Singapore announces new climate change policy
There is optimism surrounding Singapore’s new climate change policy that could see the country drastically reduce its high carbon emissions over the next decade and push the small island country toward cleaner energy practices.
There is optimism surrounding Singapore’s new climate change policy that could see the country drastically reduce its high carbon emissions over the next decade and push the small island country toward cleaner energy practices.
Singapore, the newest addition to the global C40 network, reportedly recently published its national climate change strategy, “Climate Change & Singapore: Challenges. Opportunities. Partnerships.”
The new comprehensive document reflects key elements of Singapore’s efforts with climate change, green growth, and emissions reduction.
It added that climate governance is strong at the highest levels: long-term planning, policies and action are guided and coordinated by the National Climate Change Secretariat under the Prime Minister’s Office and the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Climate Change.
As a low-lying island that is densely populated, Singapore is focused on efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as flooding and severe weather events, through integrated land use planning, water management and investment in research and infrastructure. Reducing emissions is another core aspect of its climate strategy, building upon significant efforts to date, including sourcing 80 percent of its fuel for electricity generation from natural gas and capping vehicle growth through regulation and taxes, National Geographic reported.
Singapore is also studying how to stabilize its emissions over the long term.
The move could be a catalyst for other Southeast Asian countries to establish similar charters to help boost their action to fight against climate change.
Image 01 - Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline at dusk. William Cho.
