30-03-2012, 11:25 AM
pollution control
2001_pollution_control_report.pdf (Size: 3.88 MB / Downloads: 144)
INTRODUCTION
Singapore developed its industrial base and
achieved high economic growth in less than
three decades. In tandem with Singapore’s
rapid economic growth and industrialisation,
programmes were also implemented, at a very
early stage, to protect the environment.
The success of these environmental
protection programmes is evident today and
Singapore has an environment that compares
favourably with those of any major city in the
world. All levels of pollutants in the ambient
air are within the World Health Organisation
(WHO) and the United States Environmental
Protection Agency (USEPA) standards. All
inland waters in Singapore support aquatic life.
To ensure that rapid economic growth and
industrialisation would not be at the expense
of the environment, the Ministry of the
Environment (ENV) was formed in 1972 to
protect and improve the environment. ENV
does so by planning, developing and operating
sewerage, drainage and solid waste disposal
facilities, controlling air and water pollution,
hazardous chemicals and toxic wastes, and
providing environmental public health services
and public health education.
Major Planning Proposals
During the year, PCD evaluated the
Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) studies
of 19 chemical plants. The proposals were
supported as they could comply with the siting
and technical requirements.
Consultation on Building Developments
Technical requirements on environmental
matters are imposed at the Building Plan (BP)
stage so that the proposals would be designed
to comply with ENV’s requirements and
guidelines.
For industries, the building plans of factories
are checked at the BP stage to ensure that
the necessary pollution control equipment and
facilities are incorporated in the design of the
factories.
Energy Labelling Scheme
RCD worked with the Singapore Environment
Council to develop an energy-labelling scheme
under the Singapore Green Label Scheme for
household electrical appliances. Under the
scheme, energy-intensive household
appliances such as refrigerators and airconditioners
may be affixed with a label, which
provides information on energy performance
such as energy consumption and energy
efficiency. The scheme was scheduled to be
launched in April 2002.