Environment & climate — Topics

20 Mar 2023

Second-hand Shoes Collected in Project for Recycling to Create Running Tracks Exported for Overseas Resale

Several Members of Parliament raised concerns about irregularities in a shoe recycling programme, including donated shoes intended for recycling being diverted for overseas resale and questions about contractual oversight and potential legal breaches.
The Minister confirmed that an investigation found a subcontractor’s sorting mix-up led to some shoes being exported for resale, and corrective actions have been taken, such as terminating the subcontractor and tightening collection and inspection processes.
The Minister stated the programme has otherwise processed 10,000 kg of shoes into materials for local sports infrastructure, with plans to expand usage, and emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to sustainability and improved oversight in future partnerships.

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6 Mar 2023

Role of National Environment Agency and Land Management Agencies in Rodent Management

The NEA leads island-wide surveillance and inspections to detect and address rat infestations, while premises owners, including land management agencies, are responsible for ensuring their premises do not facilitate rodent propagation.
NEA supports other agencies by sharing surveillance data and best practices, and coordinates control measures among multiple stakeholders when infestations involve several parties.
Enforcement under the Environmental Public Health Act and Control of Vectors and Pesticides Act can impose fines up to $20,000 or imprisonment up to three months for failing to manage rodent conditions.
Premises owners neglecting refuse management may face fines up to $1,000 under public cleansing regulations, with additional daily fines for continued non-compliance.

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3 Mar 2023

Progress Towards Goal of 30 Therapeutic Gardens by 2030 as Part of City in Nature Vision

As of February 2023, 10 therapeutic gardens have been established and the goal of 30 by 2030 remains on track.
Therapeutic horticulture programmes are offered in these gardens and also in facilities like hospitals and senior centres, many in HDB estates.
NParks works with HDB to include therapeutic gardens in new developments and estate renewal projects where feasible.

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3 Mar 2023

Delineation of Responsibilities between NParks and Town Councils in Pigeon Nuisance Issues

Town Councils are primarily responsible for managing pigeon-related disamenities and resident feedback, while NParks provides advisory support on preventive measures and best practices for removal.
NParks conducts surveillance and enforcement against illegal bird-feeding, a key driver of pigeon population growth, and works with Town Councils to raise public awareness and promote proper waste management.
The collaborative approach between NParks and Town Councils has helped reduce pigeon-related disamenities and feedback in recent years, with NParks continuing to offer guidance and support.

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3 Mar 2023

Incidents Involving Users of Nature Areas due to Adverse Weather Conditions and Damaged Infrastructure

From 2018 to 2022, there were two reported incidents of injuries to visitors in nature reserves and parks due to adverse weather, with no incidents attributed to damaged infrastructure.
The National Parks Board conducts structural inspections of all public structures in nature areas once every five years, with monthly checks and additional inspections after heavy rainfall or upon receiving feedback, followed by necessary repairs.
NParks monitors visitor levels to ensure structures are not overloaded and is expanding the network of parks to distribute demand and provide more nature recreation options.

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3 Mar 2023

Review of 23 Industry Transformation Maps to Ensure Consistency with Net-zero Carbon Emissions Goal

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang inquired whether the 23 Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs) will be reviewed to align with Singapore’s net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2050.
He asked about the timeline for such a review if it is planned, and whether the Government would consider conducting it if not currently intended.
The debate seeks to ensure that the industry roadmaps are consistent with the national net-zero target, highlighting the need for policy coherence in climate action.

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3 Mar 2023

Placing Limits on Local Banks Refinancing Coal Power Projects Overseas

Leon Perera asked if MAS will set limits on Singapore banks refinancing overseas coal power projects.
Tharman, for the Prime Minister, highlighted the need to finance the decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors and a gradual phase-out of coal in Asia to avoid disrupting developing economies.
MAS guidance requires banks to base such financing on credible transition plans that reduce environmental risks and align with Paris Agreement goals.

