Responsible Consumption

Chen Yuxuan (SDE), Gao Xinge (FOE), Jin Yonghe (FOE), Yang Donghan (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Wong Kah Wei

Improper waste disposal and high waste generation of disposable masks have spiked and adversely exacerbated environmental issues since the onset of COVID-19 both globally and locally. Educating and advocating for reusable mask usage would help reduce disposable mask waste. Education with the engaging activities would foster effective learning and change among RVRC participants. Hence, we utilize a two-pronged approach through conducting an educational workshop and supplying reusable masks to change perceptions and reinforce the wearing of reusable masks instead of disposable masks.

We designed a face-to-face workshop comprising i) a pre- and post-workshop and review survey; ii) distribution of free reusable masks iii) discussion of benefits of reusable mask usage. Our findings showed that 90% of workshop participants continued wearing reusable masks the month after the workshop. Hence, our multi-pronged approach has proven effective in promoting reusable mask usage in RVRC residents.

Shao Yurui (CEG), Lu Qianqian (ISE), Wang Mengyu (ISE), Liu Zhepei (ISE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Textile waste is a serious issue in Singapore due to the rise of fast fashion and a “throwaway” culture. Cultivating a habit of reuse is important to mitigate this problem. Inspired by similar past GEQ projects, our objective was to design and test a platform for NUS residents that facilitates the exchange of clothes, and enhances the receptivity to wearing second-hand clothes. We chose a digital tool to make the process convenient and flexible. We designed a group chat with a embedded Telegram bot that allowed users to buy and sell their clothes. It also allowed us to track the number of transactions. During the initial launch period of 7 weeks, more than 60 participants actively used the platform. Our survey results indicated a parallel decrease in users frequency of purchasing new clothes. Hence, our digital second-hand clothes exchange platform was effective in reducing textile waste among NUS residents.

Raveen Prabhu (SOC), Tan Chin Han, Benjamin (SOC), Yang Xiquan (SOC), Thirugnana Sambandam Vasanth (FASS), Koh Jia Xian (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

In land scarce Singapore, solid waste disposal is becoming a prevalent issue. As Singapore’s sole landfill is predicted to be filled by 2035, it is crucial to enhance awareness on the importance of reducing solid waste and to provide useful means to do that. Our group created and tested a digital platform to promote the sharing or donation of hostel essentials amongst NUS campus residents. Based on our preliminary findings, the key features of the Telegram channel allowed residents to i) post items to donate or loan, ii) sieve potential wanted essentials, and iii) receive information about reducing individual solid waste. Our channel garnered 51 unique subscribers and 7 successful transactions over a four-week period, from RVRC and CAPT. Based on results of our surveys and interviews with users, we concluded that the channel succeeded in spreading awareness and providing a platform for residents to share goods.

Ko Chi Hong (FASS), Su Yating (SOC), Shantia Koh Jia Wen (SOC), Alex Ye Hein Aung (SOC), Cheryl Li Xiang (BBA)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The high volume of waste generated from single-use plastic carriers for takeaway drinks is a prevalent issue in Singapore. To mitigate this waste, our project objective was to design and test a DIY sustainable alternative for takeaway drink carriers for RVRC residents. Our cup holder prototype is made primarily from upcycled clothes waste. We first conducted a performance test for our prototype to measure factors such as strength, durability, drying speed and flexibility in use for different drink sizes. Following this, we conducted a feasibility study with our target audience – high frequency consumers of takeaway drinks. After a three-week trial, results showed that the frequency of cup-holder use by the participants in our trial increased gradually while their use of plastic carriers dropped more than half. Hence, we conclude that our prototype could be a a sustainable alternative to replace single-use plastic carriers for takeaway drinks.

Calista Chew Kai Shan (FASS), Lee Ju-Ler Jonathan (SOC), Lee Yi Heng (SOC), Soh Jun Han, Owen (SOC),  Zhang Xiangyu Oliver (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Both single-use plastic bags and tote bags pose significant environmental problems. From our pre-survey, we concluded that laziness and inconvenience were the main reasons that hampered our participants from reusing their existing bags. Our objective was to increase both the convenience and reuse rate of tote and plastic bags in NUS, to lengthen their product lifespan. Learning from past GEQ projects, we designed and placed self-operating stands at two different locations on NUS campus. Our stands allowed both donation and taking of tote and plastic bags. Over a three-week trial period, 59 tote and 45 plastic bags were taken by campus users. A total of 50 tote bags and 40 plastic bags were donated at our stand. Thee results indicate that our stand was able to successfully increase the life-cycle of used plastic and tote bags.

Daniel Lee Min Qiang (SOC), Loh Ching Hern (SOC), Lo Zhao Wei (SOC), Tan Chi Lin (FASS), Vinita Pang Shao Shi (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The large amount of e-waste generated in Singapore, together with a low recycling rate, poses a serious environmental issue. Lack of awareness and information regarding e-waste recycling locations contribute to the low recycling rates. Our project aims to tackle these two issues using a digital solution, with the objective of increasing the convenience of e-waste recycling for Singaporeans. With Telegram’s growing user base among Singaporeans, we designed a Telegram bot that presents customised information about the the nearest and most suitable e-waste bins to users, based on their specific location and e-waste item. During the one month launch period, 360 unique users across Singapore utilised our bot. Of these, 113 indicated that the bot had helped them to recycle e-waste, while 90 users stated that the bot would help in future efforts to recycle e-waste. This data highlights the efficacy of our bot to enhance ewaste recycling, and we are currently in discussion with NEA for integrating our bot with their website.

Chow Yung Jie Kenneth (SOC), Karan Bhatia (BIZ), Lim Yuan Ling Rachel (FASS), Myron Neo (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Lack of awareness of proper recycling methods is a key factor in Singapore’s low recycling rate. Hence, inculcating knowledge about plastic recycling is important, especially at a young age, to enhance the recyling rates long-term. Research has established that interactive games are often more effective in sustainability education for children, as compared to structured learning. Therefore, we created and tested a card game for children aged 9-12 years, to enhance their knowledge of plastic recycling. The game was part of an interactive workshop conducted in a school setting with the target age group. Participants were able to understand and retain the knowledge about plastic recycling, with a 35% increase in correct answers after the workshop. The results proved that our workshop and interactive game design are useful tools to enhance and promote awareness about plastic recycling.

Anthony Hans (FOS), Shen Zhuowen (FOS), Chew Tan Rouge (YLLSOM), Felicia Ong Sing Yi (FOS), Jake Khoo (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

In Singapore, more than 50% of plastics cannot be recycled due to contamination.Our survey of 75 NUS students also found that most students did not rinse their plastic containers before recycling. Hence, we aim to decrease plastic contamination and raise awareness on the importance of rinsing plastics bottles/cups before recycling. To this end, rinsing devices were placed near recycling bins to increase the convenience of rinsing plastics. Posters were placed to educate users on the importance of rinsing plastics before recycling. A survey (n=77) and contamination counts were done throughout the implementation to quantify the completion of our objectives. Our survey reported that 70% of subjects are “likely” or “extremely likely” to rinse plastic bottles/cups with our device, and the contamination rate was reduced by 46%. Both are statistically significant (p<0.01). Therefore, we conclude that increasing convenience for rinsing plastics can effectively improve rinsing rates, thereby reducing plastic contamination.

Chin Jun Yu (FOS), Nguyen Minh Tuan (FOS), Goh Wei Kian, Frederick (FOS), Li Wancong (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

The Reusable Bag Library, a reusable bag sharing initiative by NUS SAVE to reduce plastic waste, was largely underutilised and unsustainable. Our objective was to address the limitations of this initiative and make the initiative more sustainable to increase the usage and return of reusable bags in the long run.

Using our redesigned sharing system, we launched our project at UTown FairPrice with i) attractive booth and poster designs; ii) booths at each RC; iii) labels with reminders of returning the bags, and iv) system to track usage of bags. With the redesigned booths, 61 bags were used over 3 weeks, a 307% increase from NUS SAVE’s initiative. With the addition of booths at RCs, the return rate also increased from 24% to 47.2%. Hence, the combination of more eye-catching booths with a convenient return system was effective in improving reusable bag sharing initiatives in NUS.

