Yip Hon Weng on Resource Sustainability (Amendment) Bill
Measures proposed in a new Bill are important steps towards promoting responsible consumption and changing mindsets over the long term in Singapore, said MP Yip Hon Weng. However, he had questions on the rationale behind the measures and on their implementation. On the impending charge for disposable carrier bags, he said discouraging the use of plastic bags might result in food waste being thrown directly down rubbish chutes and lead to problems such as the breeding of pests. He asked if there are plans to monitor this situation and take stricter action against failure to properly bag rubbish for disposal. He also pointed out that consumers might start buying single-use plastic bags from online and overseas retailers where they are usually more affordable in bulk. As for the charge itself, he wondered if five cents is enough to discourage consumption. He also asked if there are guidelines on what constitutes proper use of the proceeds, which supermarkets will have to publish. Mr Yip said the Government should consider expanding the plastic bag charge to cover all single-use disposable plastic items such as disposable cutlery and plates. As for the beverage container return scheme, set to take effect in 2025, Mr Yip asked if the establishment of return points can be mandated in the community and public areas, and if the needs of seniors and those with mobility limitations have been taken into consideration. He pointed to potential disruption in the waste management industry, especially for elderly waste collectors whose livelihoods might be affected. Finally, Mr Yip asked if the food waste management scheme will be expanded to premises other than industrial and commercial ones. He suggested Singapore Armed Forces cookhouses, schools, hospitals and nursing homes.
Measures proposed in a new Bill are important steps towards promoting responsible consumption and changing mindsets over the long term in Singapore, said MP Yip Hon Weng. However, he had questions on the rationale behind the measures and on their implementation. On the impending charge for disposable carrier bags, he said discouraging the use of plastic bags might result in food waste being thrown directly down rubbish chutes and lead to problems such as the breeding of pests. He asked if there are plans to monitor this situation and take stricter action against failure to properly bag rubbish for disposal. He also pointed out that consumers might start buying single-use plastic bags from online and overseas retailers where they are usually more affordable in bulk. As for the charge itself, he wondered if five cents is enough to discourage consumption. He also asked if there are guidelines on what constitutes proper use of the proceeds, which supermarkets will have to publish. Mr Yip said the Government should consider expanding the plastic bag charge to cover all single-use disposable plastic items such as disposable cutlery and plates. As for the beverage container return scheme, set to take effect in 2025, Mr Yip asked if the establishment of return points can be mandated in the community and public areas, and if the needs of seniors and those with mobility limitations have been taken into consideration. He pointed to potential disruption in the waste management industry, especially for elderly waste collectors whose livelihoods might be affected. Finally, Mr Yip asked if the food waste management scheme will be expanded to premises other than industrial and commercial ones. He suggested Singapore Armed Forces cookhouses, schools, hospitals and nursing homes.
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