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3 Mar 2023

Committee of Supply – Head W (Ministry of Transport)

The Ministry of Transport reported strong recovery across aviation, maritime, and land transport sectors post-pandemic, with Changi Airport returning to 80% of pre-COVID passenger traffic and plans to expand infrastructure, including the Tuas Port and new rail lines.
Sustainability initiatives were emphasized, including electrification of vehicles, cleaner energy public buses, and new targets for maritime and aviation sectors to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, supported by incentives and infrastructure like EV charging points.
The ministry addressed concerns over high motorcycle COE prices, outlining measures to curb speculation and improve affordability, while also launching community-focused projects like "Friendly Streets" to enhance pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

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3 Mar 2023

Conducting Island-wide Noise Management Studies in Areas Affected by Multiple Construction Projects

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducted an islandwide noise measurement study in 2018 to identify locations near MRT stations where noise exceeded recommended thresholds, with a targeted noise impact assessment for Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 completed in 2019 prior to North-South Corridor construction.
LTA and its contractors implement various noise mitigation measures such as erecting noise barriers and enclosures, using mufflers and rubber mallets, and scheduling noisier works during the day, with stakeholder notifications for necessary night works like diaphragm wall construction.
For residential developments affected by multiple construction projects, NEA requires continuous noise monitoring, and LTA installs noise barriers at source for national projects like the NSC, though complete noise elimination is not always feasible due to safety-critical works.

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2 Mar 2023

Committee of Supply – Head W (Ministry of Transport)

Multiple MPs raised concerns about the rising costs and sustainability of transport, including high COE premiums for motorcycles, subsidies for public transport, and the financial viability of transitioning to electric vehicles and infrastructure upgrades.
Discussions emphasized the need for enhanced infrastructure for active mobility, such as dedicated cycling paths, pedestrian-friendly streets, and safety measures for PMDs, bicycles, and delivery riders, while balancing inclusivity and affordability.
The debate highlighted the aviation and maritime sectors' recovery post-COVID, plans for Changi Airport Terminal 5, and strategies to maintain Singapore’s global hub status amid sustainability goals and competition.

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2 Mar 2023

Committee of Supply – Head L (Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment)

The Ministry outlined Singapore's climate-friendly initiatives, including the Green Plan 2030, public sector net-zero targets, and enhanced green procurement policies starting 2024, alongside support for businesses and households to adopt energy-efficient practices and appliances.
Efforts to build a zero-waste nation were detailed, such as the e-waste collection scheme, a mandatory disposable carrier bag charge from July 2023, and a beverage container return scheme, alongside plans to preserve and upgrade hawker centres while ensuring affordable food.
The Ministry emphasized strengthening climate resilience, focusing on food security through the "30 by 30" goal, aquaculture development, coastal and flood protection research, and community initiatives like the Green Action for Communities movement and Project Wolbachia to combat dengue.

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1 Mar 2023

Baseline Studies on Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem around Sisters' Island

NParks began baseline surveys in 2015 and continues to monitor marine biodiversity and habitats as part of the Nature Conservation Masterplan.
The results from these surveys, including those for Sisters' Island, will be published in the 2024 Southern Islands Biodiversity Survey report.
The Ministry has no plans for additional studies beyond the ongoing monitoring and scheduled publication.

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1 Mar 2023

Committee of Supply – Head L (Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment)

Members commended the progress on Singapore’s climate and waste policies, including the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and the #SayYesToWasteLess campaign, while seeking updates on GreenGov.SG and coastal protection plans for rising sea levels.
Several MPs raised concerns about the rising electricity consumption of households, the effectiveness of water efficiency measures, and the need for more support for SMEs and households to adopt energy-saving solutions amid inflation.
The expansion of Project Wolbachia to combat dengue was praised, with calls to scale the initiative nationwide and improve the management of second-hand smoke to protect public health.

