Climate Change – Page 2 – Singapore Green Guardians Blog

7 Energy-saving Habits to Add to Your Everyday Life

By adopting energy-efficient practices and making conscious choices in our daily routines, we can collectively reduce the environmental impact of energy consumption while helping to secure a cleaner, greener future for our city.

As Singapore continues to advance technologically and economically, the demand for energy steadily rises. Although the capacity of renewable energy has expanded, fossil gas continues to be the main energy source for Singapore. Natural gas is not renewable and emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and contributes to climate change and global warming.

As part of its climate pledge, Singapore plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The nation-state’s approach to reaching its target include improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions from power generation, developing low-carbon technologies, and responding through collection action.

Here is a checklist to help you build good energy-saving habits:

Turn off lights, fans, and air conditioning when leaving a room.

Turn off the water heater when you’re done with your shower.

Switch off electrical appliances at the power socket.

Instead of leaving an appliance on standby power, switch it off at the power socket. When devices such as laptops, TVs, modems, and routers are left on, they continue to use electricity.

Use a fan instead of turning on the air conditioner.

Electric fans require around 30 times less electricity to operate than a standard air conditioning unit. Research shows that widespread use of fans has the potential to reduce energy demand and emissions attributed to air conditioner use by up to 70%.

If you must switch on the air conditioner, set it to a moderate temperature (around 25-26°C) to reduce energy consumption.

Setting the air conditioner to a moderate temperature conserves energy and helps manage electricity demand, especially during peak hours. Once the room is sufficiently cooled, switch to a fan and avoid running the air conditioner for extended periods.

Open your curtains during the day to maximise natural lighting and minimise the need for artificial lights.

Use energy-efficient appliances and consider switching to LED bulbs for lighting.

LED bulbs consume up to 25% less electricity than Compact Fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs and can last about 2.5 times longer.

Choose an energy efficient appliance with more ticks on the energy label. An appliance with fewer ticks may cost you more in electricity bills in a year.

Image courtesy of NEA

Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?

Why is the Single-Use Bag an Environmental Villain?

Starting from this year, 2023, major supermarkets in Singapore have started charging for disposable bags to encourage shoppers to bring their own reusable bags. Why is it important to get shoppers to switch from disposable bags to reusable bags?

Starting from this year, 2023, major supermarkets in Singapore have started charging for disposable bags to encourage shoppers to bring their own reusable bags. Since 3 July 2023, these larger supermarkets have been required to charge at least five cents for each disposable carrier bag regardless of the material––plastic, paper, biodegradable materials, and so on. Charging for disposable bags is an effort to get the nation-state on a journey towards zero waste.

Why is it important to get shoppers to switch from disposable bags to reusable bags?

Disposable products are often seen as counter to the principles of zero waste for several reasons. Disposables are designed to be used once and then discarded. They foster a culture of wastefulness and encourages the idea that resources can be used and discarded without considering their long-term environmental impact.

The production of disposable products depletes our natural resources, such as trees for paper products, oil for plastics, and water during the manufacturing process. On top of that, manufacturing, transportation, and the disposal of single-use products require energy, which often comes from non-renewable sources like fossil fuels. This energy use contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which drive climate change.

What’s more, once the product is used and disposed of, most of it ends up as landfill waste. Every year, around 200,000 metric tonnes of Singapore’s domestic waste are disposables. According to NEA, only 6% of the plastics that get tossed out in Singapore get recycled. Paper has a higher recycling rate of 37%. And biodegradable plastic bags don’t get recycled at all–– they are incinerated with the rest of our waste.

Although the mandate applies to disposable bags of any material, plastic bags are one of the major contributors to Singapore’s domestic plastic waste. A study by the Singapore Environmental Council (SEC) found that shoppers take about 820 million plastic bags from supermarkets a year.

