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THE ROAD TO ZERO: HOW CITIES CAN TACKLE WASTE AND GO CIRCULAR THIS ISSUE Discover why we need the oceans, a nd Singapore builds state-of-the-art Integrated what we can do to protect them. ALSO: Waste Management Facility to treat multiple Combating plastic and industrial waste. Singapore and France join hands to waste streams and synergise solid waste New Alliance to End Plastic Waste fight e-waste. management with used water treatment. formed by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. ENVISION Magazine Issue 16 – Jun/Jul 2019 – A Biannual Publication of Singapore’s National Environment Agency

FUJI OIL (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD Fuji Oil Singapore – a trusted global supplier to established food manufacturers We began our operation in 1984 and with our proprietary fractionation technology, flexible, efficient refining capabilities and uncompromising quality assurance philosophy, we have grown to be a global manufacturer and supplier of high quality cocoa butter equivalents (CBE), non-lauric cocoa butter replacers (CBR), nutritional oils blends as well as other specialty oils and fats. We have more than 145 employees. Fuji Oil (Singapore) Pte Ltd 45 Senoko Road, Singapore 758114 Tel: (65) 6758-1801 Fax: (65) 6758-1990 Email: [email protected] Web: www.fujioil.com.sg

Incorporated in June 2006, Ardentec Singapore Pte Ltd, a subsidiary wholly owned by Ardentec Corporation, provides professional semiconductor testing services in Singapore. Ardentec Singapore aims to provide excellent services to its valued customers within the region by significantly shortening the testing cycle time, thus achieving total customers’ satisfaction ENVIRONMENTAL EFFICIENCY Served by EFFECTIVENESS Ardentec, Globally Admired ESSENTIAL Ardentec Singapore achieved ISO 50001 Energy ISO50001 Management system on 08 Jan 2019 ISO 14064 We implemented the energy saving measures in Year 2018 ISO14001 and had achieved an annual saving of 115,341Kwhr, CO2 reduction of 49 CO2 tonnes. As an Organisation we promote the spirit of 4E: Essential, Effectiveness, Efficiency & Environmental to the staff and acknowledge that People, Profit, Planet can be sustained and co exist without comprising any of them through better energy efficiency management, reduction of waste and Carbon emission. ARDENTEC SINGAPORE PTE LTD 12 Woodlands Loop #02-00, Singapore 738283 Tel: +65 6482 1000 Fax: +65 6257 3201 Web: www.ardentec.com













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The Issue Against the backdrop of increasing population, economic the globe, accounting for 60-80 percent of the total marine debris. growth, rapid urbanisation, and the rise in community Since the first mapping of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in the living standards, we are faced with new challenges to waters between California and Japan more than 20 years ago, the manage increasing amounts of waste. The elimination of waste latest discovery is the South Pacific Garbage Patch, an area of represents the ultimate solution to pollution problems that plastic pollution between Australia and South America. threaten ecosystems at global, national, and localised levels. A new Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW) has been formed A zero-waste philosophy, driven by the principle that waste comprising nearly 30 global companies and organisations that must be understood as a potential resource to be utilised rather have joined hands to collectively address the problem of plastic than a problem to be solved, is a whole-system approach that waste. US$1 billion has been committed to the project over the eliminates rather than manages waste. It encourages waste next five years, and the AEPW hopes to see more companies join diversion from landfills and incineration plants by eliminating to take the total to US$1.5 billion. waste at its source, and favouring a ‘closed-loop’ circular system 2019 is designated as the Year Towards Zero Waste for approach that integrates waste into the equation for resource Singapore. In our quest towards zero-waste, this issue of management. This year, ENVISION places a spotlight on food and ENVISION examines such efforts and developments locally, and plastic waste, alongside e-waste, all global phenomena that require around the world. Established in March this year and in alliance global efforts to create a more sustainable ecosystem of waste with France, the NTU Singapore-CEA Alliance for Research in management and integration. Circular Economy (SCARCE) aims to develop innovative, energy- 1.3 billion tonnes of food, equal to one third of the global efficient solutions for the recycling and recovery of resources from food production, is lost or wasted globally every year at various e-waste. Furthermore, the National Environment Agency (NEA) points along the food supply chain. Food loss and waste leads to has announced plans for a state-of-the-art Integrated Waste environmental issues such as increasing pressure on finite land Management Facility to be built in Singapore, which is slated to and water resources, contributing significantly to greenhouse be one of the largest integrated waste management facilities in gas (GHG) emissions. Through innovative policies, the World the world synergistically handling multiple waste streams. Groups Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) aims to empower businesses such of passionate and committed individuals, with the support of as hotels in achieving the goal of halving global food waste at the local eco-conscious community, have engaged in enterprising the retail and consumer levels and reducing food losses along efforts to educate and change the perspectives of consumers in production and supply chains by 2030. With the C40 Cities’ Singapore on how they could help reduce food waste by making the Advancing Towards Zero Waste Declaration, a group of global most of “ugly” foods, and by taking simple steps like changing their cities, including New York, Paris, Vancouver, Auckland, and daily consumption habits to do their part for the environment that Sydney, have pledged to cut the amount of waste generated by each we live in. citizen by 15 percent, reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills The holistic implementation of a zero-waste philosophy and incineration by 50 percent, and increase the diversion rate to involves engaging with political views, the commitment of various 70 percent by 2030. stakeholders, and technical and communicational capabilities. It Marine litter, mainly constituting plastic waste, is significantly is an exciting year of burgeoning green technologies and global choking waterways, seas, and oceans. Plastics have existed only for policy efforts built around this ethos, encouraging us to realise a a century, but are since the most abundant waste materials around better, more ethical, and sustainable future for all of us. issue 16 011

We work with a team of multi-disciplinary consultants to identify environmental receptors required for an Environmental Impact Assessment. Depending on your needs, we have biologists, zoologists, marine biologists, hydrodynamic modellers, air modellers and more at your service. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT We work with a team of multi-disciplinary consultants to identify environmental receptors required for the development of an Environmental Impact Assessment. Through EIA, we’re able to outline the potential environmental impacts of the proposed developments Examination of the physical, chemical, biological, environmental & trans-boundary impacts will be done before, during and after the construction of the site. BIODIVERSITY LAND AIR WATER Potential environmental Terrestrial studies are Air modelling is done receptors include examination of conducted through a using BREEZE air benthic communities, mangroves, multi-faceted approach, dispersion software, phytoplankton, corals etc. Delft-3D allows us to including tree inventory, which allows us to simulate the interaction of water, sediment, wetland drainage predict the ecology, and water quality in time and mapping, biodiversity concentration space. studies etc. of the pollutant on various identified Modelling is done with receptor sites. EcoRisk View; an advanced ecological risk assessment program for conducting comprehen- sive multi-pathway risk assessments. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MONITORING PLAN A monitoring plan to ensure that the proposed development complies with the mitigation measures after an Environmental Impact Assessment. Monitoring Plan includes: • Ambient air quality • Water quality • Noise • Biodiversity surveys • Vibration OTHER SERVICES CERTIFICATIONS • Environmental Baseline Studies • Ambient Air Quality & Climate Change • Monitoring & Testing Services • Management of Contaminated Site • Environmental Drilling • Green Labelling Scheme Telephone: +65 64713316 Email: [email protected] Website: secs.sg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company /singapore-environmental-consultancy-solutions/ Address: 1 Sunview Road, #08-66 Eco-Tech @ Sunview Singapore 627615