Marcus Ng Yao Jie (FOS) , Aloysius Eng Wei Jun (FOS) , Zhai Jun (FOS), Zhou Tianyi (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Singaporeans produce on average 1.011 million tons of paper waste every year, yet 67% are unaware of the non-recyclability of soiled paper packaging, hence leading to improper recycling and contamination of recycling bins. Given that soiled paper packaging cannot be recycled, our objective was to come up with a sustainable and convenient method in order to repurpose non-recyclable waste paper. We investigated optimal mushroom growing conditions to design an efficient DIY mushroom growing kit using waste paper bags from RVRC’s dining hall, and conducted a workshop to assess the resident’s receptivity towards these kits. We determined that waste paper bags were partially successful as a substrate for mushroom growth and 86% of the workshop attendees, after using the kits themselves, were willing to do it again. Hence, our DIY mushroom growth kits are effective in repurposing non-recyclable food-soiled waste paper.

Lu Sicheng(CEG), Marcus Xavier Went (FOE), Norazirah Binte Mohd Amin (FOE), Su Yishan (SDE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Corinne Ong

With the extensive generation of used beverage cartons (UBCs) globally and the inefficient UBCs recycling system in Singapore, it is crucial that the end-of-life of these packages are addressed appropriately. As hands-on activities are more engaging than structured teaching, our objective was to develop interactive educational sessions where RV residents are able to learn and adopt upcycling in their daily lives. Firstly, educational posters were put up around RVRC. Secondly, we held a 2-hour interactive workshop consisting of i) pre- and post- workshop survey; ii) informative presentation on carton materials; and iii) instructions to guide participants to craft a flower pot from UBCs. From the survey results, 84.6% participants expressed their willingness to continue up-cycling UBCs after the workshop. Participants’ upcycled reations from the workshop and exposure to our posters serve as reminders to upcycle, hence inculcating the habit of upcycling UBCs among RV residents.

Guo Jiayi(FASS), JiangPeiyi(BBA), Lim Wee Shuen Bryan(FASS), Sun Jiaze (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

There has been a steady increase in plastic and microplastic waste creation in Singapore. We wish to tackle one facet of this issue by encouraging RVRC students to use more reusable containers when taking food. We did this by improving the washing facilities in RVRC and conducting an educational campaign.
We upgraded the block A pantry by i) installing a tap extension to make washing more ergonomic; ii) improving the pantry environment by using air fresheners; and by iii) replacing synthetic sponges with organic ones (loofahs). We also conducted an educational campaign through i) posters in the pantry, ii) messages in RVRC chat groups and iii) workshops. In doing so, we found that there was a marked improvement from 1-3 to 3-5 daily users of the washing facilities. Thus, we found that a combination of better facilities and understanding has proved useful in encouraging the use of reusable containers.

Aisha binte Shamsudin (FASS), Cai Rui Qi (FASS), Cheang Xing Wei (SOC), Yong Jia Yu (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

The fast fashion industry has increased the volume of clothing disposal to unsustainable levels, exacerbates global warming and pollution. Our project objectives are to educate youth on the negative impacts of fast fashion and encourage them to dispose sustainably in a specially designed program that makes learning and taking action fun and effective. We designed trend-based educational series on Instagram, conducted hands-on workshops, and hosted a pop-up shop for tote bags upcycled from donated clothing. Our workshops reflected that 90% of participants are willing to create and purchase upcycled products despite initial unawareness towards upcycling. 86% of our Instagram audience thought our mascots and trends increased their interest in upcycling. Hence, our project has used an interactive methodology to achieve its goals: educating and inspiring behavioural change among youths against fast fashion and its impacts.

Li Baishi(FOS), Wang Jianing(FOS), Farah Bte Abdul Rahim (YLLSOM), Szeto Yan Ting, Caitlyn(FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

A survey we conducted found that RVRC residents generated high amounts of PET waste and had poor recycling habits. Our objective was to raise awareness of repurposing as an alternative to disposing PET bottles. We adopted a holistic approach for our project which consisted of i) a repurposing workshop; ii) an exhibition of repurposed objects; iii) tutorial video and iv) Instagram account. Through a pre- and post-workshop focus group discussion, we concluded that the workshop was successful in changing the perception towards repurposing. However, analysis of our post-project survey showed that the effectiveness of the three components ii-iv were limited by the scale of our implementation. Hence, we recommend the repurposing workshop as an effective way to encourage repurposing in RVRC. However, the exhibition, tutorial video and Instagram account will require more extensive outreach to effectively complement the workshop and ensure the long-term continuity of our objective.

Chan Zhuo Yang (SOC), Crystabel Angelista Chua (FASS), Fan Tian Hao (SOC), Ng U-Yin Rebecca (SOC), Ngai Win Lynn (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

27,000 trees are cut down daily and are chemically processed into toilet paper which generates significant water and carbon footprint (Braun, 2017). Our project aims to educate Singaporean households, by using youths as a proxy, that toilet paper generates a high environmental footprint, and increase their willingness to switch to a bidet as a more sustainable and effective alternative. Through a 10 week Instagram campaign, we designed i) comic strips featuring our mascot, Biddy to encourage discussions surrounding toilet habits and ii) infographics that provide bite-sized information. 76% out of 25 followers have expressed positive interest in exploring the use of bidet or have already begun incorporating it into their daily lives. As a result, our engaging storyline paired with educational graphics have proved to be effective in raising awareness of the bidet as a sustainable alternative to toilet paper.

Cai Guiqing (FOE), Chen Keying (FOE), Peng Fei (FOE), Sathappan Ashwin Chockalingam (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Wong Kah Wei

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of food deliveries spiked in the past year both globally and locally, resulting in an increase in food delivery trips and hence, an increase in carbon emissions and plastic wastes. Focusing on Ridge View Residential College, our project objective is apply the concept of food order coordination to reduce the carbon emission and plastic waste. The purpose is to reduce the number of separate food deliveries.

We created a Telegram channel and used the polling function to collect the individual orders from subscribers and combining them into one mass order. This resulted in the reduction of the number of deliveries and plastic bags and straws used. On average, we managed to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions by 1400g (including plastic bags) per mass delivery. Statistical results proved our project is effective in reducing carbon emission.

Claudia Goh Chen Shuane (SDE), Iolaus Ong Weiming (FOE), Muhammad Syazani Bin Abdul Wahid (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Wong Kah Wei

Infrequent plastic recycling in Singapore has resulted in large amounts of plastic wastage, adversely impacting the environment. An effective strategy is essential to promote plastic recycling. Our objective was to utilize these unwanted plastics to create a meaningful art piece, visually reminding RVRC residents of the repercussions of excessive plastic wastage, motivating them to recycle regularly. A visual approach, coupled with physical involvement generates lasting results.

We hosted a hands-on art workshop complemented with other implementations; i) a pre & post-workshop interview and survey, ii) designated plastic-collection booths, iii) creation of a collaborative artwork, and iv) Instagram page for publicity. Through interpretation of survey and interview results, 83% of our audience experienced increased motivation to recycle more often, which resulted in a 60% increase in plastic recyclables collected. Hence, the combination of our interactive art workshop, exhibition, and publicity proved effective in motivating residents to practice plastic recycling more frequently.

Hoang Trong Tan (FOE), Shu Xiaowei (FOE), Tay Yi Heng (FOE), Wang Weiqing (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Wong Kah Wei

Many RVRC residents tend to use disposable containers when taking away from YIH canteen, which generates massive amounts of waste. Our objectives were to help them visualise the differences in the impacts of using disposable versus reusable containers and to persuade them to switch to the latter.

We designed a 30-minute interactive workshop that comprised a pre- and post-workshop and review survey, a presentation and a Kahoot quiz. We also put up posters and created a Telegram group to remind RVRC residents to bring their containers when taking away food. After the workshop, 30% of the 20 participants of our workshop started using their reusable containers at least 50% of the time when they take away food from YIH canteen. This shows our method had some positive effects in promoting the use of reusable containers to take away food.

Elizabeth Roy (FASS), Rehman Sajid (SOC), Sun Cuimin (Business), Wang Yuxi (Business), Yee Xian Hao Samuel (Business)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Singapore generated 930,000 tonnes of plastics in 2019, of which only 4% was recycled (NEA, 2020). Liquid soap packaged in plastic bottles generates plastic waste which is not easily recycleable. Our project aims to encourage Singapore’s youths to switch from liquid soap to bar soaps to reduce plastic waste and carbon footprint. We delivered a 30-minute interactive workshop to address key concerns of bar soaps among the audience, a social media campaign to raise awareness on relevant issues, and a 3-week bar soap trial to help the audience form a habit of using bar soaps. After the workshop, participants’ misconceptions decreased by more than 80% decrease and 75% of the participants were willing to try out bar soaps. Our social media campaign and bar soap trial also received positive feedback. Hence, a combination of workshop, social media campaign and trial use proved effective in promoting bar soaps among Singapore youths.

