Environment & climate — Topics

20 Mar 2018

Carbon Pricing Bill

The Carbon Pricing Bill introduces a carbon tax starting at S$5 per tonne of greenhouse gas emissions for facilities emitting 25,000 tonnes or more annually, with plans to increase to S$10–15 by 2030, to incentivize emission reductions and align with Singapore's climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The bill establishes a measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) regime, transferring existing reporting requirements from the Energy Conservation Act and requiring third-party verification for larger emitters to ensure transparency and accuracy.
Parliamentarians broadly supported the bill but raised concerns about impacts on household costs, business competitiveness, and the need for support measures like grants and rebates, with the government emphasizing revenue reinvestment into energy efficiency initiatives and monitoring for unfair pricing.

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20 Mar 2018

Recycling By Companies and Households

The Senior Minister of State reported that 83% of households and 76% of the non-domestic sector recycle, with initiatives like dual chutes and new bin requirements to boost the domestic rate to 30% by 2030.
Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar raised concerns about contamination in mixed recycling bins and the potential breakage of items like glass in dual chutes, questioning the effectiveness of current systems.
The Senior Minister of State acknowledged a 40% contamination rate in commingled bins, appealing for public cooperation and noting that dual chutes have proven to triple recycling rates in HDB blocks.
Education efforts through social media, community events, and clearer bin labels are ongoing to reduce confusion and encourage proper recycling practices.

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19 Mar 2018

Data of Plastic Bags Used in Singapore in Past Three Years

Louis Ng asked for the annual number of plastic bags used in Singapore over the past three years and whether the Ministry would collect such data if unavailable.
The National Environment Agency does not currently monitor plastic bag usage but estimates plastic bags make up one-fifth of plastic waste by weight, with plastic waste disposed of consistently around 760,000–770,000 tonnes each year from 2015 to 2017.
A mandatory packaging waste reporting framework will be implemented by 2021, requiring businesses to report packaging types and amounts, which may include single-use plastic bags, with industry consultations starting this year.
The Ministry will continue supporting private sector and NGO initiatives to reduce plastic bag use, such as training cashiers and using visual reminders in stores.

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6 Mar 2018

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

Multiple MPs expressed concern over Singapore’s vulnerability to climate change, citing extreme weather, flash floods, rising sea levels, and waste management issues, with calls for stronger public education, corporate responsibility, and updated infrastructure.
The Minister outlined a two-pronged climate strategy: adaptation (e.g., coastal protection, water security, drainage upgrades) and mitigation (e.g., carbon tax, energy efficiency, solar adoption), emphasizing whole-of-government coordination and international cooperation.
Key initiatives announced include a mandatory e-waste system by 2021 using Extended Producer Responsibility, targeted water conservation measures, a plastic bag lifecycle study, and ongoing efforts to rejuvenate hawker centres and enhance productivity.

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2 Mar 2018

Carbon Pricing Bill

The Carbon Pricing Bill was introduced to require companies to report and pay a tax on greenhouse gas emissions, amending the Energy Conservation Act accordingly.
The bill was presented by Minister Masagos Zulkifli, received presidential recommendation, and was read for the first time with a second reading scheduled for after March 19, 2018.
The proposal aligns with Singapore's broader environmental strategy to address climate change through fiscal measures and regulatory updates.

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28 Feb 2018

Effectiveness of National Recycling Programme

The National Recycling Programme (NRP), started in 2001, collected about 44,200 tonnes of recyclables in 2016, representing roughly 10% of the domestic sector's total recyclables, with collection costs covered under a single household waste collection fee.
The domestic recycling rate has remained around 20% since 2012, prompting enhancements such as mandatory dual chutes in new residential buildings and more recycling bins in existing condominiums to encourage participation.
The government uses regulatory measures, public education, and outreach campaigns to promote the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle), while emphasizing the importance of not contaminating recyclables with food waste to maintain their usability.

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27 Feb 2018

Update on Plans to Enhance Mandatory Waste Reporting Requirements by Supermarkets

The Ministry currently requires waste reporting only for shopping malls larger than 4,600 square metres and hotels with over 200 rooms, with no separate requirements for supermarkets as their waste is covered under mall reports.
There are no immediate plans to introduce mandatory waste reporting specifically for supermarkets, but the Ministry will continue monitoring waste generation from already covered premises.
The Ministry is considering extending waste reporting to other large waste-generating premises like industrial sites, while taking into account potential compliance costs.

