Efforts to Reduce Negative Environmental Impact on Singapore Waters Given Plans to Boost Cruise Ship Infrastructure
Ministry of Trade and IndustrySpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Ms Joan Pereira’s inquiry about measures to mitigate environmental impacts, such as waste disposal and marine wildlife destruction, resulting from expanded cruise infrastructure. Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong stated that developments undergo rigorous consultations with technical agencies and Environmental Impact Assessments where necessary. He highlighted that ships must comply with MARPOL standards, with waste managed by licensed providers and monitored through regular inspections and penalties under the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act. The Minister also noted the cruise industry’s significant investment in cleaner fuels and energy-efficient technologies to align with the Singapore Green Plan 2030. Singapore continues to facilitate the sector’s transition toward sustainable practices while ensuring the protection of its marine and coastal ecosystems.
Transcript
63 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Trade and Industry in view of plans to boost the cruise infrastructure in Singapore, what measures are in place for more green efforts to reduce any negative impact on Singapore waters, such as improper waste disposal and the potential destruction of marine wildlife.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: New developments near marine and coastal areas, including cruise and ferry infrastructure, undergo an in-depth consultation process with relevant technical agencies such as the National Environment Agency (NEA), National Parks Board (NParks), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Singapore Food Agency (SFA). This involves discussions on the scope of works, the possible environmental impact and mitigation measures. Where required, environmental studies, such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), will be conducted by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Mitigation measures will also be implemented during the development phase.
All ships, including cruise ships, are required to comply with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) for waste disposal. Cruise ships engage NEA-licensed service providers to collect waste such as oily water and sewage while at the terminals. MPA regularly inspects ships in port to ensure that waste onboard is not disposed indiscriminately. MPA also provides garbage collection services for vessels at anchorages. Under the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act, penalties for improper disposal of waste into the sea include a fine not exceeding $20,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.
The global cruise industry is at the forefront of the maritime sector in developing innovative technologies and has invested more than US$26 billion in new ships with energy efficient technologies and cleaner fuels. In line with the Singapore Green Plan 2030, Singapore is well-positioned to facilitate the cruise industry’s shift towards a more sustainable future. We will continue working with the cruise industry to implement more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.