Publisher Editor For advertising queries, contact National Environment Agency (NEA) Lim Tian Kuay 40 Scotts Road Environment Building #13-00 Special thanks to Trevor Teh Singapore 228231 Prof Ng How Yong, Prof William Chen Wei Tel: +65 6281 8888 Ning, Constant Van Aerschot, Milag San Jose- [email protected] For feedback, comments and contributions, Ballesteros, Carrie Wan, Maggie Lee, Ashwin multinine.com.sg please email [email protected] Subramaniam, Dr Tan Lee Kheng, Lee Siew Mooi, Poh Bee Ling, Dr Jiang Jun Hui, Hillary Loh Produced and designed by CEO Tan Meng Dui NEA Contributors and Assistance THE PRESS ROOM Loo Li Teng, Govind Singh, Ng Chee Yong, Tan publishing & design consultancy DCEO (Planning, Corporate & Technology) Shyh Hou, Jaren Soo, Issac Hoon, Ho Sze Siew Khoo Seow Poh The Press Room Tel: +65 6538 3911 Editorial Committee Chair thepressroom.com.sg Aw Eng Lim Editorial Committee Members ISSN 2251-3922 (print format) Ananda Ram Bhaskar, Dulcie Chan, Cheang Kok ISSN 2251-3930 (PDF/e-flipbook format) Chung, Chua Yew Peng, Dalson Chung, Desmond Tan, Patrick Pang, Sueanne Mocktar, Wong Chin Ling Comments and opinions made by external contributors and parties interviewed by ENVISION Magazine do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the National Environment Agency (NEA) nor the Singapore Government. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein, the NEA bears no responsibility for correctness of content from external parties, unintentional errors, or omissions. All adverts on this magazine are displayed purely with an intention of advertisement and no endorsement or approval by the NEA of any product, service or supplier should be implied, nor will any liability be accepted in this regard. All materials remain the copyright of the NEA, unless otherwise stated and no reproduction is permitted without the written authorisation of NEA and/or the contributors. ENVISION Magazine is printed on environmentally friendly paper stock.

DOWA launches the new Modern Asia Environmental Holdings Merged company centralises waste management and recycling operations in Singapore hub DOWA, the leading Japanese waste management and recycling solutions provider, announced today the formation of the new Modern Asia Environmental Holdings (MAEH) in Singapore to strengthen its innovative offerings locally and regionally. The merged entity spearheads DOWA’s strategic expansion across Southeast Asia by test-bedding cutting-edge solutions in Singapore and building a network of effective waste management and recycling capabilities across Southeast Asia. The new MAEH brings together combined capabilities of Technochem Environmental Complex Pte Ltd (Technochem) and Dowa Eco-System Singapore Pte Ltd (ESG) under one umbrella to offer incineration, recycling and precious metal recovery capabilities as well as an end-to-end approach to help countries in the region address their growing environmental waste management and recycling needs. Technochem specialises in the collection of chemical and water treatment, industrial cleaning services, incineration of waste and the sale of solvents and chemicals. It runs DOWA’s first vertical combustion incinerator outside Japan and the first of its kind in Singapore and Southeast Asia at Tuas Industrial Estate. “Singapore provides us with an excellent environment to test-bed some of our state-of-the-art waste management and recycling solutions. It is our hub for Southeast Asia and also our spring-board to the region. We are grateful for the support that we have received from the Singapore government and for its technological foresight and appetite for innovation,” added Mr. Kobayashi. DOWA currently has overseas operations in Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand, with a staff strength of almost 1,500 across this region. About the DOWA Group DOWA consists of five different business groups that has accumulated technologies across the entire lifecycle of waste management: incineration, landfill, ash smelting, precious metal smelting, soil remediation, and electric equipment recycling. DOWA hires more than 6,200 employees across 5 different business groups: 1. Environmental Management & Recycling 4. Metal Processing 2. Non-ferrous metal 5. Heat treatment for automobile parts 3. Electronics Materials

Contents 018 026 032 Global Briefing 044 038 058 052 018 Science-Based Approaches to Eliminating Plastic Waste 068 The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) 062 is the strategic founding partner for the new Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW) - a landmark effort to collectively address the problem 074 of plastic waste in the environment. 015 026 Advancing Towards Zero Waste The transition towards a regenerative and circular economy in cities. 032 Why We Need The Oceans Effective management of oceans is clearly needed if society is to benefit from the ocean’s ecosystem services in the long term and meet the goal of sustainable development. 038 Climate Resilience Yields Returns To maintain target returns and ensure the most sustainable and resilient projects are financed, investors and lenders must consider climate resiliency in their decisions. Policy 044 A Recipe Against Food Waste How data and business play a vital role in the fight against Food Loss and Waste (FLW). 052 Food Waste Reduction for the Environment The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) creates innovative policies to tackle the global problem of food waste. What can this mean for the handling of our planet’s future resources? 058 Recovering SCARCE Resources From e-waste France and Singapore join hands to find breakthroughs in e-waste treatment. 062 Circular Economy for Singapore Food Security Singapore might face uncertainties over her food security in an ever-changing landscape. Professor William Chen of the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore looks at some of the solutions to these contemporary issues. 068 Addressing Asia’s Plastics Waste Problem Innovative solutions to plastic pollution have emerged across Asia to cope with the growing piles of waste on land and in water. But are they truly effective? Industry Spotlight 074 Synergising Solid Waste Management With Used Water Treatment Singapore builds state-of-the-art Integrated Waste Management Facility to treat multiple waste streams and synergise solid waste management with used water treatment. issue 16

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Contents 078 082 086 090 Industry Spotlight 092 094 096 098 078 Converting Food Waste into Resources E2S2-CREATE, a joint research programme between the National 017 University of Singapore (NUS) and Shanghai Jiaotong University (SJTU), hosted under NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), is waging an all-out war on food waste. 082 From Waste To Energy Located on the edge of the island, the Waste to Energy Research Facility explores a way to complement Singapore’s waste management strategy. Technology 086 From Plastics to Aerogels NUS scientists at the Department of Mechenical Engineering have found a way to turn plastic bottles and other wastes into one of the most promising high-value materials in the 21st century. Together 090 Foreword Coffee At Foreword Coffee, founder Lim Wei Jie is serving up more than just coffee with every cup. Discover how his unique business practices that also help to reduce waste are awakening others to better possibilities for our environment. 092 Ugly Food Pei Shan and Augustine have found purpose in showing us the beauty within “ugly” produce, so that we may judge it with our taste buds and not our eyes. Find out how they help reduce food waste by making the most of “ugly” foods. Hacks 094 Hacks Stay tuned to the latest solutions to environmental waste in the market, and be up to date on groundbreaking innovations and policies that tackle the global issue of wastage. Reads 096 Reads Stay up to date on the latest environmental news and breakthroughs, get useful insights on cutting edge trends and developments around the world. People Opportunities 098 Opportunities in Resources Make a career at Veolia to resource the world. issue 16

