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S’pore needs to do more to increase recycling rate of domestic waste

I join many readers to thank the refuse collectors who play such an important role in handling Singapore’s waste disposal (“Dirty job, but these garbage collectors refuse to let it get to them”; Dec 6). Their dedication to a largely thankless and unglamorous job is what prevents our streets and homes from overflowing with rubbish.

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TODAY file photo

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Dhevarajan Devadas

I join many readers to thank the refuse collectors who play such an important role in handling Singapore’s waste disposal (“Dirty job, but these garbage collectors refuse to let it get to them”; Dec 6). Their dedication to a largely thankless and unglamorous job is what prevents our streets and homes from overflowing with rubbish.

At the same time, Singaporeans can do much more to increase the recycling rate of domestic waste, which stands at just 21 per cent, much lower than cities in Taiwan and Japan.

Too many of us continue to dump all our rubbish into the common chute without separating the recyclables. Placing extra recycling bins in more convenient locations, such as every public housing block, would make dropping off recyclables as easy as disposing regular waste.

Public education should be stepped up to spread awareness about recycling at home.

As the popularity of food delivery services grows, the need to tackle the increasing use of disposable containers and cutlery is getting critical.

Food outlets should be encouraged to use biodegradable containers and cutlery, and phase out the use of non-biodegradable plastic and styrofoam. Industry-wide adoption would help lower the costs to businesses.

To curb the use of bottled water, the authorities can encourage the installation of water-coolers in more public areas and buildings. Food outlets should also serve customers tap water in glasses instead of bottled water.

Greater public awareness and stricter guidelines on waste disposal go hand in hand if we want to improve our recycling rates. While it takes a little more effort, the benefits to our environmental health are invaluable.

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