Meta Data

Draft:

Revision of previous policy?:

Effective Start Year:

2012

Scope:

National

Document Type:

Plan/Strategy

Economic Sector:

Energy, Power, Industry, Transport, Building, Multi-Sector, Other

Energy Types:

Power, Renewable, Bioenergy, Solar, Wave and Tidal, Wind, Other

Issued by:

Prime Minister’s Office

Source:

National Climate Change Secretariat

File:

National Climate Change Strategy 2012

Overall Summary:

The National Climate Change Strategy 2012 outlines current thinking about climate change and its implications for Singapore. It also highlights the initiatives and strategies the Government of Singapore is pursuing to prepare for the challenges that climate change poses.

Efficiency

EE priorities:

Given Singapore’s limited access to renewable energy, energy efficiency is our core strategy to reduce emissions. Singapore needs to further enhance energy efficiency across all sectors of the economy. --- For the industry sector, the Government can facilitate energy efficient investments by helping companies to identify commercially viable energy efficiency improvements and helping to defray upfront costs through co-funding.

EE targets:

Our objective is to achieve, by 2030, a 35% reduction15 in economy-wide energy intensity, i.e., the amount of energy required to produce each S$GDP.

Renewable Energy

RE priorities:

We are exploring ways to increase our use of solar energy. Among the renewable energy options, solar energy presents the best opportunities for Singapore.

Environment

GHG emissions reduction targets:

Singapore has pledged to reduce emissions by 16% below 2020 business-as-usual (BAU) levels14 if there is a legally binding global agreement in which all countries implement their commitments in good faith. Ahead of this, Singapore has embarked on policies and measures that will reduce our emissions by 7% to 11% below 2020 BAU levels.

Energy Supply and Infrastructure

Energy supply priorities:

Singapore is continuing with its fuel mix switch from fuel oil to natural gas.

Full Document Text

NOTE: Some content may not display correctly, including tables and figures. See PDF for full details.

Climate Change & Singapore:

Challenges. Opportunities. Partnerships.

National Climate Change Strategy 2012

Creating a climate for sustainable growth,

Securing a livable environment for our future

Cover image:

Clear skies, viewed from the marina Barrage green roof.

NATIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY 2012

PUBLISHED BY:

National Climate Change Secretariat

Prime Minister’s Office Republic of Singapore www.nccs.gov.sg

IN COLLABORATION WITH:

Ministry of Finance

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ministry of National Development

Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources

Ministry of Trade and Industry

Ministry of Transport

Agency for Science, Technology and Research

Building and Construction Authority Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

Economic Development Board

Energy Market Authority

Housing & Development Board

International Enterprise Singapore

JTC Corporation

Land Transport Authority

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

Nanyang Technological University

National Environment Agency

National Parks Board

National Research Foundation

National University of Singapore

PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency

Urban Redevelopment Authority

With thanks to all contributors to the NCCS-2012 e-consultation exercise for their feedback and suggestions, those who participated in the focus group discussion and public forums, and the Community Development Councils for their assistance in organising the public forums.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior permission of the National Climate Change Secretariat.

ISBN: 978-981-07-2492-4

Design and Production by Silicon+

CoNteNtS

88 110

130

Forew ord

The Climate Change Imperative

Overview

Global Mission, National Vision, Local Action

Chapter 1

Climate Change and Why It Matters

Chapter 2

Sustainable Development:

Singapore’s National Circumstances

Chapter 3

Mitigation: Reducing Emissions

Chapter 4

Adapting to Climate Change:

A More Resilient Singapore

Chapter 5

Opportunities for Green Growth

Chapter 6

Building Our Future Together:

Local and International Partnerships on Climate Change

Conclusion

Stepping Up to Climate Change

NatiONal Climate ChaNge Strategy 2012

ForeWorD

the Climate Change imperative

Countries are working on a global solution…

To minimise the impact from climate change, efforts from both developed and developing countries are underway to reduce emissions. At the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban in 2011, all countries agreed to start negotiations on a new climate change framework beyond 2020. As a responsible global citizen, Singapore will do our part to reduce emissions, while ensuring that we continue to grow and prosper.

Singapore will do our part...

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Climate Change (IMCCC) will study how Singapore can stabilise our long-term emissions. Its work will build on Singapore’s past and ongoing efforts in sustainable development. The clean and green

Climate change affects us all, including Singapore... living environment we enjoy today is the result of the high priority we have placed on protecting The global climate is changing. Average global the environment over the years. For instance, temperature and sea levels are expected to rise if we generate about 80% of our electricity from carbon emissions from human activities continue natural gas—the cleanest form of fossil fuel. to grow unchecked, and extreme weather events

are likely to become more intense and frequent. Efforts to reduce our long-term emissions will

be challenging. Our small size limits our ability What does this mean for Singapore? Extreme to draw on alternative energy such as solar, weather events can lead to changes in rainfall wind or nuclear. Nonetheless, we will enhance patterns, resulting in more intense rainfall or energy efficiency efforts and develop low carbon drier periods. Flood and water management technologies to overcome current constraints. will be of even greater importance for Singapore. In addition, more frequent extreme weather events may lead to volatile global food prices and disruptions to business supply chains. This will affect business activities in Singapore and our food imports.

FOreWOrD—the Climate ChaNge imperative

Preparing Singapore for climate change...

Apart from reducing emissions, we need to adapt to the impact of climate change. We will invest in new capabilities in climate science to achieve a deeper understanding of our vulnerabilities, and develop appropriate adaptation solutions to protect Singapore against the risks posed by climate change.

At the same time, Singapore is well positioned to tap the economic opportunities arising from climate change. We can create high-value jobs for Singaporeans and enable our economy to benefit from green growth, if we continue to strengthen our R&D capabilities and attract investments to upgrade existing industries and in new growth areas.

The IMCCC will drive Singapore’s efforts to realise our vision of a climate resilient global city poised for green growth. Singapore’s plans to prepare for climate change are laid out in this National Climate Change Strategy 2012 document. Its title, “Climate Change & Singapore: Challenges. Opportunities. Partnerships.” reflects the key elements of our efforts—preparing Singapore for the uncertainties and impact of climate change, seizing opportunities and supporting Singapore’s transition to a lower emission economy.

A home that is flourishing and enduring…

To achieve our goal of a home that is flourishing and enduring, the people, private and public sectors need to work in close partnership. The Government will play its part by setting the policy framework, putting in place appropriate incentives, facilitating capability development efforts, and easing the transition. The implementation of policies will be paced so that our economy and our people can adapt to the new circumstances.

Everyone has a part to play whether through lifestyle adjustments or changes to business processes. Making adjustments earlier will make the transition easier. Every individual effort, such as buying more energy efficient appliances, taking public transport, and using less energy, will count.

To rise to the challenge, we need to be pragmatic and practical, yet bold and visionary. Let us work together to ensure that Singapore remains a flourishing and enduring city which current and future generations of Singaporeans are proud to call home.

TEO CHEE HEAN

Deputy Prime Minister

Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Climate Change

Coordinating Minister for National Security and

Minister for Home Affairs

natiOnal cliMate chanGe strateGy 2012

OVERVIEW

Global Mission, National Vision,

Local Action

What is climate change, and why does it matter?

What does it mean for Singapore, now and in the future?

What have we been doing about it, and what can be done going forward?

This National Climate Change Strategy document seeks to address these vital questions. It outlines current thinking about climate change and its implications for Singapore. It also highlights the initiatives and strategies we are pursuing to prepare for the challenges that climate change poses.

Overview—GlObal MissiOn, natiOnal visiOn, lOcal actiOn

impact of climate change

Scientists and experts around the world have intense storms and tropical cyclones, flooding and yet to fully agree on how quickly climate- prolonged droughts in recent years. Rises in sea related changes will occur, or how severe their level and ambient temperature have already been consequences will be. However, significant observed for Singapore. The possible effects of changes are already taking place. Calamities changing weather patterns on Singapore include related to extreme weather events have accelerated coastal erosion and higher incidences become much more frequent worldwide. of intense rain or prolonged drought. Climate

change will also affect the biodiversity of plants

According to the United Nations’ and animals, and our greenery. Singapore may

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change also experience disruptions to food supplies and (IPCC), if greenhouse gas emissions from human business supply chains if our trading partners are activities continue to grow unchecked, climate affected by extreme weather events.

change is projected to accelerate, with potentially significant impact on water, ecosystems, food, The world does not have the luxury of time for coastal zones and human health. debate on the causes of climate change to be

completely settled before taking any action. There are low-lying areas with thousands of We have to rely on the best prevailing scientific islands and coastal cities in Southeast Asia, and consensus to prepare for the risks and challenges Singapore is one of them. Our neighbouring of an uncertain future.

countries have already experienced increasingly

a Global approach is essential

As a small low-lying city-state with an open countries adopt unilateral, uncoordinated and economy, Singapore is particularly vulnerable even conflicting measures that could distort trade to the consequences of climate change. flows and development, and lead to suboptimal Accordingly, we have a deep interest in global outcomes at the global level. These considerations efforts to address potential disruptions to are particularly important for trade-dependent natural ecosystems and human societies. countries like Singapore.

No single country can hope to address climate Ultimately, a global approach that successfully change on its own. In our highly interdependent reduces the harmful effects of climate change world, nations big and small, developed and will also provide more conducive conditions for developing, will need to work closely together to Singapore’s long-term growth and development.

tackle this global challenge. This is why Singapore supports the multilateral negotiations under the United Nations Framework Singapore has always been a strong supporter of Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) multilateral approaches to global issues. A system and its Kyoto Protocol, as well as other key UN in which all countries are guided by common rules specialised agencies such as the International will provide assurance that each country is doing Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the its part. This is far preferable to a situation where International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

natiOnal cliMate chanGe strateGy 2012

Principles for an effective Global agreement

International negotiations will take time. Each Measures to reduce emissions will need to be country has different national circumstances and consistent with international law and established vulnerabilities which will have to be adequately principles, such as global trade rules. This will addressed for any global agreement to be give businesses regulatory certainty, and provide acceptable to all countries. a conducive environment for investment and

research on climate-friendly goods and services.

The UN-led negotiations on climate change are based on the principle of “common but Besides addressing the emissions due to fuel differentiated responsibilities and respective combustion occurring within national boundaries, capabilities”. Developed countries, whose past an effective global climate change agreement industrialisation activities generated the bulk must also address emissions that are transof historical emissions contributing to current boundary in nature, such as those due to climate change, must take the lead to reduce international aviation and maritime transport, and emissions. Developing countries, on their part, promote efforts to maintain existing carbon sinks have to strive towards minimising the growth that store carbon, such as the world’s forests. rate of their emissions whilst seeking to reduce For international transport emissions, the ICAO poverty and pursue development, and reducing and IMO have implemented and continue to their emissions when they can. All countries will develop global measures to address emissions need to work together to protect our common from international aviation and maritime environment while forging sustainable new transport respectively. It is important that the growth paths for the global economy. ICAO and IMO, with their specialist expertise and global regulatory framework, continue to Collective efforts to control emissions lead in addressing emissions from these sectors. should take into account our highly diverse The world’s forests serve as reservoirs of stored and connected global economy, and the carbon. Emissions occur when deforestation or international division of labour. Some countries forest degradation takes place. This contributes specialise in producing goods, while others up to 12% of global greenhouse gas emissions.¹ are services-oriented. Countries that specialise As such, the global community accepts the need in manufacturing activities will usually have for effective implementation of REDD+ (Reducing higher carbon emissions to begin with, and it Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation will be important for such maufacturing bases Plus²). REDD+ efforts could also help to reduce to work together to improve energy and carbon incidences of forest fires and the consequent efficiencies. It will be counterproductive, for haze, lessen changes in regional weather instance, if efforts to reduce emissions result in patterns and climate, and reduce the impact of the relocation of these activities to other sites or deforestation on biodiversity and displacement of countries that are less efficient, thus generating local communities. more carbon emissions globally.

¹Source: Climate Analysis Indicators Tool (CAIT), World Resources Institute. 2005 data, greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, PFCs, HFCs, SF₆) included.

²REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, conservation of forest carbon stocks, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks) is based on the principle that developing countries, which are willing and able to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation via the sustainable management of forests, conservation of existing carbon stocks and enhancement of carbon stocks should be financially compensated by developed countries for doing so. Emissions reductions from such activities can be quantified, and subject to agreement, they might be used by developed countries to offset their emissions from domestic sectors.

Overview—GlObal MissiOn, natiOnal visiOn, lOcal actiOn

While Singapore’s early initiatives to protect To achieve more emissions reductions over time the environment have laid a strong foundation will require deeper behavioural adjustments and for policy action, our reputation as a clean and changes in business processes. There is a need green garden city is also the outcome of decades to consider more stringent energy efficiency of sustained effort and conscious decisions. standards and legislation, more innovative energy For instance, fuel oil was replaced by natural efficiency financing schemes and capability gas—the cleanest form of fossil fuel—as the development initiatives. Market forces will also primary fuel for electricity generation. About have an important role to play to ensure that 80% of Singapore’s electricity is now generated people and businesses get the right carbon price by natural gas. Singapore is also the only country signal and have the right incentives to reduce in the world to cap vehicle growth and price carbon emissions. Where these measures result vehicle usage aggressively. However, these and in additional upfront costs, we will be prepared to other earlier initiatives limit our scope to further help those that need it. reduce emissions growth, because many of the gains have already been reaped. As a country, Despite our best efforts to reduce emissions, Singapore generates relatively low levels of CO₂ Singapore is constrained as a small and highly

emissions per GDP dollar in the world (123rd out urbanised city-state, with more than 5 million of 137 countries).⁶people occupying a land area of about 710km².

There is no rural hinterland and limited access Nonetheless, the Singapore Government remains to alternative, low-emission energy sources such committed to reduce emissions growth further. as wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal or nuclear Plans to improve energy efficiency in all sectors of power. Deployment of solar power is limited by the economy were included in its 2009 Sustainable Singapore’s small land area. Singapore, as an Singapore Blueprint. Prior to the 2009 Copenhagen alternative-energy disadvantaged city-state, relies Climate Change Conference, Singapore pledged on imported fuels to power our daily activities, to reduce our emissions by 16% from the 2020 and there are no viable technology alternatives business-as-usual (BAU) level, contingent on that can replace our reliance on fossil fuels in a legally binding global agreement in which all the foreseeable future. Given these physical countries implement their commitments in good constraints, our total emissions are projected faith. Although a legally binding agreement has yet to grow in the near term but we will reduce our to be reached, Singapore has nonetheless started emissions below BAU levels. to implement mitigation and energy efficiency measures which should reduce our emissions by With concerted research and development 7% to 11% from the 2020 BAU level. This pledge efforts over time, emerging technologies is not contingent on international financing and could gradually enhance our ability to reduce Singapore will utilise our domestic resources. emissions. Singapore can share this knowThe first phase of measures to encourage even how with other countries which have greater greater public transport usage and improve energy potential for deployment. As a small city-state efficiency in industry, buildings and households is with significant expertise in sustainable urban

being rolled out. solutions, Singapore is doing our utmost to raise

energy efficiency levels, support companies and businesses to test new technologies, business models and solutions, so that climate-friendly goods and services can be developed, improved, and eventually exported.

⁶Source: CO₂ Emissions from Fuel Combustion—2011 Highlights © OECD/International Energy Agency, 2011.

natiOnal cliMate chanGe strateGy 2012

Our constraints and unique circumstances member of the global community to help address mean that Singapore’s emissions will not climate change. dip below historical levels in the near future.

Nonetheless, the Singapore Government will In addition to our participation in global study how Singapore can stabilise our long-term discussions, Singapore currently shares expertise emissions. Every Singaporean and resident can in climate change and environment management help do their part to reduce emissions by making with other countries, through training courses on informed decisions to reduce their resource and a wide range of topics including sustainable urban

energy consumption. development, water management and energy

efficiency. Singapore is also a partner in a number Singapore’s pledge to reduce emissions is a of key bilateral initiatives such as our collaboration significant commitment for a resource poor and with China in the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city fossil energy-dependent city-state. Although we project, envisioned as a replicable, practical and are a small country with minimal impact on global scalable model for sustainable development for emissions, Singapore has a responsibility as a other cities in China and other parts of the world.

singapore as a climate resilient Global city

Singapore has overcome many environmental holistic. We must plan ahead, and accept that challenges in its short history. Our vision is some short-term adjustments or costs may yield to be a climate resilient global city that is well longer term benefits. For instance, our decision

positioned for green growth. to clean up the Singapore River in 1977 was made

at great financial and social cost. Industries and As a small city-state, Singapore’s success and communities had to be relocated. Today, the prosperity depends on being able to overcome Singapore River is part of the Marina Reservoir, the challenges of climate change and to grasp a freshwater reservoir in the heart of the city. the opportunities it presents. We must nurture This would not have been possible without the a vibrant and innovative economy, and achieve long-term and integrated planning that is at the economic growth in a low carbon and sustainable heart of Singapore’s economic and environmental manner through the development and deployment management. We must continue to take a longof clean energy and energy efficient technologies. term view towards assessing costs and benefits. This will enable us to develop a high quality

environment and sustainable growth for the Pragmatic and Economically Sound Measures sake of our current and future generations. Our goal is sustainable growth—to pursue

economic and environmental objectives

together, not one at the expense of the other,

Guiding Principles or either at all costs. We want Singapore to

be an environmentally-friendly home in which These key principles guide our response to the current and future generations of Singaporeans challenges of climate change: can live, work and play. At the same time, our policies must be economically sound so that

Long-Term and Integrated Planning they are sustainable. Reducing emissions and Climate change is a challenge which requires sustaining economic development at the same a response that is long-term, integrated and time is a delicate balance that has to be made

Overview—GlObal MissiOn, natiOnal visiOn, lOcal actiOn

consciously. We harness market forces and Singapore’s approach to addressing climateprice signals, avoiding energy subsidies that related challenges is four-fold: consume fiscal resources, distort consumer behaviour and increase environmental pollution. First, reduce carbon emissions in all sectors. By pricing energy at its market cost, we Through fuel taxes, controlling vehicle ownership encourage households and businesses to use and usage, energy efficiency incentives and other energy judiciously. We will consider economic policies, Singapore has proactively reduced the and environmental costs and benefits, as well growth of carbon emissions. There is scope to do as human factors, when determining the most more. In particular, we must continue to improve appropriate measures to reduce emissions and energy efficiency and minimise wastage of energy. tackle climate change. As attitudes, behaviour Technology will play a key role in shaping and options change over time, our policies will Singapore’s measures to mitigate emissions also have to evolve. For instance, as technologies and waste. The Government is working with the mature, the range of feasible energy alternatives academic and research community, as well as available to Singapore could increase. innovative companies, to assess and develop technologies addressing climate change that Developing Innovative Solutions for Singapore and might be deployed in Singapore.