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issue 16 Global Briefing Science-Based Approaches to Eliminating Plastic Waste Plastics have helped improve living standards, hygiene, and nutrition around the world. But used plastics have become a global environmental challenge. The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) is the strategic founding partner for the new Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW) - a landmark effort from more than 30 global companies and organisations representing the plastic value chain, who have joined together to collectively address the problem of plastic waste in the environment. US$1 billion has been committed, over the next five years, to this goal and the AEPW hopes to see more companies join and take the total to US$1.5 billion. María Mendiluce, Managing Director, Senior Management Team, WBCSD Esha Sar, Manager, Plastics & Circular Economy, WBCSD * The authors thank Brendan Edgerton, Constant Van Aerschot & Nicolas Jammes for their contributions to this article. Plastics have been around since the late 1800s. For decades we have admired and benefited from the convenience and utilitarian nature of plastics with applications in every sphere of our daily lives. Why are regulators, NGOs, environmentalists, and civil society around the world suddenly so keen to end single- use plastics? Are there viable alternatives to plastic? What are the consequences of replacing plastics with other materials? These questions have been brought to the World Business Council for 019

Global Briefing Four business drivers for action by companies to reduce ocean waste 02 leakage, there is no single magic bullet. chain solutions: redesign, reduce, replace, That is why WBCSD has already launched recover, and recycle. Sustainable Development (WBCSD), a roadmap to Reduce Ocean Waste (ROW) in a global CEO-led organisation of some 2017. Its outcome was to convene all Wasted Plastics is Wasted Value 200 of the world’s largest companies that key players along the plastics value chain focuses on accelerating the transition and to define the business case for action. According to the International Solid Waste to a sustainable world by making more Action was indeed clearly required at Association, only 5 percent of the global sustainable companies more successful. all levels to tackle the scale of this global plastics feedstock was recycled plastic Let us first look at some facts: issue while supporting the achievement of material in 2012. By comparison, paper and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 14, steel products consisted of 58 percent and • More than 8 million tonnes of plastics with a target for reducing marine pollution, 37 percent recycled content, respectively. enter the world’s oceans each year and including plastic marine debris. Closing the plastics loop serves as one most of that escapes from land. Plastics provide many benefits to society of the biggest challenges in transitioning by enhancing health, safety, and convenience. to a circular economy. Before recycled • Each year, 400 million tonnes of They help improve living standards, hygiene, plastic content can be incorporated into plastics are produced and 40 percent and nutrition around the world, especially in new products, the used plastics must of that is single-use-plastics. developing countries. But now, plastic waste be collected, sorted, and processed into has become an environmental challenge market-ready products. • Experts think that by 2050, the because it is not managed properly. It is The variety of plastics types and amount of plastic in the ocean will urgent to drastically improve waste collection colors, inconsistent collection and weigh more than the amount of fish. systems first, in order to stop plastics enter- recycling infrastructures, complexity that ing the environment. It is also well under- is borne out of composite and polymer • Just ten rivers transport more than stood that we need to address all the value materials, as well as the volatile price of 90 percent of river-based plastics to fossil fuels are a few of the challenges that the ocean. According to the International contribute to very low plastic recycling rates Solid Waste Association, only globally. For instance, only 14 percent of • Over half of land-based plastic waste 5 percent of the global plastics plastic packaging is collected for recycling leakage comes from just five countries. feedstock was recycled plastic in the US and, in fact, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EMF) estimates that • The mass of the plastic in the Great material in 2012. US$80-120 billion is lost annually to the Pacific Garbage Patch was estimated to economy from the material value of plastic be approximately 80,000 tonnes, and packaging alone. covers an estimated surface area of The important thing to consider is that 1.6 million square kilometers, three the nature of wastes and the applicable times the size of France. solutions differ greatly from country The sheer size of the issue led WBCSD to focus on a holistic set of solutions along the entire value chain to tackle the plastic waste challenge in a systemic way. We know that to solve the current plastic 020 envision

01 Image of polluted sea 02 The sheer size of the issue led WBCSD to focus on a holistic set of solutions along the entire value chain to tackle the plastic waste challenge in a systemic way to country. Moreover, the global waste The Solutions Basket unnecessary plastic items; innovate to economy is highly dependent on cheap ensure that the plastics we do need are labor in developing countries. Dealing with Many organisations around the world are reusable, recyclable, or compostable and; waste by exporting it is a method that working to tackle one of the most pressing circulate all the plastic items we use to has been followed by developed nations environmental challenges of our lifetime. keep them in the economy and out of the for many years. These efforts can be grouped into the environment. Globally, since 1992, 72 percent of following areas: Others such as the Ocean Conservancy plastic waste has ended up in China and are focusing on clean-ups. The World Hong Kong, according to a study in the • Education and engagement Economic Forum’s Global Plastic Action journal Science Advances. Hence, China’s • Research and development, technology Partnership (GPAP) is focusing on recent ban on import of low value, country-level investible action plans non-recyclable, and contaminated plastics and design and public private partnerships has had profound consequences on both • Pledges and commitments to address plastic pollution. Another sides of the world. The US$200 billion global • Policy example is Circulate Capital, which is recycling industry is facing uncertainty • Financing and investment financing innovation, companies, and and the ban demonstrates that plastic infrastructure that prevent the flow of pollution is not simply an Asian problem. As an example, the Ellen MacArthur plastic waste into the world’s oceans It now turns out that many western Foundation (EMF) is partnering with while advancing the circular economy. economies have been solving their waste industries to incorporate “cradle-to-cradle”, Governments around the world are problem simply by shipping their waste circular economic design into their products. responding to the challenge by announcing to the developing or under-developed The New Plastics Economy project bans on different plastic products. Some economies in the East. Now with the ban believes applying circular economy have adopted longer-term roadmaps for the on import in China, Vietnam, and principles to global plastic packaging reduction of plastics in packaging. other Asian countries, that myth is flows could transform the plastics Despite all of these efforts, the problem unravelling – Europe, the US, or Japan economy and drastically reduce negative is far from being solved. also have a plastic waste problem now externalities such as leakage into oceans. There is a strong and urgent need that they cannot ship away. Signatories to the Global Commitment of for coordinated action by the different the EMF commit to three actions to realise this vision: eliminate all problematic and 02 021 issue 16

