Segregated recycling bins reducing contamination rate in Singapore
Zero Waste SG's segregated recycling hubs in Singapore are proving effective in lowering contamination rates, with promising results seen at the first hub in Queenstown. The initiative aims to address the persistently high contamination rate in traditional blue recycling bins. Challenges remain, but interest is growing in adopting this more sustainable approach.
Zero Waste SG found that segregating recyclables can reduce contamination, improving Singapore's low recycling rates. Nearly 40 new locations have been added across the island since 2024, offering an alternative to mixed recycling bins. Zero Waste SG's first hub in Queenstown has shown a contamination rate of less than 5%. This is a significant improvement compared to the 40% contamination rate in co-mingled blue bins.
Local waste company 800 Super conducted a trial in Bishan and Sin Ming, showing that segregated infrastructure could reduce contamination to 10%. Challenges to waste segregation in Singapore include lack of peer support and perceived inconvenience. Despite these challenges, there is growing interest in segregated recycling systems.
Zero Waste SG collected 300kg of clean recyclables at its Queenstown hub before its official launch. 800 Super also reported encouraging results from its segregated smart recycling boxes. The company aims to expand to 93 locations by October 2025.
Segregated recycling channels could improve recycling in Singapore, according to the Singapore Environmental Council. Efforts to extend segregated collection to other recyclables are being considered to reduce contamination rates.
According to the source: The Straits Times.
What's Your Reaction?
Like
0
Dislike
0
Love
0
Funny
0
Angry
0
Sad
0
Wow
0
