Build on success of 'green' car scheme

Build on success of 'green' car scheme

We should celebrate the fact that the Carbon Emissions-based Vehicle Scheme (CEVS) has exceeded expectations ("Green cars cost $155m in tax breaks"; last Wednesday).

There are many benefits of cleaner air. Residents are healthier and health-care costs are reduced. Society becomes more economically productive. People are also happier.

Greater energy efficiency will contribute to Singapore's energy security.

Singapore can also increase its credentials as an eco-city and be a model of an environmentally responsible tropical city.

Green technology is charging ahead. Since we know of a tax tool that works, let us make use of it.

The CEVS should become more ambitious.

In fact, it should aim for 100 per cent of cars to qualify. The criteria should be upgraded annually so that new cars will have to meet ever higher green standards.

I congratulate the Land Transport Authority on the success of the CEVS. Now, let us make it an even bigger success.

Ooi Can Seng

This article was published on Aug 11 in The Straits Times.

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