Singapore expands smart recycling program to 83 new locations by 2025

Singapore is taking another significant step towards becoming a zero-waste nation with the expansion of smart recycling boxes and food waste lockers to 83 new locations by January 1, 2025. This move comes after a successful trial in Bishan and Sin Ming that demonstrated impressive results in reducing contamination rates for recyclables.

The smart recycling system, introduced by local waste management company 800 Super, has shown promising results in its initial trial. The system consists of smart recycling boxes for various recyclable materials and separate lockers for food waste collection. What sets this system apart is its use of technology to incentivize proper recycling habits among residents.

Mr. Milton Ng, chief operating officer of 800 Super, explained the company's approach: "It was a lot of trial (and error) because of issues with system integration… We had challenges in terms of capturing the data and also issuing points to the participants."

Despite these initial hurdles, the system has proven effective in significantly reducing contamination rates in recyclables.

Impressive Reduction in Contamination Rates

One of the most notable achievements of this smart recycling initiative is the dramatic decrease in contamination rates. The trial in Bishan and Sin Ming managed to cut the contamination rate of recyclables to just 10 percent, a significant improvement from the national average of 40 percent. This reduction is crucial for improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of Singapore's recycling efforts.

How the Smart Recycling System Works

The smart recycling boxes allow residents to deposit various types of recyclables, including paper, plastic, aluminum, metal cans, old clothing, and glass. Alongside these boxes, food waste recycling lockers are available for residents to dispose of food scraps such as fruit peels and meat trimmings.

Users interact with the system through a mobile app, which generates a personalized QR code for each recycling session. The app also tracks the weight of deposited materials and awards points accordingly. These points can be exchanged for FairPrice vouchers, providing a tangible incentive for residents to participate actively in recycling efforts.

Expansion Plans and Challenges

With the success of the initial trial, 800 Super is now planning to expand the system to 83 new locations, primarily in Ang Mo Kio and Toa Payoh. This expansion represents a significant scaling up of the initiative, potentially impacting a much larger portion of Singapore's population.

However, the rollout has not been without its challenges. Some residents have reported difficulties with the app and occasional maintenance issues with the recycling boxes. Mr. Ng acknowledged these teething problems, stating, "We had challenges in terms of capturing the data and also issuing points to the participants." The company is actively working to address these issues and improve the user experience.

Community Response and Environmental Impact

The community response to the smart recycling initiative has been largely positive. In a survey conducted by 800 Super in July 2023, over 90 percent of 200 respondents indicated they would continue using the smart recycling boxes. This high level of engagement is crucial for the long-term success of the program.

Ms. Tan Huileng, executive director of Zero Waste SG, highlighted the potential impact of this initiative: "We believe that such waste segregation at source will inculcate more mindful management of trash, including reducing waste generation in the first place, and cleaning and storing recyclables properly before taking them to the recycling boxes or bins."

Looking Ahead: The Future of Recycling in Singapore

As Singapore continues to strive towards its zero-waste goals, initiatives like the smart recycling boxes and food waste lockers play a crucial role. By combining technology, incentives, and community engagement, these systems have the potential to significantly improve recycling rates and reduce waste contamination.

Mr. Cheang Kok Chung, executive director of the Singapore Environment Council, emphasized the importance of such initiatives: "Although the collection of clean streams of segregated recyclables tends to be more expensive and requires more pre-sorting by households, the improved recycling results with low contamination could make the additional expense and effort worthwhile."

As the system expands to more locations across Singapore, it will be interesting to observe its impact on the nation's overall recycling rates and waste management practices. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other cities looking to improve their recycling programs and move towards more sustainable urban living.