News

S’pore Govt To Invest $400m To Upgrade Drains Around S’pore

Shawn Ambrose

2019-07-19 , 4:00 am

Climate change is real and it is happening right now.

Aside from the rising temperatures, flash floods have recently become a problem for countries all over the world.

And of course, fifty years passed by regularly so Singapore has been affected too.

An Expensive Solution

As a result, the Minister of Environment and Water Resources, Masagos Zulkifli, announced that Singapore will invest S$400 million to upgrade drains around the country.

Another S$10 million will also be invested in research studies on sea-level rise scenarios in the future.

These measures aim to protect the country from extreme weather conditions in the future, which could be sooner than we think.

The Meteorological Service Singapore’s Centre for Climate Research Singapore discovered that if high mean sea levels, high tide, and high surge all occur at the same time, sea levels could rise almost 4 metres above the current level.

While this is a rare scenario, its results could be devastating.

Public Involvement

Masagos also stressed the need for public involvement in the fight against climate change, saying that the Government cannot do it alone.

“We need everyone to play their part and as one nation, overcome the existential challenge that climate change poses, which can threaten our way of life.”,” he said.

This means adopting a more environmentally friendly lifestyle, and there are many things every one of us can do to combat climate change.

Drive less

This could mean taking more public transport, car sharing, or even riding a bike. These actions would help to reduce carbon emissions. And if you’re thinking of using a PMD, just make sure you follow the rules #justsaying

Save energy

Use energy-efficient home appliances and unplug electronics when you’re not using them. This would not only help the environment but save you money too!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Practising the 3Rs of sustainability can help reduce waste and extend the use of natural resources. This includes reducing single-use plastics and using clothes for a longer period of time.

Increase the temperature of your air conditioner

You can also reduce your carbon footprint with a simple tweak of your air conditioner’s thermostat. Increase the temperature to 25°C and above as it is more climate-friendly, though we’re not sure if it’s “sleep-friendly”.

Climate change requires action now. Let’s join hands to save the planet because it needs us now more than ever.