RETHINKING MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN SINGAPORE: AN INVESTIGATION OF ATTITUDE TOWARDS SOURCE SEPARATION OF HOUSEHOLD WASTE

Abstract

A sustainable source separation system of household waste is often viewed as an important part of integrated solid waste management, which is also a critical factor for Singapore to increase its domestic recycling rate. This study conducts a comparative analysis of municipal solid waste management in Singapore, Berlin and Tokyo, in order to find ways to promote Singapore’s source separation of household waste by drawing lessons from Berlin and Tokyo. The study also investigates public acceptance of systematic source separation approaches of Berlin and Tokyo, as well as gathers views on Singapore’s current source separation methods. Results show that accessible recycling facilities, environmental educations, incentives and legislations are the most effective measures to promote Singapore’s source separation of household waste.