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19 Feb 2018

Alignment of New Coal Gasification Plant on Jurong Island with Singapore's Climate Change Commitments

Mr Lim Hng Kiang explained that Singapore’s Paris Agreement commitments are based on reducing emissions intensity, not absolute emissions, and that the coal gasification plant will use best-in-class mitigation technologies, be subject to carbon tax, and its emissions will be closely monitored to align with climate goals.
The government justified the plant as necessary to provide competitive feedstock for the energy and chemicals sector, which contributes to GDP and employment, while balancing environmental concerns through strict regulations on emissions and ash disposal.
In response to concerns about ash disposal, Mr Lim stated that the company has committed to recycling the ash under strict conditions set by MEWR to avoid adding to dumping requirements.
Mr Lim clarified that the project is not an energy generation plant but a feedstock producer for the petrochemical sector, and Singapore’s energy mix remains dependent on natural gas and limited solar energy, not coal.
The minister acknowledged the delicate balance between maintaining industrial competitiveness and meeting climate commitments, emphasizing that gasification was chosen after evaluating alternatives to meet industry needs sustainably.

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19 Feb 2018

Impact of Singapore Bank Loans to Coal Power Projects on Government's Carbon Emission Commitments

Asst Prof Mahdev Mohan questioned whether Singapore banks’ loans to coal power projects affect the government’s carbon emission goals and if banks will be required to publicly pledge to restrict such lending.
Minister Ong Ye Kung responded that regional energy demands and coal’s role in providing electricity, especially in developing countries, are considered, while highlighting banks’ efforts to adopt responsible financing practices and MAS’s supervision of sustainability.
Mahdev Mohan followed up by asking why Singapore banks aren’t encouraged to adopt the Equator Principles for ESG risks, particularly for coal projects in developing countries.
Ong Ye Kung noted the evolving context of energy needs, banks’ balance of ESG risks with financing, and Singapore’s dual focus on risk management and growing the green finance ecosystem.

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5 Feb 2018

Proposal to Increase Frequency of Tree Inspections

Ms Joan Pereira asked if NParks would increase tree inspection frequency in high-density areas and what actions pedestrians and motorists should take when affected by fallen trees.
The Second Minister for National Development stated that NParks already conducts more frequent inspections in high-traffic areas, has reduced inspection intervals for expressway and major road trees since 2012, and performs annual second-level inspections for older trees.
NParks also implements pruning before monsoon seasons, develops modelling techniques to assess weather impacts, and supports other agencies with training; tree failure incidents have declined by 60% since 2012.
For public assistance, NParks recommends using the OneService app or hotline to report fallen tree incidents and notes that agencies will provide support to affected individuals.

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5 Feb 2018

Recent Flash Floods and Adequacy of Drainage System

Multiple MPs raised concerns about the causes, prevention, and public alerts for flash floods, particularly referencing the intense rainfall on 8 January 2018, with questions on drainage capacity, design principles, and interim measures during upgrades.
The Minister explained that the floods resulted from extreme rainfall exceeding drain capacities, with eight locations being low-lying and two having flood histories; drainage works did not cause the floods, except for a contractor obstruction at Tampines Avenue 12.
PUB has raised drainage design standards since 2011 to handle 45% higher rainfall, invested $1.2 billion in improvements at 327 locations, and uses a "source-pathway-receptor" approach including detention tanks and building regulations to manage flood risks.
Non-structural measures include regular drain maintenance, public alerts via SMS and apps, and collaboration with agencies for traffic diversion, but complete flood elimination is infeasible due to land and cost constraints, especially with climate change increasing rainfall intensity.
Oversight of developers and contractors is enforced through required drainage plans and legal action for non-compliance, as seen in the Tampines case, to prevent drain obstructions and ensure public safety.

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10 Jan 2018

Measures to Control Wild Bird Populations in HDB Estates

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore uses a multi-pronged approach, including working with Town Councils on deterrents like gels and fogging, pruning trees, and ensuring proper food waste disposal to control wild bird populations in HDB estates.
The government has considered sonic systems like those used at airports but notes they are temporary, loud, and less suitable for dense residential areas, with no plans for immediate adoption.
The Senior Minister of State emphasized that public behavior, such as not feeding birds or littering, is crucial, as birds are attracted to food sources and technology alone cannot solve the issue.
Mr. Gan Thiam Poh highlighted specific challenges in his constituency, including birds entering homes, and asked about alternative tree types or newer methods, with the government open to exploring science-based solutions and tree species adjustments.
The government stressed the importance of cost-effectiveness and public cooperation, with ongoing education and enforcement against uncivil behaviors like high-rise littering to address the root causes of bird attraction.

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10 Jan 2018

Cumulative Noise from Successive Developments under Construction

Dr Tan Wu Meng questioned whether the planning of land development considers the cumulative noise impact on residents from successive nearby construction projects and what measures exist to minimise noise in developments near residential areas.
The Minister for National Development confirmed that agencies account for construction noise impacts, especially in rapidly developing areas, and highlighted measures such as staggering noisy activities, using quieter equipment, imposing noise limits, and enforcing a "no-work rule" on Sundays and public holidays near residential sites.
Dr Tan Wu Meng’s follow-up question sought reassurance that agencies proactively minimise noise in mature estates, citing resident feedback about on-site debris breaking causing disamenities.
The Minister responded that agencies already manage project tempo and on-site activities, comply with noise limits, and support quieter construction methods through initiatives like the NEA’s Quieter Construction Fund.