Global Briefing 03 A bold committment 04 Launch of Alliance to End Plastic Waste, London, 16 January 2019 stakeholders involved in solving this and current fragmented efforts are not enough. What Can The Industry Do 03 easier and create value from all post-use To Solve The Problem? plastics; formation of this new alliance. It first • Education and engagement of Each player along the plastic value chain began discussing the possibility of such an governments at all levels, businesses has a key strategic interest in investing in initiative at its annual meeting in Montreux, andcommunities to mobilise action; business solutions to reduce ocean waste. Switzerland, last year, advancing the and, Business drivers include the loss of core conversation throughout the year as more • Clean-upofconcentratedareasofplastic business, regulatory risks, reputational and more companies threw their weight waste already in the environment, risks, and innovation potential. There is and momentum behind the idea. Less than particularly major rivers that that carry a wide range of areas in which businesses 12 months later, plans are coming to fruition vast amounts of land-based plastic waste can contribute. Some examples include at an unprecedented scale. This is the most to the ocean. the development of alternative products, comprehensive cross-value chain initiative rethinking packaging and product design, to end plastic waste in the environment. The Alliance has already hit the ground deployment of technology for collection, By bringing together the entire plastics running and has announced five projects at sorting and processing, developing new value chain, the Alliance will apply the launch. business models, and so forth. technical and engineering expertise of each The economic case for businesses to act sector, the collective resources and reach City partnerships: enabling progress is substantial; the environmental case and of companies from around the world, and in cities where the challenge of unmanaged social challenges for the public sector and insights from those that operate in the re- plastic waste is greatest. The AEPW is society to respond even greater. gions where the challenge is greatest. developing partnerships with cities, ini- Applying lessons learned and collabo- tially in Southeast Asia or India, to sup- The Alliance to End rating with governments - especially those port the design, demonstration, and scal- Plastic Waste in the affected regions - and with innova- ing up of infrastructure systems to collect, tors, investors, local communities, also with manage, and recycle plastic waste. This There remains a need for a globally environmental and conservation groups work includes engaging local govern- coordinated and transformative efforts already working on this challenge will be a ments and stakeholders and generating focused on minimising waste and recover- critical part of the Alliance’s approach. economically sustainable and replicable ing, reusing, and recycling plastics after The Alliance has developed a global models that can be adopted in other they are used, especially in areas of the vision and a comprehensive, integrated municipalities. They are also exploring world where the challenge is greatest. strategy comprising: technologies and approaches that address That is why a group of global companies, river-borne plastic waste, preventing it from including many WBCSD members, • Infrastructure development to collect reaching the ocean in the first place. from across the plastics value chain – and manage waste and increase recycling, Incubate innovative recycling and companies that make, use, sell, process, especially in developing countries; other businesses in key regions: to attract collect, and recycle plastics - have formed the investment needed to support waste a new alliance with a clear mission: to help • Innovation to advance and scale new end plastic waste in the environment. technologies that minimise waste, The new Alliance to End Plastic Waste make recycling and recovering plastics (AEPW) is a landmark effort from over 30 global organisations representing the plastic value chain, who have joined together to collectively address the problem of plastic waste in the environment. The current Alliance members have committed over US$1 billion. Recruitment continues, and the goal is for Alliance members to deploy US$1.5 billion towards solutions over the next five years. It represents a real and significant investment that shows these companies are serious and are taking action. WBCSD played a critical role in the 022 envision

We should not forget that technology cannot always be efficiently deployed when infrastructure is deficient. 04 management infrastructure development raise awareness and engage public sector lytic effect that will trigger investment that and innovation, the Alliance is part- support for local deployment of solutions gets us closer to the billions needed. This will nering with The Incubator Network and development of waste management facilitate comprehensive, meaningful, and by Circulate Capital to provide grants infrastructure, the Alliance hopes to col- lasting change that will help end plastic to help identify, develop, and pro- laborate with organisations like the United waste in the environment. mote technologies, business models, Nations. These engagements will help In light of our experience with the and entrepreneurs that prevent ocean build support for adoption of comprehen- Alliance and our cross-cutting, multi-stake- plastic waste and improve waste man- sive waste management systems and infra- holder approach to accelerate the transition agement and recycling with the inten- structure, helping to achieve the Alliance’s to a sustainable world, we believe that three tion of creating a pipeline of projects and goal and supporting the UN’s Sustainable things are needed to successfully end plastic opportunities for investment in South and Development Goals. in the environment: Southeast Asia. Kickstart progress and create Open data and tools to support invest- local opportunity: to facilitate near- • Leadership is essential, and this is why ment and maximise impact: a major term progress in preventing plastic the CEOs of the Alliance are investing obstacle to investment and progress is waste from remaining in the envi- towards a common goal. the lack of detailed information about the ronment, the Alliance will support physico-chemical, geographical, temporal, Renew Oceans, a program designed to capture • Developing tangible projects, targeted and dynamic characteristics of plastic waste plastic waste from rivers before it reaches for maximum impact. leakage into the environment. WBCSD is the ocean. Renew Oceans’ approach also supporting the scoping of the Global engages local communities in the effort • Working with governments, existing Information Platform, which aims to and creates economic opportunity for initiatives and stakeholders in order quantify global plastic waste flows by individuals who collect plastic from rivers, to scale up action that can transform building upon data collected by govern- often among the most economically the plastic problem. ments, companies, universities and other disadvantaged members of the com- organisations. This information will then munity. Renew Oceans began its work Collaboration is essential and the inform decisions for relevant stakeholder on the Ganges early in 2019 in India, establishment of the Alliance underscores groups to identify the most effective solutions working in partnership with National companies' capacity to drive unprecedented for specific locations or circumstances, Geographic. Over time Renew Oceans intends investment that will deliver significant prioritise opportunities to reduce the to expand its focus to all of the 10 major rivers positive impacts around the world. plastic leakage, and effectively meas- shown to carry the vast majority of land- WBCSD will continue to play a role in the ure progress over time. The AEPW based waste to the ocean. In addition Alliance going forward, as a founding is exploring opportunities to part- to sponsorship, the Alliance will contribute strategic partner, to ensure business ner with leading academic institutions its materials and logistics capabilities mobilisation and global sharing of best and other organisations that are already to help create end markets for the practices so that the world can achieve the involved in certain types of data collection. collected waste. ambitious goal of ending plastic waste. Engage civil society to prioritise and This is only the beginning. It is envisaged WBCSD encourages every company in develop waste management systems: to that projects like these will generate a cata- the plastic value chain to join the Alliance and help turn this vision into a reality. Together, we can make things happen. issue 16 023

THE Driving Transformative Actions across the Ecosystem. Changing the Climate for a Sustainable Future. Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing our 25th position. As of March 2019, CDL has achieved 100 world and businesses today. Green Mark awards for both development and investment Globally, governments have taken transformative steps properties, demonstrating our strong commitment to at the COP24 climate talks by agreeing to the Paris the green building movement in Singapore. Rulebook that will set the Paris Agreement in motion. With the global push for a low-carbon economy and The costs of inaction to address climate risk will continue climate-resilient future, CDL will accelerate our climate to mount. In fact, businesses are in the position to action and continue to innovate, invest in and improve unlock the opportunities arising from climate change, the way we build sustainable cities and communities. and future-proof their business for sustained growth. Through our commitment to drive transformation aligned Since 1995, City Developments Limited (CDL) has to the UN SDGs, CDL will continue to forge strategic recognised the importance of making sustainability an collaborations with a view to build a larger green-minded integral part of our business as a leading real estate community. By engaging partners from the public, operating company with presence in 29 countries. In private and people sectors to step up climate action, the 2019 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations we will create a sea of change towards CDL’s vision of in the World ranking by Corporate Knights, CDL is Building Value for Tomorrow, Today. honoured to be the first and only Singapore company Join us in our collective action against climate change. listed for 10 consecutive years and ranked at www.cdlsustainability.com CDL is honoured to be listed on 12 global sustainability indices 9 S e c 0t o2r4L e a d e r 2 0 1 8 envision

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issue 16 Global Briefing Advancing Towards Zero Waste The transition towards a regenerative and circular economy in cities. Kathrin Zeller, Network Manager Waste To Resources Network, C40 Cities Ricardo Cepeda-Márques, Technical Lead, Waste and Water, C40 Cities Zachary Tofias, Programme Director, Food, Water and Waste, C40 Cities Global waste generation is growing faster than any other environmental pollutant, intensified not only by global population growth, but also through increasing global income, spending, and urbanisation. While many countries have achieved substantial success in economic development in the last decades, this also resulted in a substantial growth in the amount of waste generated. On average, a person in a low-income country generates less than half a kilogram of waste per day, while an upper-middle class resident produces nearly one kilogram, and high- income residents can generate more than two kilograms of waste per day. High-income countries generate 34 percent of the total of global waste, even though only accounting for 16 percent of the world’s population. As the world gets wealthier, the amount of global waste is estimated to rise from 2 billion tonnes in 2016 to about 3.4 billion tonnes per year in 2050 under a business-as-usual scenario. 027

