Government’s new policy aims to integrate sustainability into public sector event tenders
Starting from Financial Year 2025, the Singapore government will assess the sustainability credentials of companies bidding for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) tenders, as well as other public sector events. This is part of the government’s wider effort to implement sustainability criteria across public sector procurement, first announced in FY2024 for large-scale projects in construction and information and communications technology (ICT).
Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Amy Khor highlighted the consultation process with the MICE industry, ensuring the new policy is effectively implemented. This move expands Singapore’s green procurement strategy, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and enhance sustainability practices within the industry.
Green Procurement Expansion
The government’s green procurement policy has already been piloted in the construction and ICT sectors, with 5% of evaluation points for environmental sustainability in tenders for five construction projects and one ICT bulk tender. Construction companies have been evaluated on their climate-related disclosures, decarbonisation efforts, and use of low-carbon materials, while ICT firms were assessed for sustainable packaging options and relevant certifications.
Focus on Sustainability in the MICE Industry
The inclusion of MICE in the green procurement strategy reflects the government’s growing focus on sustainability. Khor emphasized that this approach would not only reduce the environmental impact of public sector events but also foster the development of sustainability capabilities within businesses.
Additional Sustainability Initiatives
In addition to green procurement, other key initiatives include:
Expanded Data in Government Sustainability Reports: The second sustainability report will feature new data on waste and waste-reduction efforts.
Silt and Harmful Substance Controls: Measures will be tightened to prevent the discharge of silt and dangerous substances into Singapore’s waterways.
Extended Producer Responsibility: The government is looking to broaden the scheme to include more packaging waste, with studies underway to create a suitable system for Singapore.
Food-Safety Grading System: The new Safety Assurance for Food Establishments framework will shift the grading system to a risk-based approach.
Energy-Efficiency Labels: New energy labels and standards will be introduced for household water heaters and commercial refrigerators starting April 2025.
Sustainable Waste-Management Training: A new course on sustainable waste practices will be launched to help companies implement waste reduction, reuse, and recycling strategies.
Through these measures, Singapore aims to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and create a more eco-conscious business environment.
