Govt commits $1.5b for new plans to create a more sustainable future for S'pore
PUBLISHED ONNovember 08, 2014 11:02 AM
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong unveiled today the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint (SSB) 2015, which outlines a national vision with new and bold plans to create a more liveable and sustainable future for Singaporeans.
To achieve its desired targets, the Government will commit $1.5 billion to support the roll out of the programmes and initiatives contained in the SSB 2015 by the various government agencies.
First released in 2009, the SSB maps out strategies for Singapore's sustainable development ensuring that the country remains a highly liveable home for all. Singapore is on track to meet or exceed the 2020 and 2030 targets set out in 2009, said a press release by the Ministry of National Development (MND).
This year, the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and MND led a review of the SSB, which took stock of achievements over the last five years as well as the latest developments in Singapore and around the world. As part of this review, more than 6000 people from various stakeholder groups stepped forward to participate in public consultations and focus group discussions.
The SSB 2015 will be guided by the vision of a 'Liveable and Endearing Home', a 'Vibrant and Sustainable City', and an 'Active and Gracious Community'. Building on the on-going efforts of various agencies, the programmes in the SSB 2015 will guide Singapore towards achieving the following outcomes:
"Eco-Smart" Endearing Towns where smart technology and eco-friendly features are embedded into towns and homes so that Singaporeans can enjoy greater convenience and a better quality of life such as parks, ABC (Active, Beautiful, Clean) Waters projects, sports facilities, and other community amenities available nearby. A green lifestyle will become second nature for many and convenient recycling facilities will enable residents to segregate their waste easily while keeping town's environment pleasant and pest-free.
A "Car-Lite" Singapore were travel will be made seamless and efficient with a denser rail network and extensive bus services. Cycling and walking will also become popular forms of getting around so that Singaporeans can reduce their carbon footprint, enjoy fresher air, a cleaner environment, and a healthier lifestyle.
Towards a Zero Waste Nation by reducing our consumption, and reusing and recycling all materials to give them a second lease of life. The Government, the community, and businesses will come together to put in place infrastructure and programmes to make this our way of life.
A Leading Green Economy where businesses will be encouraged to adopt greener practices. Singapore will be a hub for the cutting-edge business of sustainable development and Singaporeans can enjoy jobs in this meaningful sector. Living labs to test-bed ideas that improve lives and are good for the environment will be created as well as aiming to raise solar penetration rates to grow our capability in green buildings.
An Active and Gracious Community where Singaporeans are at the heart of the Blueprint. Singaporeans must become exemplary stewards of our environment and participate in shaping their neighbourhoods, and build a more gracious society together as a community. It should be second nature for everyone to come together to care for our common spaces and environment, take a long-term perspective in conserving precious resources, and champion a sustainable way of life.
For more information on the SSB 2015, go to www.sustainablesingapore.gov.sg.
spanaech@sph.com.sg