Contamination of Recyclables as a Reason for Decline in Singapore's Recycling Rate

Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether the Ministry can quantify how much of the decline in Singapore's recycling rate is attributable to contamination of recyclables, compared with other factors, such as weaker market demand, export restrictions and changes in total waste generated; and (b) how this attribution will guide targeted interventions under the Zero Waste Masterplan review.

As shared in my reply to the House on 7 July 2026, there are three key factors contributing to the decline in Singapore's recycling rates – rising logistics, freight, manpower and energy costs, tightening export requirements by receiving countries, and the persistent challenge of contamination of recyclables. It is challenging to determine their relative contribution to the decline in recycling rates. [Please refer to ​"National Recycling Rates, Plans and Targets", Official Report, 7 July 2026, Vol 96, Issue 32, Oral Answers to Questions section.]

Nonetheless, contamination remains a key challenge that we are actively addressing. As part of the ongoing Zero Waste Masterplan review, we will study solutions to reduce contamination of recyclables further, including through the possible use of source-segregated bins. These measures aim to tackle contamination alongside the broader structural challenges affecting recycling outcomes. We will share more details on the review outcomes in due course.