#PlasticFreeJuly – These unexpected items are shockingly not plastic-free!

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#PlasticFreeJuly – These unexpected items are shockingly not plastic-free!

What would the first thing that comes to your mind when we mention the word “plastic”? No doubt that the usual items like food packaging, such as bags for our vegetables and groceries at the supermarket, single-use cutleries for our takeaway orders and as disposable items like shower gels and shampoo bottles would most definitely make the list.

While you may be aware that many items we commonly see and use contain plastic, you’ll probably be surprised that some of your everyday items which you have never thought of, contain plastic as well! It is undeniable that this material has a big part in our society and makes our lives convenient, but at what cost? We have rounded up a list of items and a few alternatives you might want to consider:

1. Receipts

Every time we buy our weekly groceries from the supermarket or when we shop at the mall, we are not just walking away with the plastic packaging or the bag your item comes in. Unbeknownst to many, receipts are like straws. They contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used in the production of plastics and resins. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to these substances can in fact, cause negative health impacts to humans. BPA also makes receipts non-recyclable nor compostable thus, posing a threat to the environment.

Receipts are one of the unexpected sources of BPA exposure that is often easily overlooked. So, the next time you shop, you may want to consider refusing receipts or opting for digital copies as a more sustainable choice!

2. Clothing

Donning on your favourite dress or shirt for a special occasion, but have you ever considered that you might be dressed in your favourite pieces… of plastic? Many clothing items are made of textiles that have microplastics in them, such as polyester and acrylic. When we wash our clothes, some of these microplastics enter the water stream and can cause pollution. Instead, buying clothes that are made of natural fibres instead of synthetic materials can help reduce the impact significantly.

As replacing our entire wardrobe is unrealistic, here are some steps to lessen its harmful effects:

  • Set the washing machine on cold water as heat damages the fabric, which could result in microplastics being released
  • Wash when the laundry load is full to lessen the friction between the clothes; this way, fibres are less likely to break off
  • Where possible, wash less by re-wearing clothes, which could probably be worn a few more times like denims and khakis

3. Glitter

During birthdays and festive seasons, glitter is everywhere: on packaging, in products and even on greeting cards. What seems to be a harmless decoration, may not be the case though. Glitter is made from a combination of aluminium and plastic, and are in very tiny, individual pieces. When we wash glitter off our hands, chances are they end up in our water bodies. With their size, it becomes much harder to remove them from water than plastic bottles or single-used utensils.

Once in the water bodies, glitter could be accidentally consumed by marine life like whales, seabird, and fish. For birds, especially, the plastic could be collected in their stomachs, causing them to eventually die of starvation.

Glitters are not essential. The next time we decorate our gifts or show our appreciation, perhaps we can skip those shiny non-essentials, and opt for a simple piece of twine and some cleverly reused wrapping paper!

4. Tea Bags

In order to increase the durability of tea bags in hot water, manufacturers don’t just use paper but also a significant amount of plastic. The plastic gets broken down in the beverage and we end up either consuming it unknowingly or pouring it down the drain once we are done with our cup of tea! For a healthier alternative, we can always choose loose-leaf teas, which are also generally better for the environment. You may find that they taste better and more aromatic as well!

Simply fill a tea ball strainer with your tea leaves and use them as you would a regular tea bag. When you are done with the tea, you can discard the tea leaves and wash out your strainer. Most strainers are made of stainless steel, making it easy to clean and reusable for long periods of time. Once you are more familiar with tea preparation, you can also have fun exploring teapots and other tea ware.

5. Skincare

After a long day at work, some of us like to wind down with a good book and a relaxing candle, while some of us find joy in engaging in a skincare routine. But did you know that some of your skincare products could contain plastic?

They can come in the form of microbeads, which are commonly used to scrub off dead skin cells. Apart from causing harmful effects on your health, microbeads can also enter the water stream and pollute the environment.

There is a wide variety of cosmetic products out there that are now guaranteed free of microbeads, and we can take this into consideration the next time we grab a cleanser off the shelves.

