Date Published: 29 Feb 2008

(i) Water Conservation

[Delivered by Dr Amy Khor, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources]

Water Conservation in the Domestic Sector

Update on 10L Water Conservation Challenge

4-1 We recognise the importance of individual efforts in water conservation, and have schemes to promote this. In 2006, we launched the 10-Litre Challenge to reduce daily water consumption per capita by 10 litres. I am happy to report that 68 Water Volunteer Groups have since been formed in 39 constituencies, involving Resident Committees, Voluntary Welfare Organisations and other organizations. These groups volunteer their time over the weekends, to visit households and assist in the installation of water-saving devices. We hope more Singaporeans will step forward to follow their fine example.

4-2 Through our outreach and educational programmes, we have lowered our daily per capita domestic water consumption, from 165 litres in 2003 to 157 litres today. We are on track to reach our target of 155 litres by 2012.

Update on Voluntary Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme

4-3 In 2006, we also launched the voluntary water efficiency labelling scheme as part of the 10-Litre Challenge. To date, more than 500 products have been labelled, from taps to shower heads to washing machines. This allows consumers to make informed choices when they make their purchases. In view of the favorable response, the labelling scheme will be made mandatory from July 2009. For a start, taps, flushing cisterns and urinals must come with water efficiency labels. We will consider extending this scheme to shower heads and washing machines in the future, when more water efficient models are available.

4-4 From July 2009, taps, urinals and dual-flush cisterns installed in all new developments and premises undergoing renovation, must have at least a “one-tick” water efficiency rating. As developers install water devices in bulk, this will hasten the take-up of water efficient devices and incentivise suppliers to bring in more models. In fact, PUB is already working with HDB to adopt the use of water efficient products in HDB developments. The choice of dual-flush cisterns was offered in some upgrading projects, and the take-up rate was high. HDB has also incorporated the use of dual-flush cisterns for new projects.

Water Conservation for the Non-Domestic Sector 4-5 The non-domestic sector is another key group of water consumers, accounting for half the water consumption in .

4-6 PUB currently has some initiatives to manage water demand in this sector. For example, users are encouraged to run Water Efficient Buildings, by using water efficient fittings and monitoring their water consumption. They are also encouraged to use NEWater in place of potable water and to recycle water, whenever possible. Last year, PUB also launched the Water Efficiency Fund to provide financial incentives to companies to take on water conservation measures and develop alternative water sources.

10% Challenge

4-7 Our experience with the Water Efficient Buildings programme suggests that there is generally scope to lower one’s water consumption by about 5-10%. Hence, we would like to call on non-domestic users to take up a 10% Challenge, where we will work with them to reduce their water consumption, by up to 10% if not more. This can be achieved for example, by installing water-saving devices and adopting good water management practices. Taking up this challenge will also benefit the users, since reductions in water consumption means cost savings. Over the next 3 to 5 years, we will engage the different sectors to help them lower their water consumption. We will start off with Government and commercial buildings, hotels and schools.

4-8 To help promote this 10% Challenge, a 10% Challenge Website will be launched. It will assist users in assessing the state of water management in their premises and identifying opportunities for improvement. PUB will also work with institutions like the polytechnics to develop a Water Efficiency Manager Course, to equip in-house facilities and operations managers with knowledge and skills to conduct water audits and adopt water conservation measures. PUB also plans to work with professional organisations to develop a Water Efficient Building Design Guide. PUB will work with BCA to include Water Efficient Building design as a criterion under the Green Mark certification for buildings.

4-9 All in, the 10% Challenge is a basket of initiatives to encourage and assist the non- domestic sector to reduce their water consumption. Beyond cost savings to customers, we hope to achieve a longer-term change in the mindset and approach towards the design of buildings and systems that are water efficient.

(ii) Water Supply, EWI and ABC Waters

Water Supply

4-10 On the supply side, our Four National Taps strategy provides us with a diversified and sustainable supply of water. The four taps are: water from local catchments, imported water, NEWater and desalinated water.

