With regard to the beverage container return scheme, a small deposit will be applied when consumers buy certain pre-packaged drinks. Consumers can claim a full refund of the deposit by returning their empty beverage containers at designated return points.
The scheme was announced during the 2021 Committee of Supply debate. It was supposed to be launched in 2023, and a legislative framework introduced last year.
However, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Amy Khor said in April 2022 that the Government would “relook” its timeline for the roll-out of a beverage container return scheme following feedback from industry players.
“This scheme will contribute to zero waste efforts by cultivating recycling habits amongst Singaporeans as well as aggregating clean and high-quality recyclables,” said NEA and MSE. “By increasing the supply and quality of recyclables collected, the scheme will also support the development of Singapore’s recycling industry.”
The proposed amendments will also look to set up a food waste reporting framework.
In 2021, Singapore generated 817,000 tonnes of food waste, of which 19 per cent was recycled. Commercial and industrial premises account for approximately 40 per cent of the food waste generated in Singapore each year.
Owners or operators of industrial and commercial buildings, where large amounts of food waste are generated, are already required to segregate their food waste from next tear.
To complement these requirements, they will also be required to measure and report the amount of food waste they have segregated for treatment.