Proposed measures aim to reduce waste and boost recycling in Singapore
A Bill introducing mandatory charges for plastic bags at supermarkets and a beverage container return scheme was tabled in Parliament for its first reading on Monday (Feb 6). The Resource Sustainability (Amendment) Bill seeks to combat packaging and food waste while encouraging sustainable behaviours, according to a joint release by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment (MSE).
These initiatives align with the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and the Zero Waste Masterplan, targeting a 30 per cent reduction in daily waste sent to landfills per capita and a 70 per cent national recycling rate by 2030. The measures are also designed to prolong the operational lifespan of Semakau Landfill.
Plastic Bag Charge
From mid-year, larger supermarket chains with annual turnovers exceeding S$100 million will impose a minimum charge of five cents per disposable bag, covering approximately two-thirds of supermarket outlets, including NTUC FairPrice, Cold Storage, Giant, Sheng Siong, and Prime. The charge will apply to disposable carrier bags of all materials.
Supermarket operators must publicly disclose details such as the number of bags issued, the proceeds collected, and how the funds are allocated, including support for charitable or environmental causes.
Packaging waste accounts for about one-third of Singapore’s domestic waste, with plastic making up 60 per cent. In 2021, only 6 per cent of disposed plastic waste was recycled, underscoring the urgency of this initiative.
Beverage Container Return Scheme
A deposit system for pre-packaged drinks will also be introduced. Consumers can reclaim their deposit by returning empty beverage containers at designated points. This scheme aims to cultivate recycling habits, increase the supply of clean recyclables, and support Singapore’s recycling industry.
Initially announced in 2021, the scheme faced timeline adjustments after feedback from industry stakeholders. The NEA and MSE reaffirm its importance in advancing zero-waste goals by enhancing recycling practices.
Food Waste Reporting
Amendments also propose a framework for reporting food waste. In 2021, Singapore generated 817,000 tonnes of food waste, of which only 19 per cent was recycled.
Industrial and commercial premises, responsible for roughly 40 per cent of the total food waste, will be required to separate, measure, and report the quantities of food waste treated. This complements existing requirements to segregate food waste at these locations.
These legislative changes represent significant steps towards a more sustainable and waste-conscious Singapore.
