RETHINKING SINGAPORE'S APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

This thesis discusses how Singapore’s civil society has evolved as a result of an increasingly globalised society and a population that desires to be more engaged and involved in nation building. It explores how the change had led to a rethink and re-look into environmental public policies with regard to a more proactive public engagement process.

The analysis is focused on two surveys conducted by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources (MEWR). The NEA Knowledge, Attitude and Practices survey tends to be highly variable. Hence, no conclusive findings could be drawn from it. Such surveys may only be limited as a quick baseline survey for the first year.

The qualitative study commissioned by MEWR focused on energy efficiency habits in Singapore households using the Communications for Behavioural Impact (COMBI) model. This study is able to identify the motivators that drive human behaviour and the factors that influence environmentally-friendly decisions. For example, it showed that 72.6% Singaporeans cited rising energy cost as the reason to consume less energy. The energy efficiency campaigns therefore encourage household consumers to adopt energy efficient products as it saves them money over the long term. 75% of the respondents surveyed indicated they would purchase a more energy efficient air-conditioner or refrigerator for their next purchase.

This thesis argues that a qualitative study based on behavioural and social science principles provide better insights to the key influencers of human behaviour. Hence, it should be instituted as part of any environmental planning process to deliver a more informed policy decision. At a societal level, community outreach practitioners should also be cognizant of the need to re-look at their public engagement platforms. Findings from the qualitative study should be translated into developing marketing strategies and programmes that are more deliberate and intentional in driving pro-environmental behavioural outcomes.

An enhanced public engagement approach focusing on building public consensus can help to create better mutual understanding between the people and government. In addition, community and interest groups should be supported to co-create solutions as it could lead to better environmental outcomes. This thesis may be useful as a point of reference for any environmental agency looking to enhance its community engagement process and to build a community with greater ownership for the environment.