Teo Yi Hui (Business), Kim Jubok (Business), Jeyadurga D/O Sola Rajan (FASS), Xu Wei Ling Vania (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Globally, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions (UN Environment, 2019). In Singapore, 1 in 3 people throw away clothes after wearing them just once (Yougov, 2020). Our survey amongst youths (n=60) showed that 60% purchase clothes out of impulse. Our project aims to reduce clothing consumption by changing perceptions and purchasing habits amongst youths. We created an Instagram account to educate youths with regular posts highlighting impacts of fast fashion and tips to reduce buying. A series of hands-on activities over 21 days aimed to change perceptions on clothing consumption. Additionally, a workshop was conducted to educate on impulsive purchasing habits and promote sustainable clothing. 84% of our 238 instargam followers reported that they will reduce clothing consumption in future. 94% of our workshop participants reported that they will choose sustainable clothing in future. Hence, the awareness campaign was effective in changing youths’ perceptions towards clothing consumption and purchasing habits.

Seungah Lee (FOE), Khoa Le (FOE), Sanath Nanda Kumar (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

With the rise of the Covid19 pandemic, hygiene has become a more significant issue for many countries aiming to limit the spread of the virus. Our objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of promoting desk sanitizers made of fruit peels. Our project uses zoom and in person workshops to allow us to share with participants advantages of using fruit peel sanitizers and assess their opinions and gather any concerns they may have. Results show that 63% of them are not aware of the fruit wastage problem but 74% of them are willing to try using the fruit peel sanitizers. Hence a combination of zoom workshops as well as blogs for RVRC residents might prove to be useful and alleviating their concerns and promoting environmentally friendly desk sanitizers.

Cai Kai’an (SOC), Ngo Ngoc Phuong Uyen (SOC) & Roy Tan Chun Wang (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Inconvenience is a crucial factor in Singapore’s declining domestic recycling rate (NEA, 2019), with 82% of RVRC students (n=76) citing it as a reason for not recycling regularly (AY1920G20B, 2019). Our project aimed to address this by providing an opportunity for waste segregation, so as to enhance the recycling rate in the RVRC dining hall. We targeted the waste from grab-and-go items during the breakfast service. We installed separate recycling bins for drink cartons and sandwich packaging, over three weeks. This effort was supported by an awareness campaign targeted at the residents. We collected a total of 95 juice cartons and 78 plastic sandwich containers. Of the estimated 840 such recyclables generated from residents dining in, our project successfully diverted 173 (21%) of them. Hence, our placement of recycling bins in a suitable location, along with the publicity campaign, has indicated it as a successful strategy to increase recycling rates in the RVRC dining hall.

Glenn Fong Wei Quan (BIZ), Le Ngoc Quynh Mai (SOC), Hang Zelin (SOC), Marcus Choo Qi Jun (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The increasing global trend in the consumption of bubble tea has led to an increase in the waste generated from used tea leaves. Our project attempted to mitigate this issue of waste by reusing tea leaves to craft sustainable scented candles. Our preliminary survey of RVRC students found that 69% (n = 57) of respondents were receptive to using scented candles made from upcycled used tea leaves. We collected used tea leaves from bubble tea shops in NUS to make scented candles and invited 40 RVRC students to use and test them. We gathered comparative feedback about the candles through surveys, and also interviewed selected students. 88% participants gave positive feedback about using our scented candles, which lasted an average of 12 hours each. We conclude that upcycling used tea leaves into scented candles, instead of throwing them, is a possible alternative that minimises the environmental impact of tea leaves.

Arnav Gupta (SOC), Binson Koh (BIZ), Chong Sook Yee, Amelia (SOC) & Choo Yan Qi (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Research indicates that sustainability education from a young age is associated with increased environmental consciousness in the future. Environmental footprint and Earth Overshoot Day are relatable measures of an individual’s impact on resource consumption, and we saw an opportunity to spread its awareness to primary school students. We designed and conducted a workshop highlighting ways for P5 students to understand, measure and reduce their individual environmental footprint. The workshop incorporated interactive components tailored specifically for the target age group. Our results indicated that 92% of the workshop participants displayed an enhanced understanding of individual resource consumption and its implications for “Earth Overshoot Day”. Participants also deemed the workshop contents to be relevant in integrating with their school sustainability education syllabus. The most important measure of the workshop impact was its effectiveness in rallying a change in the students’ daily lives, as documented by the students themselves.

Julian Chua Au Tze (FOS), Brandon Chia Wei Zhe (FOS), Jerald Tan Chun Sing (FOS), Kaaviya Selvam (FOS), Goh Meng Chun (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

In Singapore, only 4% of plastic is recycled (NEA, 2020), largely due to plastic contamination and inappropriate plastics in bins. Our project chose to focus on the latter. Our preliminary data showed that 81% (n=72) of RVRC residents were aware of proper recycling habits. However, our recycling bins contained large amount of unrecyclable materials, rendering items in the bins unrecyclable. Our solution aims to reduce inappropriate and non-recyclable plastics in our plastic recycling bins, which would in turn increase the success rate of plastic recycling in RVRC. We created a prototype bin which had a deterrence layer to reduce disposal of inappropriate plastics, and a filter that had a 98% success rate of retaining larger plastics, while eliminating smaller unrecyclable plastics. This was supplemented with posters with clear messages to remind people of recycling etiquette. Hence, we believe that our prototype can increase the number of recyclable batches of plastic.

Glenys Leong Xin Ning (FASS), Joshua Lim Wei En (FASS), Raja Dishafnya Achadi (SOC), Yeoh An Ni (BBA)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

COVID-19 has made masks an integral part of life. High usage of single use disposal masks led to an alarming rate of disposal, leading to land and water pollution and affecting ecosystems. Our group aims to educate youths on the detrimental environmental impacts of using disposable masks and encourage usage of reusable masks by teaching them a fast and easy method of making their own reusable masks.

We started an Instagram campaign to post educational infographics and organised both physical and Instagram live workshops to raise awareness of the issue and teach them how to make reusable masks. Our workshop survey showed that 83.4% of respondents had an increased understanding of harmful effects of reusable masks and continued to make reusable masks after the workshop. Hence our Instagram campaign and workshops have been effective in altering youths’ behaviours to become more environmentally conscious.

Nguyen Quang Vinh (SOC), Tan Xin Yi (FASS), Yuen Jia Jun (BIZ) & Zhang Yu Bin (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Undergarments and masks are daily necessities. The high usage and disposal rates of these two items bring about consequences to the environment. Our group seeks to educate residents on the adverse impacts of bra and mask disposal and empower them to repurpose unwanted bras into reusable bra masks. Essentially, we hope to push the boundaries of conventional ways of upcycling.

We designed a 30-minute focus group discussion comprising (1) a pre-and post-discussion survey, (2) a time-lapse video, and (3) a discussion on the consequences of bra and mask disposal. We also created an Instagram page for further outreach. Through our discussion session, 76% of attendees were more willing to partake in upcycling efforts in the future, and 80% of attendees claimed to have a heightened awareness of the environmental consequences. Hence, a focus group discussion is effective in achieving our objectives.

Girvin Rafferty Chang ChiHao (BIZ), Lee Jing Yu, Jonathan (SOC), Lin Fangyuan (SOC), Tng Zhong Sheng Kenneth (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Plastic consumption is a pervasive issue in Singapore, with the use of plastic bags being deeply ingrained in the daily lives of many Singaporean households. As such, we aim to promote upcycling as a means of reducing plastic consumption. We will do this through a public awareness campaign, to raise awareness on the issue and help them take their first step in upcycling. Our campaign has three phases – Social media posts to appeal to our target audience, educational workshops on upcycling old clothes to tote bags as a plastic alternative, and finally a pilot study to gauge the effectiveness of our campaign. Educational workshops were able to promote upcycling as 80% of participants reported knowing how to upcycle their unwanted t-shirts after going through the workshop. Hence the use of hands-on workshop and video tutorials effectively aid in promoting a “pro-upcycling” mindset thus reducing plastic bag usage among students.

