Environment & climate — Topics

11 Mar 2022

Extension of Temporary Electricity Contracting Support Scheme

The Minister confirmed that the Temporary Electricity Contracting Support Scheme (TRECS) has been extended until May 2022, with EMA working with retailers to ensure fair contractual terms and compliance with the Code of Conduct, while also encouraging longer-term fixed-price contracts from retailers like Keppel Electric and Sembcorp Power.
EMA confirmed there is no limit for generating companies to draw on the Standby LNG Facility for TRECS, and while capacity for March was sufficient, the Minister addressed concerns about over-subscription in February and noted plans to monitor and negotiate for more fixed-price contracts to enhance energy security.
The Minister advised against making TRECS mandatory for all gencos, explaining that its voluntary and short-term nature allows flexibility for price hedging, and emphasized ongoing efforts to support longer-term stability alongside the scheme's temporary objectives.

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8 Mar 2022

Reduce Unnecessary Packaging in ART Kits Given Their Extensive Use

Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Health to consider working with ART kit manufacturers to reduce and streamline unnecessary packaging given the rapid increase in self-testing use.
Ong Ye Kung explained that manufacturers currently pack components individually to minimise contamination and leakage risks.
MOH will collaborate with MSE to encourage manufacturers to reduce ART packaging and adopt more environmentally sustainable options where feasible.

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8 Mar 2022

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

Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean announced Singapore’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by around 2050, supported by a revised carbon tax trajectory rising to $50–80 per tonne by 2030, with revenue recycled to support households and businesses in the green transition.
Ministers outlined whole-of-government efforts to decarbonize key sectors: expanding solar deployment and importing low-carbon electricity; accelerating EV adoption with charging infrastructure, regulatory updates, and incentives; greening buildings and advancing urban R&D; and transforming Jurong Island into a sustainable energy and chemicals hub.
The government will invest in R&D, enterprise support, and workforce upskilling—including through the Enterprise Sustainability Programme, Green Finance, and SkillsFuture—to grow a green economy, with strong emphasis on SMEs, talent development, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration under the Singapore Green Plan 2030.

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7 Mar 2022

Variations to Existing Waste Management Contracts under Government Entities to Factor in Progressive Wage Model

The National Environment Agency has six major waste collection contracts expiring after 2024, accounting for over 90% of government waste management value, alongside over 100 smaller agency contracts mostly ending by 2024.
An advisory will be issued to government agencies to allow contract variations with waste management service providers to account for cost increases from the Progressive Wage Model (PWM), which was announced with a 1.5-year lead time before implementation.
For contracts signed before the PWM announcement, agencies may consider variations with justification or mutually agree to terminate and re-tender, while the Progressive Wage Credit Scheme provides transitional support to cushion wage increases.

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7 Mar 2022

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

Members of Parliament highlighted the need for accelerated R&D and industry support to develop low-carbon technologies like hydrogen and to grow Singapore's green economy, including sectors such as carbon trading and green ICT, while emphasizing that sustainability offers competitive advantages beyond compliance.
The debate underscored the importance of government measures to enable businesses to transition sustainably, including funding, skills development, and tools to track environmental impact, while addressing uncertainties in costs and benefits.
It was proposed that green public procurement could drive market demand and incentivize innovation, but this requires careful consideration of trade-offs in sectors like housing, alongside other levers such as regulations, incentives, and public education campaigns.

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7 Mar 2022

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

Members of Parliament expressed strong support for Singapore’s new net-zero emissions target and the planned increase in the carbon tax, while seeking more details on the implementation roadmap, impact on households and businesses, and the role of international carbon credits.
The debate covered a wide range of sustainability topics, including the proposed charge for disposable carrier bags at supermarkets, measures to extend the lifespan of Semakau Landfill, progress on the Zero Waste Masterplan, and plans for coastal protection against rising sea levels.
Several MPs raised concerns about second-hand smoke, calling for more no-smoking zones and updates on the Hawker Succession Scheme, while ministers provided updates on environmental sanitation, food security, and water resilience initiatives.

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2 Mar 2022

Breakdown of Cases Prosecuted for Illegal Import and Export of Endangered Species in the Past Five Years

From 2017 to 2021, 18 cases were prosecuted for illegal trade of endangered species, with seven involving persons only transporting the species and no evidence they were selling or keeping them for personal use.
Of the remaining 11 cases, four involved persons transporting species to sell them, while seven were transporting for personal use.
NParks has not found evidence of syndicates or organized crime in these cases and shares investigations with INTERPOL and foreign agencies, with no reported links to larger networks.
The government collaborates with financial institutions and uses public-private partnerships to detect and report suspicious transactions linked to illegal wildlife trade, with ongoing vigilance and coordination with agencies like MAS.