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1 Mar 2023

Energy Efficiency Grant Amount Disbursed

Since its launch on 1 September 2022, over 1,000 applications have been received for the Energy Efficiency Grant, with most applicants being micro-SMEs and more than half from the food services sector.
The Minister highlighted that the grant is part of a broader suite of energy efficiency schemes available to businesses, and that the government is working with trade associations to raise awareness and support adoption.
In response to a follow-up question, the Minister noted that the scheme is still in its early stages and that the government is focused on helping SMEs, especially in food services, retail, and food manufacturing, to manage energy costs and integrate sustainability.
The government plans to continue collaborating with industry partners to explore cost-competitive solutions and support long-term energy and emission targets.

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1 Mar 2023

Lessons from Anti-waste Social Experiment that Seemed to Generate More Waste

The Minister acknowledged the NEA's "Waste Cafe" social experiment aimed to raise awareness about the environmental impact of disposable cups and that the used cups were repurposed for educational exhibits across Singapore.
The Ministry welcomes feedback on improving future campaigns, including suggestions to use digital displays or technology instead of physical waste to demonstrate excessive consumption.
The Ministry confirmed it will consider input from local environmental organizations and advocates, as well as lessons from public reactions, in shaping its public education efforts.

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1 Mar 2023

Provision of Incentives for Household Energy Efficiency Improvements

Mariam Jaafar asked if the Government will consider providing incentives for household energy efficiency improvements.
The question was officially registered as Question No. 5 and presented by Yip Hon Weng.
Dr Amy Khor, representing the Minister, stated the topic will be addressed during the upcoming MSE Committee of Supply debate and asked the member to wait for the detailed response then.

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28 Feb 2023

Older, More Pollutive Motorcycles Remaining in Use on Singapore’s Roads

Mariam Jaafar inquired about the number of older, pollutive motorcycles still in use, how many will fail the new April 2023 emissions standards, and whether more incentives could be offered to deregister them.
Grace Fu Hai Yien stated that motorcycles registered before July 2003 must meet tightened emission standards from April 2023, with an incentive of up to $3,500 offered since 2018 for deregistration.
From April 2018 to January 2023, 23,328 older motorcycles were deregistered, with 4,490 still in use.
Recent inspections indicate about one in five of these remaining motorcycles will not meet the tightened emissions standards.

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28 Feb 2023

Update on Trial of Sustainable Aviation Fuel for F-16 Jets

The RSAF has completed a trial using blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel for F-16 jets, which reduced carbon emissions by approximately 27% without causing engine performance issues or defects.
The blended fuel costs three times more than conventional Jet Propellant-8 fuel, making it too expensive for current adoption.
Due to the high cost, the RSAF will not adopt the blended fuel for its aircraft at this time.
The RSAF will monitor market developments and reconsider the fuel if prices drop to a cost-effective level.
There are currently no plans to expand the use of the blended fuel to all F-16 jets or other aircraft until costs become more manageable.

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28 Feb 2023

Complaints Received Relating to Second-hand Smoke from Neighbours

In response to a parliamentary question, the Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment reported that NEA received about 400 complaints in 2019, rising to 2,000 in both 2020 and 2021 due to more people working from home, before decreasing to around 900 in 2022.
The Ministry stated it does not have a specific threshold for policy changes, emphasizing a multi-pronged approach including local enforcement, advisories, and national measures like increased tobacco taxes, while noting the 900 feedbacks were part of over 21,000 total smoking feedbacks in 2022.
The Member highlighted that second-hand smoke deaths occur every other day in Singapore, urging a stronger perspective on the issue, while the Ministry reiterated its seriousness in addressing each case.

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27 Feb 2023

Plans for Waste Disposal after Semakau Landfill is Fully Filled

Leon Perera asked about waste disposal plans and the construction costs and timelines for new landfills after Semakau Landfill is fully filled.
Grace Fu Hai Yien outlined efforts under the Zero Waste Master Plan to reduce waste sent to the landfill, aiming for a 30% per capita reduction by 2030 through R&D, regulations, and public engagement.
The Ministry and National Environment Agency are evaluating current initiatives and future plans to extend Semakau's lifespan beyond 2035 and will provide updates when ready.

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