Chai Wan Lin (SOC), Goh Zi Xuan (SOC), Wang Jian Kai, Benjamin (BIZ), Ong Yi Ting Natalie (FASS), Koh Han Boon (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The e-commerce market has been growing globally, resulting in increased use of plastic packaging such as poly-mailers. In Singapore, poly-mailers end up in the waste-stream as they are not recycled. Our project addressed this issue by ‘closing the loop’ – collecting used poly-mailers and extending their lifespan as packaging materials through reuse. First we identified and set-up collection points in RVRC, and then we created an educational video to raise awareness on the proper steps to collect poly-mailers. To ‘close the loop’, we collaborated with an external partner for the reuse of the collected poly-mailers. Over a four-week implementation span, 87 poly-mailers were collected; which equates to more than 50% of the residents who had ecommerce packages delivered during this period. Therefore, our project has successfully tested the feasibility of a ‘collect-to-reuse’ solution to divert used poly-mailers away from the waste stream.

Chua Kai Jun (SOC), Huang Ziwei (FASS), Jeff Sieu Yong (SOC), Loh Xin Yi (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The long-term environmental impacts of single-use plastic, coupled with Singapore’s limited landfill capacity, highlight the urgent need to reduce plastic waste. For RVRC students, one simple way to mitigate this problem is to use lunchboxes instead of single-use plastic containers when doing takeaway. However, our preliminary survey indicated that most students do not adopt this solution due to inconvenience of washing the lunchboxes by hand. Our project addressed this problem by designing and testing a dishwasher prototype as a more convenient alternative. First, we measured the prototype’s effectiveness based on three key design criteria: hygiene, time required to wash, and water consumption. After making required design adjustments, we invited RVRC residents to test our prototype. Based on the results collected during the implementation phase, we found that our prototype was effective in all three criteria, and was also identified by residents as a more convenient alternative to wash reusable lunchboxes by hand.

Benedict Koh Wee Seng (BIZ), Heng Chen Kai, Darren (SOC), Lee Wei, David (SOC), Ng Shi Hui (FASS), Wang Wei Yu (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The proliferation of ecommerce has contributed directly to an increasing trend in packaging waste and its resulting water and carbon emissions. Given that RVRC residents do not reuse ecommerce cardboard boxes, our objective was to implement a two-part system to encourage its diversion away from the waste/recycle stream, into the reuse stream. First, we set up collection points at carefully chosen locations. We conducted a poster and digital publicity campaign to raise awareness about our initiative, with a focus on Tuesday and Thursday – parcel collection days. Within 3 weeks, we collected more than 7kg of reusable cardboard boxes. For the second part of our project , we established a collaboration with an external partner. The collected ecommerce cardboard boxes were handed over to them for reuse. Our project results demonstrate that a significant number of ecommerce cardboard boxes in RVRC can be successfully redirected towards reuse, thereby minimising their environmental footprint.

Kaung Htet (SDE), Park Shieun (FOE), Xu Yuxing (FOE), Zhu Shaohan Steven (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Singapore is facing a rising demand for single-use drink containers. The lifespan of these items could be lengthened to reduce consumption of other ready-made products. Our preliminary survey results (n=108) indicated that most students (65%) consumed drinks from these single use containers multiple times a week and do not dispose them properly. Another survey was conducted to gather opinions about glass repurposing. Majority found our repurposed glass product attractive. Hence, our objective is to raise awareness of upcycling these single use drink containers among NUS students. We designed a website and a 40-min online workshop with surveys. During this workshop we engaged 35 NUS students to raise awareness about upcycling single use drink containers. The results indicated that majority of the students found the workshop effective in raising awareness about upcycling. Hence, our interactive workshop, website and repurposed product display proved effective in raising awareness about upcycling among NUS students.

Lee Chang Jun Tristan (FOE), Samuel Koh Sheng Nan (FOE), Scarlett Lin Yu Huai (SDE), William Wahyudi (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Using store-bought dish soap could harm the environment in various ways, ranging from plastic waste from the bottles to deforestation caused by the production of palm oil, which is the soap’s main ingredients. An environmentally friendlier alternative would be to ferment fruit waste in order to make an enzyme-rich cleaner, which is suitable for daily use. Our project seeks to spread awareness through workshop and distribution of enzyme cleaner samples across RVRC’s pantries.

We conducted a 30-minute soap making workshop which consisted of a quiz and a post-workshop survey, demonstration of the enzyme cleaner as an environmentally friendlier alternative to commercial soap, as well as hands-on cleaner making activity. The fruit enzyme cleaner has been proven to be fun and easy to make during the workshop. Moreover, during the demonstration process, participants also agreed that the cleaner could effectively wash out oily dishes.

Boominathan Pushpanathan (FOE), Lim Xin Yi Joreen (SDE), Teng Wei Han (FOE), Thomas Tio Da Ming (FOE), Yeoh E Ming (SDE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Singapore is experiencing an exponential surge in concentrations of microplastics in its natural environment, with pernicious concomitant ramifications on public health and marine life. We aim to raise greater awareness concerning the detriments of microplastics, in particular, microbeads in commonly used Personal Care Products (PCPs) and gauge the receptivity of RVRC residents to microbead-free alternatives.

We put up posters elucidating the deleterious effects of microplastics and conducted a giveaway for microbead-free DIY facial scrubs, complemented by informative e-brochures and videos expounding on the ease of making said scrubs. Pre- and post-giveaway surveys and a focus group discussion were subsequently conducted to determine receptivity to microbead-free alternatives. 90% of respondents had heightened awareness of microbeads in their PCPs while 97% were receptive to using microbead-free alternatives.

These awareness-raising initiatives were indubitably effective in helping students understand the detrimental effects of microbeads whilst promoting suitable microbead-free alternatives.

Angel Foo (FOS), Chen Yichi (FOS), Cody Tan Zheng Hao (FOS), Michael Lim Wen Hai (FOS), Zhao Xi (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Contamination of plastic bottles is a significant issue in Singapore that prevents them from being recycled properly. Uncapping of plastic bottles and pouring away residual liquid within is crucial for reducing contamination. Gamification could motivate environmental protection, so we developed an interactive game board targeted at university students to promote the uncapping and emptying of bottles in a fun and engaging manner.

We designed an interactive Plinko board comprising of colourful elements and lights that users may drop their bottle caps into. The bottle cap would then randomly land in different reward zones. The board also directed players to recycle their plastic bottle bodies in the recycling bin directly besides it. With the presence of the Plinko board, the average recycling rate increased by 19.3%, and the average uncap rate increased significantly to 64.9%. Hence, gamification proves to be effective in promoting recycling and uncapping among RVRC residents.

Dianne Loh Wen Hui (SOC), Evelyn Quek (FOE), Lim Wei Quan Ernest (SOC), Sean Lee Xian Yu (FOS), Tang Ying Teng Brenda (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

The lack of natural resources makes sustainable living a priority in Singapore. However, youths remain ignorant and unmotivated towards sustainable living. Given that youths spend a significant amount of time on online platforms, our objective is to tap on their interest in games and social media to promote sustainable lifestyle through raising awareness, cultivating interest and providing incentives. We designed a competitive pet-raising game application that tracked the sustainability actions of 52 players and rewarded the players according to the reduction in their carbon footprint. We found that on average, 65% of players continued to play the game after 28 days, and that players showed greatest improvement in plastic bag refusal, with the tracking of electricity and water habits being the most popular. Hence, an engaging game application acting as a habit tracking device could encourage youths to lead sustainable lifestyles.

Ambrose Liew Cheng Yuan (SOC), Joshua Luke Ramakrishna (FASS), Long Ji Zhi Brayden (SOC), Tang Zhe (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Recycling reduces the waste sent to landfills and conserves the natural resources as well as the environment. However, there is a lack of recycling habits in Singapore, where household recycling rates have hovered around 20 percent since 2005. Our objective is to promote recycling habits through bringing the idea of recycling closer to our target audience, the RVRC residents. We designed compartments to be placed into the room bins of residents, as well as a poster to educate residents on the correct recycling methods, so as to prevent recycling contamination. Before the project, 15.8% of the 19 participants recycle at least once a week. With the presence of the compartmentalization in the bins, 78.9% of them recycle at least once a week. As such, the presence of the compartmentalization of the bins, along with the educational poster on recycling contamination, has been effective in promoting the right recycling habits.