Funnily (or not), plastic bags were first invented in 1959 with the intention of saving trees. They were made as an alternative to paper bags, which were causing the destruction of forests. People were encouraged to switch to plastic bags. Sten Gustag Thulin, a Swedish engineer, who designed the plastic bag, would keep one folded in his back pocket to be re-used. By the end of the 90s, plastic bags almost entirely replaced paper bags around the world. They were seen as the cheaper alternative.

While disposables may seem cheaper upfront, they can be more expensive in the long run when we consider the environmental and societal costs.

Plastic disposables, for example, have been notorious for littering our landscapes, oceans, and waterways. They are lightweight and easily blown away by the wind. When plastic waste is mismanaged, they harm wildlife, disrupt ecosystems, and can persist in the environment for centuries.

By choosing disposables, we miss out on opportunities to promote recycling and reuse, which are key components of a zero-waste lifestyle. In contrast, the zero-waste movement encourages a shift away from disposable products and towards practices that reduce waste. Sten Gustag Thulin didn’t plan for the plastic bag to become a problem, but he did have the right idea––he carried a bag with him to be reused. So, next time you go shopping, remember to Refuse disposable bags, Reuse a bag you already have, and if you must, Recycle instead of throwing it in the trash.

You might be interested in: Reduce Single-Use Plastics Checklist

October Events in Singapore

October events in Singapore that help you raise awareness, take action, connect with nature, be a part of the environmental movement, and meet like-minded people.

1. The Conscious Festival 2023

Time: 12:00 p.m. Friday, October 13^th – 7 p.m., Sunday, October 15^th

Place: South Beach Tower, 38 Beach Road, Singapore, 189767

Organiser: Green is the New Black

Description:

The Conscious Festival 2023 is an experiential event that focuses on the future of humanity in relation to climate, technology, and environmental consciousness. Through music, art, talks, workshops, and community building, it aims to raise awareness and help people adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.

Find more details about the festival here.

2. East Coast Beach Plan Cleanups

Time: 9:00 a.m., Friday, October 13^th; 9:00 a.m., Friday, October 20^th; 9:00 a.m., Friday, October 27^th

Place: East Coast Park

Organiser: @eastcoastbeachplan

Description:

The East Coast Beach Plan is a ground-up initiative for anyone interested to join or self-organise clean-ups to do their part to reduce plastic pollution from entering the ocean. Note that all sessions are ad-hoc and self-organised by interested individuals, nothing is really centrally organised. Do participate safely and at your own discretion and risk.

Read this document before you go!

3. Learning Forest Tour

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Sunday, October 14^th

Place: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Visitor Services at Tyersall Gate

Organiser: National Parks

Description:

The Learning Forest Tour features a network of boardwalks and elevated walkways that allow visitors to explore habitats ranging from a freshwater forest wetland to a lowland rainforest. Visitors can learn about freshwater forest wetland ecosystems at the Keppel Discovery Wetlands and walk amongst a collection of some of the tallest tree species in Southeast Asia at the SPH Walk of Giants.

The Learning Forest Tour is free. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the session. Limited slots are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

3. Welcome Waders!

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 13:00 p.m., Saturday, October 14^th

Place: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Visitor Centre

Organiser: National Parks

Description:

Every year, millions of migratory shorebirds make an extraordinary journey from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to this part of the world. The journey is a difficult one, and many of them fall prey to hunters, predators, and storms. However, a greater threat than all these is the loss of their ancestral rest stops to development, as populations plummet in the face of starvation.

For the shorebirds that arrive at Sungei Buloh, the reserve is a constant sanctuary in a coastline that is changing everywhere. For some, this is a chance to rest and refuel before their next stop in

Australia. For others, the reserve is precious home until April comes by, and they are readied for the long flight north.

Welcome Waders! is held in conjunction with World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), which falls on 14 October this year. WMBD is a biannual awareness-raising campaign that highlights the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats.

4. Four Conversations 2023: The Clean Shift

Time: 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 14^th – 4:30 p.m., Sunday, October 15^th

Place: The Pod, Level 16, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore, 188064

Organiser: National Library Board

Description:

Four Conversations is an annual signature programme by the National Library where thought leaders share new possibilities for the future while inspiring lifelong learning and the creation of new knowledge.

