Environment & climate — Topics

9 May 2016

Green Rebate for Tesla Electric Car

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked if the Tesla Model 3 would qualify for a rebate under the Carbon Emissions-based Vehicle Scheme (CEVS), to which the Minister for Transport replied that its eligibility would depend on its energy efficiency when sold in Singapore, with the possibility of a maximum rebate if it is as efficient as the Tesla Model S.
The Minister clarified that a previous controversy arose because the Tesla in question was a second-hand car, which must be retested for CO2 emissions, whereas new Teslas would receive the maximum rebate.
Dr Lee questioned why there was a "hoo-ha" about the Tesla previously and why no rebate was given, prompting the Minister to explain that second-hand cars, regardless of type, require retesting to determine fuel efficiency and emissions.
The Minister emphasized that car condition and maintenance affect fuel efficiency, and the CEVS applies based on accurate energy consumption data for fair assessment.

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9 May 2016

Ban on Styrofoam Packaging in Hawker Centres

Miss Cheng Li Hui proposed a ban on styrofoam packaging in hawker centres due to environmental harm, with the Ministry noting that while styrofoam is incinerated safely in Singapore, reusable options are preferable and efforts are underway to discourage disposable wares.
The Ministry explained that alternative disposable packaging costs two to three times more than styrofoam, but reusable crockery is more cost-effective overall, and they are working with hawkers to encourage its use while considering practical challenges like cost and convenience.
Miss Cheng Li Hui followed up by asking for details on the costs, benefits, and timeline for adopting alternatives, to which the Ministry reiterated the cost analysis and ongoing efforts to promote reusable crockery while addressing hawker and consumer needs.

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9 May 2016

Regular Water Rationing Exercises

Chong Kee Hiong proposed that the Ministry consider holding water rationing exercises twice a year to raise awareness and encourage responsible water usage, especially due to drought and low reservoir levels.
The Minister agreed on the importance of inculcating water-saving habits, highlighting current efforts such as water rationing exercises in schools, water conservation topics in the curriculum, and educational programmes for the wider community.
The Minister noted that water rationing exercises for households are not deemed necessary at this time, as outreach and smart technology initiatives are being implemented to promote water efficiency.
The Minister emphasized that water conservation is a shared responsibility involving both households and businesses, with regulations like water efficiency labelling and mandatory Water Efficiency Management Plans for large commercial users.
Overall, the government is focusing on education, technology, and regulatory measures to build water resilience without relying on regular household water rationing exercises.

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13 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head X (Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth)

Miss Cheng Li Hui raised concerns about preserving the rustic nature of Coney Island despite its expansion, asking about measures to minimize environmental impact and maintain its natural state.
She questioned the $250 million cost of the project as high compared to other infrastructure, seeking details on the development plans and components driving the expenses.
The speaker also inquired about the future plans for the existing OBS and adventure campsites in relation to the new developments.

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12 Apr 2016

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

MPs raised concerns about the escalating transboundary haze and dengue threats, urging stronger enforcement under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act and enhanced mosquito control amid rising temperatures.
The debate highlighted the urgency of climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and extreme weather, calling for a national climate fund and robust coastal adaptation plans.
Water sustainability was a key focus, with questions on securing long-term water supply beyond 2061, managing drought impacts, and promoting water conservation.
Cleanliness and public hygiene issues were addressed, including the need for renewed anti-littering campaigns, rodent control, and community ownership to maintain a clean environment.
Hawker centre sustainability, including attracting young hawkers and keeping food affordable, and expanding the ABC Waters Programme were also discussed as part of preserving Singapore's heritage and improving public spaces.

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4 Apr 2016

Trial of Electric Vehicle Car-sharing Programme

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked for an update on the electric vehicle car-sharing programme trial, the number of private electric cars registered in the past two years, and the Ministry's stance on encouraging electric car adoption.
The Land Transport Authority and Economic Development Board have evaluated proposals for the car-sharing programme and will announce results soon.
Only two private electric cars, a new Peugeot Ion and a used Tesla Model S, were registered in the past two years.
The Ministry is neutral on car technology and focuses on encouraging environmental friendliness and minimizing emissions.
The response indicates a cautious approach to electric vehicle promotion, with no specific incentives mentioned for car owners to switch.

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4 Apr 2016

Tax Rebate Eligibility for Electric Cars

The criteria for electric car tax rebates under the Carbon Emissions-based Vehicle Scheme (CEVS) assess the equivalent CO2 emissions from electricity generation, not just tailpipe emissions, and rebates or surcharges are applied based on whether the car produces low or high equivalent CO2 emissions.
For new electric cars, CO2 emissions are determined from manufacturer test reports, while used imported electric cars must be tested at accredited centres to establish their emissions.
The tax rebate or surcharge is applied immediately at the point of vehicle registration, with no separate processing time for applications.

