City Developments Limited (CDL) has launched two pioneering initiatives on 10 March 2025, the CDL EcoTrain and CDL Microforest, at City Square Mall, Singapore’s first eco retail complex.
The CDL EcoTrain is Singapore’s first decommissioned commuter train cabin from the Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT) network, repurposed and transformed into an operationally zero-energy climate education hub. Powered by solar energy, this zero-energy train cabin features interactive displays, hands-on exhibits and workshops co-created with Just Keep Thinking (JKT), Singapore’s largest science and sustainability social media platform. Designed to spark environmental awareness among children and youths, the CDL EcoTrain is a creative approach to community engagement and climate education.
The CDL EcoTrain, part of the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) upcycling initiative which repurposes decommissioned SMRT cabins, is the first public-facing repurposed train located at a retail mall.
Adjacent to the CDL EcoTrain, the CDL MicroForest represents a bold step in leveraging nature-based solutions to combat climate challenges in dense urban environments. The CDL MicroForest is a 2,800 square feet (sq ft) regenerative tropical microforest, developed in collaboration with experts in ecology and biological sciences from the National University of Singapore (NUS), and with inputs from the National Parks Board (NParks). This pioneering nature-based solution for cooling through greening aims to combat urban heat and biodiversity loss in high-density urban landscapes, serving as a living laboratory to study how microforests can lower temperatures, boost biodiversity and enhance ecological resilience.
The creation of the MicroForest is an extension of CDL’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and integrating nature in the built environment. Since 2010, CDL has also been voluntarily conducting biodiversity impact assessments (BIAs) on greenfield sites located within or adjacent to natural habitats before construction. Environmental mitigation measures are also undertaken where necessary.
The launch was graced by Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who participated in a tree-planting ceremony alongside representatives from CDL, NParks, NUS, as well as young eco-champions. This symbolic event underscores the strength of the 3P (Public, Private and People) partnership model in advancing urban sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
Mr Sherman Kwek, CDL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, said, "Climate action thrives on the power of 3P collaboration and innovation. We created the CDL EcoTrain and MicroForest as sustainable showcases to complement our ongoing revamp of City Square Mall. Since its opening in 2009, City Square Mall has established itself as Singapore’s first eco-mall, home to innovative community spaces for sustainability events and education, such as the Singapore Sustainability Academy. The timely launch of the EcoTrain and MicroForest enhances the Mall’s unique position as a family-friendly eco-hub with exciting programmes to nurture future eco-champions and promote sustainable living.”
Scaling Impact: A Blueprint for Sustainable Cities
As cities worldwide grapple with the effects of climate change, CDL’s EcoTrain and MicroForest present scalable, high-impact solutions that can be adapted across urban landscapes. By demonstrating how decommissioned infrastructure can be repurposed for sustainability education and how regenerative tropical microforests can contribute to climate resilience, these projects set a new benchmark for integrating ESG principles into real estate development.
With urban populations expected to continue rising, the need for innovative, nature-based interventions has never been greater. Through these initiatives, CDL showcases how the built environment can harmonise with nature, creating sustainable, livable cities that benefit both people and the planet.
Projects like the CDL EcoTrain and MicroForest highlight the power of cross-sector collaboration in driving urban transformation. By investing in climate education and biodiversity restoration, CDL continues to pave the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.
Media Contact:
Priscilla Tan, Sustainability Manager