Landfill without gas extraction x 1 x x x LFG extraction x 2 MBT x 2 (with AD) xx x 5 Global Briefing x x02 Waste Generation by Income Level Pyrolysis 03 The anaerobic digestion process and its outputs 04 Cx40 Cities Waste to Re s o u rxces Network at Zero Waste Zone Auckland in 2018 What isThaenDaiesproosbailcSditiugaetsiotinon? Waste management has a significant AnaerobiiScmoDpliaidgcetWosnatisoctlniem(AaAtsDesoc)hciiasanttghieoe.nTnheaesttIuinmrtaealrtnbearsteitoahnkaadtlown of organicwmheanttearlltowparsotedumceanbaiogegmasen–taamctiixotnusre, primarily icnocmlupdoinsgeddisopfocsaalr,broencydclioinxgid, ceo,mmpeotshtainnge and water vapasoencudtrot.rrTechaotemubledinotrg,eaadsruecpceroo1nd0suitdcoeer1de5dcp,atenhrecbewenatussoteef d to make elegcltoribcaitlyG, rheeeanth,oguasse aGnasd(fGuHelG. A) ecmoi-spsrioondsu.ct of anaerobicWdhiegnesactitoionnisstao vreadluuaceblweabstioefgeerntielirsaetri,orneferred to as digeacsorteualdatelrs,eowduthaciekcehunpistiontht2oe0 parececrmcoeauninnttoi,nftgthhseeooslveidecrtaaonlrld liquid organic mgalotbtealre–maisssitoanbsl.eO,nneuotfritehnetb-riigcghesstusobusrtcaensce which can help oref setmorisesioorngsa, naincdmanatatereraaonfdonpuptorrietunntsitiyn soil. AD can utiliseGfolarotbvraaalnrliysef,toyrromoufagftehiveleydasactotticohknisrsd,, iosonffeootohdfewwfahosiotcedh. is food waste, wipthroodtuhceedrsisbleosint gorawgarsitceudltwuirtahloruetsriedaucehisn,gmanures, sludges atnhedmeonuetrhgsyofcproeoppsl.e,Orensluylttihnrgoiung1h.3sbeilpliaonrately tonnes of food scraps that are disposed of collectingefaocohdyweaars. tOerfgoarnAicDwcaasntethdeecfuolml epnoesirnggy benefits be realiseind laannddftihlles pqruoadluitcyesofmtheteharenseu, wltihnigchdiigs eastate product bCmeauarcbshosnumrDoerideo.xpidoete(nCtOg2r)e,eannhdourespergeassenthtsana great opportunity for cities to use food and 03 organic waste as a resource to create useful to send zero waste to landfills by 2030 landfills via the donateNYC Partnership by-products such as compost or fertilisers to and minimise the environmental impact of and 2,528 tonnes have been donated through 5be used for soil amendment and renewable the city’s waste. Overall, New York aims Ctoopyrightth©e2d01o8nWaotrled NBioYgaCs Aosnsolciinatieonp. ortal. donateNYC energy through anaerobic digestion. reduce its CO2 emissions by 80 percent by is currently expanding to include a food 2050. The platform donateNYC contributes donation portal that connects generators Global Mobilisation to these aims, helping to increase reuse of of excess food, such as restaurants and Several cities around the world have started materials and products throughout the city. grocers, with social service organisations to take action to drastically improve solid Since the programme’s inception, 111,865 that can accept and redistribute food to waste management. New York City aims tonnes of goods have been diverted from their communities. Waste generation reduction and Waste Generation by Income Level promoting reuse and repair are priority actions of the first roadmap of Paris’ a. Share of waste generated, by income level percent Circular Economy Plan, as well as responsible consumption. The City of Paris aims to promote the growth of 5% responsible consumption by supporting actors offering goods and services based 34% on short supply chains that require little energy and generate little waste during 29% use. There are fifteen reuse centres in Paris at the end of 2018. The reuse centres have already diverted 2,651 tonnes of waste from incineration or landfill (an increase 32% in 17.1 percent compared to 2016). The City of Paris has also supported the creation of the first zero waste house, where Parisians Low-income Upper-middle income can find real solutions to avoid waste, Low-middle income High-income including being introduced to reusable products and participating in workshops. 02 028 envision

04 Criteria introduced through Berlin's Public Procurement Act: Improving waste and materials management also Cleaning agents and cleaning services contributes to making our Road vehicles cities cleaner, healthier, more Large-scale events Office materials & office equipment resilient, and inclusive. Tenders for power supplies The planning of the office buildings The recycling of commercial waste. In 2010 the Berlin House of Berlin has saved on 9,300 tonnes of regions, including New York, Paris, Representatives passed the Berlin Public wood and 2 million tonnes natural stone, Vancouver, Auckland, and Sydney, have Procurement Act (BerlAVG). This required alongside overall cost savings of around pledged to cut the amount of waste all public-purchasing offices in the state to €38 million. generated by each citizen by 15 percent, apply criteria considering environmental to reduce the amount of waste sent to factors to their procurement of goods and C40, A Call to Action landfills and incineration by 50 percent and services, such as lifecycle costs, aiming at increase the diversion rate to 70 percent by issues that consider the use of resources. Improving waste and materials 2030. The group represents more than 59 The size of the government, as the largest management also contributes to making million people, with an estimated impact to purchasing entity in the city, makes it a our cities cleaner, healthier, more resilient, avoid the disposal of more than 100 million strong agent of change, which can spread and inclusive. A group of global front- tonnes of waste, inviting others to follow. the benefits of reducing its environmental runner cities and regions have stepped up We must take bold and innovative action impact to all stakeholders in the production to lead the way, signing the C40 Cities, to change our common path towards a zero chain. This policy has led to huge results. ‘Advancing Towards Zero Waste Declaration’ waste and climate-safe future. in 2018. These twenty-five cities and issue 16 029

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As a member of the Keppel Infrastructure group, Keppel Seghers is the environmental technology arm of Keppel Corporation. It is part of Keppel Corporation’s eco-system of companies working together to provide robust solutions for sustainable urbanisation. As a leading provider of environmental solutions, Keppel Seghers solves some of the worlds’ most pressing waste and water issues. We provide expertise in design and engineering, technology development, construction, as well as operations and maintenance of plants and facilities. Hong Kong Integrated Waste Management Facilities • Hong Kong SAR We also invest in large-scale environmental projects, focusing on waste-to-energy (WTE), water reuse, desalination and wastewater treatment. Keppel Marina East Desalination Plant • Singapore Leveraging our extensive engineering experience and global network, we aim to deliver and operate environmental projects in a profitable, safe, and sustainable manner. http://www.keppelseghers.com

