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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The Agricultural Policy is implemented by the Primary Production Department (PPD), Ministry of National Development, and it forms an integral part of the Department’s overall food policy of ensuring a stable and adequate supply of safe, wholesome and quality meat, fruits and vegetables in Singapore. PPD is the national authority dedicated to safeguarding the health of people, animals, fish and plants through advanced technology in agriculture, fisheries and veterinary science.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The National Agricultural Policy of Singapore aims to develop the limited agricultural areas, both land and sea, to produce prime quality food and to serve as benchmarks on quality and pricing for imports and exports (i.e. export of ornamental fish and plants).
Programmes and Projects
Integrated pest management is practised in the farms. (e.g. netted vegetable production and hydroponics to reduce the use of pesticides in the vegetable production). Singapore's agrotechnology parks were built following its Ministry of Environment's anti-pollution guidelines. All land in Singapore is utilised according to its National Masterplan. About 1500 ha of land is reserved for our Agrotechnology Park Development while 500 ha is reserved for our Marine Park development.
Status
Agriculture is of very limited significance to the Singapore economy, representing only 0.1 per cent of GDP, estimated at S$134 billion (US$84 billion) in 1998. Agriculture products include vegetables, eggs, fish, milk, and ornamentals, namely orchids and other ornamental plants, and ornamental fish. Approximately 90 per cent of food consumed in Singapore is imported. In 1998, value of total supply of primary produce was S$2 billion.
Singapore is an island city state consisting of a total land area of 647 sq km. With limited land and sea resources for agriculture, Singapore’s agricultural developments take place mainly in allocated areas, called Agrotechnology Parks on land and Marine Parks at sea. These Parks are developed and managed by the Department, and cover a total of 2,000 ha, with 1,500 ha for Agrotechnology Park development and 500 ha for Marine Park development. Agrotechnology is the application of modern science and technology to large-scale, intensive farming so as to optimise use of resources and increase yield and productivity in the farm. It is the aim of the Department that, in the long-term, Singapore could develop to become an agrotechnology centre focussing on tropical and urban agriculture.
There are six Agrotechnology Parks, with 441 farms occupying some 1,034 ha (1998 figures), producing vegetables, eggs, fish, milk, as well as ornamental plants and fish. Usually the Parks have a mix of farms. This is to minimise spread of disease specific to a single type of species of plant or animal and to minimise environmental impact and pollution. Adjacent to the Lim Chu Kang Agrotechnology Park, a 10 ha Agri-Bio Park has been established, which is dedicated to agri-biotechnology investments. The Marine Parks are for marine fish farming, there being five Parks with 90 floating fish farms producing both finfish and shellfish. The Department regulates the number of floating farms in each Park so as to prevent water stagnation and poor water quality within the farming site. The agricultural products, with the exception of the ornamentals, are destined for domestic consumption, which is relatively high, in terms of per capita consumption. Example: per capita consumption of chicken is 32 kg, pork 23 kg, fish 26 kg, vegetables 77 kg, and fruits 82 kg.
Agriculture activities in Singapore can be broadly classified into 12 categories, viz,
Foodfish:
Animals:
Plants:
Aquatic Plant production.
Singapore imports 90% of its food supply as it is not self-sufficient.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
The Government has initiated extension services to farmers, education programmes and visits to the farms in its Agrotechnology Parks.
Information
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This information is based on Singapore’s submission to the 8th Session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: October 1999.
For information on food control and hygeine in
Singapore, click here:
To access the FAOSTAT Data Base for
information by country, item, element and year, click here:
Click here to link to the Biosafety
Information Network and Advisory Service (BINAS), a service of the United Nations
Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), which monitors global developments in
regulatory issues in biotechnology.
Click here to link to Country and
Sub-regional Information on Plant Genetic Resources of the Food and Agricultural
Organization of the United Nations.
Click here to go
to Web Site of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which includes information on the Codex
Alimentarius and the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme.
Click here to access the Web Site of the
Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
Click here to access the sixteen
international agricultural research centers that are members of the CGIAR.
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The key ministries and bodies involved in the issues related to climate change and sea-level rise are the Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Trade & Industry and Attorney-General’s Chambers.
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
The Montreal Protocol (1987) was acceded to on 5 January 1989, and the London Amendment (1990) was acceded to on 2 March 1993. The latest report to the Montreal Protocol Secretariat was prepared in 1995. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was signed on 13 June 1992.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The strategy adopted in Singapore is to take no-regrets measures such as promoting energy efficiency. As a long-term measure to alleviate flooding, all development of land would need to comply with a requirement of a minimum platform level that is above the predicted flood level. Low-lying areas thus have to be raised in order to meet the requirement before the land can be built upon. The requirement is imposed during the planning process.
