In 2019, about 200,000 tonnes of domestic waste disposed of were disposables, comprising items such as carrier bags and takeaway containers, and were enough to fill up about 400 Olympic-size swimming pools. The current “take, make, use and throw” approach to disposables is not sustainable. This has contributed to carbon emissions and the ash generated from the incineration of such items is a burden on Semakau Landfill, which is expected to be full by 2035.

There have been extensive efforts from the people, private and public sectors to conserve our precious resources. This includes implementing policies and sustained outreach campaigns. However, we need to continue to work hard to ensure a sustainable future for future generations. In this regard, in the spirit of Singapore Together, NEA will convene a Citizens’ Workgroup from Sep 2020 to Mar 2021. 

The Citizens’ workgroup will be held over 9 sessions.

Phase 1: Introduction to the problem and sharing from experts

● Saturday, 26 Sep 2020, 9.30am-12.30pm

● Saturday, 10 Oct 2020, 2-5pm

● Saturday, 24 Oct 2020, 2-5pm

Phase 2: Identifying key issues and formation of teams

● Saturday, 7 Nov 2020, 2-5.30pm 

● Saturday, 21 Nov 2020, 2-5.30pm

Phase 3: Solutioning, refining and voting

● Saturday, 16 Jan 2021, 2-6pm

● Saturday. 30 Jan 2021, 2-6pm

● Saturday, 27 Feb 2021, 2-6pm

Final presentation

● Saturday 20 Mar 2021, 2-6pm