Donavan Lim Jia Hui (SOC), Ng Shi Xuan Aerin (SOC), Rachel Tan Xinyue (FASS), Tan Wan Yun (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Infographics broadly use appeal to pathos (the guilty conscience), logos (use of statistics) and herd mentality (social comparison), to communicate and persuade the readers. Although used extensively by agencies such as the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources to encourage a more sustainable lifestyle, the effectiveness of these infographic is yet to be determined. Given the excessive use of disposable cups by patrons in NUS food and beverage outlets, which contributes to the 473 million disposable plastic items used yearly by Singapore, our project compared the effectiveness of pathos, logos and herd mentality appeal to raise awareness and promote patrons of Li-HO at YIH to bring their own cups (BYO), thereby reducing plastic wastage. We found that although the pathos appeal poster attracted more attention, the number of BYO patrons did not increase. This indicates the ineffectiveness of infographic to promote more environmentally sustainable behavior.

Grace Li Xiang (SOC), Kwek Chu Han (SOC), Lim Zi Yuan Cheryl (FASS), Rebecca Carissa Prajogo (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Proper electronic waste (e-waste) management is one of Singapore’s main priorities, given the rising generation of e-waste and its harmful effects on the environment. Teenagers aged 13-17 lack knowledge on proper e-waste management but are highly exposed to electronic devices. Our objective is to develop a game kit to educate teenagers on managing e-waste responsibly in fun yet effective way. We designed a game kit consisting of a card game and a lesson plan. The gameplay is followed by a facilitated discussion guided by the lesson plan, which aims to further increase understanding of responsible e-waste management. To determine the effectiveness of our card game, we conducted pre-game and post-game surveys on a sample of teenagers. A 40% increase in correct answers was observed in the post-game survey. Therefore, the combination of the card game and lesson plan proved effective in educating teenagers to manage e-waste responsibly.

Darrion Ong Wei Zhi (BIZ), Li Xiaoyue (FOE), Tang Yu Xuan (FOS), Woo Jian Zhe (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The rising trend in bubble-tea consumption has contributed to increased use of single-use plastic cups. The Singapore Environment Council found that Singapore uses 473 million kg of single-use plastics (2018). Our survey of RVRC students (n = 135) indicated that 62% drink at least one cup of bubble-tea daily, and 7% drink more than 3 cups a day. Our project piloted a possible solution to reduce this plastic waste, with 12 volunteers from a sample of high-frequency bubble-tea drinkers. We provided them re-usable tumblers, tracked their use over 4 weeks, and collected qualitative feedback. Participants gave largely positive feedback about adopting a reusable tumbler, and data indicated a drop in their average weekly bubble-tea consumption by 28%. Both these results support our project objective, and indicate the need for an extensive study to determine if reusable tumblers can be adopted on a larger scale to limit the use of single-use plastics.

Aritejh KR Goil (FOE), Deng Xueqi (SOC), Jaspal Singh (FOE), Phua Suet Cheng (FASS), Ryan Goh Shi Jun (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Singaporeans use 1.76 billion plastic items yearly, recycling only about 6% of it. This results in emission rates of over 100milllion kg of CO2. Hence, our project aims to reduce plastic consumption by providing a sustainable alternative to plastic detergent bottles and encourage the recycling of plastic bottles. We implemented i) a communal detergent dispenser in RVRC tower block laundry room; ii) a plastic bottle recycling programme allowing users to exchange plastic bottles for detergent from the dispenser; and iii) a campaign that educates RVRC residents about the issue of plastic waste and the carbon footprint from plastic production. With our dispenser, we save approximately 162 detergent bottles every semester, which adds up to 106kg of co2 savings a year, whilst incentivizing students to recycle and reduce plastic consumption usage. Hence, the combination of our detergent dispenser and recycling program effectively reduces RVRC’s carbon footprint and boosts recycling rates.

Co Ziying Kelly (SOC), Tan Wee Han (FASS), Xu Ruiqing (FOS), Yeo Zhi Min (FASS), Yu Jiaxiang (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Fast fashion is one of the most polluting industrial sectors (Anguelov, 2015). Yet, 25% Singaporeans throw away more than ten items of clothing and awareness of sustainable fashion brands is low (YouGov, 2017). Our survey results for NUS students indicated that 80% respondents (n=73) were willing to switch to more sustainable fashion brands, but 75% lacked knowledge. Our project had two aims – to identify the critical metrics for measuring fashion sustainability, and to bridge the knowledge gap about sustainable alternatives among university students using Instagram. Fabrics and dye were identified as the two strongest markers of fashion sustainability. Using t-tests and multiple linear regression to analyse data, our results indicate that we successfully raised the awareness of fast fashion alternatives. More specifically, knowledge of fabrics and dye emerged as key predictors for increased awareness. Moving forward, we aim to further build the Instagram channel for NUS, and use it to start a sustainable fashion interest group in RVRC.

Jonathan Suherman (FOE), Ooi Wei En, Bryan (SOC), Sze Xin Yu, Brandeline (FOS), Xu Fangzhou (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Singapore generated 949,300 tonnes of plastic in 2019, of which only 4% was recycled (NEA, 2019). Given the significantly low percentage of recycling, our project tackled the root of the problem – use of single-use plastics. The objective was to test receptiveness to a weekly ‘plastics-free day’ at the RVRC Dining Hall, that otherwise uses 200 plastic-pieces daily on average at the Grab-and-Go counters. We collaborated with the caterers to publicise and implement the project across four weeks, to reduce the use of plastics in the Breakfast service for items such as sandwich boxes, juice cups and plastic bags. Results from our field research and survey responses showed that most respondents were supportive towards, and even wanted the initiative to happen more frequently. Hence, we can conclude that the project serves as a successful feasibility study and provides a good start to implementing similar initiatives in future.

Chan Yong Soon, Kendrew (SOC), Lin Xuan Ying (FASS), Lim Yi He (FOS), Zhou Yurou (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

In 2018, Singapore generated almost 950,000 tonnes of plastic waste (NEA, 2019). Pulau Semakau landfill is projected to be filled up by 2035 (MEWR, 2020) at this rate, and reducing single-use plastic waste is therefore crucial. Our project objective was to test the receptivity to providing dine-in customers the option of reusable cups, at NUS foodcourts. We collaborated with the Fine Food drink stall vendor in UTown, for conducting a two-week pilot. Reusable cup uptake numbers were tracked from the vendor’s billing. Data was also collected from consumers using surveys before and after implementation. The calculated break-even point was achieved within 2 weeks of the pilot; the environmental impact of 75 reusable cups was balanced by the disposable cups saved. We have shared our findings with NUS OES, that clearly demonstrate that providing reusable cups for dine-in customers at food courts can be adopted as a sustainable solution to reduce single-use plastic waste.

Khoo Kai Jun, Marcus (FASS), Lim Wen Hao, Lionel (SOC), Timothy Timuari Li Zhi (FASS), Wang Chun Min (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Single-use plastics, justified by the industry due to perceived effectiveness in extending the shelf-life of food (Schweitzer, 2018), cause global environmental problems due to wasteful and small-format packaging, and low recycling rates (IEEP, 2019), and in Singapore too (Hwee Min, 2019). To address this concern, we operated a Zero-Waste Store in NUS. Our project serves as a feasibility study and pilot test for a store to be implemented in collaboration with NUS SAVE. Prior to execution, a sensing survey (n=150) was conducted to gauge receptiveness and identify popular packaged food items. Sourced from zero-waste suppliers, our store operated for a week at a campus location with high foot traffic, implemented zero-waste packaging, and charged wholesale pricing. In a post-purchase survey (n=110), 97% customers indicated willingness to buy from zero-waste stores on campus, and 91% mentioned that the store increased their awareness of food packaging waste. These findings, and high volume of sales, indicate high receptiveness towards the implementation of zero-waste stores in NUS.