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
Depending on the issues at hand, the relevant groups have been invited to participate in the formulation of policies or to provide feedback on proposed policies. Various channels have been employed and these include setting up formal committee, organising forum or specific feedback sessions and regular dialogue sessions.
Programmes and Projects
The key programmes that address issues related to climate change and sea-level rise are the following:
Status
Singapore has adopted a multi-pronged approach to reduce and eventually phase out the consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The Ministry of the Environment (ENV), acting as a focal point between government agencies, is responsible for formulating strategies and policies to control the use of ODS in industries. The Ministry of Trade and Industry, through the Trade Development Board, administers a Tender and Quota Allocation System to cap the consumption of ODS in accordance with guidelines set by the Protocol. The system ensures an equitable distribution of the controlled supply of ODS to registered distributors and end-users. The government and the private sector have collaborated in various activities under this programme.
To keep carbon dioxide emission level as low as possible, action programmes have been formulated to promote energy efficiency and resource conservation. Power generation is from fuel oil and natural gas and accounts for about half of the carbon dioxide emission. To improve efficiency, combined-cycle technology is being introduced wherever it is technically feasible to do so. Resource conservation programmes aim to minimise use of energy, water and other raw materials and hence to reduce waste generation.
Financial and technical assistance schemes have also been made available to help industries switch to non-ODS substitutes or alternatives. The Singapore Productivity and Standards Board (PSB) provides technical consultancy to small and medium enterprises wishing to switch to ozone-friendly processes under the Local Enterprise Technical Assistance Scheme. Companies which require financial assistance can seek grants through the PSB which administers the Local Enterprise Finance Scheme (for concessionary loans) and also approach the Economic Development Board for the Investment Allowance Scheme (tax allowance for approved investment in new equipment).
Climate change and sea level rise
Coastal and low-lying areas would be affected by a sea level rise, if preventive or adaptative measures are not taken. The long-term measure to alleviate flooding is to require all developments of land to comply with a minimum platform level that is above the predicted flood level. Low-lying areas thus have to be raised in order to meet the requirement before the land can be built upon.
The main issues relating to climate change and sea level rise in Singapore are the total dependence on imported fuels for energy needs, and the limited scope to develop renewable energy sources. Using resources in an efficient way to stay competitive and to contain growth in greenhouse gas emissions.
Financing
The costs for implementing plans for adaptation to sea-level rise are borne by the developers and included in the cost of development. Activities related to climate change and sea level rise are financed by the individual developers, most of which have their own source of funding.
Cooperation
Singapore participates in the IPCC programmes and meetings.
Singapore has Regional Firefighting Arrangement for Sumatra on haze.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 5th and 7th Sessions of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999
For national information on pollution control, click
here:
Click here for national information from the Web
site of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
National Parks Board, Ministry of National Development is responsible for biological diversity.
The designated land planning agency obtains the views and feedback from all the concerned parties before making decisions on land-use.
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
National Parks Act, Parks and Trees Act, Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act, The Wild Animals and Birds Act and The Control of Plants Act address the issues of biological diversity.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The Singapore Green Plan documents Singapore’s approach to environmental management, of which nature conservation is one component.
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
Participation of community groups for the protection and conservation of biological diversity is encouraged through the following activities:
Programmes and Projects
The following main activities and programme are underway:
Status
Inventory and monitoring of indigenous species, and competing land use demands are the main issues relating to biodiversity management in Singapore. The major constraints to effectively implement programmes on biodiversity are related to competing demands for very limited resources, and insufficient staff.
About 5 % of the land area is naturally vegetated.
A biological survey of the Nature Reserves that comprise of the largest area under natural vegetation has just been completed. The data collected is currently being used to identify management priorities and form the basis for future research and monitoring. Inputs on nature conservation are considered in the planning and development processes.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
Campaigns or other efforts to raise awareness of issues related to sustainable development and biodiversity resources include:
Information
Singapore has biological diversity, socio-economic and present land use data, and proposed land-use information for decision-makers and planners working in the area of biodiversity resources.
Click here for information on land use in the form of Development Guide Plans http://www.ura.gov.sg/dgp_reports/lib-dgp_report.html
Research and Technologies
Biosafety is a field in which Singapore is active for development, transfer and use of environmentally sound technologies.
Safety to human health is accorded top priority when decision on choosing technologies are made.
Financing
This sector is financed by the national budget. Private sector partnership for some projects.
Cooperation
Singapore is Party to:
Other international co-operation includes:
Benefits of the cooperation include: harmonised policies can be adapted (e.g. biosafety, access to genetic resources)
Problems: Not easy to get all the participatory members to be equally committed.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 7th Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999.
