INDUSTRIAL ECOLOGY : AN INSIGHT INTO SINGAPORE �S 4 TAPS

Abstract

In this evolving world with an ever growing population, essential needs for resources gradually increase while the earth’s capacity grew weaker. Singapore, being a land scarce and resource scarce country, with a booming population and economy has been facing shortages in water supply since the start of the country. Over the year, great dependence was on the imported water from the neighboring countries. However, as time goes by, political tension and sustainability issues come into play which sparks a need for self-sufficiency and sustainability issue. Keeping in view of the need to be self sufficient in water supply, this research paper will look into the different demand policies and supply strategies which Singapore has undertaken, which led her into the path of successful water planning country in the world, despite being a small land without natural resources. Bearing in mind the route to self-sufficiency as an urbanized country, will often relate with sustainability issues, which will also be looked at and discussed. In which, a life cycle assessment following the concept of industrial ecology would be considered. Typically, the water treatment process in Singapore for the 4 taps strategy would be evaluated as according to their level of energy consumption. Following on, a water distribution system in California will also be considered. In this research paper, demand for water will be looked into, and strategies in dealing with supply which some countries adopted will also be discussed.