It’s not too late to embark on your eco-friendly journey so to help you get started, we are hosting a giveaway from now till 31 July 2021 on our Facebook and Instagram! Share with us your plastic-free tips and stand a chance to walk away with an exclusive Geneco Green Starter Kit consisting of Sprout plantable pencil, foldable umbrella that is 100% recyclable, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw and grocery net bag, plus $50 shopping vouchers!

As we do our part this #PlasticFreeJuly, we can consider slowly reducing and eventually replacing these unexpected items that contain plastic from our lifestyle with greener options. Through living by conscious choices, we are not just improving our own health but our planet’s welfare as well. After all, every little act counts to #PowerTheChange.


Plastic Free July - How to organise your own beach clean-up for the family

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Plastic Free July – How to organise your own beach clean-up for the family

As you stroll along the beach with your family on the weekends after a long week at work, did a stray plastic bottle or single-use utensil lying on the sand catch your eye? These small pieces of trash may look insignificant, but they reflect a larger issue – Plastic Pollution. The vast blue may seem picturesque, but underneath the waves, our oceans are polluted with trash.

How does the trash end up on Singapore’s shores?

When we dispose our trash, it is easy to toss them out and think that they are no longer a problem. However, trash does not just vanish. They may no longer be in sight, but they can still make its way into our oceans and rivers, even when that is not the intention.

What’s more, due to certain monsoon seasons in Singapore that last for an extended periods of 3 to 6 months on various parts of our nation’s coastlines, trash from neighbouring countries and islands get washed up and accumulates on our shores. This resulted in an increased efforts by the National Environmental Agency for the frequency of their cleaning operations, from four times a week to twice daily.

Common marine trash that could be includes plastic water bottles, straws and food packaging, which highlights the broader problem of mankind’s reliance on plastic and the harmful impacts it has on the oceans.

The trash debris can cause harm to wildlife, habitats and even humans. Plastic particles are toxic to marine life and can destroy many ecosystems by preventing the flow of open water. The impact of the trash in our oceans go beyond that – fishes and other ocean life may ingest these plastics and eventually end up on our dining table.

Why it’s good to do beach clean-ups – and even better to do it as a family

With the current pandemic developments around the world, it may seem like we have been staying at home most of the time due to the Work-From-Home arrangements. Instead of facing the usual concrete walls over the weekends, why not take a respite and enjoy the outdoors by taking the family for a fun day out at the beach?

Our island may be small but there is still a rich marine life on our sandy beaches such as Changi Beach or East Coast Park. From bubbler crabs to sea stars and horseshoe crabs, you may even be able to spot a rare turtle sighting if you are lucky!

However, it is important to note that we should always keep a distance from these wild marine animals and leave them intact in their natural habitats as much as we can. In fact, you can even go a step further to help preserve their homes, by removing items that do not belong to their natural environment.

Use this great opportunity outdoors to educate the young ones on the beauty of nature and do something meaningful while at it! You can participate or organise a beach clean-up to prevent the harmful debris items from entering the ocean again, and also protect endangered marine species from being a lost sight for our future generations.

With an entire month dedicated to going plastic-free this #PlasticFreeJuly, everyone can do their part to make a difference for our environment, and what better way to do so as a family to cultivate eco-friendly habits that can #PowerTheChange for cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities.

Often, we need to speak with our actions, and we believe a unique dining experience with the lights switched off and breaking out the candles will be the perfect starting point to show why doing their part for the earth is important.

How to organise a beach clean-up

A beach clean-up might sound like it would be complicated to organise, but in truth it’s quite the opposite! If you are interested in organising one on your own, here is how you can get started:

    1. Register to Clean-up the Beaches and Parks
      This is a free registration initiative as part of the Public Hygiene Council, that can be made at least 21 days in advance. Participants and families can hold their beach clean-up anytime between 9am to 6pm, at various locations such as East Coast Park, Changi Beach Park and Coney Island Park!
    2. Prepare for the Clean-up
      As you rally your family for your first beach clean-up, you definitely to make sure you are well equipped! We recommend having on hand some masks, gloves, tongs, trash bags and even a first-aid kit! You can either prepare these on your own, or you can rent a package kit from our ChangeMaker partners Green Nudge!Here at Geneco, we understand the importance of playing a part in combating the adverse effect of climate change brought about by human activities. Therefore, as part of our green efforts this #PlasticFreeJuly, we will also be sponsoring 50 sets of Green Nudge’s coastal cleanup toolkit rental for Geneco customers to kickstart their own beach clean-up. Click here to see how you can redeem if you are part of the Geneco family!
    3. The Beach Clean-up
      Don’t fret if this is your first beach clean-up and you are unsure on how to get around it! Remember the aim of the activity is to bond with your loved ones, enjoy yourselves, all while doing good for the environment! With every trash you pick up, you realise the growing amount of plastic that might be out there affecting our marine biodiversity. The problem of plastic pollution may not be stopped overnight, but we can do much with each clean-up.If you are as pumped up as we are on how to create your own beach clean-up the Public Hygiene Council even has a guide to help take us through it to ensure we do it right while preserving the environment! Do check the weather before proceeding, and to take note of the list of items that are appropriate to pick up. Also, remember to adhere to safety guidelines and observe safe distance measures during this time!

Beach clean-ups may not be the first to come to your mind when thinking about spending time and bonding with the family. However, it is a great way to wind down and take in what our Singapore coasts have to offer, while doing a meaningful activity that is beneficial to the environment.

Take this great opportunity to teach the young about the harm of single-use items, and how a simple change in their daily habits can effect a change for our environment.

To find out how else you can play a part in preserving our environment and adopt a zero-waste living, visit our Instagram and let’s #PowerTheChange for a greener future, together.


A month dedicated to the environment – Be one with the earth this June

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A month dedicated to the environment – Be one with the earth this June

More than being known just as a month of respite to enjoy the school holidays, June has a special focus with key environment days – World Environment Day (5 June), World Oceans Day (8 June) and World Rainforest Day (22 June) – that celebrates the earth. There has never been a more urgent need to shed light on the state of our earth to encourage active involvement to restore and preserve its natural elements.

While it may seem daunting to take the first step, there are easy green activities we can incorporate into our daily lives that can make a difference and #PowerTheChange. We have put together simple actions you can take to do better for our planet.

Plant a tree to watch our Garden City flourish

Trees are extremely beneficial to the environment. They help to filter the air, reflect radiant heat and mitigate the Urban Heat Island effect. On top of that, they provide shade in open spaces, making it more conducive for activities like transportation and exercise.

Geneco is proud to join NParks in the One Million Trees Movement as part of the SG Green Plan 2030. As an organisation, Geneco has committed to 250 trees over the course of five years, and we had the honour of planting our first 50 trees at Windsor Nature Park on Earth Day this year. You can also be a part of this movement by NParks by contributing to planting more trees with a donation, or be a volunteer through the Friends of Trees SG programme as well!

Build a capsule wardrobe to challenge your inner fashionista

The term ‘capsule wardrobe’ may sound sci-fi and futuristic, but what it simply means is to curate a small set of clothes that you can wear for almost any occasion. The idea is often related to minimalism, but anyone can build a capsule wardrobe with a few key pieces. It is great way to take stock of your wardrobe to practise conscious consumption and to reduce unnecessary purchase of clothes you don’t really need – which is definitely a plus for the environment too with a reduction in textile waste.

In fact, according to Forbes, most of us only use 20% of our entire wardrobe and the remaining 80% is under-utilised[1]. Yet, many of us still go shopping for new clothes when the latest fashion trends hit the store. While we understand the appeal of retail therapy and “looking good, feeling good”, this can lead to unnecessary wastage and stress (especially when you spring clean and realise you have too much!).

Capsule wardrobes are a great way to break this cycle. You can start by choosing a few staple pieces, such as sandals, sneakers, shorts and t-shirts – these are pieces that we might already have in our closets and are weather appropriate for our sunny island. As we re-enter our office spaces again, we can also include a couple of simple office dresses for the ladies or a nice set of shirt and trousers for the gents.