For access to the Web Site of the Convention on
Biological Diversity, click here:
For access to the Web Site of
the CITES Convention, click here:
For the Web Site of the CMS
Convention, click here:
For the Web Site of the Convention on the
Protection of the World's Cultural and Natural Heritage, click here:
For the country-by-country, Man in the Biosphere
On-Line Query System, click here:
Click here to link to the Biosafety
Information Network and Advisory Service (BINAS), a service of the United Nations
Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), which monitors global developments in
regulatory issues in biotechnology.
Click here to go to the Web Site of UNEP's
International Register on Biosafety.
Click here for the International Centre
for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Biosafety WebPages
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There is no information on this topic for Singapore.
For access to the Web Site of the Convention to Combat Desertification and Drought, click here:
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The Ministry of Trade and Industry is responsible for energy resources.
The key ministries and bodies involved in the issues related to climate change and sea-level rise are the Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Attorney-General’s Chambers.
A national inter-agency committee on energy efficiency comprising government ministries, statutory boards and academics from the universities has been formed to review and study issues related to improving energy efficiency on a national basis.
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
Codes of practice on energy conservation include:
Singapore Standard CP 24:1982/83;
Singapore Standard CP 13:1980;
Singapore Standard CP 38:1987
The codes of practice and standards were drawn up by the Government jointly with the industry. Unlike the Building Control Regulations, compliance with the codes of practice is voluntary.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The national policy relating to energy resources covers issues on pricing, energy conservation, efficiency in energy production, and diversification in fuel supplies. The main policy measures are:
Pricing
1. Letting market forces of supply and demand determine energy price ensures that energy is used more efficiently.
2. Regular review of electricity and gas tariffs to ensure that they are cost reflective.
Energy Conservation
3. Promotion of energy conservation through a combination of financial incentives and disincentives and through education.
4. Incorporation of a set of energy conservation standards for building design into the Building Regulations.
5. Design of fiscal policies to encourage the public to use smaller, more efficient vehicles.
6. Encouragement in the use of public transport.
Efficiency in Energy Production
7. Achieving greater efficiency through market competition in the generation and sale of electricity.
Diversion of Energy Supplies
8. Energy diversification through the use of natural gas in addition to oil.
Government legislation for energy conservation comes under the Building Control Regulations, 1989. The energy conservation requirements under the Building Control Regulations stipulates that the building envelope overall thermal transfer value (OTTV) of an air-conditioned building shall not exceed 45 W/m2.
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
The process of national decision-making for issues related to energy resources involves members from the Government, business, industry and the science and technology community.
Status
Almost all of Singapore’s energy needs are imported. With the current technologies in renewable energy development, the potential for increasing energy supply through renewable energy is relatively small.
The main issues relating to climate change and sea level rise in Singapore are the total dependence on imported fuels for energy needs, and the limited scope to develop renewable energy sources. Using resources in an efficient way to stay competitive and to contain growth in greenhouse gas emissions.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
The inter-agency committee on energy efficiency comprising the government, statutory boards and academia was formed to review the current status of energy usage in order to identify opportunities and make recommendations to improve the overall national energy efficiency.
Energy management courses are conducted by the Public Utilities Board jointly with the polytechnics and universities. These courses are targeted mainly at working technical staff and professionals.
Workshops and seminars and talks are also organised for the different sectors of the industry on a regular basis.
The Singapore Green Label Scheme, administered by The Ministry of the Environment, is a voluntary scheme for consumer appliances such as computers, air-conditioners, refrigerators, etc, to be awarded the green label for efficient use of resources.
The annual national ‘Clean & Green’ week, held in the month of November every year, also raises the awareness of issues related to sustainable development and energy efficiency.
Other campaigns and programmes include: a two-day energy conservation awareness programme conducted for school children, on an on-going basis; periodic Save Energy Campaigns and educational programmes aimed at promoting energy conservation; establishment of a permanent exhibition open to the public in the Energy Conservation and Exhibition Centre; and the Energy Audit, an on-going service provided by the Public Utilities Board (Energy Conservation centre) to promote energy efficiency in the corporate sector.
Information
The kinds of information available to decision-makers and planners include:
Energy audits and surveys of industry sectors, and energy balance data.
The relevant information is made available through various reports and publications.
Plans are underway to develop benchmarks on electricity usage to enable consumers to know whether they are using electricity efficiently.
Research and Technologies
There is limited scope for development of renewable energy source in Singapore.
Only commercially proven and viable technologies are considered. In addition to this consideration decisions are made based on economic cost-benefit and environmental impact analyses.
Financing
Until recently, power generation was solely a government-owned development and operation. The financing was thus from the national budget. The private sector can now develop and operate power plants. Industries can also generate their own power if they wish to. The private sector seeks their own source to finance the venture.
The costs for implementing plans for adaptation to sea-level rise are borne by the developers and included in the cost of development. Activities related to climate change and sea level rise are financed by the individual developers, most of which have their own source of funding.