Global Markets

Singapore has a potential role as a green growth Second, be ready to adapt to climate change hub. Our land and resource constraints are a effects. To improve Singapore’s resilience to potent impetus for us to be innovative and to climate change, we need to better understand invest heavily in resource efficient technologies. its potential impact on Singapore, and formulate For example, Singapore reduced our dependence appropriate strategies to cope with climate-related on imported water by developing NEWater (ultra- changes. Companies will need to examine their clean and high grade reclaimed water) technology. business continuity plans to cope with disruptions Over the last four decades, we diversified our from extreme weather events. The public will have water supply through strategic planning and to be mentally prepared for and learn to adapt to investment in research and technology. We a changing environment and weather patterns.

now have capabilities in water management, desalination and water reclamation technologies, Third, harness green growth opportunities. and have exported our expertise worldwide. Singapore is well positioned to support the Our policies to address climate change should development and export of climate-friendly encourage and nurture our potential to develop technologies, services and solutions. Our solutions that can benefit the world. economic agencies’ efforts to grow the clean

energy, water and carbon services sectors

have started to yield results. This builds on our

Approach to Address Climate Change strengths in engineering and sustainable urban management. We will strengthen our R&D Recognising that climate change affects the capabilities and human capital with the help of work and responsibilities of many Ministries our tertiary and research institutes, and provide and government agencies, the Government opportunities for companies to develop and test formed the National Climate Change Secretariat innovative solutions here. A supportive business (NCCS) as a dedicated unit in July 2010 under the environment will help attract more investments Prime Minister’s Office to provide coordination in green industries, and encourage international at the highest level for Singapore’s domestic and non-governmental organisations in the and international policies, plans and actions environmental and developmental areas to be on climate change. The NCCS also supports based in and expand from Singapore. Singaporethe work of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on based businesses are encouraged to develop

Climate Change. solutions for deployment in Singapore and for

natiOnal cliMate chanGe strateGy 2012

export to other countries. This will create high value jobs for Singaporeans and propel our economy along a green growth trajectory.

Fourth, forge partnerships. Our domestic efforts are complemented by international collaboration. Besides the UNFCCC discussions, Singapore participates in related multilateral efforts, including discussions hosted by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the World

Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), in support of a holistic approach to deal with climate change. We are also actively engaged in environmental cooperation through regional and bilateral platforms such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Association of

Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40) and the SinoSingapore Tianjin Eco-city.

realising Our vision

Singapore must respond to the challenges of climate change as one nation. The Government will put in place the necessary policies, public investments, information and support to assist the transition to lower our emissions. However, much of what we can achieve as a nation will depend on the collective efforts of our businesses and people.

Domestic partnerships are just as important. The people, private and public (3P) sectors must work together to effect climate change action in Singapore. We have adopted a consultative approach towards environmental issues, including the development of the 2009 Sustainable Singapore Blueprint. Outreach programmes such as the 10% Energy Challenge and the President’s Award for the Environment help to raise awareness and encourage behavioural change. Public engagement and participation builds a sense of shared purpose.

As part of the development of this Strategy document, and public engagement on climate change-related issues, the NCCS, together with relevant agencies, conducted consultations. The feedback from public forums and consultations has been positive and encouraging. In a national survey held in late 2011, 86% of participants felt responsible for helping to address climate change and 74% indicated concern over climate change. These responses reflect strong support for climate change action.

To succeed, our strategies cannot remain static. We must stay flexible, review the effectiveness of policies and measures, and plan ahead. Our national strategy will be updated as the world’s knowledge of climate science and climate modelling improves. As we stabilise and reduce our emissions over time, we will ensure that Singapore remains resilient to the adverse effects of climate change, and continues to thrive in a changing world.

Overview—GlObal MissiOn, natiOnal visiOn, lOcal actiOn

Our vision for Singapore is a climate resilient global city that is well positioned for green growth... We need a whole-of-nation effort—involving the people, the private, and the public sectors to realise our vision. Together, we can ensure that Singapore remains a vibrant and liveable nation for our future generations.

DEPUTy PrIME MINISTEr TEO ChEE hEAN DUrING ThE SINGAPOrE

PArLIAMENT COMMITTEE OF SUPPLy DEbATE, 1 MArCh 2012

CHAPTER 1—ClimATE CHAngE And WHy iT mATTERs

What is Climate Change?

The earth’s climate is a complex system that human activities, there is a consensus that the encompasses many weather-related variables climate is indeed changing, as can be observed such as surface and atmospheric temperature, through higher global average temperatures, the humidity, wind, precipitation and sea levels. receding of polar ice-caps, and the increased intensity and frequency of extreme weather

According to the United Nations’ events. If carbon emissions from human activities

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change continue to grow unchecked, climate change is (IPCC),⁷ climate change refers to statistically projected to accelerate. However, the scale and observable variations in the state of the climate pace of this acceleration will depend on a large that persist for an extended period (usually number of variables and relationships (not all of decades or longer). This can manifest as an which are fully understood). The IPCC publishes increased incidence of heat waves, heavy rainfall periodic reports on the earth’s climate.

and extremely high sea levels.

The IPCC’s most recent Fourth Assessment The global scientific consensus is that climate Report (AR4) in 2007 stated that most of change is the outcome of a complex array of the observed increase in globally averaged natural and man-made processes and effects, temperatures since the mid-20th century is very including human activities such as the burning likely (>90% probability) due to the observed of fossil fuels to produce energy and goods for increase in human greenhouse gas concentrations daily use, the clearing of forests and the rearing of since the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, when livestock. The resultant greenhouse gas emissions fossil fuels, predominantly coal, were burnt to cause the enhanced greenhouse effect and lead to provide energy. The increase in the use of fossil climate change. While there are sceptics arguing fuels for human activities is a major determinant whether climate change is solely attributable to of the pace of climate change.

⁷The IPCC (http://www.ipcc.ch) draws on hundreds of scientists providing a range of expertise and geographical representation to produce periodic reports on its assessment of scientific studies related to climate change.

CHAPTER 1—ClimATE CHAngE And WHy iT mATTERs

Why does Climate Change matter?

The earth’s climate has a powerful influence on increase, changes in disease vectors will lead to practically every physical, ecological and biological increased burden on health services from cardio-

system on the planet. respiratory and infectious diseases. Productivity

of crops is expected to decrease in all regions According to the IPCC’s AR4, anthropogenic at a temperature rise of 4°C with significant warming due to human activities and sea disruptions to ecosystems, leading to an overall level rise could continue for centuries, due to loss of food supplies worldwide. For a detailed the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the illustration of the impact associated with global earth’s atmosphere since the 19th century. average temperature change, see Figure 1.1. World temperatures could rise by between 1.1°C and 6.4°C this century. Sea levels could rise by In Singapore, the annual mean surface between 0.18m and 0.59m. For Southeast Asia, temperature has risen from 26.8°C in 1948 to the temperature is expected to rise by 1.7°C to 27.6°C in 2011. The mean sea level in the Straits of

4.4°C and sea level changes are similar to the Singapore has increased by about 3mm per year

global projections. over the past 15 years alone, and we can expect

further changes. Rainfall has also been more This is significant because even relatively small intense in recent years. In 2001, the first recorded increases in global average temperatures over cyclone near the Equator, Typhoon Vamei, an extended period of time can have significant swept just north of Singapore and caused major impact on the sustainability of water and food floods in the region. It is uncertain whether such supplies, ecosystems, the stability of coastal tropical cyclones near the Equator will occur more

zones and public health. For example, there will frequently in the future. In addition, countries be increased damage from storms when the from which we import food may experience global average annual temperature increases by extreme weather events such as intense storms, 2°C relative to the period between 1980 and 1999. flooding and prolonged droughts. Extreme With an increase of 3°C, there will be increased weather events also lead to travel disruptions, and mortality from heat waves, droughts and floods, impact business supply chains. Clearly, Singapore with hundreds of millions more people exposed cannot be completely insulated from the impact of to increased water shortages. Beyond a 3°C climate change.

CHAPTER 1—ClimATE CHAngE And WHy iT mATTERs

What makes Climate Change difficult to Address?

Climate change has characteristics that make more heat from the sun, warming the area further it more challenging than other major issues and causing even more rapid melting of the ice.

to address:

Many of these effects such as ecosystem It involves trade-offs between the present destruction are not easily reversible, and

and future greenhouse gases can remain in our atmosphere

There might be upfront costs such as investments for a very long time. in energy efficient equipment and low-carbon

energy technologies. But the real impact of such International and trans-boundary nature of efforts to address climate change will only be climate change more apparent in the long term. The impact will Addressing climate change involves coordinated also depend on efforts being made across sectors, and collective action across many countries communities and individuals now. which are party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). There The climate is a complex adaptive system are also non-state actors such as businesses,

We need to address climate change early as international organisations and non-governmental effects can be felt long after their causes. Climatic organisations, representing diverse constituencies, changes can create feedback loops and reinforce interests and priorities. Given different needs and each other, resulting in a vicious cycle. For circumstances, it is a major challenge to secure, instance, rising temperatures cause more rapid sustain and enforce a set of effective long-term melting of the polar ice caps. This exposes the agreements across such a large number of parties. darker ground beneath the ice, which absorbs

The global Response to the Climate Change Challenge

The findings from climate science have driven the and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro in nature and pace of international negotiations on 1992, and the preparatory committee of UNCED climate change, given the need for global action. and the Main Committee of the Rio meeting was

chaired by Singapore’s Ambassador-at-Large

Tommy Koh. It led to the landmark UNFCCC Adoption of the UN Framework Convention on adopted by the United Nations. Climate Change

The framework requires governments to develop The IPCC’s First Assessment Report in 1990 policies and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas underscored the seriousness of climate change, emissions within their national boundaries and and linked the emissions from human activities adapt to irreversible climate change.

to the additional warming of the earth’s surface

beyond natural effects. The Convention on Climate Change enjoys near

universal membership, making it one of the most The draft of the Framework Convention was universally supported international agreements deliberated at the UN Conference on Environment under the UN.

CHAPTER 1—ClimATE CHAngE And WHy iT mATTERs

How should Countries Contribute to the global Effort?

All countries should contribute to this mitigation Absolute Emissions effort, bearing in mind the UNFCCC principle of common but differentiated responsibility (CBDR) The global community pays close attention and respective capabilities. to absolute emissions because it is the most

important indicator reflecting the greenhouse

gases released into the atmosphere that affect

Historical Emissions the magnitude and pace of global warming

and climate change. Empirically, a few major The concept of CBDR recognises that while economies produce the majority of global combating climate change is a “common concern” emissions. Out of the 195 signatories to the for all countries, there should nevertheless be UNFCCC, the top twenty emitters account “differentiated responsibilities”. Developed for more than 80% of global greenhouse countries are largely responsible for historic gas emissions. In addition to international emissions and the build-up of these greenhouse negotiations covering all the countries in the gases in the atmosphere since the beginning world, efforts by these countries will play a crucial of the Industrial Revolution. The developed role in addressing climate change (see Table 1.1). countries shoulder a greater responsibility for reducing emissions than developing countries. Table 1.1: Estimated Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions

For example, the USA and the European Union by Country (2005)

Country	GHG Emissions (MtCO2e)	% of World total
China	7,195	16.7
USA	6,784	15.7
European Union (27)	5,047	11.7
Brazil	2,841	6.6
Indonesia	2,036	4.7
Russia	1,998	4.6
India	1,865	4.3
Japan	1,349	3.1
Canada	806	1.9
Mexico	671	1.6
Iran	568	1.3
South Korea	568	1.3
Australia	561	1.3
Ukraine	494	1.1
Venezuela	453	1.1
Nigeria	451	1.1
Turkey	425	1.0
South Africa	423	1.0
Saudi Arabia	375	0.9
Malaysia	368	0.9

(EU) cumulatively account for over 50% of all greenhouse gases emitted from 1850 onwards. However, given the diversity of each country’s stage of development, be it size, resource endowment and characteristics, there is no straightforward and one-size-fits-all formula in considering what their individual contributions should be.

For example, should the principle be “polluter pays”, that is, the more a country pollutes, the more it mitigates or pays? Likewise, should the notion of historical responsibility require developed countries to make up for historical emissions under the new climate regime? How do we normalise mitigation responsibilities across countries given wide variances in country characteristics and circumstances? How do we ensure that emission reduction efforts do not result in undue carbon leakage through the relocation of facilities to countries with lower emission reduction standards?

Total 81.7

Figures take into account carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), perfluorocarbons(PFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and sulfurhexafluoride (SF₆) emissions, and emissions from land-use, land-use change and forestry.

Source: Climate Analysis Indicators Tool (CAIT) Version 9.0. (Washington, DC: World Resources Institute, 2012).

nATionAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

As a highly urbanised city-state vulnerable to the Whilst this indicator is generally favoured adverse effects of climate change, Singapore has by countries with large populations, other a deep interest in global efforts to address the countries have also pointed out that emissions effects of climate change. Since independence, per capita is neither an appropriate primary Singapore has balanced economic and measure nor reflective of a country’s mitigation environmental goals, despite being a fossil energy- responsibilities.¹⁰ For countries with small and trade- dependent city-state with limited populations, the carbon emissions per capita access to alternative energy options. Whilst indicator will naturally tend to be higher. Small Singapore contributes less than 0.2% of global countries are also less able to leverage on emissions, we have and will continue to play our economies of scale and low-carbon renewable part in global efforts to combat climate change. energy sources that require space and land. For

example, Singapore is a city-state that has no

readily available alternative energy sources and is

Carbon Intensity therefore heavily dependent on imported fossil

fuels. Per capita indicators do not reflect the Some officials and scholars have suggested circumstances of many small countries. Singapore normalising countries’ emissions by economic ranks 27th out of 137 countries in terms of value-add or GDP (i.e., CO₂ emissions per dollar emissions per capita based on the latest IEA data.

GDP) to facilitate international comparisons,

i.e., carbon intensity. This indicator is useful There is no international consensus on in highlighting the efficiency of countries in which indicators best reflect the respective generating GDP vis-a-vis their carbon emissions. responsibilities of countries in the global effort If carbon efficiency is not taken into account, to reduce carbon emissions. Nonetheless, given global emissions could increase as economic the magnitude of the challenge, all countries, activity relocates from a more carbon efficient developed or developing, should contribute country to a less efficient one. to global action to address climate change in accordance with their national circumstances.

Singapore ranks favourably, near the lowest (123rd of 137 countries), in terms of CO₂ emissions per dollar GDP based on International Energy Agency Comparing Greenhouse Gas Emissions (IEA) data.⁹

In the following graphs, the International Energy

Agency’s data on carbon emissions from fuel

Per Capita Indicators combustion is used. This excludes emissions

from areas such as land use, land-use change and Others have proposed using per capita indicators forestry, and industrial processes. as the basis for normalising absolute emissions to take into account population size (i.e., CO₂ emissions per capita) and hence determine each country’s “fair” share of emissions reductions and financial contributions to support the fight against climate change.

⁹For 2009, which is the most recent year available.

¹⁰The considerations that follow also apply to computations on carbon footprint per capita, which attributes carbon emissions in the production of goods to the importing country. This would entail holding the importing country responsible for the emissions in the production of the goods overseas.

