Singapore is witnessing a significant increase in household recycling rates. The National Environment Agency (NEA) survey shows that in 2023, 72% of households recycle, marking an 8% increase from the 64% reported in 2021. This survey, conducted from April to June 2023 with responses from 2,180 individuals, reflects a positive shift towards a greener future.
Households Recycle More: Greater Awareness of What Can Be Recycled
Additionally, the NEA survey also unveils that an increased understanding of recyclables has motivated more households to recycle. Furthermore, the figures indicate that in 2023, a higher proportion of respondents identified which common items they could place in recycling bins and chutes compared to 2021. For instance, awareness that rinsed shampoo or detergent bottles could be recycled surged from 71% in 2021 to 89% in 2023.
Households Recycle Less: Decreased Understanding of Non-Recyclables
While more households recycle due to an overall improved understanding of recyclable items, the survey also indicated a decrease in awareness regarding three specific non-recyclable items — unwanted fruit or vegetable parts, soiled plastic food containers, and small electronic appliances. Additionally, when food or liquid waste contaminates recyclables, they classify them as general waste and must incinerate and landfill them.
For items that CAN be deposited
For items that CANNOT be deposited
'Recycle Right' Campaign Launched
To address these findings, NEA has launched its latest Recycle Right campaign at Anchor Green Primary School. In this new initiative, featuring NEA's blue recycling mascot, Bloobin, there is an online game and educational videos demonstrating how households can recycle more effectively by easily integrating recycling into their daily routines.
A Zero Waste Singapore
In alignment with the Zero Waste Masterplan and Singapore Green Plan 2030, which aims for a 70% recycling rate by 2030, household recycling rates are on the rise. Basically, NEA distributed 530,000 Blooboxes from March to April 2023.
Aiding Households Recycle Efforts with Resources
To further assist households in recycling more effectively, the NEA has provided a recycling search engine and recycling guide. These tools allow residents to easily determine whether an item is recyclable.
Conclusion
Generally, the rise in household recycling rates in Singapore is a positive stride towards more sustainable living. However, the domestic recycling rate of only 12% in 2022 suggests there is still much room for improvement. As Singaporeans, it's our shared responsibility to continue educating ourselves on recycling and commit to making better, greener choices.
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