Cooperation
Singapore is involved in the Energy Working Group (EWG) of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and ASEAN Energy Ministers’ Forum.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 7th Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999
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Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
Although Singapore does not have as such a national forest programme, under the context which is commonly understood, nevertheless, the Singapore Green Plan has identified 19 nature areas that represent different ecosystems in Singapore and action programmes have been implemented to survey their biodiversity and monitor their health status. There is a mechanism whereby nature conservation considerations are incorporated into the planning and development processes. The Singapore Green Plan promotes the "Recycle, Reuse, Reduce" practice.
Status
The forests of Singapore are not commercially exploited for timber or other timber products nor are there any indigenous people foraging in the forests of Singapore for their subsistence. The natural areas of Singapore are, hence, conserved primarily for ecological, educational, recreational, and scientific purposes. Paper is recycled by commercial companies.
Information
Singapore submitted her "First National Report Under the Convention on Biological Diversity" in December 1997 to the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The report can be viewed on the website of CBD, i.e., www.biodiv.org.
Cooperation
Singapore has not participated in the IPF process.
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This information is based on Singapore’s submission to the 8th
Session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: October
1999.
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
In Singapore, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) is responsible for management of freshwater resources. It is the statutory board responsible for the provision of an efficient and reliable supply of potable water to the nation at the most economic cost. PUB is under the purview of the Ministry of Trade and Industry that is responsible for economic policies in Singapore. In the management of local water resources, PUB co-ordinates with various government ministries and agencies, such as the Ministry of National Development on land-use, Ministry of the Environment (ENV) on control of water pollution control of water pollution, and Ministry of Law in regard to legislation and regulations. PUB maintains close liaison with the relevant government agencies on expansion of the water supply network and on integrated land use planning that includes pollution control of run-offs.
Decision-Making: Legislation
and Regulations
PUB, together with other government bodies, are empowered under the following legislation and regulations to protect the water catchments, water courses and reservoirs:
PUB uses the World Health Organisation’s Guidelines for Drinking Water as the standard to monitor the quality of its potable water.
PUB uses the Singapore Standards (SS) CP 48:1989 – Code of Practice for Water Supply (published by the Productivity & Standards Board of Singapore). The SS serve as a guideline for architects, professional engineers and licensed plumbers. Where applicable, the equivalent British Standards and ISO standards are also used.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
Singapore has a national policy that covers all of the major issues relating to freshwater management.
Under the drainage development programme, the Ministry of the Environment (ENV) builds new drains and canals to reduce flooding in flood-prone areas and to provide drainage outlets for new developed areas. Singapore also maintains 22 tide-gates to protect low-lying areas against tidal inundation.
PUB has contingency plans and operating procedures to cope with prolonged dry weather situation. These include early alerting of the public to conserve water.
Singapore’s water pricing policy is based on cost-recovery and support of water conservation objectives. There are fiscal incentives to promote water conservation in industry and monetary penalties to discourage wasteful use of water. The water tariff structure comprises two broad categories: (i) domestic (households) and (ii) non-domestic (industrial and commercial). The water conservation tax, which is a percentage of water charges, is imposed. Currently, the non-domestic tariff is a flat rate for all consumption levels while the domestic tariff comprises three consumption block rates. However, since July 1997, annual tariff adjustments will be made up to year 2000 to bring the domestic water tariffs (for consumption of 40 cubic metres per month or less) into a uniform flat rate with the non-domestic tariff. The objective is to reflect the strategic importance of water and to prepare consumers for the higher cost of water from future sources. Water costs are fully (100 percent) recovered through pricing.
Prevention of pollution of freshwater supplies for potable use is effected through pollution surveillance of catchments, which includes enforcement action by the relevant agencies, and constant water quality monitoring.
Water conservation is a national policy in Singapore in view of the limited water resources. A comprehensive water conservation plan has been formulated to check the growing water demand and ensure that water is being used efficiently. The plan covers the following aspects:
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
PUB works closely with the businesses and industries, and professional bodies in the formulation of its policies.
Status
All of the population is served with potable water. All water supplied by PUB is treated to drinking water standards. Also, 100 percent of sewage is treated.
The water supply comes from both local sources and neighbouring Johor, Malaysia.
Careful and integrated land use planning and a policy that all waste water must be discharged into sewers, have helped to safeguard these water catchments from pollution. Close monitoring of the quality of the waterways and reservoirs is carried out to assess the impact of urbanization and the effectiveness of water pollution control measures. In addition, daily chemical and bacteriological tests are carried out to ensure that treated water meets the guidelines for drinking water quality set by the World Health Organization.
PUB also has a programme to locate and repair leaking mains. A computer-based system captures information on leaks, conditions of existing pipelines and customers’ feedback. The information is used for planning the rehabilitation and replacement of mains.
