Correlation between Littering Hotspots and Rodent Activity in HDB Estates

Ms See Jinli Jean asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether stain and littering cases have decreased at HDB towns in 2024, given that 2024 was designated as the Year of Public Hygiene; (b) whether towns that recorded high observations of stain and littering in 2024 also recorded higher observations of rodent activity; (c) whether the Ministry will consider working with other Government agencies to track rodent activity as a measure of estate cleanliness; and (d) whether the Ministry will intensify littering deterrence efforts in towns with higher rodent activity.

In 2024, the National Environment Agency (NEA) received about 4,000 feedback reports on littering at the Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates, which was about the same as in 2023.

We have not observed any strong correlation between littering hotspots and high burrow count. However, poor refuse management creates conducive conditions for rat propagation and harbourage. NEA has stepped up enforcement to deter poor refuse management as part of our upstream efforts to tackle rat infestation in the Year of Public Hygiene. In addition, from 1 April 2025, NEA will tighten enforcement against premises owners and managers for rat-related lapses, including poor refuse management.

NEA shares rat surveillance data with the Town Councils and other stakeholders regularly and also engages them on measures to enhance rodent prevention and control. Collective efforts by the community are needed to uphold high standards of public hygiene. NEA will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to tackle littering and rat control issues in HDB estates.