Why Singapore is The World’s First Urban Blue Zone.
Singapore’s Innovative Policies and Healthy Living Strategies Make It a Global Leader in Longevity and Wellness for All Ages and Singapore has officially joined the prestigious ranks of global “blue zones,” regions known for their exceptional longevity and wellness.
These are places where living to 100 years old isn’t just possible—it’s increasingly common.
Unlike traditional blue zones such as Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), or Nicoya (Costa Rica), Singapore is the first entirely urban blue zone, a testament to its intentional design and innovative policies focused on health and well-being.
For over two decades, blue zones have been studied for their ability to unlock the secrets of longevity. Coined by journalist Dan Buettner, the term refers to regions where residents consistently live longer, healthier lives.
While original blue zones emerged naturally from culture, tradition, and geography, Singapore’s “engineered longevity” sets it apart as a modern blueprint for global cities.
Singapore’s transformation into a blue zone offers a roadmap for cities worldwide.
By prioritising health-conscious urban design, fostering intergenerational living, and ensuring equal access to healthcare and healthy food, urban centers can create environments where longer, healthier lives become the norm.
For health-conscious travellers Singapore isn’t just a destination—it’s an inspiration. Whether exploring its green spaces, savouring its nutritious cuisine, or simply marvelling at its seamless integration of wellness into everyday life, visitors can take away valuable insights for their own longevity journey.
The Secrets of Singapore’s Longevity
Singapore’s life expectancy has soared by 20 years since 1960, with the number of centenarians doubling in just the past decade. This remarkable feat stems from deliberate public policies that prioritise health, community, and sustainability.
1. Walkability and Mobility
In Singapore, walking and biking are central to daily life. High taxes on cars including a basic tax of $100,000 for a permit to even own a car as well as high petrol costs incentivise public transportation, cycling, and walking.
These charges are then used to improve the public transport system, which supports the entire population.These policies not only reduce environmental impact but also promote physical activity as an integral part of urban living.
2. Healthy Eating Made Accessible
Singapore’s Health Promotion Board actively encourages healthier food choices by subsidising nutritious options like whole grains and taxing junk food.
in 2019, Singapore became the first country in the word to ban advertisements of drinks with a higher sugar content. They have a nutri-grade labeling system that grades drinks from A-D with A being healthiest and D being least healthy.
In addition they have colour coded labels to also indicate drinks as healthy or unhealthy.
Food establishments are incentivised to offer balanced meals, making it easier for residents to choose healthy food options over convenience.
3. Strong Family Bonds/Reduced Loneliness
The Proximity Housing Grant incentivises families to live close to one another, promoting intergenerational living. There is a grant of $30,000 to live with your perents or child, a grant of $20,000 to live within 4km of our parents or child and there are various government houses available to apply for if residents are living near family.
As Eric Klinenberg explains in Places for the People, 80% of Singapore’s population live in public housing buildings that contain privately owned apartments. This setup fosters the coexistence of residents from different income brackets and includes communal areas that are always full of people and activities – and interaction which is key as it addresses the issue of loneliness, a major problem in 21st-century cities, affecting not just older people but individuals of all ages.
This ensures elderly Singaporean citizens remain actively engaged within their families, a factor that significantly enhances both mental and physical health.
4. Universal Healthcare
Singapore’s healthcare system is a global model based on affordable heath care for all. Sinagpore spends more per capita on healthcare than other ASEAN countries.Singapore has low infant and maternal mortality rates and education, screening and nutrition programs are all available for free.
Residents benefit from affordable, high-quality medical services focused on prevention, treatment, and active aging. The government’s emphasis on health over profit ensures that longevity is accessible to all.
5. Social Connection and Faith
Nearly 80% of Singaporeans identify with a religious community, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Studies have shown that faith-based engagement can add 4–14 years to life expectancy. Additionally, Singapore’s inclusive urban design encourages connections across income levels, reducing loneliness and promoting community.
6. Green Spaces and Active Aging
Singapore has more than 7,800 hectares of green spaces in the form of nature reserves. It has 350 parks and more than 300 park connectors throughout the island. It has also has four nature reserves. Singapore’s urban planning integrates lush parks and recreational areas, with high density living, creating inviting spaces for exercise and social interaction.
These initiatives all help reduce the urban heat island effect.
The city has also introduced initiatives to keep seniors active, from community programs to specially designed fitness zones.