PUB is looking into tapping the marginal catchments to augment local water resources. It is also proceeding with the development of the first desalination plant in Singapore. Offshore sources are also being studied.
Challenges
The priority constraints to implementing effective programmes to address the freshwater issues include the following:
For households, the price of water is relatively cheap and affordable. However, with the adjustments of the domestic water tariff to bring it to a flat rate with the non-domestic tariff in year 2000, this fiscal measure may compel households to be more conscious about conserving water.
For most industries, water cost is a small component of their total overheads. However, fiscal measures (water conservation tax) and incentive packages such as tax rebates for investment in water conservation measures (including water recycling) have encouraged industries to conserve their use of potable water. Moreover, there are institutionalised procedures on the adoption of water saving measures as well as on the setting up of water intensive industries.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
The capacity for treating waste water is 1,056,000 cubic metres per day. The capacity for recycling waste water is 65,000 cubic metres per day. All water supplies are metered.
PUB has put in place a comprehensive water conservation plan to encourage industries to conserve water.
The PUB Training Centre conducts a course for water service plumbers to enable them to acquire the necessary knowledge to help them in their work. The Centre also conducts the energy conservation course and pipeline detection course.
PUB visits large customers to carry out water audits of their installation as well as advise them on water conservation. PUB also encourages large customers to appoint water controllers to audit and monitor their consumption closely.
Save Water Campaigns are held to highlight to Singaporeans the need to conserve water and adopt water-saving habits as a way of life. The campaigns reached out to all sectors – the public at large, households, schools as well as the non-domestic and industrial sectors. The activities include save water exhibitions, media advertisements, community events and also seminars with school teachers, the confederation of industries and the hotel sector to enlist their support of the conservation effort. PUB also regularly issues media releases on water projects and initiatives to sustain public awareness.
Educating the domestic and non-domestic sectors to save water at all times, and staging of regular save water campaigns to intensify publicity on water conservation are on-going activities.
Information
The following kinds of national information available to assist both decision-makers and planners working in the management of freshwater resources:
In the household sector, the recent residential developments include upgrading projects by public and private sectors. Water-saving devices (taps and sanitary appliances) are made available to professional bodies and developers. Furthermore, water consumption patterns are examined.
In the industrial sector, the projects related to water consumption of industries, including use of non-potable alternatives are being planned or approved for implementation.
PUB has its own Web Site on the Internet where the public can access information about the Board.
Click here to access the Public Utilities Board (PUB) of Singapore
Research and Technologies
Decisions related to the choice of technologies are based on considerations such as costs, reliability, proven technology, environmental impact, proprietary constraints, man power requirement for maintenance and computerised or automated operations.
The following processes are used for water purification: filtration, coagulation, chlorination, ozonation, and desalination.
Financing
The capital and recurrent costs of building and operating the water and wastewater treatment plants are financed by the government and recouped from the users following closely the Polluter Pays Principle by way of fees and tariffs.
Since 1988, PUB has invested about S$ 831 million in water supply infrastructure.
PUB is a self-funding statutory board. The water tariffs ensure that annual water sales will fully recover the cost of supplying the water including a reasonable return on investments.
Cooperation
The Public Utilities Board (PUB) is a member of the International Water Services Association and the Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council.
PUB has responded to requests from the Asian Development Bank and ESCAP to jointly organise training seminars for their developing member countries.
PUB has also been requested by the World Bank to provide technical assistance for some of the water supply projects funded by them.
According to Singapore’s earlier submission of information in 1997, Singapore and Malaysia had agreed on a joint programme to clean up the Straits of Johor that both countries share.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 5th and 7th Sessions of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999.
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
Singapore has one land-use planning authority that handles every aspect of planning from strategic long-term planning to day-to-day development control.
Coordination among responsible bodies for land management is facilitated by various standing committees and panels. Some examples are:
- Master Plan Committee: Members include Ministry of the Environment, National Parks, Ministry of Defence, Land Transport Authority, etc. The committee considers and co-ordinates public department proposals and resolve conflicts and land uses among the public agencies.
- Waterbodies Design Panel: Members from various agencies work to enhance the aesthetic and recreational potential of waterways to turn canals running through urbanised areas into richly landscaped rivers, enhancing the residential developments along them.
- The URA works with various agencies when preparing and reviewing the Concept Plan and Master Plan.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The strategic Concept Plan balances our land needs and constraints. It includes provisions for long-term land-intensive uses such as housing and infrastructure as well as development strategies. The Concept Plan is then translated into the detailed Master Plan, which indicates land-use on every plot of land. Development control decisions are guided by the Master Plan zoning. The Concept Plan, the Master Plan and Development Control are all within a single agency, the Urban Redevelopment Authority. This integrated approach ensures consistency, transparency and long-term sustainability with regards to land use.
