The National Environment Agency (NEA), which operates under the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) in Singapore, is tasked with ensuring a clean and sustainable environment. It has been highlighted that Singapore currently collects all waste produced by its population of around six million.
Halmie Hussien Mattar, the Director of the Environment Technology and Industry Development Division, stated that the Singaporean government prioritizes sanitation due to the limited land available in the country.
He further mentioned that three public waste collection companies have been engaged to guarantee that no solid waste remains uncollected.
During a meeting with senior executives from the Jospong Group of Companies, Mr. Mattar emphasized that Singapore adopts a thoughtful and strategic approach to tackle any challenges that may threaten the upkeep of a clean environment.
He also disclosed that while the Semakau Landfill, the primary landfill site in Singapore, is projected to reach its full capacity by 2035, proactive and actionable strategies are already being put in place to address future waste management issues.
“We take this matter seriously—if we fail to manage waste effectively, we will not be able to maintain cleanliness in Singapore. Waste management in Singapore focuses on preserving our environment, upholding high standards, and ensuring sustainability throughout the process.
“Our Semakau Landfill is expected to be full by 2035, and when that occurs, we must consider alternative solutions. Since finding such alternatives may not be straightforward, we are already working towards a resolution. Everything revolves around this issue.”
In addition, Dr. Peter Dagadu, Managing Director of Waste Landfill Company, a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies, remarked that for Ghana to successfully adopt Singapore’s exemplary waste management practices, it is essential for every household to be provided with a waste bin.
He emphasized the necessity for local assemblies to implement policies mandating that every household possesses a waste bin and subscribes to an official waste collection service.
“One of the primary lessons we have learned from Singapore—and which we have been consistently advocating in Ghana—is that it is essential for every household to have a waste bin. This measure will promote accountability and facilitate accurate tracking of waste collection and disposal. When a household is equipped with a bin, there is a significantly increased likelihood that the waste will be disposed of correctly. This is a key aspect of Singapore’s success, contributing to its nearly one hundred percent efficiency in waste collection.”
In addition, Dr. Priscilla Addo, Operations Manager at Sunyani Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant Limited (IRECoP), urged metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies to assist in identifying and adequately educating waste collectors within various communities in Ghana regarding the most effective methods for waste segregation and recycling.
“I believe that awareness and public education are crucial. The assemblies should also pinpoint individuals who collect refuse informally in their neighbourhoods. These individuals can be integrated into the formal system, receiving education and training on optimal practices for waste collection.
Currently, some individuals collect waste solely for financial gain. However, if they were aware that the plastics they gather could be repurposed into products such as reflectors, socks, and more, it could significantly alter the waste management narrative in Ghana.