Global Briefing Why We Need The Oceans Effective management of oceans is clearly needed if society is to benefit from the ocean’s ecosystem services in the long term and meet the goal of sustainable development. L.M. Chou, Adjunct Research Professor, Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore 01 in diverse environmental conditions from the surface to the ocean floor. The oceans cover 71 percent of Upon descending into the ocean, decreasing Earth’s surface and descend to light, primary productivity, temperature, depths sufficient to fully submerge dissolved oxygen, current strength, and the highest mountain. This vast liquid environmental fluctuation, contrast environment remains dynamic with water with increasing nutrients and pressure. constantly moved by vertical and horizontal This vertical gradient results in zones currents influenced by the planet’s rotation, with different properties, each favoring gravitational forces of the sun and moon, specific biological communities that have and atmospheric conditions. The fluid evolved and are best suited to it. The oceans property makes the environment an open therefore accommodate a massive variety of and interconnected one where tides and species that have adapted to these varying currents persistently carry waste across conditions. geopolitical boundaries. Deep ocean species appear bizarre At least half of Earth’s oxygen comes with large mouths, small bodies, and large from the oceans, generated by tiny drifting or no eyes. They give an indication of an phytoplankton. At the same time, it absorbs environment that is cold and totally devoid and removes carbon from the atmosphere. of light. Yet, it is not just a few species that The movement of water across all oceans have evolved to live in such conditions, is known as the great ocean conveyor belt but entire biological communities. It is system. There are also density currents surprising that new habitats such as deep- where warm surface layers shift water from sea vents were only discovered in the 1970s the tropics to the polar region, cooling, and cold-water reefs in the 1990s. Scientists sinking, and gradually moving along the were puzzled by how rich the benthic bottom of the ocean back to the tropics. community was around hydrothermal Both systems are aided by the remarkable vents. Worms, clams, mussels, shrimps, properties of water, to exist as a liquid, gas crabs, and fishes, all new to science thrived or solid, distribute and regulate heat in the without sunlight energy needed to drive atmosphere, and drive weather patterns. photosynthesis. They were instead driven The oceans hold an enormous volume of water because of its depth, which results 01 032 envision

01 A coral reef and fish 02 Seagrass 02 and shallow seas, which show a general seal to global extinction, mainly by hunting. distribution pattern of high species richness Seas and oceans are a downstream by chemosynthetic bacteria on which in the tropics compared to the temperate environment. Waste and pollutants other organisms fed or formed a symbiotic region. At the same time, species richness generated on land will wash into the sea. association with. distribution along the same latitudes Or if they are airborne, will also settle varies increasing from east to west along over the ocean surface. Using the sea as a Ocean Resources the equatorial Pacific and Atlantic Oceans convenient waste dumping ground resulted and is greater along their western than in habitat degradation and the weakening The oceans have provided people with eastern rims. Biodiversity surveys have of ecological integrity, which in turn both living and non-living resources since been restricted to shallow coastal seas and depresses biological productivity and the dawn of civilisation. Minerals such continental shelves, which make up only the abundance and quality of seafood. as salt, magnesium, iron, cobalt, copper, 5 percent of the ocean environment. Further unmanaged exploitation and nickel, sand, and gravel have been mined destructive fishing methods will only or extracted, and active drilling for crude Killing The Oceans lead to collapse of the ecological oil is widespread. The marine environment carrying capacity of marine systems. supports an incredible diversity of species The vastness of the oceans anesthetise A published study by Diaz and ranging from microbes to Earth’s largest people with the perception that it can Rosenberg in 2008 showed that nutrient living creature, the blue whale. It has provide an inexhaustible supply of food enrichment from agricultural run-off and 35 animal phyla compared to 11 on land. and materials and that it is also a massive sewage discharge have led to increasing So far, only 250,000 of the estimated absorber of waste and pollutants. This is marine dead zones devoid of dissolved more than 1 million species have been further exacerbated by the ‘out of sight, oxygen where life cannot be sustained. described and named, and this excludes out of mind’ mentality where a deforested The annual release of nitrogen from land 10 to 100 million microbial types. What area in plain view attracts wide attention into the rest of the environment more than is known is that marine biodiversity is but a dead reef does not because of visual doubled since 1950 based on the Millennium greater than terrestrial biodiversity. obscurity. Waste dumped into the sea usually Ecosystem Assessment in 2005. Other More familiar are the specialised habitats stays hidden, either sinking or carried to harmful pollutants include heavy metals, of coral reefs, seagrass, and mangroves parts of the ocean out of view. While there pesticides, and persistent organic pollutants found mainly in the tropics. They support is much about marine biodiversity that we that disrupt endocrine functions or cause specific biological communities and their don’t know about, humans have already cancer in marine species as well as humans. high primary productivity makes them a driven about twenty species including the Decades of litter, mostly plastic valuable exploitable resource. Steller’s sea cow and the Caribbean monk dumped into the sea resulted in the Great Much more is known about marine Pacific Garbage Patch, discovered only in biodiversity in the upper layers of oceans 1997. It extends an astounding 1.6 million square kilometres. Floating marine litter is estimated to kill more than 1 million birds and 100,000 marine mammals and turtles a year from ingestion or entanglement. Lost and abandoned fishing gear continue to trap fish and other sea creatures, killing them needlessly. The litter also helps to transport invasive species between seas and oceans. The impact of plastic litter to marine life has been known for a long time but the potential impact on humans was only recently established and is now receiving widespread attention. Plastic litter does not decompose, but breaks into tiny fragments known microplastics, small enough to be ingested by zooplankton and filter-feeders and accumulating through the food chain to end up in the seafood we consume. There is consistently no good news. The extent of coastal habitats such as mangroves, seagrass beds, salt marshes, intertidal flats, continue to decline, while issue 16 033

Global Briefing The vastness of the oceans anesthetise people with the perception that it can provide an inexhaustible supply of food and materials and that it is also a massive absorber of waste and pollutants. tropical reefs suffered significant 03 Thailand, and Vietnam discharged 636,840 biodiversity decline globally since the 1970s tonnes of nitrogen to the coastal waters according to the third Global Biodiversity the sea places great pressure on the seas overlying the Sunda Shelf. Most serious Outlook published in 2010 by the Secretariat in terms of dissolved oxygen depletion is the rising level of nutrients from land- of the Convention on Biological Diversity. and bacterial contamination. Inadequate based sources leading to increased risk About 70 percent of the developing world’s sewage treatment and disposal has caused of harmful algal blooms. With increasing untreated industrial waste are dumped into massive fish kills, aquaculture harvest population and economic growth and the rivers, lakes, and oceans, and 70 percent of failures, and human health risks in many current low level of sewage treatment, the world’s fisheries have been overfished populated coastal areas of Indonesia based eutrophication with its threat to public beyond recovery for most. A 2003 study by on an assessment by coastal management health will increase and potentially take on researchers Myers and Worm concluded researcher Dahuri in 1999. Unmanaged transboundary proportions. Industrial and that many commercial fisheries such as the growth of popular coastal tourism sites domestic wastes are identified as the major once abundant Atlantic cod have collapsed without sufficient sewage treatment sources of marine pollution in the region. within the last four decades. capacity has resulted in unacceptable A 2017 UNEP report on waste management seawater quality forcing drastic action, such in ASEAN countries indicated that East Asia as closure of the area until proper treatment municipal solid waste is increasing in the facilities could be installed. This is a clear region and while much is buried in landfills, The world’s average coastal population case of the area’s environmental carrying a significant amount is transported to the (within 100km of coastline) is 40 percent capacity being exceeded by overcrowding, sea by rivers. A great proportion of this but in East Asia, it is disproportionately unmanaged development, and lack of waste waste is plastic material. An assessment high at 77 percent. This pressure exposes treatment infrastructure. The recent case published in 2017 by a team of researchers the marine environment to unsustainable example of this is Boracay in 2018. However, led by Lebreton demonstrated that the main resource exploitation and environmental this is not a new problem but reminiscent of input of plastics to oceans is from land- degradation that are further intensified by earlier similar instances such as Pattaya in based sources with the top twenty polluting threats from climate change and natural the 1980s. rivers, all in Asia, contributing 67 percent of hazards. Suspended solids in Asia’s rivers the world’s total. The “State of the Marine Environment quadrupled since the late 1970s, while Southeast Asia is recognised as the Report for the East Asian Seas 2009” two-thirds of the world’s total sediment global marine biodiversity center. It has concluded that there is a steady decline transport to oceans occur in Southeast one quarter of the world’s coral reefs and in the quality of East Asia’s marine and Asia. From the 2000 report “Transboundary one-third of the world’s mangroves. These coastal waters from oil spills, contaminants Diagnostic Analysis for the South China Sea” habitats maintain species richness higher from shipping, sewage, domestic wastes, published by UNEP Regional Coordinating than elsewhere in the world. Marine industrial effluents, and urban and Unit / East Asian Seas, it is estimated that agricultural runoff. Sewage is a major the rivers of Cambodia, China, Malaysia, source of organic pollution. Many of the coastal megacities in the regions lack adequate sewage treatment facilities and the high volume of untreated or partially treated waste discharged into 034 envision