Chua Yi Wei (FOE), Bethany Choo Hui En (FASS), Jed Lee Woon Kiat (SOC), Chelsea Cheng Wei Teng (BIZ), Jesslyn Suandi (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

The textile industry is one of the top three contributors to carbon emission in the world. Based on our survey done on 31 undergraduates, 64.5 % of our respondents wear fast fashion items and own at least 3 pieces shirts from NUS events. Most of these were disposed of after being worn a few times. Our project seeks to raise awareness of textile wastage in undergraduates through workshops and social media. We conducted interactive upcycling workshops for 31 undergraduates and launched a social media campaign on Instagram encouraging undergraduates to upcycle their worn clothing and reduce disposal. After attending our workshops, 92.3% of our participants will continue to upcycle clothes and 90.3% of our Instagram followers state that they know two ways to upcycle. This suggests that the combination of workshop and social media is effective in educating undergraduates on upcycling.

Chio Jia Li Jillene (FASS), David Natan (FOE), Ge Siqi (SOC), Li Zhuoran (FOS), Tan Song Jun (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Despite an abundance of green spaces locally, there is a growing disconnect between youths and Mother Nature. To enhance their attitudes towards nature and wildlife, it is critical to educate youths with knowledge that will pique their interest and appreciation for the environment. This objective was achieved by directly immersing youths amidst Nature with the implementation of experiential learning. Our group designed a birdwatching tour comprising of pre- and post-tour surveys, a digital e-book containing unique features of birds and plants, and a Kahoot quiz. After the tour, Instagram and YouTube were utilised to sustain participants’ interest. Data analysis of our survey results have shown a general improvement in comfort, attitudes and knowledge level for the participants post-tour. Therefore, by conducting a guided tour which placed emphasis on experiential learning and through supplementation with social media platforms, our project achieved success in increasing participants’ interest for nature and wildlife.

Kor Ming Soon (SOC / FOS), Nai Jia En Justin (BIZ),  Christopher Samuel Sinaga (FOS), Wu Junyi (SDE),  Jocelyn Tan Pei Xuan (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Mr. N. Sivasothi

Plastic wastage is a perennial problem throughout the world. In Singapore, of the 1.76 billion of plastic items used, only 6% are recycled. As students staying on campus, we wanted to understand the extend of plastic wastage coming from our soap bottles and packaging, as well as find out the feasibility of implementing a refillery system in RVRC. We executed our plan in two phases i) voluntary survey and ii) a series of soap distribution trials. Our voluntary survey found that 68% of RVRC students bought new soap bottles upon finishing, and that 500ml of soap lasted 1.5 months on average. Furthermore, our series of trials saw a total number of 112 RVRC students collecting from our distribution. Therefore, we find that our execution had achieved adequate results in proving RVRC students’ susceptibility to a soap refillery.

Alison Lee (FASS), Chelsea Wong (FASS), Cheung Jun Xi Edwin (FOE), Lee Yong Keng (BIZ), Shi Yinglei (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Plastic waste is a pressing issue in Singapore due to a shortage of landfill space, with disposable plastic packaging of cosmetic samples being a significant contributor to plastic waste. Thus, we aimed to develop a sustainable alternative to the packaging of sample products to reduce plastic waste, measured through stakeholders’ receptivity of the sustainable alternative and consumer satisfaction and product feasibility. We used a preliminary survey to collect insights and consumer preferences, conducted two rounds of focus group discussions and multiple interviews with stakeholders to measure receptiveness and satisfaction. The high overall receptiveness of our prototype was 82.3% in the FGD and our prototype had potential development as feedback from all five of our industry interviewees. Given the estimated reduction in carbon emission as well as high consumer receptivity, these prove that SAMpills will be effective in reducing plastic waste if used by the cosmetic industry.

Benny Winata Hartanto (FOE), Cindy Evangeline (SDE), Huang Chengyu (SOC), Kacine Wee Wan Si (FASS), Lew Yu Heng (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Most local universities emphasize sustainability education, but students may not be inclined to voice their ideas or discuss sustainability during lessons. Collaborative game-based learning can supplement the current education model to prompt students to have sustainability-related discussions in a fun and engaging manner. We conducted our research by surveying university sustainability educators to collate professional feedback on collaborative game-based learning and playing our sustainability card game, 99 Problems, with university students who had enrolled in sustainability modules. Pre- and post-surveys were conducted to collate students’ opinions on the game and current sustainability education. 73% of students shared that they would prefer playing our game both in and out of the classroom as they felt more inclined to engage in sustainability discussion after gameplay. Hence, an interactive card game that promotes discussions and sharing of ideas proved to be effective in enhancing the students’ experience in learning about sustainability.

Alden Choo Jun Teck (FASS), Nah Yi Xin (FASS), Nguyen (FOE), Toh Ding Yuan (FOE), Wu Yueze (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Environmental initiatives are centered around younger populations, and the elderly are marginalized. They are an equally important sub-population, with lifestyles involving numerous interactions with others. Our project addresses the lack of environmental stewardship provided to the elderly by organizing workshops to raise awareness of sustainability and promoting ways to improve their lifestyles. We researched elderly pedagogy to create an effective lesson plan. To evaluate our project, we created pre/post surveys to understand the conceptions of environmental sustainability, ensuring the elderly can contextualize our lessons to their daily lives. The project is carried on a pilot sample, and we sought advice from teachers at elderly centers about the efficacy of our lesson content. Comparing the surveys, that the elderly reported a greater understanding of environmental sustainability, and were able to contextualize our lesson to our lives. Feedback from the surveys highlighted that our lesson content was engaging. Our lessons can be implemented on a broader scale, where various elderly educators can apply our ‘textbook’ material to conduct lessons, using it as an independent model.

Chai Pin Xuan (BIZ), Christian Drake Martin (SOC), Florencia Martina (SOC), Girija Shenoy (FOS), Zhang Yunjie (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

There is a necessity to tackle clothing wastage generated by fast fashion in Singapore due to low recycling rates and our inability to accommodate future textile waste. Our objectives were to engage, educate and encourage youths to purchase second-hand clothing instead of first-hand, such that unwanted clothes will not end up as excess clothing wastage.

Following the AMO (Ability, Motivation, Opportunity) framework of changing behavior, we designed a 3-step approach comprising i) an interactive face-to-face survey; ii) using Instagram as an educational platform; and iii) a second-hand clothes bazaar. After the bazaar, our 61 participants displayed a 46.4% increase in willingness to incorporate second-hand clothing into their wardrobe.Hence, our 3-step approach of motivating youths through our interactive survey, giving them the ability to access second-hand clothing and an opportunity to purchase, proved effective in changing the purchasing behavior of youths.

Peng Mei Xuan Alicia (SDE), Kim Yoo Kyung (SDE), Kee Xiang Hao Matthew (FOE), Fu Haoye (FASS), Ng Zu Yang Edwin (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

A woman typically produces 200kg of plastic waste, due to the usage of disposable menstrual products, in her lifetime (London Assembly, 2018). However, this issue was rarely discussed due to stigma. Our project aims to increase awareness and inform young women on sustainable menstrual products, and hope to nudge more into using them. We adopted a two-pronged approach to engage our audience. In the direct approach, we hosted focus groups to provide an avenue to share information and for women to clarify their concerns. We also launched an Instagram campaign to generate interest and engage a wider audience. In both approaches, we work to inform the audience and provide information on sustainable alternatives.

Our results show that our focus group participants gained a 60% increase in knowledge of menstrual products. There were also 25 purchases of sustainable products among our 184  Instagram followers. These suggest that our approach is effective.

Erin May Gunawan (SOC), Liang Shiqi (SDE), Putri Darmawan (SOC), Song Qifeng (SOC), Zhou Yi Kelvin (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Ethical consumerism refers to the purchase of products that are ethically produced and are not harmful to the environment and society. Unethical products such as fast fashion and palm oil products make their consumer part of the environmental impact. Our survey showed that youth are significant consumers. We hope to design an educational game which teaches the consequences of unethical consumerism. This is a 30-minute interactive game that immerses the players/students in a storyline where they will make decisions that will directly impact the survival of our Earth, as well as educating them on affairs related to sustainability issues. Upon comparison with our control group (Lecture), the participants of the game gave more positive responses on how our game increased their awareness and knowledge about the given topic, as well as how the gameplay, storyline and immediate feedback were effective in their learning, which indicates that this project is effective.