4-11 We will continue to maximise the water that we collect from our local catchments. By next year, three new reservoirs at Marina, and Serangoon, which are currently under construction, will be created. Together, they will increase our catchment area from half to two-thirds of Singapore’s land area.

4-12 NEWater demand has been growing since its introduction in 2003. The industry values NEWater for its high quality. With the completion of our fifth and largest NEWater plant at Changi, NEWater will be able to meet 30% of our water needs by 2011, up from the current 15%.

4-13 Our fourth tap is desalinated water. The Singspring desalination plant was commissioned in 2005, and can supply up to 10% of our water demand.

4-14 Together, our Four National Taps will ensure a robust and sustainable supply to meet Singapore’s long-term water needs.

Developing Localised Water Supply on Jurong Island

4-15 Currently, Jurong Island gets its water from mainland Singapore. Water demand on the island amounts to some 10% of the total demand in Singapore. This is expected to increase with further industrial growth on Jurong Island.

4-16 With the high and concentrated demand on Jurong Island, there is scope to consider developing localised water supply on the island itself. There is plentiful supply of seawater for desalination. We can also recycle the used water on the island. PUB will study the feasibility of developing water supply on Jurong Island. Should we proceed, we will ensure that there is minimal cost impact to the companies on Jurong Island.

4-17 If successful, this initiative will enhance Singapore’s reputation as a leader in integrated water resource management and in balancing environmental sustainability with industrial development

Water Pricing

4-18 I had informed that my Ministry would look into restructuring used water charges into a single volumetric fee, moving towards a single price for water. We are still in the process of studying the implementation details.

4-19 Our initiatives in managing our water supply and demand represent a holistic approach to water management that is increasingly recognised internationally. For its excellence in integrated water resource management, PUB was awarded the Stockholm Industry Water Award last year. We want to build upon such achievements and track record, to develop Singapore as a hub for water solutions to meet global challenges.

Developing the Water Industry

4-20 Last year, I informed members that we had set up the Environment and Water Industry Development Council, or EWI, to spearhead our efforts to grow the water industry. I am pleased to report that EWI has made good progress in 2007.

4-21 Through the investment promotion efforts by both EDB and PUB, we have continued to attract and anchor major multinational companies and R&D centres. Black and Veatch, for example, has announced plans to expand its Singapore operations to serve as its Global Design Centre.

4-22 Our home-grown companies such as Hyflux, Keppel and SembCorp have done us proud by expanding their businesses in key overseas markets such as China and the Middle East. A number of major projects were clinched last year, such as Keppel’s $1.5 billion wastewater treatment contract in Qatar. In addition, under the MOU which my Ministry had signed with the Ministry of Construction in China on cooperation in urban environment and water resources, in-principle agreement was reached for SembCorp and PUB to jointly embark on a wastewater treatment and water supply demonstration project in ZhangJiaGang, China.

4-23 EWI’s key strategy in growing the water industry is to nurture a vibrant research eco-system. This would provide critical technological innovation, intellectual capital and train specialist manpower for our growing environment and water industry. The research community and Singaporeans have responded very positively to this.

4-24 Our local academic institutions have been proactive in building up their research capacity. Both NUS and NTU have established institutes that are focused on environment and water research. Internationally renowned research institutes such as Delft Hydraulics have likewise been attracted to set up R&D Centres and partnerships in Singapore.

4-25 Riding on this momentum, we will be launching our flagship water event, the Singapore International Water Week or SIWW in June this year. This will be a milestone for Singapore, as the Water Week will be a platform for government officials, industry leaders and water professionals from all over the world to network and share solutions and experiences in the field of water. In the long-term, we plan to grow SIWW into a leading water show in the world, which will contribute to our vision for Singapore to become a global hydro-hub.

Marina Barrage

4-26 I am pleased to inform the House that the Marina Barrage when completed will not only increase our water supply but help alleviate flooding in low-lying areas of the city. The reservoir created will also be a lifestyle attraction offering a host of recreational possibilities. International and local sporting events such as sailing and river regattas will be held, adding buzz to the Marina Bay.

