How to Start a Simple Recycling Program at Home in Singapore
Starting a recycling program at home is a great way to contribute to Singapore’s sustainability efforts. By recycling properly, you can help reduce waste sent to landfills and support the country’s goal of becoming a zero-waste nation. Here’s how you can get started, using the tools and resources available in Singapore.
1. Understand What Can Be Recycled
In Singapore, the NEA’s blue recycling bins are designed for commingled recycling, meaning you don’t need to sort your recyclables by type. These bins accept a variety of materials, including:
- Paper: Newspapers, magazines, and cardboard
- Plastic: Bottles and containers
- Glass: Bottles and jars
- Metal: Aluminium cans, tin containers
However, certain items like food waste, styrofoam, and soiled containers cannot be recycled and should be disposed of as general wastes. For more details on what can be recycled, refer to the NEA guidelines on recycling and what cannot be recycled.
2. Use the NEA Bloobox at Home
In 2023, the NEA distributed the Bloobox, a convenient blue recycling box provided to households across Singapore. The Bloobox makes it easy for you to store all your recyclables in one place without needing to sort them. Once the Bloobox is full, you can simply empty its contents into the larger blue recycling bins located in your neighbourhood. For more information about the Bloobox, you can visit the NEA Bloobox information page. For HDB estates, commingled blue recycling bins are placed at open areas that are convenient and accessible to the residents. For private landed estates, a commingled blue recycling bin, in addition to the refuse green bin, is provided to each house.
3. Educate Your Household
Make sure everyone in your household knows what can be recycled and understands the importance of recycling. Encourage everyone to rinse and dry containers before placing them in the Bloobox to avoid contamination.
4. Utilize the NEA Community Blue Bins
Once your Bloobox is full, empty it into the larger NEA blue recycling bins found in your neighbourhood. These bins are emptied regularly, and the collected materials are processed at recycling facilities. By properly utilizing these bins, you help ensure that recyclable materials are efficiently processed and reused.
5. Handle Non-Recyclable Waste Properly
For items that cannot be recycled, use the regular waste disposal services provided by your town council. This includes waste chutes in HDB blocks or trash collection services for landed properties. Additionally, most town councils in Singapore offer free bulky item removal services once a month. This service is great for disposing of large items like old furniture or appliances that cannot be recycled. Be sure to check with your respective town council for the specific details and schedule of this service.
6. Monitor and Improve
Keep track of how much waste your household recycles versus how much goes to the trash. Over time, aim to reduce non-recyclable waste by choosing products with less packaging, reusing items, or opting for products made from recyclable materials.
Why Recycling at Home Matters
Recycling at home is a simple but powerful way to contribute to reducing the overall waste sent to Singapore’s landfills or incineration plants. By making recycling a part of your daily routine, you’re playing a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability. It also sets a positive example for others in your community, encouraging more households to adopt sustainable practices.
Partner with Your Community
While your home recycling program is a great start, staying informed about community initiatives can enhance your efforts. The NEA and town councils often run campaigns and provide resources to help residents recycle more effectively. Engaging with these programs ensures that your recycling efforts align with broader community goals.
