The 2019 Budget takes into account measures to prepare Singapore for climate change. Finance Minister Heng says the Government is studying the implications of climate change in Singapore, and will come up with adequate measures.
This year will see the introduction of Carbon Tax on our emissions in Singapore, to push companies toward adopting more energy efficient practices, and individuals to practice reusing, reducing and recycling more actively.
Mr Heng credits NParks for giving Singapore currently more than 40% green cover, which has helped the air quality and greenery in our dense urban environment.
He says the Government will make use of smart technology, as part of Smart Nation, to enhance Singapore’s living environment in the changing climate. Efforts have already begun with district cooling implemented in the Marina Bay area, pneumatic waste collection, and buildings designed to be environmentally friendly.
Moving forward, the National Research Foundation will continue to fund research and innovation in Urban Solutions and Sustainability.
Mr Heng also says the Zero Waste Masterplan will be launched in the second half of the year, looking at issues like management of food waste, e-waste, and packaging waste.