4-27 By third quarter this year, visitors to the Marina Barrage will be able to learn about Singapore’s water story and understand how the barrage works. They will also get to see green features in the building design, such as the turfed roof, the use of solar energy, and water and energy-efficient fittings. Through these, we hope the public can learn more about the Marina Barrage and other projects, and how they can play a part in our water and environmental sustainability story.

ABC Waters Programme

4-28 Last year, PUB launched the ABC Waters programme, to bring people closer to water so that they will better cherish this precious resource. Under the programme, our drains, canals and reservoirs will be transformed into vibrant, beautiful and clean streams, rivers and lakes, raising the quality of life of Singaporeans to an even higher level.

Some upcoming ABC Waters projects

4-29 I am happy to report good progress on the first three projects which will be completed this year – at Kolam Ayer, and MacRitchie Reservoir. Singaporeans can also expect more exciting projects across the island, including: Lower Reservoir, , , Sungei Punggol, and Kallang River near Bishan Park.

4-30 Let me give a preview of some of these projects.

4-31 In the eastern part of Singapore, at , the rich heritage of the area will be preserved. Along the heritage bridge, visitors can take in the scenic view of the reservoir, and through story panels, learn of the interesting history of Lower Seletar Reservoir and its previous Orang Seletar settlement. This will connect the young with the past and bring back memories of the place for the older generation.

4-32 In the western part of Singapore, Jurong Lake will be transformed into a family recreational attraction. Here, school children can learn how wetlands function and families can get close to the water along the boardwalks. As a connection to the loose translation of Jurong as a fish (its local name is Ikan Julong), there will be a fishing promenade for anglers.

4-33 In the central part of Singapore, Kallang River along Bishan Park will be transformed into a scenic river, which will be integrated with the adjacent park. Families can enjoy a quiet stroll along the new footbridge connecting the residential estates from both sides of Bishan Park. They can also enjoy picnics by the water while children have fun at the water play areas.

4-34 With these projects, we hope to bring waterfront living to the HDB heartlands, improve the quality of our living environment and enhance property values. It will also bring closer to realization our vision of being a City of Gardens and Water, which is one of the key thrusts of Clean and Green Singapore.

Community Participation 4-35 While the Government carries out the physical infrastructural works, the success of these projects will depend on the community. We want people to visit our waters, have fun and in doing so, develop a sense of ownership and play their part to keep our waters clean.

4-36 PUB will engage the community to encourage them to take ownership of these projects. A one-day workshop was held for the pilot project at Kolam Ayer, where the community groups brainstormed how they could sustain the project in their estate. They are now developing the ideas into community bonding projects which they will run themselves. Similar workshops will also be conducted for the other ABC Waters projects.

(i) Concluding Remarks

4-37 To conclude, I thank the Members for their views and suggestions. We can all be proud that Singapore has done well to achieve the clean and healthy environment that we enjoy today. While we continue to take care of our environment, we are also moving towards our vision of becoming a city of Gardens and Water to further enhance the quality of life of all Singaporeans.

4-38 Looking ahead, my Ministry will maintain a strong focus on environmental sustainability to ensure that we deliver an even higher quality environment in tandem with a growing population and economy. We will continue with efforts to develop and position Singapore as a global hub and thought-leader for environment and water technologies and solutions. At the same time, we will encourage the private sector to adopt more environmentally-friendly business practices, especially where these result in cost-savings and greater resource security. To facilitate such efforts, we will look into providing incentives where necessary, for instance to address market barriers and failures. We will continue to take a sensible approach by adopting measures that reap effective returns and long-term benefits for our people and industries.

4-39 While the government will actively do our part, achieving environmental sustainability will require the participation of each and every Singaporean. It can be as simple as not littering, keeping our homes free from dengue, bringing our recyclables to the nearest recycling bin, and choosing water and energy efficient appliances. I urge everyone to be more mindful in the little choices that we make in our everyday life.

4-40 If we work together to sustain a better environment and quality of life, the result of our joint efforts will be enjoyed not just by ourselves but also our future generations, who will benefit from a Singapore that is economically vibrant and has a high-quality living environment, with clean air, land, and water for all.