Embrace a paradigm shift towards sustainability and make a positive impact on our lives and society. Be empowered by our local and international speakers

and explore new possibilities in the areas of employment, finance, human behaviour, and consumerism.

Click here to register now!

5. Zero • Market

Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sunday, October 15^th; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sunday, October 21^st

Place: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre, 30A Yishun Central 1, Singapore 768796

Organiser: Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre 慈济人文青年中心

Description:

The Zero • Market is a sustainable lifestyle market, where fresh produce and sustainable goods are available! We are working towards Zero Waste, starting with Zero Meat and Zero Plastic (except for unavoidable plastic packaging). It takes place every 1st and 3rd Weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of the month unless otherwise stated. Visit the Zero • Market and don’t forget to bring your own bag!

6. Ubin Mangrove Kayaking – OCBC Park

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Sunday, October 20^th

Place: OCBC Mangrove Park

Organiser: Sea Angel

Description:

In support of the Restore Ubin Mangroves Initiative, Sea Angel is offering a limited run of community kayaking trips! From this immersive experience, community members will develop positive thoughts and feelings toward the mangroves and come up with questions and ideas for consideration by park designers and regulators.

The community rate for the kayaking trip is $30/pax including a guided tour, kayak equipment, a lifejacket, and bottled water.

The public feedback window is open till October 20^th. To register for the event, please click here or contact 96775467 via WhatsApp.

7. Cloop 3rd Year Anniversary Party

Time: 10 a.m., Saturday, October 21st – 6 p.m., Sunday, October 22nd

Place: City Sprouts Sustainability Centre 102 Henderson Road, Singapore, 159562

Organiser: Cloop

Description:

Cloop celebrates 3 years of closing the loop for fashion for good, and would like you to join the festivities! This party has a big programme lineup including swaps and a bunch of earth-friendly activities.

Learn more about the event and purchase your ticket here.

8. Lifestyle Market

Time: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday, October 28^th

Place: Jurong Lake Gardens, Gardenhouse

Organiser: National Parks

Description:

Hang out at BIG’s lifestyle market to discover and support local brands that offer a variety of green products. From plants to crafts, homewares to pets, there’s something for everyone!

9. Repair Event

Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, October 29^th

Place: at various locations near you (check the website for details).

Organiser: Repair Kopitiam

Description:

Join the upcoming repair event to revitalise your belongings with ease. Repair Kopitiam is here to rejuvenate what you cherish, from electricals to clothes needing a fix, even those broken household items. Its experts will mend your things, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability.

Click here to reserve a slot (Booking starts at 12 p.m., October 13^th). Remember to check the sign-up conditions for your chosen time slot before coming.

Survey Reveals Southeast Asian Perspectives on Climate Change

In a recent survey published by the Climate Change in Southeast Asia Programme at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, 2,225 respondents from ten ASEAN member states shared their views on climate change. The findings shed light on prevailing attitudes towards climate action in the region.

1. Governments’ Efforts in Addressing Climate Change

A significant majority of respondents believe that their national governments are aware of climate threats but lack sufficient resources to combat them (35.7%). Around a quarter feel that their government isn’t prioritizing climate change adequately. However, a notable group (24.8%) believes their government recognizes the urgency and has allocated ample resources.

2. Stakeholders’ Role in Climate Action

National governments are seen as bearing the greatest responsibility for climate action and financing, followed by businesses and industries. However, there’s a perception that businesses are lagging behind in taking meaningful climate steps. Civil society is viewed as the most active stakeholder, highlighting a need for increased private sector involvement.

3. Climate Change Urgency

The proportion of respondents expressing the highest level of urgency regarding climate change has declined from 68.6% in 2021 to 49.4% in 2023. Meanwhile, 41.9% believe monitoring climate change is crucial. This lowered sense of urgency is particularly interesting as it raises questions about what other immediate concerns people have.

