's flagship programme for #sustainable event organising is now moving to the mountains of Andorra, in the heart of the Pyrenees. The Andorran trial is a classic, and its sustainability programme has become well-known. The Andorra Motorcyclist Federation has won the FIM Sustainability Award twice (in 2013 and 2015). This edition will focus on biodiversity, and all the awareness-raising activities during the event will be connected to protecting and promoting biodiversity. One of the most significant moments during the competition will be the signing of support for the recent inclusion of the FIM into the Sports for Nature framework. Sports for Nature is a joint initiative of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, International Olympic Committee, United Nations Environment Programme, Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, and Dona Bertarelli Philanthropy. It aims to deliver transformative action for Nature across sports by 2030 and beyond, enabling sports to champion Nature and contribute to its protection and restoration. It provides a game plan for sports — at all levels — to accelerate and inspire others to take action for Nature. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gWvdXmQt #FIM |  #FIMfamily | #FIMSustainabilityweek | #generationrestoration | #FIMRideGreen | #Motorcycling | #Motorcycles

ESG in Malaysia Book of Records --- As of 5.30pm on 22/4/24 (Earth Day), 1,251,512 trees were planted across many parts of the #penang state, in one day. A 1-million trees gift of community bond with environmental greenery for the many younger generations to come. With the support of the state government and participated by 256,000 peoples from 23 groups of #esg warriors (CIMB Islamic, villages, associations, schools, universities and communities), it was an ESG festival. Tony Leng, the President cum Founder of Hikers Roundtable (an esteemed collaborator of MAPAN), led in this instance, the Northern founding members of Malaysian Association of Public Advocacy for Nature (MAPAN) to partake in this groundbreaking event of tremendous #ppp prominence. The statewide #climateaction is a greening game changer of environmental stewardship for a greener sustainable future, focusing on #biodiversity with the planting of 30 indigenous species of: (1) 222,000 kaffir lime trees with RM26 million annual income potential (2) 20,000 mangrove saplings (3) 23,000 meranti saplings (4) 5,000 syzgium papilloum (kelat paya) (5) Caesalpinia ferrea (leopard tree) (6) Durian (7) Rambutan (8) Maingaya malayana (spotted in 1873 by Charles Curtin, a British botanist) (9) Leea indica (10) Tecoma (11) Kemboja (12) Bougainvillea (13) Misai kucing (14) Tongkat ali, etc. MAPAN Pacesetting ESG https://linktr.ee/esgmapan #publicprivatepartnership https://lnkd.in/gJSGDSmC

This 👇 is a successful example of catalytic capital that early-stage #NbS businesses can learn from. What are my take-aways from this successful scale-up: -the importance of building strong, engaging and trusting relationships between capital providers and project developers, where strengths from the different parties are leveraged, -don't let ambitions for quantity (ie. immediate scale) get in the way of getting it right and achieving quality first, -Vision: capital providers need to share the vision of project developers and see the opportunities for long-term gain. #Naturebasedsolutions are a long game, not a short one, -Stakeholder leadership: iNovaland's model of actively engaging local stakeholders (and I mean real engagement, way beyond consultation) is like building up your team with several local experts with generations of track record in land stewardship is a key to its success. I've written an article on catalytic capital that you can check out in the comments 👇, but before you do - read this iNovaland press release and see a real example of how it works! 👏 Congratulations to iNovaland and partners on this huge achievement!