CHAPTER 2—SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: SINGAPORE’S NATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES

A History of Sustainable Development for Singapore

A high-quality living environment has long to 10% of Singapore’s land is set aside for parks been an important priority for Singapore. Our and nature conservation.

development as a clean and green city is the result of decades of deliberate planning and We are encouraging the use of vertical greening efforts since independence in 1965, before and rooftop gardens for buildings to absorb heat climate change became a global concern. A and lower building temperatures, and mitigate the quality living environment enhances Singapore’s urban heat effect, thus saving energy for cooling. living standards as well as our attractiveness to

investments that grow our economy and provide Major parks and green spaces around the island jobs. A clean environment with low pollution are being linked through an extensive Park also reduces health and related problems for our Connector Network. Under the Active, Beautiful people. A well-tended environment is an ongoing and Clean Waters (ABC Waters) Programme, investment that will benefit our current and PUB is also transforming our reservoirs and

future generations. waterways into beautiful and clean streams, rivers

and lakes, creating new spaces for recreation and Singapore’s Ministry of the Environment was community bonding. established following the United Nations’ first major conference on international environmental We also plan to build the Round Island Route, issues in Stockholm in 1972. We were one of the a seamless green corridor around Singapore very first countries with a Ministry dedicated to that spans more than 150km or three times the creating and sustaining a desirable environment. length of Singapore. The new Gardens by the Bay, We took further steps to develop in a sustainable which comprises three distinctive gardens, will be way during our early decades of economic growth. located on prime waterfront land in the Marina The Singapore Green Plan, setting out early goals Bay. Its flagship garden, Bay South, will officially and initiatives balancing developmental needs with open in mid-2012. This signature project in the environmental considerations, was presented at heart of our new Marina Bay financial district the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. reflects our strong commitment towards greening our city.

Singapore—The City in a Garden

One of the cornerstones of Singapore’s sustainable growth efforts is our strategy of integrated long-term land use planning. As an island city-state with an area of 710km² and resident population of 5.2 million people in 2011, land is a scarce and precious resource in Singapore. Our urban planning process reflects the need to optimise our limited land area.

Our integration of economic, social and environmental goals is reflected in innovative initiatives to build and extend green spaces within our highly urbanised environment. Singapore aspires to be a City in a Garden.

Almost 50% of Singapore is covered in greenery, which compares very favourably with major cities around the world. Despite land constraints, close Park connectors to link our green spaces.

NATIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

A Planned Environment

Singapore’s land use and transportation plans for the next 40 to 50 years are outlined in the Concept Plan, which is reviewed every 10 years to take into account changing economic and social needs.

This long-term strategic plan is used to develop a clear and transparent medium-term Master Plan, which guides development over the next 10 to 15 years.

New projects in key development areas in City Centre, Jurong Lake District, Kallang Riverside and Paya Lebar Central are required to meet high standards for environment sustainability.

Urban planning is carefully integrated with transport planning to reduce the need for and the distance of commuting, and to provide convenient access to public transportation. The modal share of public transport is 59% and the goal is to increase this to 70%.

Managing Private Transport and Making Public Transport a Choice Mode

Singapore has one of the world’s most stringent and innovative systems to manage private transport demand. Car ownership is controlled through a quota system and car usage is managed

through road pricing in the city centre, on highways and key roads. These measures were introduced to manage traffic congestion, and have helped to reduce vehicle emissions in Singapore.

We are also encouraging more people to switch from private to public transport, which is a more energy-efficient mode of travel. The Government has committed some S$60 billion to enhance the capacity of existing Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) rail lines and to implement new rail lines. This hefty investment is expected to double Singapore’s rail network from 138km in 2008 to around 280km by this decade to increase its reach and accessibility. To enhance the capacity of existing lines, additional trains are being purchased. The signalling system of the North-South and EastWest Lines is also being upgraded to further shorten headways between trains.

Continuing improvements are also being made to bus services. Higher-capacity buses and additional bus trips have been introduced. Buses now enjoy greater priority on the roads with increased coverage of full-day and part-day bus lanes, and the Mandatory Give Way to Buses scheme across the island. In addition, the Government will partner the public transport operators to grow the existing public bus fleet significantly by about 800 buses (or 20%) over the next 5 years. This will raise existing bus service levels, and enhance the capacity and connectivity of the bus network, thus improving the overall quality and attractiveness of the public transport system.

NATIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

Singapore’s Limited Access to Alternative Energy Sources

hydroelectric power of wind turbines. Most commercial wind farms

Hydroelectricity harnesses the energy of flowing leverage average wind speeds of at least 6m/s, water for the generation of electricity. Much of while prime wind sites require annual average Singapore is generally flat and less than 15m wind speeds in excess of 7.5m/s. In addition, there

above sea level. are challenges to harnessing offshore winds due

to busy maritime traffic in our waters.

Marine renewable energy (tidal and wave power)

The tidal range (difference between high and low biomass tide) is about 1.7m, well below the 4m tidal range Biomass, which is used by many countries with that is typically required for commercial tidal available land mass as a fossil fuel alternative, power generation. The availability of wave power is is not viable as a significant energy resource. determined by height and frequency of the waves, Singapore already converts much of its waste to but the waters around Singapore are relatively energy, providing about 2% of electricity needs.

calm as we are sheltered by land masses. nuclear

Geothermal energy While nuclear energy is a source of low-carbon

Geothermal energy is not commercially viable electricity, there are considerable challenges in Singapore given the lack of conventional given Singapore’s small land area and high geothermal resources and our small land area. urban density.

wind Solar

Harnessing wind energy is also not viable, given Although Singapore is located in the tropics, there our low average wind speeds of about 2m/s to are challenges to harnessing solar energy given 3m/s and lack of land for large-scale application our small size and dense urban landscape.

As a small country, there are inherent limitations to what we can do to reduce emissions. We face significant constraints in switching to alternative or renewable energies, such as geothermal, wind or hydropower, to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. We are an ‘alternative-energy disadvantaged country’… The past actions we have already taken to conserve energy have also limited our potential to further reduce emissions.

ThEn-SEniOr MiniSTEr S JayakUMar On 2 DECEMbEr 2009 aT a MEDia inTErViEw

CHAPTER 2—SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: SINGAPORE’S NATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Asia’s Greenest City

The Asian Green City Index¹³ is one example of Living Planet Report. While per capita indicators how Singapore is well regarded internationally are inherently higher for small countries and do for our living environment. According to the not consider national circumstances, Singapore 2011 Asian Green City Index, Singapore is Asia’s recognises that we can do more to reduce greenest metropolis, and the only city assessed resource use and waste generation.

to perform well above average in the overall

rankings. Highlighting our sound policies as Singapore’s immutable geographical realities, well as our achievements in efficient energy use, coupled with our historical economic the study also cited Singapore for “having an development, are significant determinants. We energy reduction strategy, for making efforts to remain committed to changing our emissions consume energy more efficiently, for having a trajectory. We have invested significantly in climate change action plan and for signing up energy-related research and development to international environmental covenants”. (R&D) over the years. For example, the National Innovation Challenge on “Energy Resilience

In the World Economic Forum’s Global for Sustainable Growth” aims to develop cost-

Competitiveness Report 2011–2012, competitive energy solutions for deployment

Singapore ranked second in both the Global within 20 years to help Singapore improve energy Competitiveness Index and the newly introduced efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and increase Sustainable Competitiveness Index, which energy options. takes into account countries’ environmental policy, resource efficiency and environmental These efforts will take time, given the need for degradation, alongside other economic and significant improvement in relevant technologies. social indicators. Singapore also ranked third Singapore will focus on our efforts as a test overall in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s bed for innovative clean technology solutions “Global City Competitiveness Index” in 2012 developed specifically for use in cities. Should and is the highest placed Asian city. The report these efforts bear results, Singapore and other highlighted Singapore’s focus on environmental countries with similar circumstances will benefit sustainability as a key aspect of liveability, which from these urban solutions.

was emphasised very early on from the 1960s.

Our constraints and unique circumstances mean However, given that Singapore imports most that Singapore’s emissions will not dip below resources—ranging from fuel to food and water— historical levels in the near future. Nonetheless, our “carbon footprint” has been noted in studies Singapore is putting in a major effort to stabilise such as the World Wide Fund for Nature’s 2010 our long-term emissions.

Conclusion

Singapore’s twin goals of growing our economy on past mitigation efforts. How much we can and protecting the environment remain central do also depends on our national circumstances, to our national strategy. We will continue to take geographical constraints, and the extent to which steps to reduce our carbon emissions, building Singapore can harness non-fossil fuel alternatives.

¹³The Index and accompanying study were commissioned by Siemens and developed by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). It examined the environmental performance of 22 major Asian cities in eight categories: energy and carbon dioxide (CO₂), land use and buildings, transport, waste, water, sanitation, air quality and environmental governance. The EIU developed the methodology with leading urban experts around the world, including representatives of the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Bank and Asia’s regional network of local authorities, CITYNET.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

singapore’s approach to reducing emissions

Energy is a strategic resource for Singapore, and Energy Efficiency as a Core Strategy we are almost completely reliant on external sources of fuel to produce energy to meet our Given Singapore’s limited access to renewable needs. We price fuel and electricity according to energy, energy efficiency is our core strategy to market supply and demand, and avoid subsidising reduce emissions. Singapore needs to further energy costs. By pricing energy according to enhance energy efficiency across all sectors of the what it is worth, firms and households can make economy. Our objective is to achieve, by 2030, a appropriate choices, minimise energy wastage and 35% reduction¹⁵ in economy-wide energy intensity,

over-consumption. i.e., the amount of energy required to produce

each S$GDP.

As the vast majority of carbon emissions originate from the combustion of fossil fuels for energy, Conceptually, the most economically efficient the most direct way to reduce emissions is to approach would be to rely on market forces and cut down the use of fossil fuels. While we are price signals, prioritising measures for which actively supporting research on clean energy the benefits (in the form of life cycle energy technologies, Singapore has limited access to savings) exceed the cost of implementing the alternative or renewable energy. We have taken measures. However, the effects of these policies the next best step, which is to switch from fuel can be complex. For instance, it is not always oil (more carbon-intensive) to natural gas, which possible to accurately predict how much carbon has a lower carbon content per unit of electricity abatement will result from particular measures, generated. However, there are limits to how much as those affected may respond in different ways. more we can reduce emissions by switching fuels, Singapore is therefore conducting pilot trials since natural gas already constitutes around 80% where appropriate to assess feasibility for larger of our fuel mix for electricity generation today. scale implementation.

The Singapore Government will help to raise awareness and build capabilities to improve our energy efficiency. A major part of this effort involves addressing sector-specific barriers using incentives or regulatory measures where appropriate.¹⁶Some of these policy options are illustrated in Figure 3.1.

¹⁵From 2005 levels.

¹⁶For instance, the proportion of 3- to 4-tick common household electrical appliances such as refrigerators and air-conditioners sold in Singapore have increased significantly; and less efficient 0- to 1-tick ones are no longer allowed for sale. This process of shifting the market towards more energy efficient appliances started with voluntary labelling on the energy consumption of these appliances in 2002, before labelling was made mandatory in 2008. Minimum energy performance standards are now in place.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

Figure 3.1: Barriers to Energy Efficiency (EE) and Possible Policy Options

Barriers to EE

Limited capital

High upfront cost

Lack of information

Split incentives

Bounded

rationality

EE investments, even with net positive returns, compete with other investment opportunities.

EE investments may entail significant upfront cost.

High search costs of time/ resources to research and implement EE solutions.

Decision-maker does not reap benefits of investment.

Lack of understanding about EE; status quo bias for “tried and tested” products.

Policy Possibilities

Fiscal tools

Levies, subsidies, rebates

EE Financing Schemes

Capabilitybuilding tools

Training programmes

Educational campaigns

Voluntary information provision

Facilitative/ regulatory tools/ standards

Contracts structured to align incentives

Mandatory information reporting/audits

Mandatory EE standards

Economywide carbon pricing

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

Household. Increases in population and Singapore. Our manufacturing sector is thus household incomes are expected to increase expected to continue to constitute a significant demand for electrical appliances such as air- part in Singapore’s economic mix, contributing conditioners, televisions, lighting and refrigerators to 20% to 25% of our economy.¹⁸ It will account in our BAU emissions. We have put in place for the majority (60%) of our projected 2020 awareness programmes to inform households of emissions. Given the earlier efforts to reclaim and ways to save energy and legislative measures to prepare Jurong Island as an integrated efficient restrict the sale of energy inefficient appliances. hub, global manufacturing companies have taken We will consider more measures to influence investment decisions to scale up their operations purchasing and energy usage patterns. in Singapore in the coming years. Our refining and chemical industries are expected to contribute
Industry. Rapid urbanisation and the rise of about half of Singapore’s 2020 BAU emissions. the Asian middle class will shift global demand We have put in place various schemes to facilitate for products and services towards Asia. This will the adoption of energy efficient technologies and drive demand for expansion of petrochemicals processes in our manufacturing companies. and manufactured products from hubs such as

To achieve more emission reductions over time will require behavioural adjustments and changes to business processes. We will need to consider more stringent energy efficiency standards and legislation, along with measures taken by other countries.

DEPUty PrimE miniStEr tEO ChEE hEAn DUring thE SingAPOrE PArliAmEnt

COmmittEE OF SUPPly DEBAtE, 1 mArCh 2012

¹⁸As a small country without natural resources and no hinterland, Singapore had to develop as an open economy with a strong export-oriented manufacturing base.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

refining and Chemicals industries

The refining and chemicals industries are key islands, was conceived in the 1980s to better components of Singapore’s manufacturing integrate chemical cluster activity for greater mix, contributing around a quarter of our efficiency. It is now among the world’s largest manufacturing output by value. By producing 10 petrochemical hubs.²³ The close proximity of chemicals and fuels for a wide range of chemical companies on Jurong Island allows for industries,¹⁹ the cluster provides resilience overall system efficiency as products of one plant to Singapore’s manufacturing portfolio.²⁰ can be efficiently used as inputs in other plants.

Steam (and electricity) demand can be supplied Refining has a long history in Singapore. Energy by co-generation plants.²⁴ This reduces the need trading started in the late 1890s —even before for individual companies to produce their own Singapore’s independence—with operations steam supply, which reduces overall costs for by the Vacuum Oil Company and Shell on companies and is also more energy efficient at Pulau Bukom. Singapore’s port, geographically the system level.

positioned along the East-West trade routes, became an ideal hub for the supply of fuel to To provide a critical mass of feedstock for the shipping and to meet regional needs. Shell set industry so as to produce higher value-add up Singapore’s first oil refinery in 1961 and the chemicals, the Government had earlier indicated Bukom facility has grown to be Shell’s largest plans to increase the ethylene production capacity refinery globally. Other oil companies like Esso, from 2 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to Mobil, British Petroleum and Caltex subsequently 6–8mtpa in the long term. Two new crackers established their presence in Singapore. By the from ExxonMobil and Shell will bring the total mid-1970s, Singapore had become the third- ethylene production capacity to 4mtpa by 2012 largest export refining centre worldwide. As a and we expect a further pipeline of investments. major swing refinery centre, Singapore also caters Our strategy of moving up the value chain could to swings in demand in refined fuel products also reduce the overall carbon intensity²⁵ of the in the Asia Pacific.²¹ In addition, our significant chemical cluster in the long term (up to 25% by oil storage and trading infrastructure has made some estimates). The Singapore Government Singapore the Asian price discovery centre for has been proactive in working with companies to

oil products.²² improve levels of energy efficiency—conducting

benchmarking studies and investing in research Our refining and chemicals cluster is focused and development (R&D) efforts for efficiency on moving up the value chain. This involves improvements at the company and systemic expanding the production of petrochemicals levels. Moving forward, the Government will and specialty chemicals. These chemicals are work with companies to aim for new investments used to manufacture plastic components used to be best in class in terms of energy efficiency, in a wide range of consumer products. Jurong and study further measures through a mix of Island, an amalgamation of seven offshore incentives and legislation for existing plants.

¹⁹For example, our specialty chemical companies produce chemicals for our electronics and solar manufacturing sectors, e.g., electronic gases and encapsulants.

²⁰The cluster has also been a source of resilient jobs.

²¹For example, due to weather and other contingencies such as unscheduled shutdowns of other regional refineries.

²²Singapore has oil storage facilities amounting to nine million cubic metres. There are around 400 petroleum and petroleum product traders based in Singapore (Source: Singapore Department of Statistics).

²³It is home to more than 95 leading petroleum, petrochemicals and specialty chemicals companies from all over the world and has attracted investments of over S$30 billion.

²⁴One example is Power Seraya’s 800MW co-generation plant which supplies steam and electricity to the Petrochemical Corporation of Singapore Complex and downstream companies on Jurong Island.

²⁵Carbon emissions generated per GDP or economic value add.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

POWER GENERATION

Current perspectives

We have switched away from fuel oil to natural gas and the proportion of Singapore’s electricity generated by natural gas has risen to about 80% today. Our carbon emissions from the power sector have dropped in tandem. Today, Singapore ranks among the countries with the highest percentage of use of natural gas for electricity generation.

Next steps

Singapore is continuing with its fuel mix switch from fuel oil to natural gas. At present, Singapore relies on natural gas piped from Malaysia and Indonesia. To ensure a resilient and more diverse supply of natural gas, the Singapore Government is building a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal that will allow us to import LNG from global gas markets. The terminal is expected to commence operations in the second quarter of 2013. This will allow Singapore to further increase the share of clean natural gas in our fuel mix in the future.

We are exploring ways to increase our use of solar energy. Among the renewable energy options, solar energy presents the best opportunities for Singapore. In our context, we expect electricity derived from solar energy to be cost-competitive vis-a-vis electricity derived from fossil fuels as

Singapore’s first LNG terminal in Jurong Island, scheduled to be completed in 2013.

prices of solar technologies decrease further. We are actively investing in R&D and test-bedding to improve the efficiency and lower the price of solar technologies for adoption on a larger scale.

