NEA launches drive to get people to cut food wastage

SINGAPORE — The North East District kicked off an initiative yesterday to encourage people to reduce food wastage, one that will provide residents with a comprehensive guide on how to do so.

The “I Love My Food @ North East” drive was launched by the National Environment Agency (NEA), in partnership with the North East Community Development Council.

Talks will be held in schools to educate pupils on the issue, and the North East CDC will hold meetings with residents from next month.

Besides talks on food waste reduction, there will be cooking demonstrations of healthy eating.

Ambassadors will also be trained to spread awareness of reducing food waste, at events such as cooking classes and roadshows.

“The amount of food waste generated in Singapore has increased by about 45 per cent over the past 10 years, and can be expected to rise further,” NEA chief executive officer Ronnie Tay said. “Hence, there’s a need to minimise the amount of food waste generated, so as to reduce the amount of waste incinerated and subsequently the amount of ash sent to Semakau Landfill.”

Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli mentioned the initiative at the opening of Phase 1 of Our Tampines Hub, a new integrated facility with a shopping centre, sports and childcare facilities, and other amenities. He added that the facility is also equipped with an eco-digester. It can convert up to two tonnes of food waste daily — more than the 1.4 tonnes expected — into fertiliser and non-potable water.