Appearance on The Urban Q podcast

Singapore is my favorite big city.

I’m typically associated with natural environments like tropical forests, but on The Urban Q podcast, Jaya Dhindaw of World Resources Institute India challenged me to think about cities. Our conversation explored how urban spaces and conservation intersect, and what lessons we can draw for a sustainable future.

Cities, I shared, are not inherently at odds with nature. Singapore, for example, is integrating trees into its architecture and restoring native forests despite its small landmass. Such efforts demonstrate how wildlife can coexist within urban environments. “It’s an encouraging example,” I noted, “that wildlife can return to an urban environment.”

The discussion expanded to why urbanites should care about ecosystems beyond city limits. Forests, wetlands, and other natural systems provide essential services, such as clean water, climate stabilization, and disaster mitigation. Dhindaw highlighted the paradox of urban aspirations: people want clean air and green spaces but often pursue development practices that undermine them. I emphasized that it doesn’t have to be an either-or scenario.

Cities can achieve both economic growth and environmental stewardship through thoughtful planning and green infrastructure. “Copenhagen, Oslo, and Singapore have shown that prioritizing green spaces makes cities more livable and economically attractive,” I said.

Dhindaw also delved into Mongabay’s mission. Inspired by childhood experiences in rainforests, I explained that our goal is to inform decision-makers about the importance of ecosystems in everyday life. Effective communication, I emphasized, requires understanding audiences, framing narratives, and using data-driven storytelling. Dhindaw acknowledged Mongabay’s ability to balance grim environmental realities with hope, particularly for younger audiences. Highlighting solutions and innovation, I suggested, can counter climate anxiety and empower action.

Cities, forests, and oceans are more interconnected than we often realize. Our conversation underscored the urgency—and the possibility—of rethinking how humanity interacts with nature, starting at the intersection of urban planning and conservation.

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlRQP30YiBQ
🔊 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4eYGKN2