Environment & climate

• The debate centered around the President's vision of a "we first" society, emphasizing collective responsibility and solidarity among Singaporeans, as articulated by Mr. Fadli Fawzi.
• Fadli highlighted the importance of addressing the unintended consequences of meritocracy and the growing sense of precariousness among citizens, which may lead to a focus on personal achievement over the common good.
• The need for the government to ensure that all citizens can pursue a dignified life was stressed, particularly in relation to supporting the elderly and vulnerable populations.
• Mr. Zaqy Mohamad discussed the urgent threat of climate change, outlining Singapore's proactive measures for adaptation and resilience, including significant financial commitments for coastal protection and sustainable practices.
• The debate concluded with calls for unity, innovation, and adherence to the rule of law as essential components for Singapore to navigate current global challenges and maintain its status as a stable hub.

• The debate centers on the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (Amendment) Bill aimed at amending the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore Act 2009.
• The bill proposes the establishment of a sustainable aviation fuel fund and the imposition of a sustainable aviation fuel levy.
• The amendments are intended to support related purposes in the aviation sector.
• The bill was presented by the Senior Minister of State for Transport, Ms. Sun Xueling, on behalf of the Acting Minister for Transport.
• The bill is scheduled for a second reading in the next available sitting of Parliament.

• The Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment is conducting internal investigations into contract irregularities at the Public Utilities Board (PUB) as highlighted in the Auditor-General's Office (AGO) report, with some cases reported to the police for potential fraud.
• Disciplinary actions have been taken against individual officers involved in lapses, including reprimands and downgrading of performance grades, while measures are being implemented to strengthen governance and contract management processes.
• PUB is enhancing its internal audits, tightening standard operating procedures, and utilizing technology such as AI to improve checks and reduce human error in contract management.
• The Minister assured that the integrity of PUB's operations will not be compromised and emphasized the importance of maintaining innovation and efficiency in their mission to ensure water security.
• Ongoing investigations will determine if any contractors involved will face consequences, and PUB will continue to review its contractor panel to ensure compliance and capability.

• The Strategy Group will guide the Public Service in addressing long-term national challenges and strategic priorities to enhance Singapore's future amidst global uncertainties.
• Key priorities include securing Singapore's global position, transforming the economy, expanding opportunities, uniting citizens, and fostering partnerships with communities and businesses.
• The Government aims to tackle demographic issues like low fertility rates and an ageing population by enhancing support for families and promoting active ageing for seniors.
• Climate action is a priority, with commitments to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and implement measures for decarbonization and climate adaptation.
• Global cooperation is emphasized as essential for effective climate action, with ongoing efforts to establish international collaborations and standards.

• The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) aims to enhance Singapore's environmental sustainability and climate resilience through the development of a National Adaptation Plan and integrated strategies for heat resilience.
• MSE is focusing on coastal protection measures in response to rising sea levels and is committed to diversifying food supply sources to enhance food security amid global disruptions.
• Singapore is targeting net zero emissions by 2050, supported by a carbon tax and initiatives in carbon capture and nuclear energy safety assessments.
• Efforts to reduce waste include launching a Beverage Container Return Scheme and improving recycling practices, while also investing in water infrastructure to meet future demand.
• MSE emphasizes community involvement in sustainability initiatives and the use of technology to improve public hygiene and operational efficiency.

• The Ministry of National Development (MND) aims to create a livable city through the Draft Master Plan 2025, focusing on diverse housing options, rejuvenation of older neighborhoods, and economic development in key areas.
• MND plans to maintain affordable public housing, enhance support for seniors, and improve public rental housing, while also ensuring a strong supply of land for private housing.
• Infrastructure improvements will include senior-friendly enhancements in both public and private estates, as well as the development of integrated community hubs and expanded green spaces.
• Climate change mitigation will be addressed through climate-sensitive urban planning and building design, alongside initiatives to uplift the built environment sector and streamline regulatory processes.
• MND emphasizes collaboration with industry partners to foster innovation and growth opportunities, aiming for a sustainable and vibrant future for Singapore.

• Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim raised concerns about noise levels from LRT track maintenance and passing trains, asking the Minister for Transport about monitoring practices and the possibility of building noise barriers.
• He inquired whether the Land Transport Authority (LTA) monitors noise levels during maintenance and for passing trains, and requested information on average noise levels.
• Chee Hong Tat responded that LRT systems are designed to minimize noise and that the noise generated is within the National Environment Agency's guidelines.
• He mentioned that for temporary maintenance works, the LTA implements noise mitigation measures, such as noise blankets, to manage noise levels.

• Patrick Tay and Liang Eng Hwa raised questions about expanding the list of products eligible for Climate Vouchers to include air-conditioning servicing, energy-efficient de-humidifiers, and clothes dryers.
• Grace Fu highlighted that the Climate Friendly Households Programme recently expanded the eligible product list from three to ten items, including direct current fans and washing machines.
• The Ministry will periodically review the list of eligible products but clarified that servicing costs for equipment like air conditioners do not qualify under the program's objectives.

• Gerald Giam Yean Song inquired about the projected cost per tonne of carbon dioxide abated through carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Singapore, including various associated costs and comparisons to Indonesia's proposed arrangements and alternative decarbonisation strategies.
• Gan Kim Yong acknowledged CCS as a recognized decarbonisation method and mentioned that the government is exploring the feasibility of a cross-border CCS project, focusing on developing a complete CCS value chain and obtaining clearer cost estimates.