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28 Feb 2022

Grants to Support Banks in Developing Green and Sustainability-linked Liabilities Frameworks

Mr Don Wee asked the Prime Minister if MAS plans to introduce grants for banks to develop frameworks for green and sustainability-linked liabilities to fund green loans through green deposits.
Tharman Shanmugaratnam, responding for the Prime Minister, stated that MAS provides grants to businesses to cover costs related to external reviews and monitoring for green financing projects.
He noted that banks face fewer barriers in offering green deposits and that some financial institutions have already launched such products due to market demand.
The response concluded that there is currently no market failure requiring MAS to support green deposits with grants, unlike other sustainable financing solutions that face higher costs.

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28 Feb 2022

Update on JTC's Solar Deployment Scheme and Proposal for Landlord-to-tenant Solar Energy Purchasing Guidelines

Leon Perera asked about expanding JTC’s mandatory solar deployment scheme to all tenants, offering incentives for short leases and allowing JTC to own installations for lease to such tenants.
The Minister of State responded that landlord-tenant solar savings are negotiated in tenancy agreements, making specific guidelines inappropriate, but noted JTC’s SolarRoof programme offers two models without upfront costs.
JTC’s mandatory scheme applies to lessees with leases over 15 years and at least 800 sqm of rooftop, but shorter-lease tenants can still participate in SolarRoof, and JTC is exploring options for shorter-tenure adoption.
The government is on track to achieve a 2 GWp solar target by 2030, with 224 MWp deployed under JTC’s estates, and is seeking vendors for shorter contract periods to benefit lessees with shorter leases.
JTC launched Phase Three of the SolarRoof tender, offering rooftop licensing and solar leasing options for contracts under 10 years to further promote solar adoption.

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28 Feb 2022

Measures to Reduce Negative Impact on Intertidal Habitats Like Changi Beach due to Increased Human Traffic

NParks has increased outreach efforts, deploying more officers and volunteers to educate visitors on responsible interaction with marine wildlife in intertidal zones, such as avoiding touching or trampling, and has installed more signs to raise awareness.
The government is working with partners, including conservation groups and the local community, to manage visitor numbers at sensitive intertidal areas while keeping them accessible for public recreation, and is assessing strengthening protection under the Wildlife Act.
Recent monitoring shows marine biodiversity in Singapore's intertidal zones remains in good condition, with no prosecution cases for marine poaching in the past five years, and the government is considering publicising eco-sensitive areas and collaborating with schools to enhance education.

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18 Feb 2022

Monitoring of Companies' Compliance with Mandatory Packaging Reporting Requirements

Murali Pillai inquired about the steps taken to monitor compliance with the Mandatory Packaging Reporting requirements for large companies ahead of the 2022 deadline.
Grace Fu Hai Yien explained that NEA has engaged companies through multiple channels since 2019, including notifications, media releases, and over 150 industry briefings and consultations.
NEA collaborated with industry associations and conducted sessions under the Packaging Partnership Programme to guide companies on reporting and developing 3R plans.
Final reminders will be sent before the March 2022 submission deadline, and NEA will continue working with stakeholders to ensure compliance.

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18 Feb 2022

Cause of Delay in Refuse and Recyclables Collection in Woodlands, Yishun, Sembawang, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang and Ang Mo Kio by New Contractor

The delays in refuse and recyclables collection in Woodlands, Yishun, Sembawang, Choa Chu Kang, Bukit Panjang, and parts of Ang Mo Kio were due to the new contractor ALBA W&H facing inadequate manpower and vehicle resources, exacerbated by COVID-19 supply chain disruptions and the crew's unfamiliarity with routes.
ALBA W&H improved service quality by augmenting its fleet and manpower, extending operational hours, and receiving support from other service providers.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) is introducing additional safeguards in licensing conditions to ensure smoother transitions to new contractors in the future.

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18 Feb 2022

Annual Budget Statement

The Minister for Finance outlined a comprehensive budget to support Singapore's post-pandemic recovery, proposing targeted measures like a $500 million Jobs and Business Support Package and a $560 million Household Support Package to aid struggling sectors and households amid inflation and economic uncertainties.
To address long-term challenges, the budget emphasized investing in new capabilities, including digital infrastructure and R&D, advancing the green transition by raising the carbon tax and setting a net-zero emissions target by around 2050, and strengthening the social compact through enhancements to lower-wage worker support, retirement adequacy, and healthcare reforms.
Revenue enhancements were announced, including higher personal income tax rates for top earners, increased property tax rates for non-owner-occupied and high-value homes, and a staggered GST increase from 7% to 9% starting in 2023, accompanied by an enhanced Assurance Package to cushion the impact on Singaporeans.
The budget also detailed adjustments to foreign worker policies, such as raising qualifying salaries for Employment Pass and S Pass holders, and reflected a revised fiscal outlook with lower-than-expected draws on past reserves for COVID-19 relief, while maintaining deficits for FY2021 and FY2022.

