Environmental Sustainability – Page 4 – Singapore Green Guardians Blog

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?

Reducing Food Waste: The Art of Proper Vegetable & Fruit Storage

When we throw away food, we’re not just wasting the food itself, but also the time, resources, and energy that went into producing and transporting it. A simple way to combat the problem of food waste is by learning how to store our vegetables properly.

In a bustling metropolis like Singapore, where space and resources are at a premium, the issue of food waste takes on added significance. When we throw away food, we’re not just wasting the food itself, but also the time, resources, and energy that went into producing and transporting it. A simple way to combat this problem is by learning how to store our vegetables properly, extending their freshness and reducing food waste in the process.

Composting food scraps is undoubtedly an effective method to decrease waste and nourish our soils but preventing food from reaching the compost bin in the first place is even more impactful. By adopting proper storage techniques, we can maximize the shelf life of our vegetables and minimize food wastage in our homes.

Let’s delve into some of the practical tips and tricks for storing vegetables and fruit in Singapore to maximise their freshness:

Tropical tip: Given Singapore’s tropical climate, it’s essential to be mindful of temperature and humidity. Keep most vegetables and fruit in the refrigerator, as the humidity and warmth can cause rapid spoilage in our tropical environment.

Leafy Greens: Leafy greens, like kai lan and kangkong, should be stored in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to prevent wilting. Add a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture and maintain their crispness. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.

Bok Choy, Nai Bai and Chinese Cabbage: These staples can be stored in the fridge, but first, wrap them in a damp cloth or paper towel to maintain their moisture content and crispness.

Tropical Fruits: Singapore is known for its variety of tropical fruits. Store fruits like durian, mangosteen, and rambutan in the fridge to extend their shelf life, especially if you don’t plan to consume them immediately.

Tomatoes: Storing tomatoes upside down prevents moisture from escaping and keeps bacteria at bay. This simple technique can significantly extend the shelf life of your tomatoes.

Cool, dark, and well-ventilated: Keep your potatoes, garlic, and onions in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space. But keep the potatoes and onions separated as they can make the other spoil faster.

Chill the Chilies: To prolong the life of your chili peppers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep them fresh and vibrant for longer.

Avocados: To ripen avocados faster, place them in a paper bag with a banana, apple or pear. Once ripe, transfer them to the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

Herbs: To keep herbs like coriander, mint, and laksa leaves fresh, submerge their roots in a glass of water in the refrigerator. Trim the stems and change the water regularly.

Local Produce: Embrace locally grown vegetables, as they are likely to stay fresher longer due to shorter transportation distances. Supporting local farmers not only reduces food waste but also bolsters the local agricultural industry.

Plan Your Purchases: In Singapore’s compact living spaces, it’s crucial to plan your grocery purchases wisely. Buy what you need and consume it before it spoils. This practice not only reduces waste but also helps you make the most of your kitchen space.

By adopting these simple storage guidelines, we can prolong the life of our vegetables and fruit, reduce food waste, and save money in the process. Remember, reducing food waste is a collective responsibility that benefits us all, making Singapore a greener and more environmentally conscious place to live. Let’s embark on this journey toward reducing food waste, starting in our own kitchens, and lead the way to a more sustainable future for Singapore.

Have you mastered the art of vegetable storage? What other tips have you tried and tested? Share them in the comment section below.