Environmental literacy, community action
Our lesson series are designed to provide teachers with the confidence and resources to advance environmental literacy in their classrooms. This summer, we invite 3rd–5th grade teachers to pilot one or more of our lesson series.
The CAELI Community-Based Partner Hub is a portal that connects K–12 teachers and administrators to environmental education community-based partners and their programs. Find experiential learning opportunities for your students today!
In a recent survey published by the Climate Change in Southeast Asia Programme at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, 2,225 respondents from ten ASEAN member states shared their views on climate change. The findings shed light on prevailing attitudes towards climate action in the region.
In a recent survey published by the Climate Change in Southeast Asia Programme at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, 2,225 respondents from ten ASEAN member states shared their views on climate change. The findings shed light on prevailing attitudes towards climate action in the region. Here are the key takeaways:
A significant majority of respondents believe that their national governments are aware of climate threats but lack sufficient resources to combat them (35.7%). Around a quarter feel that their government isn’t prioritizing climate change adequately. However, a notable group (24.8%) believes their government recognizes the urgency and has allocated ample resources.
National governments are seen as bearing the greatest responsibility for climate action and financing, followed by businesses and industries. However, there’s a perception that businesses are lagging behind in taking meaningful climate steps. Civil society is viewed as the most active stakeholder, highlighting a need for increased private sector involvement.
The proportion of respondents expressing the highest level of urgency regarding climate change has declined from 68.6% in 2021 to 49.4% in 2023. Meanwhile, 41.9% believe monitoring climate change is crucial. This lowered sense of urgency is particularly interesting as it raises questions about what other immediate concerns people have.
Respondents regard the development of regional energy infrastructure (72.2%) as the top priority for ASEAN to expedite the transition to clean energy. This is followed by the adoption of a regional renewable energy agreement (51.9%) and the establishment of a common ASEAN clean energy fund (46.0%).
Approximately half of the respondents (51.1%) believe that fossil fuel subsidies should be reduced in their respective countries, while 31.8% are uncertain, and 17.1% disagree.
Floods, droughts, and heat waves were identified as the most pressing climate impacts on agriculture in Southeast Asia. Respondents expressed a desire for increased focus on climate-adaptive farming methods, investment in agriculture and food technology, and boosted domestic production to enhance food resilience.
Japan is viewed as the most influential international partner in leading global climate innovation (23.7%) and sharing climate expertise, practical ability, and technical know-how (25.8%). The European Union and China followed closely in second and third place for both roles.
Rising energy prices and the cost of living (54.2%) emerged as the most significant concerns related to the energy transition, followed by energy shortages (21.7%). Singapore, in paritcular, expressed the highest worry about rising energy prices.
To sum up, the survey offers valuable insights into the climate attitudes of people in Southeast Asia and highlights areas where collective action can drive progress in combating climate change in the region. Click here to read the full report.
Reducing water usage starts at home, but it requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. Here’s a practical checklist that individuals can use to become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding water efficiency.
Singapore’s Water Story
In the tiny island nation of Singapore, water has always been a precious resource. With limited natural water sources, the nation has forged ahead with a comprehensive approach to water management. Today, a significant portion of Singapore’s water supply comes from recycled wastewater, also known as NEWater, and desalination plants, which have drastically reduced our reliance on imported water. However, this progress should not encourage complacency; it should motivate us to do more to safeguard our water future.
Water demand in Singapore is currently about 430 million gallons a day–– enough to fill 782 Olympic-sized swimming pools. It is projected that Singapore’s water demand could almost double by 2060. In light of the recent revision of water prices, starting in April 2024, let’s look at some ways we can chart a course towards reducing water usage and achieving water efficiency.
Reducing Water Usage: A Collective Responsibility
Reducing water usage starts at home, but it requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. Here’s a practical checklist that individuals can use to become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding water efficiency:
Embrace smart home technologies that help monitor and control water consumption. Smart water meters, leak detection systems, and automated irrigation can significantly reduce wastage. Monitor your water usage through PUB’s online water consumption portal and set water-saving goals.
Regularly check for and fix leaks to avoid wasting precious treated water, which is energy-intensive to produce. If your smart water meter has been installed and you have a MySmartWaterMeter account, log in to your account to receive alerts on suspected leaks. If you don’t have a smart water meter, you can check if there is a leak by turning off all taps and appliances using water, and a check your water meter. If the dial continues to run, there is likely a water leak.
Singapore’s Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS) helps you make informed choices when making a purchase. A product is graded with 0, 1, 2, or 3 ticks depending on how water efficient it is.