To facilitate this, the Economic Development Board (EDB) has launched solar capability building schemes such as the Solar Capability Scheme (SCS) and Clean Energy Research Testbedding (CERT). To understand how available solar technology can be adopted for local conditions, the Housing & Development Board (HDB) is conducting solar test beds in 30 HDB precincts over a five-year period. In addition, HDB is studying new business models for solar power. For example, under a solar leasing model being tested in Punggol, the town council leases solar photovoltaic (PV) systems from private companies, which will own, design, finance, install, operate and maintain the solar PV systems. The town council will then pay the company for the solar power consumed at a rate that is equal to or lower than the retail electricity tariff rate.

By the end of 2011, there were about four megawatt peak (MWp) of solar PV installations in Singapore, including projects at Resorts World Sentosa, Applied Materials’ Changi North manufacturing plant, the Building and Construction Authority’s

(BCA) Zero Energy Building, and City

Developments Limited’s 7 & 9 Tampines Grande.

7 & 9 Tampines Grande, a commercial development,

incorporates the use of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Panels (dark-coloured) on the building façade, as well as Photovoltaic Panels (dark-coloured) and Solar Thermal Panels (light-coloured) on the rooftops.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

INdusTRy

Current perspectives

A key concern in the industry sector is limited capital for investment in energy efficiency, especially for projects involving high upfront costs and longer payback periods. While energy efficiency investments have a positive rate of return, competing investments, such as plant expansions and other development projects, are often favoured. There may not be adequate information or understanding of available energy efficiency options, especially for smaller businesses which might not have the expertise or resources to determine more appropriate energy efficiency options for their needs.

Next steps

For the industry sector, the Government can facilitate energy efficient investments by helping companies to identify commercially viable energy efficiency improvements and helping to defray upfront costs through co-funding. At present, the Design for Efficiency Scheme (DfE) encourages investors to design energy and resource efficient facilities by co-funding up to 80% of the costs of engaging an energy consultant to conduct a design workshop. For existing facilities, the Energy Efficiency Improvement Assistance Scheme (EASe) co-funds the cost of engaging accredited energy services companies (ESCOs) to conduct energy audits and identify energy efficiency improvement measures. There are also grants and tax incentives for energy efficiency investments via the Grant for Energy Efficiency Technologies (GREET) and the Investment Allowance (IA) schemes. These schemes will focus on more energy-intensive industries. For example, incentives could facilitate the construction of co-generation plants for these sectors, which deliver higher efficiency compared to the separate production of electricity and steam.

We are also considering innovative ways to encourage energy efficiency improvements.

These include the Energy Performance

Contracting (EPC) model, in which a third party bears the upfront cost of energy efficiency investments and shares the expected energy savings over time with the consumer (businesses or households).

For example, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has been working with various government agencies and ESCOs to design and implement

EPC for energy efficiency retrofits to public sector buildings. The EDB and BCA are also testing various models of energy efficiency financing. If found viable, the models could be implemented on a larger scale thereafter.

We are also supporting the development of expertise in Singapore that companies can tap on to drive energy efficiency improvements. To fully maximise their energy efficiency savings, firms must go beyond replacing individual pieces of equipment with more efficient alternatives, and explore ways to optimise their systems as a whole. Specialised skills are needed to accurately measure and benchmark current system performance, analyse data to identify opportunities, and design a holistic plan to realise system efficiency gains. Qualified energy efficiency experts are best placed to carry out these activities in a rigorous and systematic way. Current schemes such as the ESCO Accreditation Scheme and the Singapore Certified Energy Manager (SCEM) Programme will help grow such technical and professional capabilities in Singapore.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

energy performance Contracting national schemes for Building energy efficiency Capabilities

Energy performance contracting is an

arrangement under which an Energy Services Energy Services Companies (ESCOs) Company (ESCO) is hired to examine the energy Accreditation Scheme consumption of a building or facility, and then to Created to encourage the growth of ESCOs and identify and implement energy saving measures. to enhance their professionalism and quality of

services, the Accreditation Scheme establishes There are two broad models of a nationally recognised Register of Accredited performance contracting: ESCOs. This scheme is jointly administered by

the NEA and BCA. ESCOs help companies identify

Shared savings model: The ESCO bears the cost and realise opportunities to improve energy of designing and implementing energy efficiency efficiency. Their trained professionals play an projects. The ESCO then recovers its costs and important role in supporting companies that do makes a profit by taking a fixed proportion of the not possess the internal capabilities to achieve money saved by the client company on energy these efficiency gains on their own. bills, over a specified period of time.

Singapore Certified Energy manager

guaranteed savings model: The ESCO proposes (SCEm) Programme a set of energy efficiency projects, and guarantees This was initiated to help engineering a specified level of energy cost savings as a result. professionals develop the technical skills and The client company then pays for the energy competencies needed to lead energy services efficiency investments. If the energy savings are and management work in their organisations. The less than the guaranteed level, the ESCO will SCEM programme is jointly administered by the make up the difference out of its own funds. NEA and the Institution of Engineers Singapore.

To encourage professionals to upgrade their skills, NEA offers a training grant which co-funds about 80% of the cost of the SCEM training course.

Participants attending an SCEM Programme.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

Energy efficiency improvements have been industry-led initiatives, such as the biomedical observed from the introduction of similar manufacturing energy workgroup, where energy legislation in Japan, South Korea and Denmark. managers of companies in the pharmaceutical sector under the co-leadership of Pfizer and The Singapore Government has also worked GlaxoSmithKline share proven energy saving closely with companies, especially those in energy- projects and practices. The group set a collective intensive sectors, to uncover energy efficiency target of improving its energy intensity by an potential in companies through benchmarking annual average of 6% among the companies. On studies, and to encourage the sharing of best average, they achieved an improvement of 7.4% practices on energy efficiency. There are also in 2011 over the previous year.

reducing emissions in the refining and Chemicals industries

Recognising the carbon-intensive nature of the Jurong Island will also be a living lab for

refining and chemicals industries, the Singapore companies to develop and demonstrate innovative Government has been proactive in working integrated solutions, such as tapping on waste with these industries to achieve higher levels of heat to power productive processes. For example, energy efficiency. The close proximity of chemical the Cambridge Centre for Carbon Reduction plants on Jurong Island has enabled system-level in Chemical Technology—a collaboration energy efficiency options such as shared utilities between the University of Cambridge in the and waste heat recovery. For example, a recent UK, the Nanyang Technological University energy optimisation study conducted for the and the National University of Singapore—is Petrochemical Corporation of Singapore complex expected to open in early 2013 to develop low on Jurong Island identified carbon abatement carbon solutions for the refining and chemicals opportunities amounting to almost 10% of the industry. Jurong Island also provides a unique complex’s emissions, of which half were system- environment for companies to develop and testlevel reductions made possible by sharing utilities bed carbon capture and utilisation technologies, and greater integration.²⁹due to the availability of concentrated carbon dioxide streams.³⁰

²⁹One recommendation from the benchmarking study is for waste heat from the process stream of one plant to be coupled with the generation of chilled water from an adjacent plant.

³⁰Research is underway in Singapore on developing these technologies, under Singapore’s A*STAR Thematic Strategic Research Programme. For example, one research project on carbon capture includes a pilot plant at the Institute of Chemical and Engineering Science to capture at least 200kg/day of carbon dioxide using an adsorption-based post combustion capture technology.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

BuIldINGs However, building owners also have competing

uses for their capital, and are sometimes reluctant

Current perspectives to undertake loans for energy efficiency projects,

Retrofitting buildings to improve their energy due to the impact on their balance sheets. In the efficiency can yield positive returns. Energy cost case of new buildings, developers who intend to savings usually offset the cost of retrofits in 5 to sell their buildings after construction may not

7 years. invest heavily in energy efficiency features that

benefit building owners and users but not them.

an award-Winning green Building Masterplan

The annual World Green Building Council The Green Building Masterplan, first launched Government Leadership Awards highlights world- in 2006, focused on the greening of new leading government policies that maximise the buildings. The 2nd Green Building Masterplan, opportunities for buildings to mitigate carbon launched in 2009, gives greater emphasis to the emissions. For its Green Building Masterplan greening of existing buildings. It sets out specific and efforts in steering the construction initiatives in six key strategic thrusts to achieve industry towards sustainable development in the national target of greening at least 80% of Singapore and the Asia Pacific, Singapore’s the buildings in Singapore by 2030. As of March

BCA was conferred the inaugural Regional 2012, there are more than 1,000 green building

Leadership Award. projects, translating to a gross floor area of about

30 million square metres, or 14% of the total gross floor area in Singapore.

2nd green Building Masterplan

6 strategic thrusts

Strategic

Thrust 1

Public Sector taking the lead

Strategic

Thrust 2

Spurring the

Private Sector

Strategic

Thrust 3

Furthering the

Development of green Building

technology

Strategic Strategic

Thrust 4 Thrust 5

Building industry Profiling Singapore

Capabilities and raising through training Awareness

Strategic

Thrust 6

imposing

minimum

Standards

Source: Building and Construction Authority.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

green Mark incentive scheme—design prototype

The BCA Green Mark Scheme has driven the optimises their design using in-depth studies. adoption of sustainable green building design To encourage such practices and push for even and practices in the building sector. Recognised higher energy efficiency improvements, BCA and supported by the industry, it has become introduced a S$5 million Green Mark Incentive the national yardstick for rating a building’s Scheme–Design Prototype (GMIS-DP). This environmental performance. It is also now a aims to encourage developers and building qualifying standard for determining eligibility owners to strive for greater energy efficiency in and grant amounts under various green building- buildings by placing more emphasis on the design related incentive programmes. The revised stage. The scheme provides funding to engage BCA Green Mark criteria for new buildings Environmentally Sustainable Design consultants (Version 4.0) places greater emphasis on passive to conduct collaborative design workshops and design strategies to encourage more resource assist in early simulation studies. It will benefit

efficient designs. developers who are in the preliminary concept

design phase of new buildings, and who target to The most high performance, energy-efficient surpass the standards of Green Mark Platinum, buildings adopt an early collaborative design demonstrating energy savings of at least 40% process, where the entire project team meets better than the current base code. to understand each other’s requirements and

incentive schemes for existing Buildings

The BCA’s S$100 million green mark incentive encourages existing buildings owners with limited Scheme for Existing Buildings (gmiS-EB) helps financial resources to go green, and financial building owners offset part of the retrofitting institutions to offer financing for energy efficiency costs to improve the energy efficiency of retrofits. Under this pilot scheme, BCA will share existing buildings. the risk of any loan default with participating

financial institutions, who will provide loans to The BCA’s Building retrofit Energy Efficiency building owners and energy services companies to Financing (BrEEF) pilot scheme further carry green retrofits.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

BCa-unep Collaboration

The BCA is collaborating with the UNEP to promote and establish sustainable building policies and practices in the Southeast Asia region.

BCA’s Centre for Sustainable Buildings in Singapore will assist countries in the region in developing tools and training to propagate sustainable solutions in the building sector.

BCA is also part of UNEP’s Sustainable Buildings and Climate Initiative (UNEP-SBCI), a building sector partnership to promote the global adoption of sustainable buildings as a key strategy to address climate change impact.

green government Buildings

the Environment Building (ASEAN Energy Award 2007, BCA’s Green Mark Platinum rating 2011) features an air-distribution system to control fresh air supply through the use of carbon dioxide sensors, sensors to automatically control lighting, occupancy sensors for meeting rooms, energy efficient lighting, and a modular cooling system for use after office hours.

the treasury (Green Mark Gold rating 2009) features an energy-efficient chiller plant, precooled air-handling units, motion sensors for most of its common toilets and use of NEWater for cooling towers.

the ministry of manpower Building (Green Mark

Platinum rating 2011, ASEAN Energy Award 2011) features energy-efficient installations such as photocell sensors for perimeter lighting and energy regenerative units for lifts. The MOM facilities and project management team also retrofitted its chiller plant to achieve higher efficiency.

TRANsPORT

Current perspectives

Private cars contribute the largest share of land transport emissions (35%), followed by commercial vehicles, taxis, buses, Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)/Light Rapid Transit (LRT) and motorcycles (see Figure 3.5). Although public transport usage has been increasing in absolute terms, the public transport modal split—the percentage of morning peak hour commutes using public transport—has declined from 63% in 2004 to 59% in 2008. The carbon emissions from private cars have also risen as more people purchase models with higher engine capacities, which tend to emit more carbon emissions over time. This is in spite of a progressive registration and annual tax regime that penalises owners of larger cars.

In addition to bidding for the Certificate of Entitlement which confers the right to own a vehicle, a buyer of a new vehicle will also be taxed for vehicle purchase and ownership. Such taxes include the Additional Registration Fee (which can be up to 100% of the open market value of the vehicle), Excise Duty and Road Tax.

To help raise public awareness of fuel efficiency in cars and to encourage motor traders to bring in more fuel-efficient vehicles into Singapore, NEA introduced a Fuel Economy Labelling Scheme (FELS) in 2003 that was subsequently made mandatory in 2009. Under this scheme, motor traders provide buyers with fuel efficiency information to help them make more informed purchasing decisions.

national CliMate Change strategy 2012 table 3.1: Structure of the CEV Scheme Beyond using price signals, public information and

Band	CO₂(g/km)	Rebate/Surcharge* for Cars
A1	0 to 100	$20,000 rebate
A2	101 to 120	$15,000 rebate
A3	121 to 140	$10,000 rebate
A4	141 to 160	$5,000 rebate
B	161 to 210	0
C1	211 to 230	$5,000 surcharge
C2	231 to 250	$10,000 surcharge
C3	251 to 270	$15,000 surcharge
C4	271 & above	$20,000 surcharge

education are also important. From the second half of 2012, LTA will administer FELS. Future FELS labels will contain additional information such as the vehicle model’s carbon emissions in standard units, its relative performance compared to other models in the market, and its CEV Scheme banding. LTA will also set up a new online database so that consumers can easily compare the efficiency of different car models.

Electric transport solutions are possible in

Singapore, given our well-developed R&D

*The rebate/surcharge quanta for taxis will be 50% higher than the quanta

for cars. capabilities, robust electrical grid, advanced

Source: Ministry of Transport. Information and Communication Technology

(ICT) infrastructure and compact urban environment. A multi-agency Electric Vehicle Taskforce co-chaired by EMA and LTA is spearheading the Electric Vehicle (EV) testbedding programme to assess the feasibility of EVs in Singapore. Vehicular tax exemption is provided as an incentive for test bed participants. Participants can choose from four models of EVs: the Daimler smart electric drive, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Nissan Leaf and Renault Fluence Z.E.

LTA is also studying measures to reduce emissions from our bus and commercial vehicle fleet. For

SBS Transit Hybrid Bus. instance, LTA and public transport operators are

collaborating on a trial of diesel hybrid buses. Diesel hybrid buses have been effective in other cities in reducing both carbon emissions and particulate matter emissions of the bus fleet. If the trial is successful, more of these diesel hybrid buses could be deployed in future.

Cycling has become increasingly popular in recent years. To facilitate cycling as an alternative mode of transport for short-distance trips, LTA is investing S$43 million to design and construct dedicated off-road cycling paths in seven HDB Towns³² and Marina Bay. LTA is also providing better bicycle parking facilities near

Double deck bicycle parking facilities at Pasir Ris MRT station. MRT stations to help cyclists transfer to public

transport for longer distance travel. LTA has also worked with public transport operators to allow foldable bicycles on buses and trains during offpeak hours.

³²The seven HDB towns are Tampines, Yishun, Sembawang, Pasir Ris, Taman Jurong, Bedok and Changi-Simei.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

The NEA also encourages energy efficiency and ^{MELS was implemented in 2008 for}conservation through the 10% Energy Challenge. household air-conditioners and refrigerators. Energy saving tips have been promoted through It was extended to clothes dryers in 2009. media publicity, roadshows and community

outreach. For wider outreach, information and tools to help households save energy at home is also made available on the E² Singapore website (www.e2singapore.gov.sg), which serves as a comprehensive source of information on energy efficiency matters in Singapore.

Minimum energy performance standards in singapore

Several countries such as Australia, New Zealand of energy-efficient air-conditioners, refrigerators and Japan have implemented MEPS, which and clothes dryers sold has been steadily prescribe the minimum energy efficiency (or increasing over the years. In 2011, about 80% of maximum allowable energy consumption) levels purchases of household air-conditioners and 85% that a product must meet before it is allowed of refrigerators were from the top two highest for sale. MEPS specify the energy performance efficiency categories of 3- and 4-tick models (see but not the technology or design details of the Figures 3.8 and 3.9). product. MEPS, in conjunction with a well-

developed energy labelling programme, has In response to MELS and MEPS, manufacturers helped to reduce energy usage in Singapore. and suppliers brought in a wide variety of energy-efficient models and retired less efficient Singapore’s MEPS requirements are set based on models. The share of energy-efficient refrigerator the key considerations that it minimises lifecycle models (those with 3- or 4-ticks) registered with cost for consumers and does not overly constrain NEA increased from 46% in 2008 to 79% in the availability of appliances and choice of models. 2011. Similarly, the share of energy efficient air-

conditioner models increased from 30% in 2008 MEPS was introduced in September 2011 for to 57% in 2011. household air-conditioners and refrigerators to help consumers avoid high energy consumption In order to lock in the efficiency gains that and energy costs of inefficient appliances. have been achieved by the collective efforts of MEPS also encourages suppliers to bring in consumers, manufacturers and suppliers, MEPS more energy efficient appliances that benefit for household air-conditioners and refrigerators consumers in terms of cost savings over the will be tightened in 2013.

lifetime of the appliances. Since MEPS was legislated, almost 70% of air-conditioner models MEPS will be extended to cover general lighting and 90% of refrigerator models on offer are 3- in 2014, as lighting is the third largest contributor and 4-tick models (see Figures 3.6 and 3.7). to household electricity consumption after airconditioners and refrigerators. Lighting accounts Market data shows that households, for about 10% of electricity consumption in a manufacturers and suppliers have responded typical 4-room HDB household.

positively to MELS and MEPS. The proportion Continued>

national CliMate Change strategy 2012

additional Measures to enhance Carbon reduction efforts?