03 Coastal environment and the ocean 04 Mangrove habitat 04 ecosystems in Southeast Asia are also sustainably and without seriously development. A review of the goal’s progress among the most productive in the world affecting its ecosystem services, and its in 2018 revealed the need for effective and of vast social and economic importance. environmental quality kept intact. The strategies and management to address For example, reef fish contribute 70 percent Integrated Coastal Management (ICM) overfishing, coastal eutrophication, and of fish catch and people depend on the approach has been demonstrated to be an increasing ocean acidity. More protected ocean’s resources for livelihood. Fisheries effective governance framework in East Asia areas for marine biodiversity are required production of East Asian countries as it integrates economic and environmental together with increased research capacity amounted to 40 percent of the world’s concerns, encourages stakeholder and ocean science funding to help preserve catch, while aquaculture production is 87 participation and community ownership, marine resources. percent of the world’s total. However, while facilitates data collection, management and Here, I wish to add that marine the region’s natural coastal and marine dissemination, and enhances the country’s biodiversity protection is relevant to resources are the richest in the world, they capacity to adhere to international urbanised coasts and perhaps more so. are subject to tremendous pressure from conventions more closely. Regional East Asia’s urbanisation rate is among the expanding coastal population and rapid experience with ICM implementation the highest in the world with the majority pace of coastal development. More than 90 were compiled in the 2018 book “Local of population concentrated in the coastal percent of Southeast Asia’s coral reefs are at Contributions to Global Development area. While coastal developmenthas high risk and mangrove habitat loss remains Agenda: Case Studies in Integrated Coastal an impact on the marine environment, of concern. An estimated 3 million hectares Management in the East Asian Seas conservation measures including protection of mangrove were lost to aquaculture. Region” published by the Partnerships and habitat restoration can contribute to Marine management priorities in in Environmental Management for the the preservation of marine habitats such Southeast Asia include improved regulation Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA) and Coastal as corals reefs and marine biodiversity in of the fisheries industry particularly Management Center (CMC). urbanised coasts. Urban coastal cities will the rapid growth of aquaculture and its continue to grow and they will have a role in associated environmental challenges such SDG 14 – Life Below Water accommodating marine biodiversity. as excess nutrients, exotic species escape Can the oceans provide for human and use of disease-control chemicals. There One of the global goals established by the needs? Yes, but not at the rate resources are is also an urgent need to address emerging United Nations General Assembly in 2015 exploited and the degree of damage to the problems such as marine litter (especially to transform the world for sustainable environment. The oceans sustain people plastic) and invasive species. Various development by 2030 focuses on the marine but people in turn need to sustain the ocean. strategies have been adopted to manage environment. Sustainable Development We need to switch gears and move into a the marine environment so that its Goal 14 (SDG 14) calls for the conservation management mode of sustaining ocean resources can be harvested more and sustainable use of the oceans, seas, sustainability. and marine resources for sustainable issue 16 035

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issue 16 Global Briefing Climate Resilience Yields Returns Climate change has pressing economic consequences, with the resiliency of built assets and return on investments vulnerable to its increasing impact, especially in Asia. To maintain target returns and ensure the most sustainable and resilient projects are financed, investors and lenders must consider climate resiliency in their decisions. Richard Warburton, Executive Director, Arcadis Much of the burden of the global impact of climate change will fall in Asia, as more frequent and more catastrophic weather events exert unparalleled pressure on our citizens and assets. In 2018 alone, Typhoon Mangkhut created widespread destruction and an insurance bill nearly exceeding US$1 billion in China, Hong Kong, and Macau, exposing the vulnerability of even the most developed cities. Combined with rapid urbanisation and rising sea levels, the impacts of climate change are not only an environmental concern, but a pressing economic issue. Future-Proofing Buildings For a low-lying island city like Singapore, the most immediate environmental threat will come from rising sea levels. As the city-state expands to meet the needs of its growing population, it is imperative that new infrastructure and buildings are built, managed, and operated to be both climate- resilient and future-proof. This also means 039

Global Briefing 01 Water pollution 02 Renewable energy sources near the small fishing village of Kalpitiya on the west coast of the island 03 Island eastern corridor, Hong Kong, China 04 Gardens by the Bay, Singapore 02 that the resiliency of our built assets, increasingly unpredictable world. Without Since 2016, the Singapore Stock like schools, offices, and homes, and the a comprehensive understanding of these Exchange requires listed companies to subsequent return on investment of these risks and opportunities, the likelihood of publish a sustainability report to provide fixed assets, are vulnerable to the increasing seeing financially stranded assets and a comprehensive overview of the issuer. impact of climate change.  reduced returns will be higher. Increased A year earlier, the Hong Kong Stock Climate change and rapid urbanisation focus and accountability is required from Exchange moved ESG reporting are likely to have a significant impact on both lenders and investors to maintain target requirements from “recommended and the real estate and infrastructure sectors in returns and ensure the most sustainable voluntary” to “comply or explain”.  Asia. This means the investment community and resilient projects are financed. The trend of sustainable finance in should understand the relationship between real estate and infrastructure investment is an asset and its environment, to be able Increased focus and gaining momentum globally. Investors and to address the uncertainties around accountability is required from financial institutions are recognising the climate risk. importance of ESG factors in determining both lenders and investors and driving the value of an asset. McKinsey Sustainable Finance to maintain target returns stated that over 25 percent of assets under Gains Momentum management globally are being invested on and ensure the most the premise that ESG factors can affect a In many ways, Asia is already responding. sustainable and resilient company’s performance and market value. Some companies in the region are pursuing Financial institutions have also started sustainable finance solutions to ensure that projects are financed. to acknowledge the need to look beyond development does not come at the expense the initial mandated tenor and consider the of a damaged environment, poor conditions ESG Drives Performance and future physical risks of climate change on for local workers, or negative impacts on Market Value an asset to identify related financial pitfalls. communities. However, Asian corporations In Asia, the question remains as are doing so at a slower pace than their Gone are the days when financial to whether the investment and asset counterparts in North America and Europe.  institutions could get away with only management communities are ready to By reducing their potential exposure to loosely embracing Environmental, Social, respond to climate-related issues. Evidence acute environmental shock and stressors, and Governance (ESG) requirements. to suggest that ESG factors are being Asian investors know that they can routinely considered during decision- enhance the certainty of their returns in an 040 envision

