The future impacts of climate change loom large for island nations such as Singapore. Countries may soon have to contend with increasing temperatures, volatile weather patterns and rising seas. The potential impacts are so great that the issue is increasingly put front and centre in government planning and policy.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's speech during the National Day Rally, with its focus on climate change and how it will be dealt with, was a bold statement of intent. This speech highlighted how few countries are embracing the challenges of climate change in the way that Singapore is. It is clear that the Government has carefully considered how climate change will have major implications on urban development, and keeping shorelines safe from sea-level rise and extreme weather is a key national priority.