Waste oil collected from grease traps sent for processing into biodiesel: NEA

SINGAPORE — The National Environment Agency’s (NEA) investigation into earlier incidents of individuals extracting used cooking oil from grease traps in Jurong has revealed that the waste oil collected from the grease traps serving the eateries was sent for processing into biodiesel.

NEA is now investigating another similar incident in Toa Payoh that took place on March 3.

Food establishments are required to provide grease traps and maintain them regularly by engaging licensed general waste collectors.

There is a proper system in place for the collection and disposal of waste from grease traps.

Such waste is collected by the licensed general waste collectors who are equipped with vacuum trucks, and the waste is disposed of at national water agency PUB’s water reclamation plant.

NEA will take enforcement action against any unauthorised waste collectors, and any licensee who violates the conditions of the licence or illegally disposes of the waste.

Upon conviction, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of S$2,000.

NEA also carries out checks at food shops to ascertain that the ingredients used, including cooking oil, are from approved or licensed sources, and will take action against operators who flout the rules.

Members of the public who come across any information on unauthorised collection of waste from grease traps should note down details of the incident and contact NEA at 1800-2255632 or Contact_NEA [at] nea.gov.sg. CHANNEL NEWSASIA