Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) has launched the Cooling Sentosa Roadmap, a long-term plan to improve outdoor thermal comfort across the island.
The initiative responds to growing awareness of urban heat and advances in cooling technologies, and aligns with the Singapore Green Plan.
Central to the roadmap is the Sentosa Cooling Network, which will introduce cool nodes and zones designed to lower temperatures by at least four degrees celsius, measured using Physiological Equivalent Temperature. Cool nodes offer quick relief in smaller areas, while cool zones anchor larger precincts with infrastructure and design features to improve comfort – 10 such sites are planned by 2030, with initial efforts focused along the beachfront.
The roadmap builds on existing measures such as shade structures, fans, coolers, and hydration points. In March 2025, SDC commissioned an environmental consultant to assess outdoor thermal comfort across Sentosa. The study identified areas for intervention and recommended both short- and long-term solutions. It found that greenery, porous structures and wind corridors help reduce heat. Sentosa Sensoryscape, for example, facilitates airflow and includes shaded walkways, fans, and water features.
One pilot site is the Cool Node at Siloso Beach, featuring misting systems, cool coatings and increased shade. A guest survey showed three in four respondents were satisfied with the cooling features. Another node is planned at Central Beach Bazaar, a 2,400m² site near Beach Station, with works beginning in late 2025.
SDC is also implementing immediate measures such as installing new fans and water coolers, adding soil-less green roofs, and planting trees. Sentosa will serve as a testbed for new cooling technologies, including trials with Envicom and Delta Sirius under the Sustainability Open Innovation Challenge.
Nature-based solutions are also being explored, including a regenerative tropical MicroForest at Central Beach Bazaar. Developed with NUS Cities and the NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions, the forest will be monitored for biodiversity, microclimate and guest perception.
SDC is working with businesses and stakeholders to align sustainability efforts. Island Partners such as Resorts World Sentosa and Weave mall have adopted cooling strategies including ETFE roofing, automated fans and water-based cooling systems. Other partners include Mount Faber Leisure Group, Raffles Sentosa Singapore and Sofitel Hotel Sentosa Singapore.
The roadmap will guide future planning under the Greater Sentosa Master Plan, with infrastructure designed to improve thermal comfort across the island.
“As an island destination, there are lots to be discovered especially in Sentosa’s natural environment. Our commitment to a sustainable future drives the Cooling Sentosa roadmap. By embracing innovative cooling technologies and smart infrastructure, we aim to leverage science-driven and nature-based solutions to ensure a comfortable, eco-friendly environment for residents and visitors alike. This roadmap is not just about cooling. It’s about shaping a climate-resilient, green Sentosa that sets a benchmark for sustainable destination stewardship,” said Thien Kwee Eng, CEO of SDC.
