Support Singapore’s Green Movement: Switch to Reusable Food Containers and Reduce Waste
Singapore generates a staggering 200,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually, with food packaging being one of the largest contributors. In a nation like Singapore, where street vendor culture and food delivery services are deeply rooted in daily life, the excessive use of plastic packaging and disposable items poses a significant and pressing environmental challenge. The environmental impact of this plastic waste includes harm to marine life, soil contamination, and air pollution from the burning of plastic.
In addressing the issue, the Singaporean government has established ambitious targets for carbon abatement and resource efficiency. These include the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045, a 10% reduction in energy and water use by 2030, and a 30% reduction in waste disposal by the same year. The Singapore government has focused more on sustainable development, encouraging public agencies to make environmentally responsible choices through green procurement policies. These include requirements for suppliers to meet sustainability benchmarks and to provide energy-efficient, biodegradable, or responsibly sourced products.
Before plastic took over, Singapore’s hawkers relied on nature’s original biodegradable packaging. During the early 1960s in Singapore, banana leaves were used to serve nasi lemak and curry. The emergence of Styrofoam containers in Singapore can be traced back to the 1970s and 1980s, when a shift in consumer behavior and the rise of fast food culture led to its adoption. In 2011, the Singapore Environment Council released a study that shed light on the alarming rate of plastic bag consumption in Singapore. The findings estimated that Singaporeans used a staggering three billion plastic bags annually. Even more concerning was the fact that each bag was used for an average of only 12 minutes. This highlighted the issue of single-use plastic and its contribution to environmental waste in the country.
The Singapore government has been tackling the issue of plastic waste since 2020. This includes the implementation of mandatory packaging reporting to help Singapore achieve its goal of becoming a Zero Waste Nation. Currently, Singapore is actively combating its plastic waste issue by embracing biodegradable food packaging solutions. Singapore is now leading the way in developing and implementing cutting-edge biodegradable alternatives to reduce its plastic footprint.
It is essential for Singaporeans to engage with companies that offer biodegradable packaging, which has the potential to significantly reduce plastic waste. A robust portfolio of products that meet global sustainability standards is being offered by APP Group. This includes certifications from the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), halal certifications, and biodegradable labels. APP Group is a trusted partner for public and private sector organizations that are looking to meet green procurement criteria without compromising on quality or performance.
One of APP’s packaging solutions is Foopak Bio Natura, a fully compostable and biodegradable packaging solution created to replace conventional plastic packaging. It is a great example of how sustainable product innovation can be implemented to fight plastic waste in Singapore.
This product is part of the APP Group’s sustainability efforts, a global leader in the paper and pulp industry that has made significant strides in promoting sustainability through innovative product solutions. Foopak Bio Natura by APP Group offers businesses and consumers a practical way to reduce their reliance on non-recyclable materials and is an ideal alternative for food packaging, disposable tableware, and other single-use items.
Singaporeans can actively participate in the global movement toward sustainability by choosing products from APP Group. Businesses in the food and beverage industry can switch to Foopak Bio Natura for their packaging needs, while consumers can look for eco-friendly paper products that align with their values. These small but impactful choices can drive demand for sustainable solutions and encourage more companies to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Reducing plastic waste is a shared responsibility that requires both individual and corporate action. APP Group is committed to supporting Singaporeans in their efforts to make a positive impact on the environment by promoting sustainable habits and prioritizing eco-friendly solutions. APP Group’s innovative products, such as Foopak Bio Natura, and their commitment to sustainability set a strong example for other businesses to follow. Together, these efforts can help Singapore achieve its sustainability goals and create a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.