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24 Mar 2016

Repairs and Maintenance Schedule for Nature Parks

NParks conducts quarterly checks on nature park amenities and carries out repairs as needed, with footpaths and lights typically replaced every 15 years or sooner if conditions warrant.
Ad hoc feedback on damaged amenities is addressed expeditiously by NParks for prompt repair or replacement.
At Bukit Batok Nature Park, NParks recently completed maintenance works in 2015 including lamp upgrades and soil erosion measures.
Future plans for Bukit Batok Nature Park include installing a fitness corner with senior-friendly exercise equipment.

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24 Mar 2016

Environmental Audits on Firms that Attract GIC or Temasek Holdings' Interest

Leon Perera asked whether the Ministry of Finance would require environmental audits for firms that GIC and Temasek Holdings invest in, particularly those linked to the haze problem.
The Senior Minister of State for Finance responded that the government leaves investment decisions to the management teams of GIC and Temasek, while monitoring overall portfolio performance.
Both GIC and Temasek stated they do not invest in companies causing the haze and support zero-burning policies for sustainable land clearance.
GIC and Temasek engage with their portfolio companies to promote responsible practices and certifications to maintain long-term investment value.
The government will continue monitoring the haze issue and take further steps if necessary.

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14 Mar 2016

Impact of Electromagnetic Waves on Residents Living near Power Sub-stations

Melvin Yong asked about the number of power sub-stations near residential areas, health studies on electromagnetic radiation, and measures to protect residents.
Lawrence Wong stated there are 33 electrical transmission sub-stations near housing estates, with radiation levels about 100 times below WHO guidelines.
The Energy Market Authority and National Environment Agency monitor developments and collaborate with health authorities to evaluate new scientific findings.

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1 Mar 2016

Growing New Industries that Promise Economic and Non-economic Benefits

Leon Perera proposed developing indoor vertical farming and solar power as new industries to enhance food and energy security, reduce imports, and create exportable expertise, suggesting more aggressive use of rooftop and underground spaces and setting stretch targets for solar energy.
The Parliamentary Secretary affirmed the government's commitment to economic transformation and cited examples like water technology, advanced manufacturing, and solar initiatives, while noting the need for cost-benefit analysis on underground farming and emphasizing SkillsFuture to prepare workers for new sectors.
Both sides highlighted Singapore's potential to become a "living lab" for innovation, turning domestic challenges into opportunities for exportable solutions and non-economic benefits like sustainability and quality of life.

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1 Mar 2016

National Environment Agency (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill

The Minister for the Environment and Water Resources introduced the Bill to expand the Community Volunteer (CV) programme, allowing individuals to be appointed as auxiliary officers with certain enforcement powers to better address public cleanliness and environmental issues, drawing parallels to community ownership seen in Japan.
MPs like Er Dr Lee Bee Wah and Gan Thiam Poh expressed support for the expanded CV scheme, emphasizing the importance of volunteer passion, stringent screening, and training, while noting that community ownership should reduce reliance on cleaners.
Several MPs, including Pritam Singh and Assoc Prof Daniel Goh, raised concerns about granting enforcement powers to volunteers, arguing it could undermine community trust and create social conflicts, and suggested sending the Bill to a Select Committee.
The Minister clarified that the CV programme aims to enhance community ownership rather than replace enforcement, with volunteers initially trained alongside officers and powers scoped to prevent abuse, while ensuring accountability through existing processes.
Despite objections, the Bill was passed after debate, with the Workers' Party recording their objection to the clause granting enforcement powers to volunteers.

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29 Feb 2016

Repairs of Damaged or Old Drains to Prevent Water Stagnation and Mosquito Breeding

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister to expedite repairs of damaged or old drains to prevent water stagnation and mosquito breeding, which can contribute to dengue outbreaks.
The Minister responded that PUB and NEA conduct regular inspections, cleaning, and maintenance, prioritizing repairs and upgrades to keep drains functional and prevent stagnant water.
Mr Lim sought clarification on whether immediate repairs could be requested for damaged drains instead of waiting for the Interim Estate Upgrading Programme, to address dengue risks promptly.
The Minister assured that PUB will fix any drainage problems identified, emphasizing the commitment to maintain drains and protect public health.
Both parties agreed on the importance of keeping drains in good condition to prevent floods and vector-borne diseases like dengue.