Integrated land management is encapsulated in our system of Concept Plan with the Master Plan Committee. The first Concept Plan was published in 1971. The Master Plan Committee was formed in the 1960s.
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
Comments and suggestions from the public are sought at different stages of the land use planning process. Before the gazette of the Master Plan, a public exhibition is held to obtain feedback and suggestions from the public. These are incorporated into the plan where possible. The URA Development Control Division has frequent dialogues with professional bodies to revise rules and guidelines.
Programmes and Projects
In the Concept Plan and Master Plan, 19 nature areas including 2 nature reserves have been identified. Uses within these areas are strictly controlled by the authorities. To encourage the best possible land use and sustainable management of land resources, state land is sold by tender for development by the private sector.
Information
The GIS-based Integrated Land Use System (ILUS) is a land use information system that helps the planning authority to manage land. Singapore is a small country. It is easy to ascertain land conditions through site inspections, soil tests and topological surveys. The Master Plan provides information on zoning and development intensity. It is published in print and CDRom.
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This information is based on Singapore’s submission to the 8th Session of the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: October 1999.
For national information on drainage management and flood control, click here:
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There is no information on this topic for Singapore.
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is responsible for marine environment protection from sea-based activities.
The MPA has established the Marine Emergency Action Procedure (MEAP) to deal with marine emergencies, including oil spills. The MEAP sets out the roles of various other agencies involved in such emergencies.
MPA adopts a comprehensive approach towards the protection of Singapore’s marine environment, based on prevention and preparedness.
The key ministries and bodies involved in the issues related to climate change and sea-level rise are the Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Trade & Industry and Attorney-General’s Chambers.
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
Singapore ratified the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on 17 November 1994.
The regulations set by the MPA on maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution are in accordance with the provisions of international maritime conventions to which Singapore is party. The Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act gives effect to the provisions of Annexes I, II and III of the MARPOL 73/78 convention. The Merchant Shipping (Civil Liability and Compensation for Oil Pollution) Act 1998 gives effect to the provisions of the CLC92 and Fund92 convention.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The national policy towards the prevention of pollution of the marine environment is based on the following:
Maintaining the highest standard of preparedness includes:
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
When considering whether or not to accede to a particular convention, the MPA holds consultations with relevant agencies and organisations, which could include Non-Government Organisations, Unions, Business and Industry, and other government agencies.
Programmes and Projects
Specific programmes within MPA’s comprehensive approach to protecting the marine environment include:
Enhancing safety of navigation Singapore works closely with the neighbours, Indonesia and Malaysia, to develop measures to enhance safe navigation in the Malacca and Singapore Straits. For example, from Dececember 1998, the STRAITREP, a mandatory ship reporting system, is being implemented for ships using the Straits. The introduction of STRAITREP, which is provided for under the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) will contribute towards navigational safety, efficiency of navigation and the protection of the marine environment in the Straits.
Oil spill combat exercise Singapore conducts regular exercises which involve other government and private sector agencies. It also conducts joint oil spill combat exercise with the neighbouring countries.
Status
The primary source of sea-based pollution of the marine environment is ships.
Coastal and low-lying areas would be affected by a sea level rise, if preventive or adaptative measures are not taken. The long-term measure to alleviate flooding is to require all developments of land to comply with a minimum platform level that is above the predicted flood level. Low-lying areas thus have to be raised in order to meet the requirement before the land can be built upon. To combat climate change, Singapore is taking no-regrets measures such as promoting energy efficiency. As a long-term measure to alleviate flooding, all development of land would need to comply with a requirement of a minimum platform level that is above the predicted flood level. Low-lying areas thus have to be raised in order to meet the requirement before the land can be built upon. The requirement is imposed during the planning process.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
MPA participate actively in various local and international fora relating to the capacity building for the prevention of pollution and the protection of the marine environment.
To raise awareness on issues relating to the oceans and seas, MPA has conducted various seminars and conferences on subjects such as the Accession and Implementation of the 1992 Civil Liability and Fund Conventions, and Shipping and the Oceans: Protection of the Marine Environment (in celebration of World Maritime Day and the International Year of the Ocean).
Information
National information is available on marine pollution, including e.g. details of oil spills in Singapore waters to assist both decision-makers and planners working in coastal areas
The MPA has patrol crafts within the port waters and Port State Control inspectors to ensure that ships within Singapore’s waters comply with our national laws and regulations. In this respect, MPA is also assisted by other government agencies such as the Republic of Singapore Navy and the Police Coast Guard. In addition, MPA’s collaboration with CRISP provides them with an Oil Spill Slick Monitoring Programme to monitor oil slick pollution in the waters around Singapore.