03 making processes is limited, even though 04 sustainability reporting has significantly increased over recent years.  However, businesses who only consider ESG reporting are missing a vital part of the equation. In Asian markets, it is expected that the environmental and social impacts of climate change will soon be felt more acutely at the local level. Real estate developments not supported by high- quality local infrastructure, or not designed to withstand extreme weather events such as urban floods or water scarcity will see their value reduce. The impact of the environment on an asset and its long- term resiliency to climate change needs to be fully considered, rather than just its short-term value.  This changing focus on mitigation, adaptation, and climate resilience of an asset needs to become a more integral factor in investment decision making. Ultimately, sustainable development and investment need to reduce an asset’s negative impact on the environment and the community in which it operates, mitigate risks from future events, while generating attractive resilient returns for investors. issue 16 041





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issue 16 Policy A Recipe Against Food Waste How data and business play a vital role in the fight against Food Loss and Waste (FLW). Amirul Adli, Project Manager, GA Circular Food waste is the second largest category of waste disposed in Singapore. As waste generation continues to increase it will put a strain on Pulau Semakau, Singapore’s only landfill, which is due to run out of space by 2035. In addition, other negative consequences of this include greenhouse gas emissions and monetary losses. This article will use the internationally recognised term, Food Loss and Waste (FLW), which was inspired by the FLW protocol established in 2013 by international organisations such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and The Consumer Goods Forum to standardise global measurements. FLW is defined as “food removed from the supply chain” that is “not eventually directly consumed by people”, meaning that it is a term that encompasses both food loss and food waste. It is important to have comprehensive and robust data on how and why food waste is generated to plan for FLW reduction. However, the current dearth of granular data poses an obstacle to FLW reduction 045

Policy 01 Cover Source: NEA Food Waste Audits 02 Greenhouse gas emissions. Source: Food and Agriculture Organisation 03 Blue Water Footprint. Source: Food and Agriculture Organisation Gathering data is the first step towards effectively tackling FLW, as data can guide decision-makers in deploying targeted and impactful solutions. data poses an obstacle to FLW reduction efforts. This article outlines the pathway towards closing these data gaps to drive solutions. Economic and Environmental 02 Closing The Data Gaps Impacts of FLW At a higher level, a report by the Boston The path towards minimising FLW begins According to the FAO, around one third of Consulting Group estimated the total global with an examination of two key domains: the global food supply is wasted annually. business opportunity of tackling FLW to be This FLW leads to environmental issues about US$700 billion. 1. Direct Measurement of FLW - such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, One of the ways of quantifying FLW with FLW only behind China and the The Recipe for FLW Reduction is through direct measurement of the USA in terms of GHG contribution if it waste disposed. These FLW audits were to be ranked as a country. Similarly, Gathering data is the first step towards allow businesses to know the amount pressures on land and water resources are effectively tackling FLW, as data can guide of food waste that is generated to significant when FLW is compared against decision-makers in deploying targeted and build a case for FLW reduction efforts other countries. These numbers are more impactful solutions. This is particularly troubling when seen against the fact that, important since unlike plastic and packaging 2. Wastage within Food Supply Chain - at the same time, about 1 billion people are waste that is generated primarily post- Since FLW can occur through all stages undernourished. consumption, FLW is generated throughout of the supply chain, businesses should However, there are attractive the food supply chain. also aim to uncover FLW along different commercial opportunities for FLW Furthermore, the challenges facing the stages of their supply chain and not just reduction. A report by Champions 12.3 food supply chain vary widely depending the final preparation or retail stage. found that for every US$1 spent in reducing on ground realities. For example, FLW, there was an average US$14 return developing countries typically have a large In summary, higher-quality data and on investment. The savings came from a agricultural sector with less developed increased granularity of FLW data within reduction in food purchases, capitalising transportation and storage infrastructure. the food supply chain are the missing on the previously wasted value of food This leads to more FLW in the earlier ingredients towards effective, data-driven determined to be leftovers or scraps, and stages of the supply chain. In contrast, a solutions to FLW. Tesco supermarkets, lower waste management costs due to lower larger share of the FLW from developed for example, have been publishing waste generation. An example of how food countries comes from the consumption independently audited FLW data within waste reduction have resulted in significant stage. This variance underscores the need their supply chains since 2013 and applying savings are the usage of food digesters at for data on FLW - to understand where the lessons learnt from this data to divert Our Tampines Hub. These food digesters it happens and where interventions are food that would otherwise be wasted to have resulted in about S$40,000 of annual needed. For example, in places where the charities instead. savings for Singapore’s largest integrated data shows considerable losses during community and lifestyle hub through transportation and storage, investments can reduced waste collection fees and sale of be made in cold chain storage technology. digested products. 046 envision

04 Land Used For Agriculture. Source: Food and Agriculture Organisation 05 Comparing the benefits and costs of reducing FLW 06 Comparison of wastage between Plastic and FLW 03 04 05 06 047 issue 16

Policy 07 The Ingredients of Food redistribution organisations in Measures such as relaxing FLW Reduction Singapore include Food Bank Singapore, cosmetic filtering standards Food from the Heart, and Free Food for All. and better purchasing and Once a sufficient amount of data is Lastly, where food loss and waste cannot production forecasts can then gathered, systematic and targeted efforts be avoided and is generated, food waste be made to prevent this FLW at reducing FLW can begin. This involves can be recycled into useful products. For from being generated in the the application of the FLW management example, the food digesters at Our Tampines hierarchy which outlines the priority of Hub in Singapore recycle the FLW generated first place. preferred management measures. within the development into compost and liquid plant nutrients which are used To summarise, there are three ways at their rooftop garden and distributed to reduce FLW (not counting disposal), to residents for their gardening use. which are: 1. Reduction Completing the Recipe 2. Redistribution 3. Recycling The issue of FLW, if left unaddressed, has the potential to have a significant negative Reduction refers to the prevention of impact on the planet. Fortunately, this FLW generation and is the highest on the is changing, with awareness increasing hierarchy. Having data on where FLW is amongst businesses and governments who generated in the supply chain will allow are then adopting FLW measures. Policies companies to address these leaks more such as the mandatory FLW segregation for effectively. Measures such as relaxing large food waste generators in Singapore cosmetic filtering standards and better by 2024 and voluntary agreements such as purchasing and production forecasts can the Courtauld Commitment 2025 to reduce then be made to prevent this FLW from FLW by 20 percent by 2025 for UK retailers being generated in the first place. speak to this new paradigm. The time is ripe Next in the hierarchy is food for businesses to play a leading role in this redistribution - the redistribution of excess drive, by capitalising on the opportunity to and unsold food that is still edible. tackle FLW, and do well by doing good. 048 envision