Singapore's not as green as it should be

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Apr 25, 2011
Singapore's not as green as it should be
WHILE visiting Singapore, I was disturbed to see plastic bags being used indiscriminately and with abandon at several retail outlets. Besides supermarkets, bakeries are among the worst culprits. A popular local bread franchise dispenses a plastic bag for each piece of pastry or bread. Even fast-food restaurants serve their food in containers that appear to be non-biodegradable. The multiplier effect of the unconscionable practice of using plastic or its similar derivatives is unthinkable.

Singapore prides itself on being a green city, and its young are educated in schools to respect the environment. Through several public education programmes, the Government also seeks to enhance its environmental friendliness.
It is unfortunate that local retail establishments have yet to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Such practices could be as simple as using thin paper bags for each piece of bread, or a recycled paper bag for the outer carrier. Supermarkets could offer sturdy recycled paper bags for free, and charge for each plastic bag requested by the customer. I have found this policy to be very effective overseas in controlling end-consumer plastic waste.
I look forward to hearing about the plans and ways in which the Government and local retail franchises aim to promote the greening of Singapore.
Andrew Wee
http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_660700.html
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