Chen Jiashu (SCI), Cheong Wan Ting, Fiona (SOC), Irwin Chin De Tao (FOE), Tang Wai Mun, Jody Lorah (SOC), Varshana Kumanan (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

In the Zero Waste Masterplan introduced by MEWR, electronic waste (e-waste) was identified as one of 3 high-volume waste streams, with only 6% of e-waste generated in Singapore recycled and the rest improperly discarded. As e-waste is not generated regularly, we investigated if a once-off collection drive in NUS would be more effective than bins placed at certain locations permanently. We also assessed the outreach effectiveness of various targeted publicity method for the collection drive. We held two collection drives and surveyed participants on the reach of different publicity method. We found that emails were the most effective, with 85.7% of donors indicating that they came down due to the emails sent. After two days of collection, we amassed 287kg of e-waste, more than the annual average amount collected by one RENEW bin. This shows that once-off collection drives is more effective than the regular e-waste recycling bins on campus.

Grace Guan Yaxin (FOS), Tan Etai Adam (FOS), Seah Jia Yin (FASS), Shi Peiyun (FASS), Johanes Rafael Sudardji (CEG)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

With publicity in mind and college reputation at stake, the environmental impact generated by one-off events such as NUS open-day is often neglected by stakeholders, causing unnecessary use of resources and waste. We aim to reduce this waste in future open-days by implementing an electronic platform alongside physical open day, giving the audience a choice on the medium they wish to engage with. We analysed the effectiveness of RVRC e-open day 2020 and implemented a live chat in addition to other measures taken by the official e-open day team. By analysing quantitative and qualitative data, the e-open day measures were found to be successful in conveying information that our target audience wanted. This is supported by 20 interviewees. However, due to limited outreach and publicity, e-open day was less known to the public as compared to physical open day. Therefore e-open day cannot completely substitute physical open day.

Terence Wong (FASS), Su Ching Ting (FOS), Franceline Benetta (FOS), Li Jiahe (FOS), Kok Yi Ling (SOC)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Fast fashion is a global problem; clothes are being purchased and discarded in record quantities, resulting in a build-up of textile waste and encouraging unethical garment production practices (Morgan & Birtwistle, 2009). Our project aimed to use digital technology to raise awareness on the environmental consequences of fast fashion, and to create a platform for our target audience to take action. We created a Telegram channel where we posted curated information regarding environmental and social impacts of fast fashion. In parallel, we also coded and launched a Telegram bot as a platform for people to sell their unwanted clothes. Results from pre – and post-surveys indicate that channel subscribers benefited from increased awareness. Transaction data from the Telegram Bot indicated successful translation of this awareness into action for trading used clothes. Together, our two-pronged approach was effective in making generation Z Singaporeans more aware of environmental consequences of fast fashion and take action.

Chang Fui Ann Vivian (FASS), Dong Baoyan (FOE), Tan Yi Jie Denise (SOC), Tricia Chin Shan Min (FOS), Valen Tai Joo Ze (FOE)

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Despite the fashion industry contributing 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, one-third Singaporeans dispose clothing only worn once (YouGov, 2017). Our project targeted NUS students who belong to the age group that is the leading contributor to this problem. An initial survey (n=102) found that 95.5% respondents are unaware of the negative impacts of fast fashion. Our project has two aims, to increase awareness of the negative impacts of fast fashion, and to make known local sustainable alternatives. To achieve these, we produced and disseminated two videos to our target audience. Data was collected using pre and post-video surveys, to measure the effectiveness of our videos. Results indicated an increase in the perceived level of awareness by 30% about the negative consequences and alternatives of fast fashion. Our findings confirm that educational videos are an effective solution to disseminate information to teh youth and heighten their awareness of the consequences of fast fashion.

Alanna Chan Xin Tong (FASS), Koh Ci En (BIZ), Loong Xin Yee (FASS), Michelle Mulamootil Mathew (SOC), Poh Yong Yi (SDE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Plastics are amongst the top ten common pollutants in the world. Singapore uses an alarming 473 million disposable plastics annually, the majority being takeaway food containers (SEC, 2018). Within RVRC, our preliminary survey (n=63) showed that 90% of respondents frequently take-away food in single-use plastic bags. Hence, our project objective is to develop an alternative for plastic food packaging using biodegradable gelatine to reduce plastic consumption and, thus plastic waste. We conducted a focus group discussion with students and an interview with the caterer to gather feedback on how to improve the flexibility of our gelatin plastic and understand their receptivity towards our prototype. If implemented in the Dining Hall, it could potentially replace 150 plastic packagings a day, 900 packagings a week and 31,500 packagings a year. In this way, we could help reduce plastic packaging and the reliance on disposable plastics in RVRC.

Jovan Lee Zheming (FOS), Lim Jae Yin Lynette (FASS), Lin Bing Han (SDE), Michelle (SDE), Vikram Kasi Kannappan (SDE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Florence Ng

Laundry dryers in RVRC and other residential colleges generate significant amounts of lint that end up being disposed of. To reduce the amount of lint being disposed of,our project aims to upcycle lint into a useful product (cardholders) that is frequently used by many RVRC residents. Additionally, we want to improve the user-friendliness and durability of our lint cardholders, which would ensure the sustainability of our product. We conducted two Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and post-discussion surveys to gather feedback from our users. The first FGD was to gather input on ways we could improve our lint cardholder prototype. The second FGD was to collect data on whether the previously-raised issues had been resolved. Almost all respondents have indicated a significant improvement since the first prototype. Hence, our project  shows that it is possible to reduce lint waste by upcycling it into a useful and sustainable everyday product.

Choy Jie Hui (FOS), Lee Heng Yi Amos (FASS), Liu Haoran (SOC), Teo Rui Juan (BIZ), Timothy Wong Hoey Pheen (FOS)

Academic Advisor: Mr. Lim Cheng Puay

Singapore produces around 60,000 tonnes of e-waste a year (NEA 2018), making e-waste disposal a significant issue. Our survey also found that most youths are unaware of what constitutes e-waste and its proper disposal procedures. Our project aims to use an educational board game to educate youths about e-waste and proposal disposal habits. The game was tested with 32 youths and compared their knowledge retention with a control group. Both pre-surveys and post-surveys were organized to quantify the increased knowledge on E-waste of our target audience. We found that youths who played the game scored an average of 71.7% for knowledge retention compared to the control group which scored 50%. This demonstrate the effectiveness of using board games to impart knowledge on sustainability issues such as e-waste usage and disposal.

Jin Yuze (SOC), John Elijah Gan (SDE), Ng Shuo Qi Constance (SOC), Tan Yu Ying Ericia (FASS)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Proper recycling is essential to reduce resource use, but improper disposal of items such as disposable plastic cutlery, soiled food packaging and plastic packaging with foil into the local recycling bins has resulted in a staggering low 4% recycling rates of plastics (NEA,2018). Our project aims to increase awareness of proper recycling among Ridge View Residential College residents, and introduce the concept that recyclables are not trash, but have a purpose and afterlife. We replaced the plastic recycling bin with our self-designed transparent shelving system, which improved the visibility of what can be recycled and deter disposal of soiled items. We quantified the amount of plastic recycled pre and post implementation and surveyed the residents. Our results showed that although the total amount of plastics collected had decreased, the contamination had also reduced significantly, which would ultimately result in more clean plastic items being recycled.

Isaiah Koh Ming Yew (SOC), Lee Ying Qi, Natasha (FASS), Nguyen Tuan Dung (FOE), Soong Wei Geng Javier (BIZ)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Product life cycle thinking (LCT) by consumers could promote recycling of used products to minimise resource use, but the lack of awareness of LCT by Singapore consumers hinders policies to effect a circular economy. Our objective is to increase awareness of product LCT through engaging hands-on activities. We created a card game to educate players on the life-cycle of consumer goods, which can be used in workshops, classes or at home in a fun and enjoyable way. We held several workshops to play test our game with university students, and included a pre- and post- gameplay survey to evaluate game’s effectiveness. In our pre-gameplay survey, 62.5% of participants indicated little to no knowledge of the life-cycle of consumer waste products. Post game, 83.4% of participants indicated an increase in their knowledge of product LCT. Therefore, the use of an engaging game is effective in promoting awareness of product LCT.