MPA is working with the Nanyang Technological University in the integration of numerical modelling and geographic information system that supports the operation of a numerical model so that the movement and spread of oil slicks can be simulated more accurately.
Click here to access the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Research and Technologies
MPA is working with the Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (CRISP) to develop applications of satellite remote sensing for the marine environment. They are also working with 2 local universities on various projects, such as oil spill and fate modelling, baseline water quality monitoring, bio-remedy studies for the removal of oil spills, and the numerical modelling of the movement and spread of oil slicks.
Decisions related to the choice of technologies are determined by suitability of the technology, cost effectiveness and efficiency.
Financing
Oceans sector is financed usually internally through operational surpluses.
Cooperation
In addition to the Law of the Sea, Singapore is party to the following IMO conventions on maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution: SOLAS74, COLREG72, LOADLINES66, STCW95, SAR79, MARPOL73/78, CLC92 and FUND92.
Singapore co-operates with other ASEAN countries and Japan under the Project on Oil Spill Preparedness and Response (OSPAR) in the ASEAN sea area, which was initiated by Japan. Under the project, Japan granted ASEAN countries 1 billion Yen to purchase oil spill equipment to reinforce the national stockpiles in the region. An OSPAR Management Committee, comprising of the ASEAN countries and Japan, was established to monitor and assess the management and usage of the equipment supplied and to continue the forum on oil spill matters in the region.
Singapore also co-operates with Indonesia and Malaysia to combat oil spills in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
Relating to climate change and sea level rise issues, Singapore participates in the IPCC programmes and meetings.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 7th Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999.
To access the Web Site of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, click here:
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Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The Ministry of the Environment controls the disposal of toxic industrial wastes under the Environmental Public Health (Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations. A Licence is required before a person granted to 100 companies to collect, treat and dispose of toxic industrial wastes. About 64,880 cu m of chemical wastes were collected, of which 80% were treated and recycled and the rest treated and rendered safe for disposal. Hospital wastes are collected separately and disposed of at two dedicated incinerators.
Programmes and Projects
The chemical industry has responded positively to programmes that promote environmentally sound management of hazardous chemicals and has launched a Responsible Care programme to raise the standard of environmental care in the industry.
Status
The policy and approach adopted have helped to minimize the generation of hazardous wastes and promote treatment of these wastes for reuse.
Singapore monitors the transport by ship of hazardous, toxic and nuclear materials through its seawaters.
Cooperation
Singapore and Malaysia have agreed on a procedure to manage the transportation of hazardous substances across the causeway linking the two countries.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 5th and 7th Sessions of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999.
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Solid Waste and Sanitation
Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
Ministry of the Environment (Environmental Health Department, Engineering Services Department, Pollution Control Department) is responsible for waste management.
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
The following regulations and codes of practice, have been developed for waste management.
1. Environmental Public Health Act;
2. Environmental Public Health (Public Cleansing) Regulations;
3. Environmental Public Health (General Waste Collection) Regulations;
4. Environmental Public Health (Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations;
5. The Hazardous Waste (Control of Export, Import and Transit) Act;
6. Code of Practice on Environmental Health;
7. Code of Practice for Licensed General Waste Collectors
The codes of practices have been established by Government, in consultation with industry. They are mandatory.
Decision-Making: Strategies, Policies and Plans
The Singapore Green Plan covers the National Policy for waste management in the country. It outlines the policy addressing the concerns of sustainable consumption. The Singapore Green Plan aims to reduce domestic and trade waste from a per capita rate of 1.1 kg per day (1991) to 0.9 kg per day by the year 2000.
The main policy activities related to waste minimisation include:
Decision-Making: Major Groups involvement
Business and Industry
- currently engage their own licensed waste collectors
- provide feedback through dialogue sessions with the Government
Local Authorities (Town Councils)
- responsible for local management of refuse collection services from individual blocks to the central collection points (bin centres)
Status
For solid waste collection, they include:
The main issues relating to waste management in Singapore are: increasing amount of waste generated; increasing cost of waste disposal. The major constraints are limited land available for waste disposal i.e. incineration plants and landfills and weak secondary markets for recycled products. Illegal disposal of waste may lead to pollution of watercourses including freshwater supplies.
The main activity underway to address the sound disposal of solid wastes is the construction of necessary disposal infrastructure. The projects underway are the fourth incineration plant and new offshore landfill. The project on Deep Tunnel Sewerage System is under planning.
While it is necessary to continue to plan ahead to ensure adequate disposal facilities for solid wastes, the Ministry of the Environment hopes to slow down the rate of waste generation and has introduced a series of programmes to achieve this. The Ministry works closely with industry, trade associations and business groups to promote and enhance efforts on waste minimisation. Land has also been set aside at disused landfill sites for the setting up of recycling plants.
