The pluralistic natural capital values of a tropical city

• The study presents the most extensive Natural Capital Assessment in a tropical urban setting. • Singapore’s unmanaged natural assets are essential for climate resilience. • Public perceptions underscores the societal importance of urban nature. • Economic analyses reveal high valuation for regulating services, in particular temperature reduction and air purification. • Urban biodiversity is perceived as both beneficial and problematic, revealing nuanced human-nature interactions. Nature in cities is essential for human well-being. Quantifying and valuing the goods and services provided by nature to city dwellers is missing in tropical contexts. Yet, as cities worldwide face similar challenges, understanding the services provided by tropical urban ecosystems becomes imperative for effective management. Here, we present the first Natural Capital Assessment of a tropical city, unveiling three critical insights. Firstly, we demonstrate the vital reliance of a developed tropical city on nature, particularly for climate change mitigation through regulating services. Secondly, we identify intact natural areas as Singapore’s most valuable assets, stressing the significance of the quality of urban greenery in enhancing ecosystem services. Lastly, we highlight the importance of nurturing connections between urban residents and nature, fostering relational values crucial for sustained care and conservation of nature.