• Mr. Lim Biow Chuan raised concerns about the increasing incidents of otters entering residential areas and damaging fish in homes, seeking NParks' plans for management.
• Minister Desmond Lee acknowledged that otters are native to Singapore and that conflicts with humans occur, prompting NParks to collaborate with community partners to address these issues.
• NParks has implemented measures such as cordoning off areas with protective adult otters, using olfactory irritants to deter them, and may trap and relocate otters from conflict zones.
• Public engagement efforts include talks and webinars to educate residents on wildlife management and advising homeowners on protective measures for ornamental fish.
• NParks will continue to monitor the otter population and assess the effectiveness of current management strategies.

• The Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment is considering additional measures to support the use of low-formaldehyde building materials beyond current certification schemes.
• Starting January 1, 2026, the sale of interior paints containing formaldehyde will be prohibited in Singapore.
• The National Environment Agency (NEA) is enhancing public awareness about formaldehyde's harmful effects through various media and educational initiatives.
• Consumers are encouraged to choose products certified under the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme and the Singapore Green Building Product Certification Scheme for low or undetectable formaldehyde levels.
• NEA is reviewing regulatory requirements for formaldehyde in other interior building products and studying the emissions and health impacts of other volatile organic compounds.

• Louis Ng Kok Kwang inquired about the timeline for integrating environmental sustainability requirements into all government procurements and whether prioritization is based on the value of goods and services.
• Chee Hong Tat responded that the government has included environmental sustainability in selected procurements since 2007, with about 60% of procurement by contract value already incorporating these considerations.
• The government is progressively expanding the use of environmental sustainability criteria, prioritizing based on expenditure size and emissions impact.
• The goal is to extend these considerations to all government procurement by 2028, aligning with industry readiness and international developments.

Tin Pei Ling emphasized the importance of digitalization for Singapore's future, noting its growth in GDP contribution and the need for sustainable, inclusive digital infrastructure. She highlighted the necessity of building world-class digital infrastructure, fostering talent, enhancing business adoption of technologies, and developing safe and inclusive digital ecosystems. Concerns were raised about the increasing energy demands of data centers amidst the growing digital economy, prompting calls for sustainable strategies and regulatory guidelines. Updates were requested on government initiatives to protect citizens from online harms and the progress of the 13 calls to action proposed for establishing a safe digital society.

Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked if the Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment is planning to designate more "No Smoking Zones." Grace Fu Hai Yien responded that Orchard Road was designated as a No Smoking Zone in 2019 and was expanded in 2024 to include areas near Somerset Road and Exeter Road. She noted that since the last expansion occurred recently, the NEA currently has no plans for further designations.

Hazel Poa questioned the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment regarding the types of waste stored at a warehouse that caught fire on February 19, 2025, and whether it exposed nearby residents to toxic pollutants. The Senior Minister of State revealed that the facility primarily handled general waste and was not licensed to store hazardous materials, with ongoing investigations to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The air quality in the vicinity remained normal during the fire, and NEA regularly inspects waste facilities to ensure adherence to fire safety laws, having conducted multiple inspections and issued warnings for non-compliance at the facility in question.

Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked about the timeline for the Southern Islands Biodiversity Survey report. Desmond Lee responded that the survey, led by the National Parks Board with input from various stakeholders, has completed its data analysis, which is under expert review. The report will be published in phases, with most chapters anticipated to be released by the end of the year.

Liang Eng Hwa proposed a reduction in the budget for the Ministry of Trade and Industry, highlighting the unexpected economic growth of 4.4% in 2024 and stressing the need for further growth beyond the projected range of 1% to 3% for 2025 to sustain job creation and competitiveness. Members discussed the impacts of global geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions on Singapore's economy, seeking clarity on strategies to maintain trade relationships and attract high-value investments amid these challenges. The importance of innovation, especially in technology and sustainability, was emphasized, with suggestions for enhancing support for startups and local enterprises transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Members also called for improved consumer protection measures against online scams and raised concerns about regulations on planned obsolescence in products to promote sustainability and reduce waste.

Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked about the estimated savings of disposable carrier bags since the introduction of the mandatory charge in larger supermarkets on July 3, 2023, and if there are plans to extend the scheme to all retailers. Grace Fu Hai Yien responded that supermarkets with an annual turnover over $100 million must charge a minimum of five cents per disposable carrier bag, leading to a reported 70% to 80% reduction in bags issued in the first year. Some non-obligated retailers have voluntarily adopted a bag charge or ceased providing disposable bags, but there are currently no plans to expand the mandatory charge to all retailers.

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim questioned the Minister for National Development about the sterilisation program for monkeys in Punggol, focusing on the criteria for sterilisation sites, the number of macaques trapped in 2024, and the outcomes of those trapped. Desmond Lee explained that NParks employs a science- and community-based approach to wildlife management, informed by population studies and focused on minimizing human-wildlife conflict. NParks trapped 50 monkeys in Punggol in 2024, with most being sterilised, while some aggressive monkeys were removed for safety reasons. The agency collaborates with local stakeholders to educate the community on measures to mitigate monkey encounters and emphasizes the importance of not feeding wildlife and maintaining clean residential areas.

Louis Ng Kok Kwang proposed reducing the budget allocation for the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment. He acknowledged the ministry's progress in areas like food safety and climate change but pressed for stronger action against second-hand smoke, urging for legislation to protect citizens from its effects. Various members discussed Singapore's challenges with sustainability, air conditioning energy consumption, waste management, and the support needed for local farms amidst rising operational costs. Minsters outlined ongoing and new initiatives, including investments in renewable energy, community engagement in sustainability, and public hygiene improvements through grants and programs. The importance of public cooperation and technological integration in these initiatives was emphasized throughout the discussions.