If you fancy a challenge, you can check out Project 333 or the Capsule Wardrobe Challenge and put your wardrobe curation skills to the test. The key is to get creative with existing pieces and find new ways to utilise what you already have. At the end of the challenge, you might realise that one does not need that many clothing items in our closet. As you look to consider discarding them, consider trading them in with one of our ChangeMaker partners – REFASH. Not only do they buy and sell pre-loved clothing, but they aim to work towards a zero-waste fashion industry.

Change the game by choosing to actively recycle

Recycling rates in Singapore have dropped in the past year due to the impact of the pandemic[2]. However, that should not stop us from doing our part and changing the fate of our waste by making a conscious effort to recycle.

Below are 3 simple steps you can follow to kickstart your recycling journey:

Step 1: Check the blue bins on what can be recycled (National Environment Agency has even provided a list here)

Step 2: Ensure all items are rinsed and not contaminated with any food or liquids

Step 3: Drop clean recyclables into the communal blue bins

Recycling is not as tough as it seems. All you need is a little research on what can be recycled, proper guidelines and consistent practice. Bonus points if you can get your friends and family to join in!

Choose Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)

You might have heard of the term Renewable Energy, which is essentially energy produced from natural resources. This is an option that is better for the environment, as compared to traditional energy sources that tap on finite resources.

Renewable Energy Certificates are unique and credible instruments that signify each megawatt of electricity produced is generated from renewable sources. Not only are they unique and cannot be reused once issued but purchasing them is also a much more viable option for individuals, especially when one may not have the resources and infrastructures for solar panel installation.

Geneco provides the option of bundling the purchase of RECs with our suite of green electricity solutions for any homes at your convenience. We empower households and companies to go green when you choose Geneco’s renewable energy solutions for a more sustainable journey.

If you have the space for solar panel installation, why not consider Geneco’s Power Eco Total Home Solution, whereby we make it easier for you with financing solution, exclusive rebates and even more savings on your electricity bills!

By simply taking the steps above, anyone can play a part in protecting the environment at an individual level. Let this month signify your first small step to #PowerTheChange with Geneco and keep our earth green and healthy!


References:

  1. [1] (2021, May 14) Forbes. What Does Slow Fashion ‘Actually’ Mean https://www.forbes.com/sites/christophermarquis/2021/05/14/what-does-slow-fashion-actually-mean/?sh=2919916b73b4
  2. [2] (2021, April 23) National Environment Agency. Reduction In Overall Waste Generation In 2020, With Less Waste Sent To Semakau Landfill

Enjoy the June Holidays with sustainable activities for the children at home!

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Enjoy the June Holidays with sustainable activities for the children at home!

The June holidays are fast approaching and even though we are encouraged to stay in as much as possible, that should not stop the kids from having fun at home! However, we know that it is not easy finding indoor activities that will not only keep the little minds occupied but are also eco-friendly and fun for everyone.

There’s no need crack your brains as we have put together our very own list of green and sustainable activities for the children to get on board with this June holidays!

1. Make your own seed paper

Paper that will sprout into different kinds of plants and flowers? It may sound like magic, but it is absolutely doable with seed paper. The best part is that you can even make your own! Seed paper is biodegradable eco-paper with seeds embedded within. Plant it in a pot of soil, water it regularly, and be enthralled as you watch it grow day by day.

The steps are simple enough that any child can create it on their own. Simply choose your favourite seeds and then gather scrap paper materials from around the house to blend. NASA Climate Kids has even included a step-by-step instruction to get you started on this craft!

Use this handmade paper to write a lovely message for friends and family during the time apart. It is a great way to remind them that you are still thinking of them while at home and gifting them a green surprise as well!

2. Create your own obstacle course at home

Having an obstacle course will not only keep the kids preoccupied, but it will also get them to stay active while enjoying endless hours of fun. Utilise cushions, sofas, tables and more to create an obstacle course befitting of any indoor playground in town.

For example, you can build a tunnel simply by draping a blanket or a towel over two chairs (or more) or get them to hop from one spot on the floor to the another and pretend-play that the floor is consumed with lava! Even the simple hallway can be used to make your own laser maze with newspaper streamers in a zig-zag pattern between the walls and encourage the kids to work their way through without touching anything.