4. Accelerating Clean Energy Transition

Respondents regard the development of regional energy infrastructure (72.2%) as the top priority for ASEAN to expedite the transition to clean energy. This is followed by the adoption of a regional renewable energy agreement (51.9%) and the establishment of a common ASEAN clean energy fund (46.0%).

5. Fossil Fuel Subsidies

Approximately half of the respondents (51.1%) believe that fossil fuel subsidies should be reduced in their respective countries, while 31.8% are uncertain, and 17.1% disagree.

6. Concerns About Climate Impacts on Food Security

Floods, droughts, and heat waves were identified as the most pressing climate impacts on agriculture in Southeast Asia. Respondents expressed a desire for increased focus on climate-adaptive farming methods, investment in agriculture and food technology, and boosted domestic production to enhance food resilience.

7. Leadership in Climate Innovation and Assistance

Japan is viewed as the most influential international partner in leading global climate innovation (23.7%) and sharing climate expertise, practical ability, and technical know-how (25.8%). The European Union and China followed closely in second and third place for both roles.

8. Top Transition Concerns

Rising energy prices and the cost of living (54.2%) emerged as the most significant concerns related to the energy transition, followed by energy shortages (21.7%). Singapore, in paritcular, expressed the highest worry about rising energy prices.

To sum up, the survey offers valuable insights into the climate attitudes of people in Southeast Asia and highlights areas where collective action can drive progress in combating climate change in the region. Click here to read the full report.

Singapore to Increase Water Prices in 2024

Singapore will implement a phased revision of water prices, starting on 1 April 2024.

Singapore, 27 September 2023 — In response to escalating production and supply costs, Singapore will implement a phased revision of water prices, commencing on 1 April 2024 and followed by another adjustment on 1 April 2025.

Currently priced at $2.74 per cubic metre, the potable water rate will incrementally rise by 50 cents per cubic metre over two phases. The initial increase of 20 cents per cubic metre will be effective from 1 April 2024, followed by a subsequent rise of 30 cents per cubic metre from 1 April 2025.

In light of the full price revision set for April 2025, approximately 75% of households can expect a monthly increase of less than $10, before government support. Similarly, 75% of businesses, including small and medium enterprises, will see an increase of less than $25 in their monthly water bills.

Reasons for the Price Increase

Water, a critical resource for Singapore’s sustainability, has been a focal point of long-term planning and investment in critical infrastructure. This commitment has culminated in the establishment of the Four National Taps, ensuring a secure and dependable water supply to meet the nation’s growing demands.

Despite active cost mitigation measures, PUB and associated contractors have faced substantial cost increases since the last revision in 2017. Contributing factors include a 37% surge in average electricity market tariffs, increased expenses for essential chemicals and maintenance, and a 35% rise in construction costs.

Anticipating nearly double the water demand by 2065, Singapore acknowledges the pressing need for sustained investments in water infrastructure. The threat of climate change further underscores the necessity of weather-resilient water sources, such as NEWater and desalinated water, albeit at a higher energy and production cost.

Supports for a Smooth Transition

To cushion the impact of the water price hike, especially for lower- and middle-income households, the government will provide additional financial support, with details to be disclosed by the Ministry of Finance shortly. PUB will collaborate with the Ministry of Trade and Industry and relevant authorities to discourage profiteering.

Furthermore, the Climate Friendly Households (CFH) Programme will extend e-vouchers to all 1-, 2-, and 3-room households for water-efficient shower fittings. This program will be expanded in the coming year to encompass additional water fittings, yielding savings of approximately $50 to $150 per household annually.

Businesses, too, can tap into PUB’s augmented Water Efficiency Fund to implement water recycling and efficiency projects, thereby reducing their water demand and achieving sustainable cost savings.

As Singapore navigates these revisions, a comprehensive approach combining conservation efforts and financial support aims to ensure the continued availability and accessibility of this vital resource for all its citizens.

Reduce Single-Use Plastics Checklist

In a world grappling with the repercussions of excessive plastic consumption, we, Singaporeans, are presented with an opportunity to lead the way in tackling plastic pollution.