The measures outlined in this chapter are A carbon price can also provide a market incentive expected to reduce Singapore’s emissions by for R&D in energy efficiency, and stimulate growth 7% to 11% below the 2020 BAU level. However, in green industries. It is important to invest in the effectiveness of these policy measures will technology and R&D to find solutions to reduce depend—to a large extent—on how businesses our carbon emissions, as we explore feasible and consumers respond. The actual achieved alternative energy solutions for Singapore. Just as figures for each sector may vary, but we expect our water constraints led us to develop NEWater,³⁴that the overall target will be met. climate change could provide the opportunities for Singapore to develop ourselves as a clean In the event that additional emissions reductions technology hub.

are required, we will need stronger interventions in all sectors, including the possibility of However, a carbon price will incur costs for introducing a carbon price. At the Singapore businesses and households, with implications International Energy Week 2010, Prime Minister that will have to be worked through with Lee Hsien Loong spoke about working through different industries and groups. For instance, the market to deal with carbon emissions, and costs of production will rise more steeply for noted the need for a charge to induce changes to firms that use relatively energy-intensive inputs. consumers’ behaviour so that they would feel the Firms may also be concerned about their cost of their consumption decisions and make external competitiveness.

the right choices. Pricing carbon could be done through a tax or cap-and-trade scheme. A carbon We have not reached a decision on carbon price will send the appropriate price signals pricing and will need to consider the impact of to encourage changes in energy consumption any such scheme in Singapore, learning from the and lower carbon emissions. This will also help experiences of other countries. Singaporeans and industries better adapt to the rising cost of energy.

³⁴NEWater is high-grade reclaimed water produced from treated used water that is further purified using advanced membrane technologies and ultraviolet disinfection.

Chapter 3—Mitigation: reduCing eMissions

We should also work through the market to deal with carbon emissions. Efficiency gains are important… But efficiency gains alone are not sufficient because of the rebound effect… Therefore, there is a need to impose a charge to induce consumers to change their behaviour so that they feel the cost of the consumption and they make the right choices. The best approach is to apply a carbon price, whether you have a tax on carbon or a cap and trade scheme. This depends on the institutional circumstances of the countries. But that you must price the carbon. That is a fact you cannot run away from.

PrimE miniStEr lEE hSiEn lOOng At thE 2010 SingAPOrE EnErgy lECtUrE, SingAPOrE intErnAtiOnAl EnErgy WEEk, 1 nOVEmBEr 2010

looking ahead

The International Energy Agency (IEA) assessed efficient appliances and using public transport; that energy efficiency policies and measures are using fans rather than air-conditioners; and the cheapest abatement option available and using more efficient lighting) the challenge is to the most important source of abatement.³⁵ In make the necessary adjustments and changes. Singapore’s context, energy efficiency is also a Similarly, companies need to undertake measures key mitigation strategy. The people, private and to improve their energy efficiency including public sectors need to work in close partnership retrofitting equipment and buildings. The

to increase gains in energy efficiency. effectiveness of these actions will depend on the

extent to which they are willing and able to incur There is strong public interest—businesses and some upfront costs. The Government, on its part, consumers want more information on energy and will enhance efforts to improve energy efficiency fuel efficiency so they can make more informed by public agencies. We will also provide the policy decisions. At the same time, public awareness framework, put in place appropriate incentives needs to be further translated into action. While and facilitate capability development efforts to there are immediate energy saving choices that improve energy efficiency levels in Singapore. households can make (such as choosing more

³⁵This was demonstrated for the 450 Scenario, in which greenhouse gas emissions stabilise at 450 parts per million (ppm) of CO₂-equivalent, in line with an increase in global mean temperature of around 2°C above pre-industrial levels. Source: World Energy Outlook 2011 © OECD/International Energy Agency 2011.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

singapore’s Approach on Adaptation

It is important for Singapore to make Addressing Flood Risks early preparations to adapt to climate change impact. Much of Singapore’s land area of 710km² An expert panel appointed by the Ministry is less than 15m above sea level, with a generally of the Environment and Water Resources flat coast. With a population of 5.2 million, has reviewed the drainage design and flood Singapore is one of the most densely populated protection measures that will be implemented

countries in the world. in Singapore in the near to medium term, taking

into consideration increasing weather variability Work has already started to enhance resilience and urbanisation. To increase our flood resilience, against coastal erosion and inundation associated PUB, Singapore’s national water agency, has with rising sea levels coupled with weather revamped its approach to drainage and flood variability. Water resources management is management to incorporate catchment-wide also a key priority. While many of the initiatives solutions, using advanced modelling tools, highlighted in this chapter were not conceived piloting a flood forecasting system and expanding solely with climate change in mind, they arethe capacities of our drainage systems through 20 integral to Singapore’s sustainable development projects within five years. A risk-based approach efforts. At the same time, they provide a good will be taken as we continue to adapt our foundation for our efforts to address the impact infrastructure to the longer-term effects of higher of climate change. sea level and rainfall intensity.

Protecting Our Coastline Managing Our Water Resources

We have made plans to protect our coasts and To ensure a sustainable water supply for improve our drainage. For instance, in anticipation Singapore’s population and industry, PUB has of rising sea levels in the future, the minimum built a robust and diversified water supply for reclamation levels for newly reclaimed land have Singapore through the Four National Taps, namely been raised by 1m since late 2011, in addition local catchment water, imported water, NEWater to the previous level of 1.25m above the highest and desalinated water. In particular, NEWater and recorded tide level observed before 1991. desalinated water are not dependent on rainfall and are thus more resilient against dry weather. These two non-conventional water sources were added to our water supply in 2002 and 2005 respectively, and together they meet up to 40% of our national water demand today. By 2060, PUB plans to triple the current NEWater capacity and ramp up desalination capacity so that NEWater and desalinated water meet up to 50% and 30% of our future water demand respectively.

nATionAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Anticipating singapore’s long-Term Vulnerability

In the 2007 Climate Change Study which examined These findings, based on the current state of the long-term effects of climate change on knowledge on climate science and modelling, and Singapore,³⁶ the mean sea level around Singapore peer reviewed by experts, are comparable to the could rise by up to 0.65m, and temperatures could findings in the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) increase by up to 4.2°C in 2100. published in 2007 by the Intergovernmental Panel

on Climate Change (IPCC). For rainfall, further Key findings from Phase 1 of the study, completed studies are ongoing, as recommended by the peer in 2009, are summarised in Table 4.1. review panel.

Table 4.1: Key Findings of the Singapore Climate Change Study

Climate Change Projections (in 2100 relative to present)		IPCC AR4 Projections	Singapore Climate Change Study Findings
	Change in Average Temperature (˚C)	+1.7 to +4.4 (A1B Scenario, SE Asia)	+2.7 to + 4.2 (A1B Scenario)
	Change in Rainfall (%)	-2 to +15 (A1B Scenario, SE Asia)	Further studies needed— these are now ongoing
	Change in Mean Sea Level (m)	+0.18 to +0.59 (All IPCC Scenarios, Global)	+0.24 to +0.65 (3 IPCC Scenarios)

Source: Singapore’s Second National Communications, November 2010.

Over time, these findings will be updated as and other aspects as shown in Table 4.2 must also climate science and models improve, and be addressed. more information such as that arising from

the Fifth Assessment Report by the IPCC The ongoing work on each aspect involves becomes available. bringing together expertise from multiple

agencies. Phase 2 of the study is in progress and As climate change affects various aspects of the will investigate the impact of climate change on environment and human development, the impact public health, urban temperature profile, energy on areas such as our natural environment, public consumption of buildings, and biodiversity. health, energy demand and urban infrastructure

Table 4.2: Impact of Climate Change on the Physical Environment

Climate Change Effect Examples of How the Physical Environment Could Be Affected
	Increase in temperature	Changes to biodiversity and greenery; implications for public health (e.g., from heat stress, mosquitoes); greater demand on energy infrastructure (for cooling)
	Change in rainfall (droughts) or intense storms	Reliability of water supplies; drainage and flooding issues; changes to geomorphology, biodiversity and greenery
	Sea level rise	Erosion and flooding of coastal areas
	Change in wind patterns	Public health (e.g., haze)

Source: Based on IPCC’s AR4.

³⁶The study was commissioned by an inter-agency technical group, led by the National Environment Agency.

nATionAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Enhancing Knowledge and Expertise in Climate science and Adaptation for the long Term

Further research is critical to enhance our

understanding of climate science and adaptation Why Climate Change Effects Could Vary options. Singapore lies within Southeast Asia, a in Asia

region of high risk to climate change effects and

other extreme weather events. According to Atmosphere-Ocean General

Circulation Model³⁷ simulations, the effects of We are developing clusters in research areas to climate change in Asia are broadly consistent study the different aspects of climate change- across the different models used.

related impact and vulnerabilities. As an

understanding of regional and local climate is However, some uncertainties remain. The models integral to building resilience, we are augmenting are limited by a lack of observational data from expertise in climate and weather science within some areas of Southeast Asia. This affects the the Meteorological Service Singapore and models’ ability to assess projected changes in local research institutions, as well as forming regional climatic means and extremes.

partnerships with international experts. Furthermore, different models represent monsoon processes in different ways. This is partly due to Specialised and relevant research on climate uncertainty over future regional monsoon and change effects within Southeast Asia can help tropical cyclone behaviour, as climate scientists us identify the most appropriate adaptation do not have full knowledge of future changes in measures for Singapore, and improve our ENSO (El Niño/La Niña-Southern Oscillation, a resilience to climate change. climate pattern that occurs across the tropical

Pacific Ocean roughly every five years).

Role of Local Research Institutes As a result of these uncertainties, it is difficult to obtain quantitative estimates of projected Singapore-based institutes are conducting rainfall changes. It is likely that some local applied research on climate change and climate changes will vary significantly from overall coastal protection. regional trends, due to the region’s very complex

topography and marine influences.

Work on local climate modelling is important because models and projections of climate change impact—based on regional or global data and assumptions—may not fully account for the specific variations in local climate and weather patterns.

³⁷Atmosphere-Ocean General Circulation Models are the primary tool used for understanding of past climate variations, and for future projections globally and regionally.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

Centre for Climate Research Singapore

The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) has established a Centre for Climate Research Singapore (CCRS) to build up in-house capability in climate science and climate modelling.

Guided by an International Scientific Advisory Panel on Climate Science, the Centre will also tap on relevant experts and institutions through a Climate Science Experts Network to coordinate and steer climate-related research in Singapore. The Experts Network will leverage a range of interdisciplinary expertise in local academia to complement that of the CCRS. This will build up Singapore’s expertise in climate science, to help augment national preparedness for climate change and inform policy decisions.

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, with Senior Minister of State

Ms Grace Fu at the launch of the book “The Weather and Climate of Singapore”, at the Upper Air Observatory of the MSS.

Facts and Figures on singapore’s Historical Weather Trends

“Weather” is the mix of atmospheric events in 1948 to 27.6°C in 2011. This would be consistent involving temperature, rainfall, humidity etc. with overall global warming trends and an increase occurring daily while “climate” generally refers to in Singapore’s urban density (see Figure 4.2). the average weather pattern over many years. On

a day-to-day basis, the patterns may have large Trends in annual rainfall may at first appear less

deviations from the average. striking (see Figure 4.3). However, analyses of

daily rainfall totals and frequency of days with In Singapore, it has been observed that the annual heavier rainfall between 1980 and 2010 show a mean surface temperature has risen from 26.8°C statistically significant uptrend (see Figure 4.4).

Figure 4.2: Annual Mean Surface Temperature (°C)

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

To facilitate applied research work, the National Apart from working with government agencies,

University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang the institutes also collaborate with their Technological University (NTU) have set up counterparts overseas, improving our access several research institutes and centres. to global research expertise in the field.

The Singapore-Delft Water Alliance (SDWA) In addition, the Institute of High Performance
Tropical Marine Science Institute (TMSI) Computing (IHPC) of the Agency of Science,
Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS) Technology and Research (A*STAR) uses
I nstitute of Catastrophe Risk computational modelling, simulation and

Management (ICRM) visualisation methodologies and tools to conduct

Maritime Research Centre (MRC) research in various scientific fields including fluid
N TU-JTC Industrial Infrastructure Innovation dynamics, engineering mechanics, and materials

(NTU-JTC I³) Centre science and engineering. IHPC’s work on climate

resilience includes modelling the spread of infectious diseases, urban air flow and climatic data management.

Research institutes Working on domains Relevant to Climate Resilience

Singapore-Delft Water Alliance (SDWA) Tropical Marine Science Institute (TMSI) SDWA improves our understanding of the TMSI is a centre of excellence for research, water cycle through environmental sensing, development and consultancy in tropical marine intelligent data processing and modelling. This science as well as environmental science. With includes capability on real time forecasting and its multidisciplinary research laboratories and warning, such as in the simulation and analysis active international links, it handles projects of extreme events, to develop decision support relevant to Physical Oceanography, Acoustics, systems. With the Dutch research institute Marine Biology, Marine Mammals, Biofuels, Deltares, NUS has recently established a new Water Resources and Climate Change. TMSI was collaboration arising from the SDWA initiative to involved in Phase 1 of the Climate Change Study, form NUSDeltares to pursue high impact water and is helping with the current Risk Map Study research and specialist consultancy services in for Singapore. Singapore and Southeast Asia.

ConTinUEd>

nATionAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Earth Observatory of Singapore (EOS) Maritime Research Centre (MRC)

Set up in NTU to deepen knowledge on natural MPA and NTU have jointly established the MRC catastrophes and climate change science, EOS’s as a national and regional centre for maritime research seeks better predictions of regional research activities in hydrodynamics, marine consequences that can be expected from global and offshore engineering, shipping business and climate change, by taking into account global logistics. The MRC coordinates maritime research climate drivers active in this tropical region, such and development (R&D) efforts across local and as the Western Pacific Warm Pool and the Indian international organisations. Its work includes Ocean Dipole. A forthcoming study will look at research on beach stabilisation, and the role of how changes to the sea surface temperature, mangroves in protecting mudflats from erosion.

saltiness and water circulation affected the

Southeast Asian monsoon in the past. NTU-JTC Industrial Infrastructure Innovation

(NTU-JTC I³) Centre

Piecing together this history is essential to predict Seeking to promote growth and development of how the climate in this region may change in the economically viable and sustainable industrial future. In Singapore’s context, such knowledge infrastructure solutions in Singapore, the could also be used to plan for future drainage NTU-JTC I³Centre covers fields such as land systems to cope with climate change. reclamation and specialised marine infrastructure, energy and water recycling, underground

Institute of Catastrophe Risk Management (ICRM) infrastructure design and construction, and The ICRM is the first multidisciplinary risk novel construction methods and systems. The management research institute of its kind in Centre’s research thrusts are in four areas, namely Asia and amongst a handful of such centres reclamation and marine infrastructure, sustainable in the world. NTU’s Risk Research Agenda infrastructure, underground infrastructure, and is driven by the principle that catastrophic infrastructure systems and materials. It also aims risk affects the functioning and effectiveness to build new capabilities and to scale up technical of society and businesses. Understanding, leadership competencies in the area of industrial communicating and managing catastrophic risk infrastructure development.

requires comprehensive methodologies for risk quantification (monetary, social and human). The Institute’s focus is on catastrophe-triggered insurance/reinsurance risks, sovereign risk, societal risk and some non-traditional risks.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

Preparing singapore: Areas of Work in Progress

The Singapore Government is bridging gaps Next Steps in knowledge and building capabilities on our BCA has commissioned a Risk Map Study to adaptation options, and shaping resilient studies better identify the specific coastal areas at risk of in areas that may be affected by climate change. inundation and the potential damage associated. In addition, there are ongoing studies in domains The study, expected to be completed by end 2013, such as food supply and security, which are not covers the whole of Singapore’s coastline and exclusively linked to climate change. Such work involves several site topographical surveys. The will be considered when implementing adaptation results will help in the development of coastal measures to address identified risks. protection strategies against probable inundation by the sea.

Coastal Protection There is also growing interest in “soft” coastal

As a low-lying island, sea level rise poses the most protection practices including the use of plants immediate threat to Singapore. Much of Singapore (such as mangroves and sea grasses) for lies within 15m above the mean sea level; and coastal protection, as well as beach and dune the ground level of about 30% of Singapore is nourishment. Research and collaboration with less than 5m above the mean sea level. Currently, local institutions will be embarked upon to about 70% to 80% of Singapore’s coastal areas advance these areas and other approaches which have hard walls or stone embankments, which are relatively new to Singapore.

help protect against coastal erosion. The rest are natural areas such as beaches and mangroves.

Since 1991, all new land reclamation projects have to be built to at least 1.25m above the highest recorded tide level. In 2011, the minimum land reclamation level for new projects was raised by an additional 1m to ensure that the new reclaimed land is safeguarded against long-term sea level rise.