An appliance with 3 ticks would be most effective in reducing water consumption. Image courtesy of PUB Singapore
Be mindful of the amount of water you use in daily activities like showering and cooking. You may monitor your water usage through PUB’s online water consumption portal and set water-saving goals.
Which water-saving habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?
Singapore will implement a phased revision of water prices, starting on 1 April 2024.
Singapore, 27 September 2023 — In response to escalating production and supply costs, Singapore will implement a phased revision of water prices, commencing on 1 April 2024 and followed by another adjustment on 1 April 2025.
Currently priced at $2.74 per cubic metre, the potable water rate will incrementally rise by 50 cents per cubic metre over two phases. The initial increase of 20 cents per cubic metre will be effective from 1 April 2024, followed by a subsequent rise of 30 cents per cubic metre from 1 April 2025.
In light of the full price revision set for April 2025, approximately 75% of households can expect a monthly increase of less than $10, before government support. Similarly, 75% of businesses, including small and medium enterprises, will see an increase of less than $25 in their monthly water bills.
Water, a critical resource for Singapore’s sustainability, has been a focal point of long-term planning and investment in critical infrastructure. This commitment has culminated in the establishment of the Four National Taps, ensuring a secure and dependable water supply to meet the nation’s growing demands.
Despite active cost mitigation measures, PUB and associated contractors have faced substantial cost increases since the last revision in 2017. Contributing factors include a 37% surge in average electricity market tariffs, increased expenses for essential chemicals and maintenance, and a 35% rise in construction costs.
Anticipating nearly double the water demand by 2065, Singapore acknowledges the pressing need for sustained investments in water infrastructure. The threat of climate change further underscores the necessity of weather-resilient water sources, such as NEWater and desalinated water, albeit at a higher energy and production cost.
To cushion the impact of the water price hike, especially for lower- and middle-income households, the government will provide additional financial support, with details to be disclosed by the Ministry of Finance shortly. PUB will collaborate with the Ministry of Trade and Industry and relevant authorities to discourage profiteering.
Furthermore, the Climate Friendly Households (CFH) Programme will extend e-vouchers to all 1-, 2-, and 3-room households for water-efficient shower fittings. This program will be expanded in the coming year to encompass additional water fittings, yielding savings of approximately $50 to $150 per household annually.
Businesses, too, can tap into PUB’s augmented Water Efficiency Fund to implement water recycling and efficiency projects, thereby reducing their water demand and achieving sustainable cost savings.
As Singapore navigates these revisions, a comprehensive approach combining conservation efforts and financial support aims to ensure the continued availability and accessibility of this vital resource for all its citizens.
In a world grappling with the repercussions of excessive plastic consumption, we, Singaporeans, are presented with an opportunity to lead the way in tackling plastic pollution.
This checklist focuses on reducing single-use plastics, a pressing concern in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore.
In a world grappling with the repercussions of excessive plastic consumption, we, Singaporeans, are presented with an opportunity to lead the way in tackling plastic pollution.
This checklist focuses on reducing single-use plastics, a pressing concern in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore. By minimizing plastic waste through reusable alternatives and fostering a culture of conscious consumption, we can help alleviate the burden on landfills and marine ecosystems, preserving Singapore’s natural beauty for generations to come.
A checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding single-use plastics:
Using a reusable water bottle and coffee cup reduces the need for single-use plastic containers, decreasing plastic waste in Singapore’s landfills and waterways.
Reusable shopping bags reduce the demand for disposable plastic bags, which are a major source of litter and pollution and require resources to produce.
Plastic straws and utensils are often not recyclable and can harm wildlife when they enter ecosystems. It also reduces the carbon footprint associated with plastic production. Bring your own reusable straws if you prefer to enjoy your beverage with a straw.
Choosing products with minimal plastic packaging lowers the demand for plastic production and reduces waste generation.
Encouraging friends and family to participate in plastic reduction efforts spreads awareness and promotes a culture of sustainability in Singapore.
Image courtesy of BYO Singapore
Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?
This checklist promotes sustainable transportation alternatives, encouraging you to reduce your carbon footprint. By opting for public transit, carpooling, walking, or cycling, we can not only alleviate congestion but also contribute to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment in Singapore.
Singapore’s bustling urban landscape is characterised by its efficient transportation systems. However, this efficiency often comes at the cost of increased traffic congestion and air pollution. This checklist promotes sustainable transportation alternatives, encouraging you to reduce your carbon footprint. By opting for public transit, carpooling, walking, or cycling, we can not only alleviate congestion but also contribute to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment in Singapore.
Checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding transportation:
Commuters on an MRT train on the North South Line (NSL).
Utilising public transportation reduces Singapore’s road congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions from personal vehicles.
Sharing rides reduces traffic congestion and lowers individual fuel consumption, decreasing Singapore’s air pollution levels.
Cyclists navigating the cityscape.
Walking and cycling for short trips reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in Singapore’s urban areas.
The C2C Trail stretches 36 km, extending from Jurong Lake Gardens to Coney Island Park.
Using park connectors and bike paths promotes eco-friendly transportation and encourages outdoor activities.
Car-sharing services reduce the number of vehicles on the road, decreasing air pollution and traffic congestion in Singapore.
Which eco-friendly habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing? Comment below.
When we throw away food, we’re not just wasting the food itself, but also the time, resources, and energy that went into producing and transporting it. A simple way to combat the problem of food waste is by learning how to store our vegetables properly, extending their freshness and reducing food waste in the process.
In a bustling metropolis like Singapore, where space and resources are at a premium, the issue of food waste takes on added significance. When we throw away food, we’re not just wasting the food itself, but also the time, resources, and energy that went into producing and transporting it. A simple way to combat this problem is by learning how to store our vegetables properly, extending their freshness and reducing food waste in the process.
Composting food scraps is undoubtedly an effective method to decrease waste and nourish our soils but preventing food from reaching the compost bin in the first place is even more impactful. By adopting proper storage techniques, we can maximize the shelf life of our vegetables and minimize food wastage in our homes.
Let’s delve into some of the practical tips and tricks for storing vegetables and fruit in Singapore to maximise their freshness:
Leafy Greens: Leafy greens, like kai lan and kangkong, should be stored in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to prevent wilting. Add a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture and maintain their crispness. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
Bok Choy, Nai Bai and Chinese Cabbage: These staples can be stored in the fridge, but first, wrap them in a damp cloth or paper towel to maintain their moisture content and crispness.
Tropical Fruits: Singapore is known for its variety of tropical fruits. Store fruits like durian, mangosteen, and rambutan in the fridge to extend their shelf life, especially if you don’t plan to consume them immediately.
Tomatoes: Storing tomatoes upside down prevents moisture from escaping and keeps bacteria at bay. This simple technique can significantly extend the shelf life of your tomatoes.
Cool, dark, and well-ventilated: Keep your potatoes, garlic, and onions in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space. But keep the potatoes and onions separated as they can make the other spoil faster.
Chill the Chilies: To prolong the life of your chili peppers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep them fresh and vibrant for longer.
Avocados: To ripen avocados faster, place them in a paper bag with a banana, apple or pear. Once ripe, transfer them to the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
Herbs: To keep herbs like coriander, mint, and laksa leaves fresh, submerge their roots in a glass of water in the refrigerator. Trim the stems and change the water regularly.
Local Produce: Embrace locally grown vegetables, as they are likely to stay fresher longer due to shorter transportation distances. Supporting local farmers not only reduces food waste but also bolsters the local agricultural industry.
A vegetable store in a local market in Singapore.
Plan Your Purchases: In Singapore’s compact living spaces, it’s crucial to plan your grocery purchases wisely. Buy what you need and consume it before it spoils. This practice not only reduces waste but also helps you make the most of your kitchen space.
By adopting these simple storage guidelines, we can prolong the life of our vegetables and fruit, reduce food waste, and save money in the process. Remember, reducing food waste is a collective responsibility that benefits us all, making Singapore a greener and more environmentally conscious place to live. Let’s embark on this journey toward reducing food waste, starting in our own kitchens, and lead the way to a more sustainable future for Singapore.
Have you mastered the art of vegetable storage? What other tips have you tried and tested? Share them in the comment section below.
This month we’d like to share a list of climate education resources both for your own learning and your classroom as you plan the upcoming school year.
Starting January 1, 2024, all schools with an on-site food facility will be required to collect organic waste. But how will this change affect you and your students? How can you help your students understand the importance of reducing and recycling organic waste?
From food industry’s carbon footprint to equitable access to healthy, affordable food, this month we focus on food consumption and its impact on our environment.
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Our food choices affect the size of our carbon footprint. To reduce our carbon footprint, we can eat less meat and animal-based foods and more protein-rich plant-based alternatives. Do this crossword on food consumption and the environment with your students.
