We hope that you have enjoyed the trip to Denmark in our last post, and caught a glimpse of the country’s success in alleviating food waste stemming from consumerism. But let’s head back to Singapore to understand how we have been taking strides to tackle consumerism in our own way!
Consumerism in Singapore
It is undeniable that a prevalent ‘throwaway culture’ exists in and beyond Singapore, fuelled by the rising disposable incomes and influenced by social norms, such as the pressure to keep up with fast fashion trends (Towards Zero Waste, 2020). However, such rampant consumption patterns underscores the increasing production of waste, with the amount of waste having increased by over 7 times over the last 40 years in Singapore (Towards Zero Waste, 2020)! Although an efficient waste collection and disposal system exists in our country, current disposal rates entail that a new incineration plant would have to be constructed every 7 to 10 years and by 2035 (Towards Zero Waste, 2020). Moreover, according to the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR, n.d.), ash generated from incineration may have nowhere to go as Singapore’s only landfill, Semakau Landfill, is projected to run out of space by then.
Therefore, it is compelling for us to drastically change our consumption and waste disposal patterns to conserve our landfill and the resource inputs used in the production of goods.
Zero Waste Masterplan
The inaugural Zero Waste Masterplan was launched in 2019 and it maps out Singapore’s key strategies in creating a sustainable, resource-efficient and climate-resilient nation (MEWR, n.d.). Strategies include the adoption of a circular economy approach towards waste management, alongside a transition towards sustainable production and consumption (MEWR, n.d.). Specific targets have also been set for various industries, evident of the comprehensive and concentrated governmental efforts taken. Take a look at the infographic below for an overview of the diverse plans and goals introduced by MEWR (n.d.):
As we have mentioned in our posts a few weeks back, Singaporeans are often unaware of proper e-waste disposal channels and there exists little producer take-back programmes. The extended producer responsibility programme thus aims to improve e-waste recovery and includes items such as batteries, phones, computers, lamps, large appliances and solar panels (Ang, 2019). Similarly, an extended producer responsibility framework for packaging waste is set to be launched by 2025, with producers tasked to reduce packaging used in their products (Ang, 2019).
Apart from producers, educational campaigns have also been introduced to raise awareness on sustainable consumption. The National Environment Agency (NEA) launched a food waste reduction publicity and outreach programme in 2015 to raise awareness of Singapore’s food waste situation and encourage consumers to adopt smart food purchase, storage and preparation habits to help them minimise food wastage. Additionally, as part of the 2019 Year Towards Zero Waste, the NEA has partnered with retailers such as Dairy Farm Singapore, NTUC FairPrice, and Sheng Siong Supermarket, schools, and 25 hawkers centres to engage consumers at their points-of-consumption (Towards Zero Waste, 2020).
My Thoughts: Towards the future
Considering Singapore’s limited land space for building new incineration plants or landfills, nipping the problem of rising consumption and waste disposal at the bud is crucial. Moreover, although the incineration of waste is efficient and avoids the problems of land and marine pollution, it generates carbon emissions, which contributes to climate change and air pollution. As the roadmaps have been recently introduced, their successes are still yet to be seen, but what we do know is that collaborative efforts are required amongst government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and individuals to incite change. With the framework set by authorities, the onus is on us to be prudent consumers and producers. It is only then can we realise the full potential of the Masterplan and ensure that future generations are able to enjoy living on the sunny island we call home (❁´◡`❁)
References:
Ang, H. M. (2019). Singapore to reduce Semakau waste by 30% under first Zero Waste Master Plan. Channel News Asia. Available from: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/semakau-reduce-landfill-zero-waste-master-plan-recycling-bins-11856664 [Accessed 26 October 2020]
Ministry of Environment and Water Resources. (n.d.). Zero Waste Masterplan. Singapore. Available from: https://www.towardszerowaste.gov.sg/images/zero-waste-masterplan.pdf [Accessed 26 October 2020]
Towards Zero Waste. (2020). Sustainable Consumption. Available from: https://www.towardszerowaste.gov.sg/zero-waste-masterplan/chapter2/sustainable-consumption/ [Accessed 26 October 2020]
Images:
Ministry of Environment and Water Resources. (n.d.). Zero Waste Masterplan. Singapore. Available from: https://www.towardszerowaste.gov.sg/images/zero-waste-masterplan.pdf [Accessed 26 October 2020]