Minimum platform levels for new reclamation projects were Coastal protection involves a broad range of increased to cope with potential rising sea levels. related fields such as coastal engineering, wave dynamics, coastal morphology, and hydrodynamics. Several public agencies, including the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), Housing & Development Board (HDB) and JTC Corporation (JTC) have developed capabilities in these areas, and have been heavily involved in coastal engineering and coastal protection works.

BCA has set up a Coastal and Project

Management Department to focus on coastal protection and adaptation issues.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

Next Steps

PUB announced in January 2012 a multi-pronged plan to strengthen Singapore’s flood resilience. The new plan includes higher drainage design standards, more holistic solutions that consider the entire drainage system, better modelling capabilities and stakeholder engagement to improve overall preparedness.

Recognising that expanding drainage will not be sufficient, especially for areas that are more developed and have site constraints, PUB will go beyond conventional solutions (e.g., expanding drains and canals) to developing solutions at ‘source’ (e.g., green roofs and porous pavements) to better manage stormwater run-off, and at ‘receptors’ (e.g., raised platform, crest levels and flood barriers) to protect buildings at the local level.

PUB plans to carry out 20 drainage improvement projects over the next five years to enhance flood protection. It will also work closely with public sector agencies, developers and professional bodies to introduce measures to manage run-off at source (where rain falls) and receptors (where rainwater flows to) to protect buildings and facilities.

Biodiversity and Greenery

Climate change will affect the diversity of plants and animals, and this will alter our ecosystem and natural processes such as soil formation, nutrient storage, and pollution absorption.

If coastal vegetation is adversely affected, there could be changes in the position and rate of erosion along the shore. There could also be changes in the mitigating effects of coastal vegetation on flooding or tidal surges. Likewise, increased rainfall as a result of climate change can affect slope stability, and adversely affect the vegetation which normally holds soil in place on slopes.

Singapore’s remarkable urban biodiversity and extensive greenery are what makes us a “City in a Garden”. Our green spaces are necessary. Extensive roadside tree planting has contributed to the relatively cooler temperatures in places like Orchard Road in the heart of the city. Over 300 parks and the network of green park connectors provide relief from the hot urban tropical climate. Water demand will also be lowered whenever temperatures can be kept lower.

Next Steps

NParks will investigate the potential impact of climate change on biodiversity and greenery in greater detail. Working with other agencies, it will locate and stabilise potentially vulnerable slopes.

To keep our city green, tree management and maintenance will also be enhanced. The current health checks on our trees will be conducted more thoroughly and frequently, while more suitable species which are less vulnerable to storms and strong winds will be planted along our streets.

The Keruing (Dipterocarpus caudatus ssp. penangianus) tree in the primary rainforest of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve in Singapore, a microcosm of the biodiversity in the region.

nATionAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Climate Change and Biodiversity

A mean temperature increase of 1.5°C to 2.5°C To counter the effects of changes in temperature could place a significant proportion of terrestrial and rainfall, NParks has started work to conserve species in Singapore at risk. biodiversity. EcoLink@BKE, Southeast Asia’s

first ecological corridor across the Bukit Timah With a rise in temperature, the impact on plants Expressway and linking up of the Bukit Timah and animals will depend on the change in Nature Reserve and Central Catchment Nature rainfall. Warmer and drier conditions are likely Reserve, is slated to be completed in 2013. This to stress trees, affect their growth and possibly will increase the territory size of native animals shorten their lifespans. While such conditions and improve dispersal of plant species, enhancing might encourage more profuse flowering by resilience of plants and animals to pressures some roadside ornamental plants, they may also linked to climate change.

encourage the spread of weeds.

Sea level rise will be a challenge for mangroves, The effects of warmer and wetter conditions are which cannot retreat inland. The Sungei Buloh less easy to predict. Trees may grow more quickly, and Mandai mudflats, for instance, are a key but this might also shorten their lifespans. Many feeding ground for over 1,500 birds which migrate rare animals in Singapore—such as the Banded annually along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Leaf Monkey, the Leopard Cat and other rare mammals—may require intensified conservation. Corals, which require sunlight, may not be able Species with the smallest habitat ranges are likely to grow upwards quickly enough to keep pace to be the most at risk, including Singapore’s three with rising sea levels. In addition, a 1°C to 2°C

endemic freshwater crabs. rise in sea water temperatures will lead to coral

bleaching, which occurred in 1998 and 2006, and killed at least 16% of coral reefs worldwide.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

Public Health Next steps

NEA is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to Singapore is situated in a region where vector- study the relationship between climatic factors— borne diseases, such as dengue, are endemic. such as temperature, humidity and rainfall—and There may be a link between rising temperatures public health risks such as dengue fever, and heat and the incidence of such diseases. For instance, disorders and respiratory diseases. The study more dengue cases are observed during the will also look into forecasting the risk of disease warmer periods of the year. transmission in different scenarios.

To minimise dengue incidence through NEA’s Environmental Health Institute (EHI), a suppressing the mosquito vector population, World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre NEA has put in place a nation-wide integrated for the Reference and Research of Arbovirus and programme, which entails mosquito, virus and their Associated Vectors, will leverage its research human surveillance as well as public education capability in vector-borne diseases to support and participation, law enforcement and research. efforts to strengthen Singapore’s public health resilience to climate change.

Frequent and severe episodes of warm weather could also lead to increased occurrences of heat stress and discomfort, particularly among the elderly and the sick.

A researcher at the EHI under NEA, investigating the behaviour of the Aedes mosquito and dengue virus so as to formulate appropriate preventive and control strategies.

CHAPTER 4—AdAPTing To ClimATE CHAngE: A moRE REsiliEnT singAPoRE

looking Ahead

The Singapore Government takes a long-term Climate change adaptation is also about risk approach to infrastructural planning. Work has management and mindsets. The private sector started to enhance Singapore’s resilience to will need to review their business continuity plans

climate change. to cater for short-term disruptions caused by

extreme weather events. Our people need to be We are also developing capabilities within mentally prepared for a changing environment. Singapore on climate science and adaptation

measures, in partnership with research We will continue to improve our preparedness and institutions both locally and abroad. As climate strengthen our resilience to the effects of climate science evolves, we will need to refine and change over time. reassess our key areas of vulnerability, and the most appropriate adaptation strategies. Such plans take time to implement, and will need to be identified early. We will formulate and implement adaptation measures to ensure that Singapore is ready to address the impact of climate change.

NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

There are many opportunities for Singapore to

develop as a green growth hub that provides A Clean Energy Research Programme green solutions to the world (see Figure 5.2).

Singapore has the following advantages: In 2007, the Clean Energy Programme Office, now known as the Energy Innovation Programme • A base of skilled talent and expertise for the Office (EIPO), was formed to develop the cleantech industries and services. We will clean energy industry with an initial funding continue to develop key capabilities in R&D of S$170 million from the National Research

and human capital. Foundation (NRF).⁴⁰ Co-chaired by the Economic

Development Board (EDB) and Energy Market • O ur compact size, regulatory expertise and Authority (EMA), this inter-agency platform institutional capabilities—making Singapore comprises agencies such as the Building and an ideal test bed for companies seeking to Construction Authority (BCA) and the National assess the feasibility of new technologies Environment Agency (NEA).

and processes, before scaling them up for

larger markets. EIPO manages various initiatives such as

clean energy research, graduate scholarships,

• A conducive business environment, establishing research centres, and a Quickstart robust intellectual property regime, strong programme to nurture local clean energy startmanufacturing base and capable workforce ups. In 2011, another S$195 million was made that is continually updated with the available to EIPO through the NRF, to catalyse the latest technologies. growth of the industry by strengthening research

capabilities and accelerating commercialisation.

Figure 5.2: Singapore’s Approach towards Realising

Green Growth Opportunities

Green Growth Industries Generate Value and Jobs

Developing

Capabilities

(R&D and

Human Capital)

Provision of

Test-Bedding

Opportunities

Conducive

Business

Environment

⁴⁰The Government has also invested in other strategic areas. For instance, in 2006, S$330 million was provided to boost the development of the local environment and water industry through R&D funding.

NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

Singapore Research Institutes Working on Cleantech

Energy Research Institute @ NTU (ERI@N) Solar Energy Research Institute of Develops industry-oriented innovations and trains Singapore (SERIS) specialists in clean energy. Vestas, Rolls-Royce, Located in NUS, SERIS conducts basic and IBM, and Gamesa have set up joint research industry-oriented research in solar energy laboratories with ERI@N. Other partners such as conversion. The main R&D areas include Silicon Bosch, Det Norske Veritas, and Lawrence Berkeley solar cells and modules, Organic solar cells, National Laboratories are involved in joint PV module performance analysis, solar energy research projects. Focus areas include: wind and systems, and solar and energy-efficient buildings. marine renewables, green buildings, e-mobility, The institute collaborates closely with the industry.

energy storage, and fuel cells. SERIS also trains specialist manpower for the solar energy sector.

Nanyang Environment and Water Research

Institute (NEWRI) in NTU Sustainable Manufacturing Centre (SMC)

Promotes interdisciplinary interaction and A one-stop green manufacturing knowledge a contiguous value chain from research to hub that brings government, research and translation, development and application. NEWRI industry stakeholders together to collaborate provides test-bedding opportunities for industries, in R&D, implement sustainable manufacturing and hosts postgraduate programmes in approaches, share expertise, and transfer environmental science and engineering. Research knowledge to the manufacturing sector. SMC areas include: reduction of urban heat, waste is spearheaded by the Singapore Institute of to energy, and reduction in energy use during Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), an A*STAR water and wastewater treatment, and energy research institute. Core research competencies from bioprocesses. include: remanufacturing, green packaging and

carbon footprint assessment.

NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI)

An interdisciplinary, cross-campus centre for Experimental Power Grid Centre (EPGC) environmental research. Coordinates strategic An A*STAR programme undertaking R&D in thematic research and facilitates the transfer of areas such as intelligent and decentralised technology to industry. A key aim is innovative, power distribution, control and management globally impactful research on scarce resources. of distributed energy resources, and smart and Current research includes: surveillance and interactive energy utilisation. Its 1-megawatt management of environmental pollutants, grid—one of the world’s largest pilot smart grid environmental and health issues related to climate facilities—enables researchers, industry and change, food security and safety, green chemistry, public agencies to develop energy technologies

and sustainable energy. before bringing them to larger-scale test beds

or commercialisation.

CHAPTER 5—OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREEN GROWTH

Also managed by the NRF, the National Innovation Test-Bedding Opportunities

Challenge on Energy Resilience for Sustainable

Growth (or “Energy NIC”) aims to develop cost- With the growth of our R&D activities, we have competitive energy solutions for deployment also developed a suite of supporting services within 20 years to help Singapore improve energy and opportunities for firms and researchers efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and increase to develop, test, and validate clean energy energy options. Announced in 2011, S$300 million technologies in real-world settings. This process, is available for the first five years. known as test-bedding, can facilitate the commercialisation process for new technologies.

In support of the Energy NIC, a series of We are well placed to serve as a “living laboratory” Technology Primers⁴¹ were commissioned to to test, pilot, and commercialise innovative examine the potential and relevance of various solutions for Asian and global markets. energy and climate change-related technologies

to Singapore. The Primers cover technology Several test-bedding projects are already areas such as solar energy, carbon capture and underway, including the CleanTech Park, Electric utilisation, bio-renewables, and air-conditioning Vehicle Test Bed, and various energy trials.

systems. Building on this effort, the Primers will be developed into a series of Technology Roadmaps that will chart out the development and deployment pathways of these technologies.

Addressing climate change can bring about economic opportunities in existing industries: energy efficiency efforts reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut energy costs for companies. They also bring opportunities in the form of new industries—such as solar and wind energy research and production in Singapore, even though we have little wind resource here. And the opportunities are not in technology areas alone; they are also to be found in financing, trading, insurance and other areas as well.

MR TAN YONG SOON, PERMANENT SECRETARY (NATIONAl ClIMATE ChANGE),

IN A kEYNOTE AddRESS AT ThE NUS hIGh SChOOl SUSTAINAblE dEvElOPMENT

YOUTh CONFERENCE 2011, 26 AUGUST 2011

⁴¹Commissioned by the NCCS and NRF, an initial batch of six Primers was completed in August 2011.

NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

Examples of Test Beds in Singapore

CHAPTER 5—OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREEN GROWTH

CleanTech Park is being developed by JTC Corporation as the first eco-business park in the region. It will cluster clean technology companies and serve as a platform for testbedding and prototyping of clean technologies and sustainable urban solutions. The 50ha park at Nanyang Avenue will be developed in three phases over 20 years. When fully completed, it will house a working population of 20,000 greencollar workers.

Intelligent Energy System Pilot is a smart grid project led by EMA, in partnership with Singapore Power, to develop and test new smart grid technologies and solutions. This pilot will lay the foundation for an energy system in Singapore that will improve our overall energy efficiency and resilience.

Punggol Eco-Town is a real-life setting to test new urban solutions and create a green living environment. One test bed involving public-private partnership between Japanese electronics firm Panasonic and three agencies—EDB, EMA and the Housing & Development Board (HDB)—aims to integrate solar technology, lithium-ion batteries and a Home Energy Management System (HEMS) in an existing public housing block. Panasonic will install solar panels and batteries for energy storage. The system will supply electricity for lifts, water pumps and lighting in the common areas. With the HEMS, participating residents can monitor their in-house electricity usage.

Pulau Ubin Micro-Grid was spearheaded by EMA on the north-eastern island of Pulau Ubin. It will assess how clean and renewable energy can be deployed to provide reliable electricity supply to off-grid communities. This micro-grid project will also build capabilities in system integration and in managing intermittent renewable energy sources.

Zero Energy building is a 4500m² BCA flagship project under the Green Building Master Plan. The building generates its own electricity from solar panels and reduces its energy needs through the use of green building technology and design. It now serves as a test-bedding facility for the integration of green building technology into existing buildings.

Electric vehicle (Ev) Test bed is a joint project by EMA and Land Transport Authority (LTA) which evaluates the feasibility of using EVs in Singapore. Bosch was selected to provide the nationwide charging infrastructure for this test bed. Four EV models are currently available under the EV test bed: the Daimler smart electric drive, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Nissan Leaf and the Renault Fluence Z.E.

Solar Pv Systems have been rolled out in HDB public housing estates across Singapore. There will be trials in 30 precincts, and the results will allow HDB to better factor solar requirements into the design of new flats and familiarise town councils with the technical and maintenance aspects of solar installations.

CHAPTER 5—OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREEN GROWTH

While many of the technologies being testbedded will take some time to mature, others— such as solar energy—are rapidly improving and approaching commercial viability. For such technologies, the Government is prepared to help build industry capabilities, to scale up the technology for mass deployment.

For example, the HDB is testing solar technology in preparation for wider adoption. This will pave the way for quicker adoption of solar power when it becomes cost-competitive with energy from traditional sources. It also provides a platform for building expertise and exporting capabilities in solar PV retrofitting and integration with buildings.

We are also collaborating with other countries to develop test beds outside Singapore. China and Singapore’s joint Tianjin Eco-city venture to develop a model that is “replicable, practical and scalable” for other Chinese cities and rapidly developing cities is an example. The SinoSingapore Tianjin Eco-city project features high energy efficiency, use of renewable resources, green buildings and transportation, waste and water management, ecological infrastructure development, economic vibrancy and a good living environment.

Conducive Business Environment

We will continue to attract investments in green industries through the development of a conducive business environment.

Singapore’s pro-business environment has been rated highly by the World Bank and other international rankings. In addition to robust and reliable infrastructure, Singapore has a strong intellectual property (IP) regime that offers protection for companies that conduct R&D or innovation-based activities here. Our success in IP protection encouraged the World Intellectual Property Office to set up its first Asian regional office in Singapore in 2005.

In pursuing sustainable growth, Singapore has built capabilities that are relevant to other cities facing similar sustainability challenges. The National Animation Park in Tianjin Eco-city is an example.

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NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

Neste Oil has set up one of the world’s largest biodiesel plants in Singapore.

Singapore is also attractive as a venue for The development and adoption of energy storage biofuels companies. We are one of the first technologies will allow Singapore’s electricity grid locations in Asia for biodiesel pricing after Platts to cope with intermittency issues and incorporate launched daily assessments for biodiesel trading more renewable energy resources.

in Southeast Asia in January 2008. Neste Oil

invested EUR 550 million (S$940 million) in 2010 Even for alternative energies like wind and marine to set up the world’s largest renewable diesel plant renewables where there is very little potential for in Singapore, with a capacity of 800,000 tonnes deployment within Singapore, global leaders in of biodiesel. these fields have chosen to base their R&D and

manufacturing operations in Singapore, utilising We are also looking into the installation of smart the talent pool here to grow their operations for grid technologies to increase the operating the Asia-Pacific markets. For instance, Vestas efficiency of distributed and intermittent power Wind Systems, the world’s largest supplier of wind generation sources such as solar energy. systems and a top wind technology company, Devices integrated with a smart grid, such as opened its regional headquarters in Singapore smart meters, in-home display units and home in 2007. It will be investing up to S$500 million automation networks, could give consumers to develop its largest R&D centre outside of its greater information and control over their home country (Denmark) over the next decade. electricity consumption. A*STAR’s Experimental The centre will employ 200 research scientists and Power Grid Centre is studying the management engineers. Singapore also hosts the Asia-Pacific of distributed energy resources and smart energy headquarters for Vestas.

utilisation. EMA’s Intelligent Energy System pilot project aims to help Singapore deploy smart grid Such R&D activities are part of an expanding technologies in residential and industrial buildings and vibrant cluster in Singapore (see Figure

in the future. 5.3). We aim to be a cleantech hub that provides

companies with easy access to a combination of technology, markets, capital and talent.

NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

Waste and Water Technology

Our NEWater story showcases how Singapore has addressed a vulnerable dependency on imported water. Over the last 40 years, through strategic planning and investment in research and technology, we have diversified our water supply. We now have capabilities in water management, desalination and related technologies that can help other countries better adapt to changing rainfall patterns and possible water shortages as a result of climate change.

With increasing urbanisation and growing population density in many emerging economies worldwide, climate-friendly and waste management solutions will likewise be in demand.

For example, Keppel Seghers designed, built and is operating an integrated waste management facility in the Middle East. The S$1.7 billion project includes the use of an integrated waste-to-energy concept that maximises the reuse and recovery rate from waste, and minimises the quantity of waste going to landfills.

Urban Management and Solutions

Singapore is a compact and urbanised city-state with high population density. This makes us an ideal environment to test and develop integrated urban solutions that improve energy efficiency, especially in areas such as housing, transport and co-location of related industrial activities.

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Building and Urban Design

Energy-efficient building designs should incorporate passive considerations such as building orientation, sun shading and natural ventilation to minimise a building’s cooling needs. For example, large windows facing prevailing winds and internal layouts that optimise air flow can improve ventilation and reduce the need for air-conditioning.

At larger urban settings, good wind flow through cities helps to remove heat build-up, and improve air quality and human comfort.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority is leading a Climatic Mapping Study, in collaboration with HDB, NUS and A*STAR’s Institute of High Performance Computing (IHPC) to understand how the built environment and presence of urban greenery could affect micro-climatic conditions such as air flow and temperature.

IHPC’s researchers utilised their computational science expertise and the principles of fluid dynamics to accurately model, simulate and visualise wind flow patterns in a city.

CHAPTER 5—OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREEN GROWTH

Green Information and Carbon Services and Climate Finance

Communication Technologies (ICT)

Addressing climate change will require significant Singapore has a vibrant and growing ICT industry. and sustained capital investments over decades. More than 80 of the top 100 software and The availability and affordability of innovative services companies have a significant presence in financing solutions, legal and professional Singapore. The Infocomm Development Authority services, can catalyse these investments and has been working with industry partners to hence support greater mitigation efforts.

develop green ICT solutions. This includes the

development of relevant capabilities and With around 600 financial institutions and 9

test-bedding. of the top 10 international law firms located in

Singapore, we are well positioned to provide To support local companies in developing financing and professional services for companies exportable ICT green solutions, International working on climate-related issues. Carbon services Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore) has set up companies can form partnerships with these firms a Green Programme Office. The office helps in Singapore as they access the regional market, companies to strengthen their offerings of energy- develop low carbon projects, and transact in efficient ICT solutions and identifies potential carbon credits.

market opportunities.

As the region’s top commodities trading hub, Singapore is also host to many energy majors

and traders, who form a large part of the clientele

Green ICT for carbon services companies. Southeast Asia is

one of the biggest sources of carbon credits after The unprecedented ownership and use of millions China and India. Singapore serves as an ideal of ICT devices such as smartphones, tablets and base for companies working on carbon projects laptops, each with their own power needs, results in the region.

in significant levels of power consumption and

carbon emissions. EDB and IE Singapore are engaging carbon

trading and services companies to establish and In 2008, The Climate Group in its SMART2020 anchor a presence in Singapore. To date, there report found that ICT was responsible for around are around 30 carbon companies in Singapore, 2% of global carbon emissions. Green ICT of which several have major operations here. solutions to improve the energy efficiency of ICT Their activities include low carbon project devices and data centres can lead to significant development; consulting and verification services reduction in carbon emissions. In addition, green for clean development mechanism registration; ICT also enables carbon reduction in other parts carbon footprinting; and project financing and of the economy through solutions such as smart legal services. buildings and smart logistics.

NATIONAl ClImATE CHANGE STRATEGy 2012

The UNFCCC/kyoto Protocol Clean Development mechanism (CDm) and Trading of Carbon Credits

Many countries are implementing policies Operational since 2006, more than 3,900 CDM and measures to curb the carbon emissions projects worldwide have been registered as of from businesses and industries. For developed March 2012. Over 890 million CERs have been countries with carbon emissions targets, issued by UNFCCC, and another 240 million companies often purchase carbon credits, which tonnes of CERs are expected from the pipeline can be used to meet part of their emission of projects by the end of the first commitment reduction obligations. period of the Kyoto Protocol in 2012.

The main source of carbon credits is the CDM, Today, Asia is a key supplier of carbon credits. which allows emission reduction (or emissions As of March 2012, more than 82% of registered removal) projects in developing countries to CDM projects have originated from the Asiaearn certified emission reduction (CER) credits, Pacific region. Singapore’s strategic location in each equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide the region and our pro-business environment (CO₂). These CERs can be traded and sold, and provides an ideal base for trading and services used by industrialised countries to meet a part companies in the carbon sector to develop of their emission reduction targets under the projects in the region. Kyoto Protocol.

Climate Risk Management Singapore serves as an ideal launch pad to meet

the region’s insurance needs for climate-related Climate risk management encompasses a risks. As a major financial centre, there is synergy spectrum of processes including early response for Singapore to develop capability in climate risk to distribution of resources, diversification, risk management so that the insurance sector can be pooling and insurance, infrastructure design and better informed of regional climate risks. capability development.

In recent years, leading insurance, reinsurance and insurance brokerage companies have established or expanded their presence in Singapore to tap on Asia’s market potential. Currently, there are more than 200 insurance players in Singapore, supported by a vibrant network of global and local brokers. Singapore is a leading insurance centre in Asia and continues to develop as the

region’s centre for more specialised and complex Organised by the Geneva Association and into its second year, insurance risks. the Climate Change Summit brought together leaders in the

insurance industry to discuss climate risk management.

CHAPTER 5—OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREEN GROWTH

Building Institutional knowledge on Climate Change Science and Risk

NTU’s Institute for Catastrophe Risk Management of regional consequences that can be expected (ICRM) is the first multidisciplinary catastrophe from global climate change, by taking into account risk management research institute of its kind global climate drivers active in this tropical region in Asia. Launched in 2010, ICRM studies the such as the Western Pacific Warm Pool and the vulnerabilities and the potential damages from Indian Ocean Dipole.

catastrophic events. It also collaborates with other

leading regional institutes in Japan and China. The NUS Centre for Hazards Research conducts Through its work, ICRM helps the industry and studies on the short- and long-term effects of insurance companies to better understand, model natural disasters, including effects of climate and quantify climate change risk. change, on buildings and infrastructure in Singapore, and the development of new ICRM works closely with the Earth Observatory technologies to reduce the potential risk from of Singapore (EOS), another research institute natural disasters. in NTU. EOS’s research seeks better forecasts

looking Ahead

Singapore has taken steps to ensure that we can scale in other countries, land-scarce Singapore participate in the emerging field of cleantech does not have suitable sites to store CO₂ on a and other sectors relevant to the challenge of large scale. Therefore, it is more practical for climate change. We are well placed to serve as Singapore to explore the use of captured CO₂ as a a cleantech hub, offering many advantages and raw material for the production of polycarbonate, opportunities to investors as well as to local polyurethane foams, acrylates, styrene and and overseas research and skilled talent. The possibly methanol. In addition, as oil prices rise, Government will continue to see how we can best there will be a demand for renewable feedstocks support Singapore-based businesses to develop for biochemicals.

low carbon solutions for local deployment and export. Singapore has grown a base for cleantech The innovations being developed in Singapore will companies in the areas of solar, wind, fuel cells help us to address our own energy and climate and energy storage, biomass, smart grid, marine change challenges; they will also be useful to renewables and carbon services. other cities facing similar issues. This will create high-value jobs for Singaporeans, and propel our Whilst technologies for carbon capture have been economy along a green growth trajectory. developed and are being tested on a commercial

nATiOnAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Co-Creating Our Future through Public Consultation

Sustainable Singapore Blueprint National Climate Change Strategy 2012 The Sustainable Singapore Blueprint (2009) set (NCCS-2012)

forth the strategies and initiatives for Singapore A public consultation initiative launched by to achieve both economic growth and a good NCCS in September 2011 helped to raise public living environment over the next two decades. The awareness of Singapore’s plans to tackle climate Blueprint was the culmination of deliberations and change. The consultation spanned five months, consultations by the Inter-Ministerial Committee and generated more than 1,000 comments on Sustainable Development (IMCSD) and and suggestions from members of the public, government representatives, involving members companies and NGOs.

of the public, NGOs, businesses, academics, and

the media over the course of one year. The suggestions to reduce emissions included the preparation of a reference guide on energyThe IMCSD received over 1,300 suggestions via efficient practices for small and medium the Sustainable Singapore website and over 700 enterprises (SMEs); provision of more information people participated in its focus group discussions, such as usage costs on electrical appliance labels; public forums and dialogue sessions. Grassroots and support for the development of a vehicle leaders also contributed ideas through the efficiency standard based on carbon emissions.

Government feedback agency, REACH (Reaching

Everyone for Active Citizenry @ Home). Some ideas were new and could be effectively implemented; several had already been

Cool Ideas for Better HDB Living implemented but would require greater publicity

The Housing & Development Board’s (HDB) to keep the public informed of ongoing efforts, Cool Ideas for Better HDB Living initiative tapped while others were found unsuitable for adoption social media and competitions to crowdsource in Singapore at this stage.

innovative solutions. Over a six-month period in 2011, Singaporeans were invited to contribute their ideas on Facebook on making clothes drying in HDB flats safer and more user-friendly. In a competition for the best ideas to conserve energy, households were encouraged to share their energy saving tips. Thirty-three student teams from local universities also took part in a design competition to develop concepts and prototypes to solve rainwater splashing, heat and noise problems.

A public forum organised by the South West Community Development Council as part of the NCCS-2012 public consultation exercise.

CHAPTER 6—Building OuR FuTuRE TOgETHER: lOCAl And inTERnATiOnAl PARTnERsHiPs On ClimATE CHAngE

Policies and public initiatives to address climate Singapore has dedicated significant attention change will be more effective when supported to programmes that raise public awareness by a strong foundation of social norms and and encourage emissions reductions across all environmental awareness. By helping individuals sectors. We have made information on climateand businesses make environmentally sensitive related topics relevant to Singapore more widely decisions, Singapore can encourage better available. These efforts are complemented consumption choices, raise public transport use, by education, capacity building and outreach and improve household electricity conservation, programmes that highlight the importance of all of which also yield cost savings and other environmental protection and promote greater benefits. Outreach and educational efforts to raise recognition for individual efforts. awareness are necessary for the success of the overall effort in addressing climate change.

All of us have to take ownership of our shared home… Help us to create our national plans together… because Singapore is our home and it is up to all of us to make the best of it.

PRIME MINISTER LEE HSIEN LOONG

AT THE OPENING OF BISHAN-ANG MO KIO PARK—ABC WATERS, 17 MARCH 2012

nATiOnAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Promoting Climate Change Awareness and Action

Entries in the National Climate Change Competition 2011 Series of educational brochures for the 10% Energy included games and comic strips with a “green” twist to spread Challenge—providing tips on purchasing an energy-efficient the message on climate change action. air-conditioner, refrigerator and clothes dryer.

Educational Programmes Community and National Campaigns

S tudents are exposed to environmental • T he annual flagship Clean & Green Singapore education inside and outside the classroom. campaign encourages Singaporeans to care Climate change is discussed in subjects such for and protect the environment by adopting as General Paper, Economics, Geography and environmentally-friendly lifestyles. the sciences. The curriculum is being enhanced so that students can better understand how • T he National Environment Agency’s

climate change will affect Singapore. (NEA) 10% Energy Challenge programme

prompts Singaporeans to cut back on their • S chool excursions to power stations, energy consumption and adopt energyincineration plants, meteorological stations efficient practices.

and green buildings highlight the implications of climate change and practical methods to • E nergy labelling schemes help consumers

reduce emissions. make informed purchases of energy-intensive

household appliances such as air-conditioners

I n 2011, NCCS organised the inaugural National and refrigerators. Similarly, the fuel economy Climate Change Competition for schools and labelling scheme provides information on the tertiary institutions, with the theme “Climate efficiency of motor vehicles in the market. Change: How Can I Help?”. A number of the

proposals have since been implemented by the schools and tertiary institutions.

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CHAPTER 6—Building OuR FuTuRE TOgETHER: lOCAl And inTERnATiOnAl PARTnERsHiPs On ClimATE CHAngE

Climate Action Day organised by the Students Against 2011 winners of the President’s Award for the Environment. Violation of the Earth (SAVE) movement of the National From left to right: Dr Tan Wee Kiat, SMRT Corporation Ltd University of Singapore Students’ Union is one of the activities and Woodgrove Secondary School. supported through the NEA 3P Partnership Fund.

Capacity Building Recognising Green Efforts and Practices

N EA’s Youth Environment Envoy Programme • T he annual President’s Award for the grooms students as “green envoys” who lead Environment is the highest accolade for their peers and the community towards greater individuals, organisations and companies with environmental ownership. outstanding contributions to environmental

and water sustainability in Singapore. The • N EA’s 3P Partnership Fund assists organisations award serves to demonstrate the Government’s in co-creating environmental education and support and appreciation for the efforts of the outreach activities on climate change and 3P sectors to achieve a sustainable environment. other topics.

N EA’s EcoFriend awards recognise individuals • C ompanies can participate in NEA’s Corporate who have contributed to protecting and and School Partnership Programme to help improving the environment. groom young student leaders by initiating joint

environmental programmes and providing • T he Building and Construction Authoritymentors to transfer technical knowledge. Singapore Green Building Council (BCA-SGBC) Green Building Individual Awards honour • T he Building and Construction Authority’s outstanding industry building professionals. “Build it Green” (BiG) Club nurtures youth advocates and promotes greater understanding • O rganisations which provide green products of green buildings. Some members have and vehicles for land transport may be participated as student ambassadors during recognised as the “Most Eco-Friendly Transport BCA’s green building exhibitions, which are Partner”, as part of the annual Land Transport designed to give the public a glimpse into green Excellence Awards.

homes and green professions in Singapore.

M PA’s Maritime Singapore Green Initiative in 2011 recognises companies that undertake environmentally-friendly shipping practices beyond what is internationally mandated.

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Community development Councils—Forging Partnerships for the Environment

South West CDC: 1,000,000 Native Plants @ North East CDC: ACE Plan

South West The Actions by the Community for the

A community and corporate partnership led by Environment (ACE) Plan encourages households the CDC is working to plant 1,000,000 native trees to save electricity and help sustain a clean and and shrubs by November 2018, as a way to restore green environment. Singapore’s natural flora, promote awareness

of climate change, and encourage community Through workshops and house visits, the Home bonding. A district-wide garden competition is Energy Ambassadors Reach Out or HEAR Me Out held twice a year to recognise the best gardens, programme encourages more efficient household

including those with the most environmentally- energy usage. S$85,000 has also been set aside

friendly practices. to encourage local grassroots organisations

to conduct green campaigns and promote North West CDC: A 90,000 strong Green Network green habits. by 2014

With the help of 45 community green clubs and Central Singapore CDC: Project SWITCH 2,000 volunteers, the CDC hopes to reach out and The focus of the Simple Ways I Take to Change educate 90,000 households to adopt sustainable my Habits (SWITCH) programme is energy lifestyles and inculcate proper recycling practices conservation, adoption of the 3Rs (Reduce, by 2014, under the Recycle @ North West Reuse and Recycle) and greener travel methods. programme. Funds from the sales of recycled Grassroots organisations and CDC staff conduct items are used to help needy students. house visits to explain the impact of simple lifestyle changes.

The CDC is also sharing energy conservation techniques with 50,000 households. It aims For each customer who switches to electronic to reduce the energy consumption of 10,000 banking statements, Maybank donates $1 to a households by 10%. fund to help provide energy saving light bulbs

to low-income families in the district, under the South East CDC: Go Green @ South East CDC’s “S.W.I.T.C.H. to eStatement” initiative. South East CDC’s GreenPlan links up key community stakeholder groups (homes, schools, grassroots organisations, and corporate organisations) to share resources and strengthen environmental efforts.

Schools and grassroots organisations participate in the Green Home AWaRE Programme, a home audit initiative to raise community awareness of dengue prevention, energy efficiency, water conservation and recycling. Students and grassroots leaders are trained to better explain how

individual efforts can help address climate change. Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance and Minister

for Manpower, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, with Mayor of South West District, Dr Amy Khor, at the launch of the 1,000,000 Native Plants @ South West on 23 November 2008.

nATiOnAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

The Private Sector and Responsible Association of Certified Chartered Accountants,

Corporate Action the Singapore Business Federation and the

Singapore Compact are advocating environmental The global trend towards corporate social stewardship as an expression of good corporate responsibility has prompted many businesses citizenship. They have encouraged their members to do their part to reduce emissions and care to adopt a triple bottom line approach in their for the environment. Proactive businesses have operations, by not just focusing on the financial adopted more resource-efficient practices, which aspects of the business, but the environmental not only reduce emissions but also help their and social aspects as well. corporate bottom lines by cutting waste. Firms also contribute through efforts to clean up and Companies are also encouraged to report their safeguard the environment. They also support sustainability efforts, and some companies efforts by the people and private sectors, through like Singapore Airlines and Singapore sponsorship or corporate volunteers. Telecommunications Limited (SingTel) have issued annual sustainability reports.