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18 Feb 2022

Rationale for Legislating and Making High-rise Littering an Offence Despite Inherent Difficulty in Enforcement

High-rise littering is already covered under the Environmental Public Health Act 1987 as part of general littering offences, with no separate legislation needed.
Enforcement against high-rise littering is pursued due to its clear visibility and impact, while second-hand smoke in homes faces greater challenges such as technological limitations and privacy concerns.
The government is exploring technological solutions, community mediation, and public education to address second-hand smoke, while maintaining focus on high-rise littering enforcement.

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15 Feb 2022

Build More Green Access Points to Make Green Rail Corridor and Clementi Forest in Ulu Pandan More Accessible for Residents

Christopher de Souza asked if more green access points can be built to make the Green Rail Corridor and Clementi Forest in Ulu Pandan more accessible for residents.
Desmond Lee responded that under the City in Nature vision, the government is enhancing green spaces, including a new 18-kilometre recreational network in the Clementi Nature Corridor with two nature trails that will provide more access points when completed from 2023.
Recent trail improvements at the Rail Corridor include new access points near Queensway Flyover and Jalan Kilang Barat, with more works starting this year to add access points for residents in nearby estates, including Ulu Pandan.
The government will continue to engage stakeholders to shape green spaces as inclusive and accessible community areas while safeguarding natural heritage.

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15 Feb 2022

Annual Percentage of Recyclable Waste Processed at Materials Recovery Facilities in Past Three Years

Gerald Giam asked for the annual percentage of recyclable waste processed at Materials Recovery Facilities that is either treated as general waste or reused for new products over the past three years.
Grace Fu responded that the National Environment Agency monitors contamination rates, with about 40% of items from blue bins and chutes being non-recyclable and treated as general waste after sorting.
The remaining 60% of collected recyclables are sent to recyclers for processing into new products or further recycling.
The data provided is based on samples from 2018 and 2020, not a continuous three-year breakdown as requested.

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15 Feb 2022

Impact of Carbon Tax on Petrol and Diesel Pump Prices

Leon Perera asked about the impact of carbon tax on petrol and diesel pump prices and whether the Ministry studied the effects of increasing petrol duties on driving behavior.
The Government levies excise duties on fuels to encourage reduced usage, while carbon tax targets large industrial emitters, not direct fuel pump prices.
The Ministry has not conducted detailed studies on petrol duty impacts due to limitations in tracking individual driving behavior, but notes that higher duties aim to discourage petrol vehicle use for environmental reasons.

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15 Feb 2022

Proposal to Increase Penalty for Littering to Reinforce Anti-littering Message

Lim Biow Chuan asked if the Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment plans to increase littering penalties to strengthen the anti-littering message.
Grace Fu Hai Yien noted that maximum court fines for littering were last raised in 2014 and currently stand at $2,000, $4,000, and $10,000 for first, second, and third or subsequent convictions.
The Ministry has no plans to further increase littering penalties at this time, while recalcitrant offenders may still be issued Corrective Work Orders.

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15 Feb 2022

Safeguards to Prevent Deterioration in Residential Waste Disposal Methods Given Move to Reduce Use of Plastic Bags

Shahira Abdullah raised concerns about potential deterioration in residential waste disposal methods as Singapore reduces plastic bag use, asking for safeguards from the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment.
Grace Fu Hai Yien explained that disposable bags remain essential for hygiene to prevent pest infestation in bins and chutes, and that bag charges will not eliminate access to them.
She noted that disposable bags will still be available from supermarkets, retail outlets, and wet markets for purposes like bagging fresh produce.
The carrier bag charge aims to discourage excessive use driven by resource consumption and carbon emissions from incineration, promoting more mindful and environmentally friendly habits.

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15 Feb 2022

Measures to Encourage Supermarkets and Companies to Adopt More Sustainable Forms of Packaging without Passing on Costs to Consumers

Dr Shahira Abdullah asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment how to encourage supermarkets and companies to adopt sustainable packaging without passing the costs to consumers, focusing on reducing packaging waste, using greener materials, and minimizing pre-packaged groceries.
The Minister acknowledged the importance of sustainable practices, noting that while some sustainable products may cost more, competition and economies of scale could reduce prices, and highlighted the Mandatory Packaging Reporting framework and the Packaging Partnership Programme to promote waste reduction.
The Minister emphasized that packaging is crucial for protecting goods and reducing food waste, and encouraged businesses to explore reusable and refillable models, while urging consumers to avoid excessive packaging.
Dr Shahira Abdullah followed up by asking about the take-up rate of the Packaging Partnership Programme and how companies are encouraged to participate, to which the Minister responded that the programme is new, with various workshops and webinars held, and expressed hope for broader adoption over time.

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