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10 Jan 2018

Methods to Evaluate Contractors who Bid for Green Building Contracts

The Ministry for National Development outlined that green building projects are evaluated based on efficiency requirements, cost-effectiveness, and market-driven fees, with systems like the Centre for Public Project Management (CP2M) providing cost norms and design reviews to ensure value for money.
The Building Construction Authority (BCA) noted that Green Mark Platinum buildings may cost up to 5% more but offer energy and water savings with a payback period of three to six years, alongside health benefits for occupants.
The Minister emphasized the government's commitment to leading in environmental sustainability through initiatives like the Public Sector Taking the Lead in Environmental Sustainability (PSTLES), while acknowledging the need to assess technology maintainability and replacement parts over a building's lifecycle.

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10 Jan 2018

Annual Water Pipe Leaks in Last Decade

Over the last seven years, Singapore has experienced an average of about six leaks per 100 km of water pipes annually, a rate that has remained stable and is among the lowest globally.
The Public Utilities Board employs a comprehensive leak detection and pipe renewal program, including annual inspections, advanced monitoring tools, and increasing the length of pipes replaced each year to proactively manage leaks.
Leaks are primarily caused by corrosion, soil settlement, or construction damage, and PUB takes regulatory and financial actions against companies that damage pipes while ensuring quick repairs to minimize disruption.
In response to parliamentary questions, the Senior Minister of State noted that the leak incidence rate has not shown an increasing trend and indicated willingness to consider publishing annual leak data and exploring predictive models for leak anticipation.

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10 Jan 2018

Cost of Sensors for Detecting Water Leakages in Water Supply Pipelines

The cost of the 320 sensors and the entire sensor network system, developed with SMART, is about $9 million, with PUB planning to expand coverage to more pipelines, including NEWater and industrial ones, over the next two to three years.
The sensor network monitors water pressure, flow, and quality in real-time to aid leak detection and operations planning, complementing PUB’s annual physical checks and pipeline replacement program, which has resulted in one of the world’s lowest leak rates.
While evaluating other water loss measures like reservoir evaporation reduction, PUB found them cost-prohibitive due to repeated applications needed, so the focus remains on improving sensor technology and leak management to ensure continuous water supply.

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9 Jan 2018

Study on Noise Decibel Levels Caused by MRT Trains Passing Through Keat Hong Crest and Keat Hong Pride

Zaqy Mohamad inquired about noise decibel levels from MRT trains at Keat Hong Crest and Keat Hong Pride, whether they exceed the 65-decibel threshold, and the criteria for noise barrier installation.
Khaw Boon Wan stated that preliminary LTA findings show noise levels near the MRT lines are below the NEA's 67-decibel threshold, with an island-wide study planned.
LTA will prioritise noise barrier installation in areas where noise levels exceed 67 decibels averaged over an hour.

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8 Jan 2018

Further Measures to Reduce Noise and Nuisance from Birds Roosting in Trees along Upper Serangoon Road near Sennett Residences

AVA uses a multi-pronged approach to address bird roosting noise and nuisance, including tree pruning with NParks to discourage birds.
A trial using lasers to disperse birds was conducted in September, with effectiveness currently under assessment.
AVA collaborates with NEA and Potong Pasir Town Council to manage food waste disposal and educate residents not to feed birds, reducing food sources.

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8 Jan 2018

Ban on Petrol and Diesel-fuelled Vehicles

Leon Perera asked whether the Ministry will set a future date to ban petrol and diesel-fuelled vehicles.
Masagos Zulkifli stated that the Ministry has no current plans to specify a ban date, though it monitors approaches from countries like the UK and France.
The Ministry emphasized that Singapore's emission policies are technology-neutral and aim to meet WHO air quality targets cost-effectively.
Current measures include incentives for cleaner vehicles, public transport investment, support for electric vehicle trials, and tightened emission standards.
The Ministry will continue strengthening policies while ensuring feasible vehicle models for transport needs.

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8 Jan 2018

Measures to Ensure Singapore's Water Supply is Free from Terrorist Attacks and Contamination

The Public Utilities Board implements stringent physical security, including protected installations with tight access control, surveillance, and buried, pressurised pipelines to prevent contamination.
PUB conducts regular spot checks on building water tanks, enforces penalties for non-compliance, and works with building owners to secure tank access and covers.
A comprehensive water sampling and monitoring programme tests over 400,000 samples annually, with online sensors and reporting to the National Environment Agency to ensure water quality from source to tap.

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