In a year, Singapore uses 467 million plastic bottles and 473 million plastic disposable items like takeaway containers. In a recent study by United Nations University for Water, Environment and Health (UNU INWEH), Singapore was identified as one of the largest consumers of bottled water per capita and is one of the fastest-growing markets for natural bottled water, despite having access to clean drinking water for all.

This checklist focuses on reducing single-use plastics, a pressing concern in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore. By minimising plastic waste through reusable alternatives and fostering a culture of conscious consumption, we can help alleviate the burden on landfills, land ecosystems, and marine ecosystems.

Here is checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding single-use plastics:

Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles and cups. Bring a reusable food container if you’re getting take away.

Use a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles.

Using reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers reduces the need for single-use plastic containers, decreasing plastic waste in Singapore’s landfills and waterways.

Use reusable shopping bags or bring your own tote bag when shopping to avoid plastic bags.

Bring your own reusable shopping bag instead of taking a new plastic bag.

Reusable shopping bags reduce the demand for disposable plastic bags, which are a major source of litter and pollution and require resources to produce.

Decline plastic straws and utensils when dining out and choose venues that support this initiative.

Use metal or glass reusable straws instead of plastic straws. Or ditch straws altogether!

Plastic straws and utensils are often not recyclable and can harm wildlife when they enter ecosystems. Not using plastic also reduces the carbon footprint associated with plastic production.

The food and beverage industry has switched to paper straws as an alternative. However, a recent study in Belgium found that paper straws contain PFAs, forever chemicals, commonly used in items as a water repellant. PFAs are toxic and harmful to human health and environmental health. Ditch the straw, or if you must, bring your own reusable straws.

Choose products with minimal plastic packaging or eco-friendly packaging. Or opt for items sold in bulk where you bring your own containers.

Bulk food stores often provide ec0-friendly paper or glass packaging. You can also bring your own containers from home.

Choosing products with minimal plastic packaging lowers the demand for plastic production and reduces waste generation.

Encourage friends and family in Singapore to participate in plastic reduction initiatives, such as the BYO (Bring Your Own) campaign.

Bring your own container when you purchase cut fruits from the fruit and juice stall.

Encouraging friends and family to participate in plastic reduction efforts spreads awareness and promotes a culture of sustainability in Singapore.

Image courtesy of BYO Singapore

Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?

Sustainable Transportation Checklist

This checklist promotes sustainable transportation alternatives, encouraging you to reduce your carbon footprint. By opting for public transit, carpooling, walking, or cycling, we can not only alleviate congestion but also contribute to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment in Singapore.

Singapore’s bustling urban landscape is characterised by its efficient transportation systems. However, this efficiency often comes at the cost of increased traffic congestion and air pollution. This checklist promotes sustainable transportation alternatives, encouraging you to reduce your carbon footprint. By opting for public transit, carpooling, walking, or cycling, we can not only alleviate congestion but also contribute to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment in Singapore.

Checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding transportation:

Use public transportation, such as buses and the MRT, for daily commutes and city travel.

Utilising public transportation reduces Singapore’s road congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions from personal vehicles.

Consider carpooling or ridesharing with neighbours or co-workers to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

Sharing rides reduces traffic congestion and lowers individual fuel consumption, decreasing Singapore’s air pollution levels.

Opt for walking or cycling for short trips and when possible.

Walking and cycling for short trips reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in Singapore’s urban areas.

Explore Singapore’s extensive network of park connectors and bike paths for eco-friendly commuting and recreation.

The C2C Trail stretches 36 km, extending from Jurong Lake Gardens to Coney Island Park.

Using park connectors and bike paths promotes eco-friendly transportation and encourages outdoor activities.

Support initiatives like car-sharing services that promote shared vehicle use.

Car-sharing services reduce the number of vehicles on the road, decreasing air pollution and traffic congestion in Singapore.

Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing? Comment below.