Abhishek Yamdagni (FOE), Cindy Aurelia Ursia (FOE), Siti Nurul Syasya Bte Azman (SOC), Soh Bryan (FASS and FOS), Terry Koh Shao Jun (SDE)

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

The textile industry is a major contributor to environmental pollution and the youth of today contributes to textile wastage in Singapore through uninformed and poorly thought out fashion decisions. Since game-based learning is highly effective in instilling knowledge, our objective is to develop an interactive and educational game highlighting the different areas of textile waste and to promote conscious clothing consumerism, where youths learn to make environmentally-friendly decisions throughout the purchasing process. We designed a 30-45 minutes board game of choices and deception, TexStyle, for 3-5 players, who completed pre-, game and post-survey. From the post survey, 91.9% of respondents found the game effective in giving them a better understanding of conscious clothing consumerism and 65.9% were willing to practice it. Hence, the educational board game not only instils information about textile wastage, but also persuaded players to consider upcycling, hence proving the effectiveness of our strategy.

Vivian Lim Su Qi, Matheus Aaron, Dickson Lim, Han Yu Fin Jonathan, Charmaine Lee Jia Min

Academic Advisor: Ms. Wong Kah Wei

Inculcating proper waste management habits among Singaporeans is of paramount importance as the landfills will be filled by 2035. Despite continuous efforts to integrate environmental education into the formal education system, many are still unaware of proper waste management methods and do not recycle regularly.

Thus, our project aims to engage children aged 4-6 in activities that will raise their awareness on the importance of proper waste management. As young children require auditory and visual engagement to internalise concepts effectively, we utilised books, skits, and games to teach them the importance of recycling. The children also learnt about upcycling through craft activities where they made toys from recyclables.

To examine the effectiveness of the strategies employed, we assessed the change in children’s awareness by noting their behaviour and responses and surveying the parents and interviewing the teachers before and after the activity. Based on our findings, we recommend similar methods to increase the sense of environmental stewardship among children.

Keywords: Responsible Consumption, Activities, Pre-schoolers

Damian Lim Jun Yee, Davin William, Heng Dingwen Wayne, Ho Zi Feng, Keith Tan De Shun

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Singapore produces an alarming 60,000 tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste) annually, making us the second largest e-waste producer in the Southeast Asia region. The average Singaporean produces 11kg of e-waste annually. Unfortunately, only 6% of the total e-waste produced in Singapore is being properly recycled. According to NEA Survey, 60% of Singaporean consumers said they do not know or are unsure of how to recycle their e-waste. E-waste is normally traded in/re-sold, thrown away passed to delivery men. There are harmful effects of e-waste on both the environment and human health, due to toxic metals found in phones such as lead. With our preliminary survey, we realized that the lack of awareness is a key reason exacerbating the growing problem of e-waste. As such, we set up an e-waste booth in UTown in NUS to raise awareness of this issue. We liaised closely with external organization, namely a recycling company ViroGreen, who provided us with banners and an e-waste recycling bin, and a phone assessor Next Telecom Pte Ltd. At the booth we put up educational posters, banners and the recycling bin for participants to drop off e-waste. The on-site phone assessor provided a price quote to participants who wish to sell their old phones. The life cycles of such phones will be prolonged as these phones are once again circulated and used, showing participants that everyone can play their part in reducing the amount of e-waste generated.  More than 200 people participated at the booth in the two days, and they were made more aware of e-waste.

Keywords: E-waste, Responsible Consumption, Handphone

Ang Wei Heng Kendrick, Sadia Batcha Mohamed Kamaldeen,Teo Wei Zhou, Weong Ee Shuen Natasha

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

Fifty percent of bacterial infections in Singaporean patients have become resistant to frontline antibacterial therapies. This is explained by the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) phenomenon or the evolution of ‘superbugs’. One of the main reasons for this is patients’ failure to complete the prescribed antibiotics. We found that this is due to a multitude of reasons, but we seek to focus on the one we find most urgent and prospective: forgetfulness. To ensure the sustainability of existing antibiotic treatments, we designed and fabricated a modified and personalized pill dispenser called “SmartPill” containing features to minimize incompletion of antibiotics due to forgetfulness.

We focused on a primary target audience of the Singaporean elderly (>65 years of age) as they account for the greatest proportion of antibiotic consumers of all age groups in Singapore. The key features of SmartPill include portability, visual aids, color, and reminders. The SmartPill’s universal 3D-printed design also allows it to be a phone case built for all phone sizes as it is aimed to be on-person throughout a prescribed course of antibiotics. Its features also help it stand out and serve as an active reminder to reduce incomplete antibiotic consumption due to forgetfulness. We conducted qualitative surveys with pharmacists and doctors at NUH and workshops to test our hypothesis that forgetfulness was the main cause of antibiotic misuse. Our pilot examined the elderly’s use and perception of the SmartPill dispenser over a few weeks of use. Our results found our target group to be strongly receptive to the use of our prototype.

Keywords: Responsible Consumption

Chua Hua Ren, Lim Kai Jun Melanie, Low Jia Chen, Ng Hong Quan

Academic Advisor: Ms. Sadaf Ansari

The trend in using liquid soaps over bar soaps (Willingham, 2016) is harming the Earth increasingly as experts cite facts on how damaging liquid soap is through greater carbon footprint incurred and larger amount of waste generated (HKFP, 2016 & Drahl, 2018). Being a strategic platform for building a sustainable campus, NUS offers great opportunities for students to share their constructive inputs to our project. Our project explored the perception of NUS Residential College students and their awareness of the environmental costs of liquid soaps. We also tested if students could be encouraged to use bar soaps through the design and installation of a soap dispenser prototype, to ultimately encourage the switch to bar soaps use.

We chose RVRC as our test-bed. Qualitative surveys were carried out before and after the installation of our prototype to measure the change in attitudes of residents in using bar soaps. The results indicate that the majority of residents are aware of the adverse environmental impacts of using liquid soaps. The residents also highlighted convenience and hygiene as their main concerns for their continued preference of using liquid soap. Our data also indicated that most respondents were willing to switch to bar soaps if the prototype could address their concerns. We have recommend a more extensive pilot testing of the bar soap dispenser in RVRC, with OHS collaboration, to measure the impact of our idea in nudging residents to using bar soap as a sustainable alternative to liquid soap.

Keywords: Responsible Consumption

Bill Chee, Bong Jia Hui, Emily Ellisha Ng Qi Li, Low Sheng Wei Ernest, Yeap Yong Ern Joel

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Children’s toys are a large contributor to the plastic waste problem in Singapore. They are mostly made out of unrecyclable plastic, and consumed at a high rate. This is amplified by the fact that the toy market in Singapore is growing. Our project seeks to abate the environmental impact of toys by encouraging parents to make their own upcycled toys for their infants using household waste instead of purchasing commercial off-the-shelf toys. To achieve this, we created a guidebook and a DIY kit to help parents. We then test the receptiveness of parents to this idea through interviews, which are analysed with qualitative coding. We also measure the interest of infants in the toys that are created from waste materials using non-participant observation. Our results indicate that infants are generally indifferent to the upcycled toys in comparison to commercial toys. Parents also have a positive response to the DIY kit and guidebook, and suggested that they are willing to give upcycling a shot. This evinces that upcycled toys are a suitable substitute for commercial toys, and parents are ready to make their own upcycled toys. From our project, we hope to ultimately motivate parents to upcycle their household waste to toys by demonstrating to them the ease and benefits of doing so.

Keywords: Responsible Consumption, Upcycling, Toys, Infants, Parents, Motivation

Georgia Kelly Lau, Joanna Sara Susan Purba, Keziah Anamaya Sitinjak, Marcus, Victor Varian

Academic Advisor: Dr. Chua Siew Chin

Microplastic pollution is a problem that threatens not just marine ecosystem, but also human health (Sharma & Chatterjee, 2017). Approximately 0.1 milligrams of microplastic particles are released by each gram of synthetic textile in each washing cycle (Hernandez, Nowack, & Mitrano, 2017). With this in mind, we investigated potential mitigation methods in reducing the concentration of microplastics in laundry discharge. We start by identifying potential factors that contribute to amount of microplastics in laundry discharge, namely type of laundry detergent and the “wear and tear” factor. Our experimental results verified the presence of plastic microfibers released by RVRC launderettes during washing of synthetic textiles. We hypothesised that using liquid detergent will cause less microplastic shedding compared to powder detergents and older clothes will shed more microplastic as time progresses. Hence, we propose using liquid detergents for laundry and wash synthetic clothings with the appropriate washing guideline to improve their longevity.

Keywords: Responsible Consumption, Microplastic, Laundry, Detergents, Wear and Tear