Addressing Marine Litter

Introduction

Marine litter comes in many forms and includes plastic bags, glass, wood and tyres. It can come from many sources too, and is a transboundary issue as litter is moved across the oceans by prevailing winds and tides.

Marine litter poses environmental, economic, health, cultural and aesthetic threats, including the loss of biodiversity and degradation of marine and coastal habitats and ecosystems.

As a responsible global citizen, Singapore recognises our role in contributing to the collective response to tackling marine litter and microplastics.

This is why Singapore has released its first National Action Strategy on Marine Litter which aims to summarise and outline Singapore's various actions and measures to combat the issue of marine litter across six priority areas.

Six Priority Areas

Reduction of land-based sources of litter

Preventing waste from land from leaking into the sea

Reduction of sea-based sources of litter

Preventing waste from vessels and off-shore installations from being disposed at sea

Circular economy approach

Targeting waste at its source by preventing the production of waste

Research and development

Leveraging on science and technology

International engagement and collaboration

Marine litter is a transboundary issue

Promoting and strengthening outreach & stakeholder engagement

Engaging and supporting stakeholders in a whole-of-nation approach

Addressing marine litter requires national action. The National Action Strategy on Marine Litter seeks to galvanise and invigorate further efforts from all sectors of society. Through this whole of nation approach, we hope to ensure Singaporeans can continue to enjoy the coastal and marine environment that surrounds our island home for generations to come.