Singapore-based firms are part of this growing trend. Industry associations and professional bodies such as the Singapore Stock Exchange,

The Corporate sector—doing its Part to Care for the Environment

City Developments Limited (CDL), a property Senoko Energy has been promoting and adopting developer based in Singapore, has been environmentally-friendly business policies within incorporating sustainable business practices and the Singapore power generation industry. The promoting green outreach programmes as part company was the first to use natural gas for of its corporate social responsibility policy. Eco- electricity generation in 1992, and replaced its friendly features such as energy saving lights, less efficient oil-fired plant with high-efficiency pneumatic waste disposal system and recycling gas-fired Combined Cycle Plant. This resulted in a corners are in CDL residential developments. reduction of 2.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide CDL also developed City Square Mall, Singapore’s per year. It has also invested in a desalination first eco-mall, and the first commercial project to plant to achieve self-sufficiency in its water needs, receive BCA’s Green Mark Platinum Award. and has implemented waste reduction, reuse and recycling programmes throughout its premises.

Beyond building and managing properties with environmental sustainability in mind, CDL has As part of its community engagement efforts, gone the extra mile to influence its consultants Senoko constantly encourages its business and contractors to do their part. CDL has been partners to adopt energy efficiency and water actively supporting governmental agencies, conservation measures. It partners schools NGOs, the youth, and the community at large to instil students with greater environmental to promote environmental awareness. Through consciousness through initiatives such as its initiatives such as Project Eco-Office and Let’s own National Weather Study Project and PUB’s Live Green, CDL helps to cultivate eco-friendly Our Waters Programme. It has also worked with habits both in the office and at home. the Singapore Environment Council to promote

sustainable businesses through the SEC-Senoko Power Green Innovation Awards.

CHAPTER 6—Building OuR FuTuRE TOgETHER: lOCAl And inTERnATiOnAl PARTnERsHiPs On ClimATE CHAngE

international Partnerships

As climate change is a global challenge that For instance, as a major maritime and aviation requires coordinated global action, Singapore hub, Singapore strongly supports the leadership collaborates actively with international partners of the ICAO and the IMO in developing global through various multilateral, regional and measures to address emissions from international bilateral platforms. aviation and maritime transport, while allowing

for sustainable growth of these sectors. Singapore In support of the multilateral system for climate has and will continue to participate actively in the change, Singapore participates actively in the efforts of ICAO and IMO to address greenhouse ongoing cooperative efforts under the UN gas emissions from their respective sectors.

Framework Convention on Climate Change

(UNFCCC) and other UN specialised agencies. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

(MPA) launched the Maritime Singapore Green As part of a holistic multilateral response to Initiative in 2011 to recognise companies that climate change, Singapore is also active in undertake environmentally-friendly shipping platforms such as the World Trade Organisation practices beyond what is mandated by the IMO. (WTO), World Intellectual Property Organisation MPA has committed up to S$100 million over five (WIPO), International Maritime Organisation years to support the Initiative.

(IMO) and International Civil Aviation

Organisation (ICAO) to help develop measures in their respective sectors to respond to climate change. Additionally, we share our experiences on sustainable development at fora such as the Asia-

Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

As responsible members of the international community, we must not miss this opportunity to work together to arrest climate change—for the sake of our children and successive generations.

DEPuTY PRIME MINISTER TEO CHEE HEAN DELIVERING SINGAPORE’S NATIONAL STATEMENT AT THE uNFCCC

COP-17/CMP7 CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE HIGH LEVEL SEGMENT IN SOuTH AFRICA, 7 DECEMBER 2011

nATiOnAl ClimATE CHAngE sTRATEgy 2012

Singapore has also actively supported the ICAO’s efforts to address international aviation emissions. In 2009, Singapore chaired the ICAO High Level Meeting on International Aviation and Climate Change which endorsed a Programme of Action (PoA) that aims to achieve a global fuel efficiency improvement of 2% per year until 2020, and sets out a similar aspirational goal from 2021 to 2050. In October 2010, the 37th ICAO General Assembly agreed to the fuel efficiency goal and endorsed supporting initiatives including improvements to air traffic management processes, setting carbon dioxide standards for new aircraft and adopting marketbased measures under a global framework. Singapore continues to help advance the

ICAO’s work by contributing expertise to its Expert Groups for the development of State Action Plans and market-based measures.

Singapore has joined the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40) as an observer city.

The C40 is a network of 58 cities (including

Berlin, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Johannesburg, Los Angeles, London, New York, Sao Paulo, Seoul and Tokyo) committed to implement sustainable climate-related actions locally that will address climate change globally. C40 collaborates with organisations such as the World Bank, OECD and the Clinton Climate Initiative. Singapore’s ongoing work to mitigate climate change, including our clean water system, has been noted as being useful for cities around the world. Our involvement in the C40 will allow us to share our experience on sustainable development, and learn from the best practices of other major cities.

At the bilateral level, key examples of Singapore’s environmental cooperation efforts include the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city Project with China, as well as improving peat land management and promoting sustainable land use practices in Jambi Province, Sumatra, with Indonesia.

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going green in the Aviation sector

Singapore is a member of the Asia-Pacific Initiative to Reduce Emissions (ASPIRE), a multilateral partnership of air navigation service providers which aims to promote “green” flight operations through collaboration in air traffic management across the Asia Pacific.

One of the group’s initiatives is the “ASPIRE- Daily City Pair” programme which promotes best air traffic management practices for gate to gate operations between city/airport pairs for daily flights. The ASPIRE “city pair” between Los Angeles and Singapore on the daily Singapore Airlines non-stop flight (SQ37) was among the first when it was launched on 16 May 2011. This was made possible by the close collaboration between the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore,

Singapore Airlines, the United States Federal

Aviation Administration and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. SQ37 employs enhanced air traffic operational procedures in all phases of the flight—from push back at the gate in Los Angeles to taxiing, take-off, cruising, continuous descent arrival and taxiing back to the gate at Changi Airport. This initiative reduces fuel burnt by approximately 1 tonne (equivalent to 50 pieces of 20kg luggage) and carbon emissions by approximately 3 tonnes (equivalent to 1.1 billion 500ml water bottles) on each Los AngelesSingapore flight.

Singapore also participates in the Airport Carbon

Accreditation programme, an initiative by the Airports Council International (Asia Pacific) and supported by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Under this initiative, the Changi Airport Group will work towards reducing its carbon emissions to eventually achieve carbon neutrality.

CHAPTER 6—Building OuR FuTuRE TOgETHER: lOCAl And inTERnATiOnAl PARTnERsHiPs On ClimATE CHAngE

singapore-indonesia Collaboration Efforts in Jambi

Singapore helped set up automated air quality and weather monitoring stations in Jambi Province. It also enhanced aquaculture expertise in Jambi by organising a freshwater aquaculture training workshop. The workshop, featuring lessons on water quality management and fish feed production, helped farmers improve the efficiency and efficacy of their production methods, lower their operational costs and thereby increase their income.

Singapore also implemented the Jambi Peatland

Management Knowledge Base and Training

Programme. This programme aims to reduce Example of a sustainable-peatland mangement project—fish fires in peatlands through science-based farming project in Jambi offers locals an alternative livelihood.

implementation of mitigative water management and conservation methods, and features The first workshop was held in 2009 at the international experts on peatland management Jambi University, involving peatland managers, to develop training programmes, awareness engineers and government officials from Jambi. building and guidance materials for proper A second workshop was held in 2010. peatland management in Muaro Jambi Regency.

Conclusion

Collectively, our actions and partnerships will Singapore will also continue to collaborate enable Singapore to address the climate change actively with international partners as part of challenge more effectively. The Singapore a coordinated global effort. Government will continue to work with stakeholders in the 3P sectors on our climate actions and outreach efforts.

national Climate Change strategy 2012

ConClUSion

Stepping Up to Climate Change

The world must act to avoid the worst effects of global warming and climate change. Collectively, developed and developing countries have to step up mitigation efforts to substantially reduce global carbon emissions.

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ConClusion—stepping up to Climate Change

the need to act

Both developed⁴² and developing countries⁴³ have Post 2030, there is greater scope for innovation started to implement measures to reduce their and new technologies to provide solutions for lowemissions. Singapore has started implementing carbon growth. In particular, renewable and clean measures outlined in this Strategy document to energy sources have the potential to provide lowreduce our carbon emissions by 7% to 11% below carbon, sustainable power that can also reduce the 2020 business-as-usual (BAU) level. When dependence on fossil fuels. Some countries which a legally binding global agreement on climate are well endowed with renewable energy resources change is reached, we will implement additional are aiming for an entirely fossil-free energy mix measures to achieve the reduction of 16% below in the long term. For example, Denmark seeks BAU by 2020. The United Nations Climate to achieve more than 35% renewable energy in Change Conference in Durban in 2011 reached fuel energy consumption in 2020, and ultimately an agreement to complete negotiations “no later 100% renewable energy use by 2050, mainly from than 2015” to reduce emissions for the post-2020 wind and biomass. Less well-endowed countries period. The new binding global agreement for have set lower targets. UK aims to meet 15% of the post-2020 period will require all countries its energy needs in 2020 from renewable sources.

to do more and adapt to the reality of a low- Yet, there are still others, including Singapore, carbon future. which are extremely poorly endowed and have limited scope for deploying renewable energy.

The extent to which countries can reduce Fossil fuels will therefore continue to meet a their emissions will depend on their natural large proportion of global energy needs for the endowments, available resources, and current foreseeable future.

and foreseeable technological possibilities. The

International Energy Agency (IEA) has assessed While Singapore is disadvantaged by our lack of that being more efficient in the use of energy renewable energy sources, this will not hold us offers the biggest scope for cutting emissions up back from intensifying our emission reduction to 2030 and will remain a significant source of efforts. We need to be bold and long-term in emissions reductions thereafter. our vision, planning ahead, innovating and

implementing environmentally responsible policies. Singapore has overcome many challenges to thrive and build an environmentally-friendly city despite our land and resource constraints. Addressing the climate change challenge will again require our collective commitment so that we can continue to flourish in a low-carbon world.

⁴²Refer to http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2011/sb/eng/inf01r01.pdf for economy-wide emission reduction targets to be implemented by developed countries.

⁴³Refer to http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2011/awglca14/eng/inf01.pdf for plans by developing countries to limit their growth in emissions.

national Climate Change strategy 2012

preparing for the Future

Beyond the measures we have identified to mitigate carbon emissions up to 2020, Singapore needs to work on three fronts: First, further enhance energy efficiency and energy conservation in all sectors. Second, develop and leverage technological solutions to harness renewable energy more effectively. Third, change user behaviour through effective policies, incentives and price signals.

We will also enhance our resilience to climate change.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Conservation

In Singapore’s context, energy is a strategic resource because we are almost completely reliant on external energy sources to support economic activity and growth. Nonetheless, we can moderate emission growth if we conserve energy more aggressively. In fact, this is essential as the price of oil and gas will rise over time with increasing global demand.

As a compact and urbanised city-state with high population density, we can further develop integrated urban solutions that promote energy efficiency, especially in areas such as housing, transport and co-location of related industrial activities.

Improvements in technology can continue to drive more efficient use of energy. For example, there is scope to improve energy efficiency for air-conditioning, which can take up to 50% of the total energy consumption of a building today. With our research and development (R&D) efforts, there is also potential to reduce the energy needed for desalination by more than 50%. This will help us meet future water needs without increasing energy demand.

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Leveraging Technology and Innovations

To reduce emissions over the long term, the Singapore Government will invest in research and development in renewable energy. R&D in solar energy is one area of emphasis, for example to take advantage of solar photovoltaics whose cost is widely expected to come down over time. This will help to mitigate Singapore’s current lack of viable significant renewable energy alternatives. Nonetheless, given the limited land area in Singapore, renewable energy is likely to meet a relatively small proportion of our overall energy needs.

Singapore will continue to study energy options such as electricity imports and nuclear energy. Given our energy constraints, it is important to keep longer term options open in order to be ready to add new sources to our energy mix should they become viable.

A benefit of our small size is our ability to coordinate and implement policies, innovations and solutions quickly. Singapore has become a living laboratory for the research, development and test-bedding of novel solutions. We need to be bold and far-sighted in pursuing and harnessing new technologies, and making environmentally-friendly lifestyle and consumer choices.

ConClusion—stepping up to Climate Change

Changing User Behaviour Enhancing Resilience

We should continue to encourage energy To enhance our resilience against climate change, conservation. The Energy Conservation Act to be Singapore has raised the minimum levels for new implemented in 2013 will require heavy users of reclamation projects and made plans to protect energy⁴⁴ to designate an energy manager, monitor our coasts and improve our flood management and report their energy use and greenhouse system. Singapore has also developed a diversified gas emissions, and submit energy efficiency water supply strategy to include NEWater and improvement plans. Over time, the legislative desalinated water, which would allow us to meet

framework will be refined to take in experience Singapore’s future water demand and increase our and feedback. resilience to dry spells.

Price signals and incentives will also help to Singapore is further developing our climate encourage energy efficiency. Energy should science capability and studying the diverse be priced correctly, including the costs of impact of climate change on coastal land, water environmental impact and energy security resources and drainage, biodiversity and greenery, concerns, to discourage excessive use or wastage. public health, and energy demand and urban Carbon pricing can reinforce existing measures infrastructure, so as to develop appropriate to promote energy conservation and energy adaptation measures and enhance them efficiency, and encourage investments in energy- over time. efficient and low-carbon solutions. The European

Union, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, British Columbia, California and Tokyo have implemented carbon pricing schemes, whilst South Korea and China are considering similar schemes. Offset and support measures often form part of the package—to help businesses take action on sustainability issues and address emissions, and to help households make adjustments and informed choices to become more energy efficient.

If it is necessary to use price as a lever to drive greater energy consciousness, we will have to study the relevant details including offset packages carefully. The Singapore Government will adopt a pragmatic approach and pace the implementation of policies appropriately so that our economy and people can adapt.

⁴⁴The Energy Conservation Act covers energy users above the threshold of 15 gigawatt-hours equivalent or 54 terajoules of energy per year.

national Climate Change strategy 2012

Creating green grow th opportunities

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Climate The Long Term Emissions and Mitigation Working Change has established a Long Term Emissions Group will address several key issues:

and Mitigation Working Group to envision • W hat are the energy efficiency and technological Singapore’s post-2020 future and study how we possibilities in the various sectors? can stabilise our long-term emissions in a low- • H ow can Singapore maximise our ability to carbon world. This will be challenging, given harness renewable energy, in spite of our Singapore’s limited ability to draw significantly geographical constraints? on alternative energy sources. Nevertheless, we • W hat are our long-term energy options, and how have successfully tackled other environmental might these change as technologies evolve?

challenges in the past—such as our water • C an we leverage low-carbon power in the region supply—through conservation and by developing in future, such as hydro and wind sources? and deploying innovative solutions to meet our • W hat supporting policies and new capabilities needs and national circumstances. do we need to stabilise our emissions in the

long term? What steps must we take today, to meet this challenge tomorrow?

Singapore needs to study how our economic strategies and industrial structure can best respond to, and take advantage of, a low-carbon future. We should create and tap on green growth opportunities, and grow the cleantech industry.

towards a more eco-Friendly singapore

What will the Singapore of the future look like? carbon efficient processes and green features. Singaporeans will enjoy a clean and green An increasing proportion of our workforce will be environment, and a high quality of life in a city employed in the cleantech industries, benefitting within a garden. There will be more eco-friendly from the growth of Singapore as a cleantech hub new towns like Punggol, with an efficient public with strong government support.

transport system, innovative use of space for

waterways and parks, and vertical greening. Our infrastructure will be complemented by Within existing public housing estates, residents “software” improvements. There will be greater can also enjoy eco-friendly technologies and environmental awareness amongst people,

solutions as these become available. households and companies, and more of them will adopt eco-friendly lifestyles—the 3Rs (reduce, Our industries and buildings will become much reuse, recycle) and energy conservation will more energy efficient and make use of advanced become part of the Singaporean way of life.

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IMAGES CONTRIBUTED BY:

Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

Asia Insurance Review

Building and Construction Authority (BCA)

Central Singapore Community Development Council

City Developments Limited

Ci Yuan Community Club Youth Executive Committee

Energy Market Authority (EMA)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Taskforce

Housing & Development Board (HDB)

Institute of Technical Education (ITE)

JTC Corporation (JTC)

Keppel Corporation Limited

K-Reit Asia

MediaCorp Press Ltd

Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS)

Ministry of National Development (MND)

Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR)

Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

National Environment Agency (NEA)

National Parks Board (NParks)

National Research Foundation (NRF)

National University of Singapore (NUS)

Neste Oil Corporation

North East Community Development Council

North West Community Development Council

PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency

REC

Ricoh Asia Pacific Pte Ltd

SBS Transit

Singapore LNG Corporation Pte Ltd

South East Community Development Council

South West Community Development Council

TPGS Green Energy

TUM CREATE

UN Photo 179492 / H. Tzovaras

WWF Singapore