Ellie Cheong – Page 3 – Singapore Green Guardians Blog

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.

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

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.

Fix any visible leaks in faucets, pipes, and toilets promptly.

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.

Install low-flow faucets and showerheads to reduce water usage.

Consider installing a dual-flush toilet or place a displacement device in the tank.

Opt for a broom instead of a hose when cleaning driveways and sidewalks.

Run the dishwasher and washing machine only with full loads.

Replace outdated, water-guzzling appliances with water-efficient alternatives.

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.

Collect and reuse cold water while waiting for it to heat up (e.g., in a bucket) for watering plants.

Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or scrubbing dishes.

Water your garden during the cooler parts of the day to minimize evaporation.

Collect rainwater in barrels to use for outdoor watering.

Set up a rain sensor on your sprinkler system to prevent unnecessary watering during rainy periods.

Which water-saving habits are you adding to your everyday life, and which are you already doing?

Reduce Single-Use Plastics Checklist

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.

In a year, Singapore uses 467 million plastic bottles and 473 million plastic disposable items like takeaway containers. In a recent study by United Nations University for Water, Environment and Health (UNU INWEH), Singapore was identified as one of the largest consumers of bottled water per capita and is one of the fastest-growing markets for natural bottled water, despite having access to clean drinking water for all.

This checklist focuses on reducing single-use plastics, a pressing concern in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore. By minimising plastic waste through reusable alternatives and fostering a culture of conscious consumption, we can help alleviate the burden on landfills, land ecosystems, and marine ecosystems.

Here is checklist to help you become more environmentally conscious and build good habits regarding single-use plastics:

Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles and cups. Bring a reusable food container if you’re getting take away.

Use a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles.

Using reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and food containers reduces the need for single-use plastic containers, decreasing plastic waste in Singapore’s landfills and waterways.

Use reusable shopping bags or bring your own tote bag when shopping to avoid plastic bags.

Bring your own reusable shopping bag instead of taking a new plastic bag.

Reusable shopping bags reduce the demand for disposable plastic bags, which are a major source of litter and pollution and require resources to produce.

Decline plastic straws and utensils when dining out and choose venues that support this initiative.

Use metal or glass reusable straws instead of plastic straws. Or ditch straws altogether!

Plastic straws and utensils are often not recyclable and can harm wildlife when they enter ecosystems. Not using plastic also reduces the carbon footprint associated with plastic production.

The food and beverage industry has switched to paper straws as an alternative. However, a recent study in Belgium found that paper straws contain PFAs, forever chemicals, commonly used in items as a water repellant. PFAs are toxic and harmful to human health and environmental health. Ditch the straw, or if you must, bring your own reusable straws.

Choose products with minimal plastic packaging or eco-friendly packaging. Or opt for items sold in bulk where you bring your own containers.

Bulk food stores often provide ec0-friendly paper or glass packaging. You can also bring your own containers from home.

Choosing products with minimal plastic packaging lowers the demand for plastic production and reduces waste generation.

Encourage friends and family in Singapore to participate in plastic reduction initiatives, such as the BYO (Bring Your Own) campaign.

Bring your own container when you purchase cut fruits from the fruit and juice stall.

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?

Sustainable Transportation Checklist

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:

Use public transportation, such as buses and the MRT, for daily commutes and city travel.

Utilising public transportation reduces Singapore’s road congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions from personal vehicles.

Consider carpooling or ridesharing with neighbours or co-workers to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

Sharing rides reduces traffic congestion and lowers individual fuel consumption, decreasing Singapore’s air pollution levels.

Opt for walking or cycling for short trips and when possible.

Walking and cycling for short trips reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in Singapore’s urban areas.

Explore Singapore’s extensive network of park connectors and bike paths for eco-friendly commuting and recreation.

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.

Support initiatives like car-sharing services that promote shared vehicle use.

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.

Reducing Food Waste: The Art of Proper Vegetable & Fruit Storage

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.

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:

Tropical tip: Given Singapore’s tropical climate, it’s essential to be mindful of temperature and humidity. Keep most vegetables and fruit in the refrigerator, as the humidity and warmth can cause rapid spoilage in our tropical environment.

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.

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.