A comprehensive system of sewers, pumping stations and six centralised sewage treatment works ensure that all wastewater generated by domestic and non-domestic sources are collected and treated before discharge into the sea. In 1995, 430 million cu m of wastewater was collected and treated at the sewage treatment works where secondary treatment was applied to the wastewater. Sludge produced is stabilised in digesters before disposal as a soil conditioner for reclaimed land. Biogas is produced at all the sewage treatment works as a by-product of sludge stabilisation and utilised to generate electricity
to operate the works. To promote water conservation, the treated effluent from the sewage treatment works is used for non-potable purposes such as engine cooling, watering of golf courses and for industrial purposes after tertiary treatment to improve the quality of water and disinfection.
About 2.68 million tonnes of solid waste were collected in 1995, half of which was from domestic and commercial sources, and the other half from industrial sources. About 70% of this waste was disposed of at three refuse incineration plants and the rest at a sanitary landfill site. In line with the programme to conserve resources, electricity is generated from the three incineration plants and ferrous metals recovered for recycling.
The capital investments and recurrent costs of the municipal solid waste disposal facilities and the sewerage system and sewage treatment works are financed by the government and the users. The dedicated incinerators for hospital wastes are built and operated by the private sector on a commercial basis.
Singapore monitors the transport by ship of hazardous, toxic and nuclear materials though your seas.
The Singapore Productivity and Standards Board (PSB) promotes waste minimisation through the promotion of Green Productivity.
The Waste Minimisation Unit of the Ministry of the Environment administers the GreenLabel Scheme which was introduced in May 1992. It decides on the product categories and solicits suggestions from industries and the public. In addition, it processes and approves applications for the GreenLabel. An Advisory Committee comprising representatives from private sector organisations, academic institutions and government agencies sets the criteria to grant the right for a product to display the GreenLabel.
The Green Labeling Scheme helps consumers to identify environmentally friendly products and enable them to exercise their choices more objectively in order to influence producers and suppliers to take into account the protection of the environment when producing goods. The Scheme applies to most products, excepts foods, drinks and pharmaceuticals. It does not apply to services and processes.
Capacity-building, Education, Training and Awareness-raising
The Waste Minimisation Unit of the Ministry of the Environment is engaging an environmental consultant to carry out a project which involves the following: reviewing waste minimisation policies, strategies and programmes in Singapore and other countries, making recommendations to the Singapore government on waste minimisation strategies.
The government has also worked closely with the retail sector to promote minimal packaging for consumer products and introduce programmes to educate consumers to be less wasteful in their consumption patterns.
The annual Clean and Green Week campaign includes efforts to raise awareness of issues related to waste minimisation.
Regular workshops and briefings are held to keep industries updated on new developments in management of hazardous wastes.
The Consumers Association of Singapore is the main consumers grouping that aims to look after the interests of consumers. The Singapore Environment Council acts as an umbrella organisation for environmental NGOs in Singapore and seeks to promote environmentally responsible behaviour among the population.
Centre for Environmental Training (ENV) - conducts Solid Waste Collection Course for licensed general waste collectors and their employees (drivers and crew).
PSB conducts seminars and workshops on Green Productivity and ISO 14000 for industry.
Information
The available national waste information includes: quantity of waste disposed of by industrial sector and residential sector, and estimated quantity of waste being recycled for each type of waste.
The above information is made available to potential users in the annual report of the Ministry. It is also supplied to the public upon either telephone or written requests. The annual report is available on website of the Ministry of Environment.
For national information on solid waste management and waste minimization, click here:
Hazardous Wastes
Decision-Making: Coordinating Bodies
The Ministry of the Environment is responsible for the management of hazardous wastes. The private sector plays a major role in the collection, transportation, treatment and disposal of hazardous industrial wastes
Decision-Making: Legislation and Regulations
The Basel Convention was ratified on 2 January 1996.
Programmes and Projects
The major programmes include:
Status
The Ministry of the Environment controls the disposal of toxic industrial wastes under the Environmental Public Health (Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations. A Licence is required before a person granted to 100 companies to collect, treat and dispose of toxic industrial wastes. About 64,880 cu m of chemical wastes were collected, of which 80% were treated and recycled and the rest treated and rendered safe for disposal. Hospital wastes are collected separately and disposed of at two dedicated incinerators.
The policy and approach adopted have helped to minimize the generation of hazardous wastes and promote treatment of these wastes for reuse.
Singapore monitors the transport by ship of hazardous, toxic and nuclear materials though your seas.
Radioactive Wastes
Status
Singapore monitors the transport by ship of hazardous, toxic and nuclear materials though your seas.
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This information is based on Singapore's submission to the 5th and 7th Sessions of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Last update: January 1999.
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