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29 Feb 2016

Release of Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Cross Island MRT Line

Leon Perera inquired about obstacles to releasing the Cross Island Line Phase 1 EIA report online, the main environmental impacts identified and mitigation plans, and the rationale for deeming a "moderate" impact acceptable.
Desmond Lee explained that the EIA has two phases, with Phase 1 focusing on site investigation impacts; extensive consultations with nature groups and NParks led to stringent mitigation measures, such as reducing boreholes and using non-intrusive surveys, to minimize impact on the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
The government has put the Phase 1 EIA report online for public consultation and will consider making future EIA reports more readily available, especially for projects with significant public interest.
Regarding future disclosures, Lee noted that while Phase 1 is ongoing, the suggestion to publish a comprehensive document integrating costs, environmental impacts, and commuting times will be considered as Phase 2 progresses.

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29 Feb 2016

Factors In Considering Underground Alignments for Cross Island MRT Line

The Minister for Transport outlined that two underground alignment options for the Cross Island Line near the Central Catchment Nature Reserve are being studied, with the direct alignment being shorter, deeper in bedrock, and avoiding surface infrastructure, while the skirting alignment is longer, requires surface facilities, and costs about $2 billion more.
The government is conducting a comprehensive assessment including environmental impact, technical feasibility, financial viability, and commuter impact, with the Environmental Impact Assessment report now available online and further public consultations planned over the next two years before a final decision.
During the debate, questions were raised about the total construction cost, potential land acquisitions, maintenance costs, and the extra travel time for commuters, to which the Minister responded that specific figures are not yet finalized and will depend on ongoing site investigations and studies.

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29 Jan 2016

Water Supply Disruption in Clementi Town

The water supply disruption in Clementi Town on 28 October 2015 was caused by a software glitch during upgrading works on a valve control system, which unexpectedly closed a key pipeline valve.
PUB has since tightened its testing and commissioning processes to prevent similar incidents, following industry practices of factory and site testing before commissioning.
PUB deploys water wagons and a technical team when disruptions affect many customers, as determined by a 24-hour centre that monitors feedback and coordinates immediate response, as seen in the Clementi incident.

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29 Jan 2016

Free Parking at NParks Facilities

Dr Tan Wu Meng asked NParks to consider free parking for the first two hours, at off-peak times, and for residents with HDB season labels nearby, or concessionary rates for them.
The Senior Minister of State replied that most parks are accessible by foot or public transport, parking is limited and charged to ensure availability, and preferential rates for nearby residents are not justified as park users come island-wide.
He noted that NParks has already revised operating hours in seven parks to benefit early morning users like seniors and retirees and is monitoring usage to possibly extend this scheme.
In a supplementary question, Dr Tan asked if MND could share the extent to which car park occupancy dropped after charging was introduced.
The Senior Minister of State responded that 42 of 71 NParks car parks remain free, and after charging, high-occupancy car parks saw usage drop from 60–100% to a more manageable 20–60%, reducing misuse by non-park users.

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29 Jan 2016

Impact of Exposure to Haze

Leon Perera asked for data on the long-term respiratory health impact and healthcare costs for Singaporean children exposed to haze, but the Minister of State for Health replied that no local or international data exists for episodic exposure, making long-term cause-and-effect links difficult to establish.
The Minister outlined current measures to address short-term haze effects, including the Haze Subsidy Scheme, distribution of masks and protective supplies, and plans to provide air purifiers in schools, while noting efforts to prevent haze through regional cooperation.
Leon Perera suggested using international studies to estimate future healthcare costs as a planning tool for haze-proofing investments, and the Minister agreed to continue reviewing overseas studies to inform policy decisions.

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28 Jan 2016

GIC and Temasek Holdings' Investments in Haze-linked Companies

Leon Perera questioned whether the Government monitors GIC and Temasek’s investments in haze-linked companies, the total amounts involved, and how these entities ensure their funds do not support haze activities.
Heng Swee Keat stated that GIC and Temasek’s investment decisions are independently managed for commercial returns, with the Government overseeing overall portfolio performance without interfering in specific investments.
Both GIC and Temasek prioritize sustainable practices, with Temasek supporting zero-burning policies and GIC confirming its palm oil investments adhere to such policies to protect long-term value.

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28 Jan 2016

Debate on the President's Address

The speaker supports Singapore's car-lite strategy but highlights the current need for better car ownership distribution, proposing an Additional Buyer's Car Duty to discourage multiple-car households and make cars more affordable for first-time buyers.
He calls for greater transparency in car pricing, suggesting that dealers be required to provide a clear breakdown of costs to help consumers make informed decisions and reduce perceptions of unfair profits.
The speaker advocates for accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by addressing infrastructure barriers, such as allowing charging installations in high-rise carparks and creating designated EV parking lots to boost demand and sustainability.

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