CDL Ecotrain to debut at City Square Mall – Singapore’s first decomissioned SMRT train cabin transformed into a first-of-its-kind climate education hub

• The repurposed and operationally zero-energy CDL EcoTrain marks our major collaboration with Singapore’s biggest Science, Nature and Sustainability channel Just Keep Thinking (JKT)
• The pioneering climate education hub seeks to inspire young eco champions through immersive exhibits, workshops and activities promoting sustainability awareness and environmental action

City Developments Limited (CDL) will be launching the CDL EcoTrain towards the end of 2024 – Singapore’s first repurposed SMRT train cabin for sustainability education and awareness. The operationally zero-energy CDL EcoTrain aims to engage the community on pressing climate and sustainability issues, particularly younger children aged four and above. In collaboration with JKT, Singapore’s largest Science, Nature and Sustainability social media platform, the train will feature interactive displays, exhibits and workshops focused on environmental themes.

Ms Esther An, CDL’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said, “We are excited to unveil Singapore’s first repurposed train cabin dedicated to climate and sustainability education. The CDL EcoTrain exemplifies our commitment to fostering partnerships and community outreach programmes to nurture young eco champions. Building on our innovative and pioneering success of My Tree House – the world’s first green library for kids, which operated from 2013 to 2023 at the Singapore Central Public Library and the ‘We Love Our Planet’ Children’s Storytelling Contest initiated in 2020, this CDL EcoTrain offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience to inspire the next generation to take active action in tackling environmental challenges and building a sustainable future for all.”

The CDL EcoTrain is part of the Land Transport Authority (LTA)’s upcycling project, which repurposes decommissioned SMRT cabins from the first generation of NSEWL (North South-East West Line) trains. In support of LTA and SMRT’s sustainability efforts and the SG Green Plan 2030, CDL repurposed one of these cabins into the CDL EcoTrain at City Square Mall.

The CDL EcoTrain, with architectural and design input from Ta.Le Architects, is engineered to achieve operationally zero-energy. It features an Energy Monitoring System provided by Schneider Electric and powered by EcoStruxure, to track real-time energy from its rooftop solar panels. The exterior is coated with GUSH HydroPro Cool Enamel Paint, an eco-friendly, low-VOC coating that minimises heat gain, reducing air-conditioning needs. Sustainable materials include recycled rubber from tennis shoes and balls by BTSports for the ramp and flooring. Unistrate panels, made from 100% recycled wood fibres and minerals manufactured with zero-glue technology, is applied to the ceiling and exterior signage. Additionally, NORA rubber flooring, made from sustainably sourced natural rubber, is used inside the train. These innovations demonstrate CDL’s commitment to energy efficiency and innovative green practices.

JKT, an award-winning thought leader in science edutainment since 2019, is the main programmes partner for this project. Known for crafting immersive experiences, JKT’s mission is to make science, wildlife and sustainability education accessible and engaging for all. With a global community of over 600,000 followers, JKT’s fun, consumer-friendly content and impactful educational programmes align with the CDL EcoTrain’s agenda.

The CDL EcoTrain’s debut theme will spotlight the rich and vibrant world of rainforests, showcasing how these ecosystems play vital roles in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibition featuring enriching educational videos, informative LCD displays and a web app gameplay, taking them on an immersive journey through nature. Additionally, there is also an activity corner where visitors can take part in hands-on activities. Biogirl MJ will also host weekly workshops on the importance of rainforest conservation.

This initiative builds on CDL’s commitment to collaboration and creative environmental education to build a circular and sustainable economy. Following the success of My Tree House, the world’s first green library for children launched in 2013, the CDL EcoTrain continues CDL’s mission to nurture young eco champions. After a decade of partnership with the National Library Board, My Tree House concluded in 2022, paving the way for creating this innovative new project – the zero- energy CDL EcoTrain.

Source

City Developments Limited, press release, 2024-09-19.

Supplier

CDL City Developments Limited
Just Keep Thinking (JKT) - Science, Nature and Sustainability Channel
Ta.Le Architects

Share