Get your child involved in building the obstacle course using materials from around the house. It’s a great way to show how items around the home can be upcycled to create a fun time instead of buying toys or electronics. Make it as challenging as possible with different items, but always remember that safety remains the number one priority!

3. Learn Science with fun challenges

Help children better understand the world around them by exploring the wonders of science at home with some simple experiments such as learning about buoyancy or how gravity works.

In fact, the James Dyson Foundation Challenge Cards are a great way to engage children in home-based learning and crafts to introduce the many mysterious concepts behind our Earth. Stimulate the young minds with the scientific fun behind these crafts and you may have got yourself a little Einstein.

Taking a leaf out from their books, attempt a quick craft by using cardboard materials to create a boat that floats. It is the perfect challenge the next time your children ask how boats sail on the seas!

4. DIY Bowling Alley

Remember the times we could just go to a bowling alley? Miss the adrenaline of scoring a strike? Create your DIY bowling alley from the comfort of your own home with your kids, using recyclable materials.

Not only is this activity a guaranteed fun, but it also allows children to expand on their creativity when creating their own bowling pins out of plastic bottles and paper rolls. Using vibrant colours of paint, give each bowling pin a unique design. We know children of all ages are bound to love this fun experience.

5. Zero Waste Recipe Challenge

The best part about being at home is that we can indulge in some home-made cooking and what better way to get the entire family involved in making this meal. Not only is it a healthier option, it also is a great way to reduce food waste and limit the use of packaging from doing takeaways or food deliveries.

As the name suggests, the challenge is to not leave any waste behind after cooking a scrumptious meal for your family. One way to do it is by planning your grocery trip to purchase just the right amount of food required. During the cooking process, don’t throw away all the trimmings, peels, or shells after usage. Where possible, use them for stock, or as compost if they are completely inedible. Easy recipes to conquer this challenge include a zero-waste pizza or these delightful chocolate chip cookies.

While it may be easy to turn to some screen time to keep the young ones occupied and spend the days, it’s always important to ensure quality family time is spent. What’s even better is to take this opportunity to share and educate your child on the 3Rs (reducing, reusing, recycling). and the power of sustainability. Not only will this help encourage appreciation and ownership for nature, but it can also establish a relationship that could translate to the future generations wanting to do more to #PowerTheChange for a more sustainable lifestyle and preserving the earth.


Renewable Energy Certificates Explained

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Renewable Energy Certificates Explained

What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable Energy might be a term you have come across if you have been on the lookout on getting your own green electricity plans for your home. What exactly is it, and how does it help the environment? Let us break it down on what it means, to help you better understand and assess it.

Currently, fossil fuels — coal, oil and natural gas, still account for over 80% of the world’s primary energy consumption. The burning of fossil fuels releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, trapping heat in our atmosphere and making fossil fuels the biggest driver of climate change and global warming.

Renewable Energy, on the other hand, do not emit greenhouse gases during generation. It is produced from natural resources that are constantly replaced and never run out, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.

What are Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and how do they work

Renewable Energy Certificates, known as RECs, are market-based instruments that endorse units of electricity generated by renewable energy sources. Each REC represents the clean energy attributes of one megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable electricity. For instance, if a solar power facility generates 1 MWh of electricity which flows into a power grid, 1 REC would be credited to them which they can choose to keep or sell it.

Because electricity enters our main power grid from many different sources ranging from solar to natural gas, there is no way to know exactly what energy source your electricity comes from. As such, RECs are put in place to serve as an accounting, tracking and assigning ownership mechanism for green energies as they flow into the power grid.

RECs are also internationally recognised for meeting renewable energy commitments and within frameworks such as RE100Climate Disclosure Project (CDP)LEEDGreenhouse Gas Protocol. Renewable energy generation facilities are only eligible to receive RECs for each unit of electricity generated if they comply and are registered under internationally recognised standards, such as the I-REC standard.

After purchasing RECs, you can rightfully claim that 1 MWh of your electricity use came from a renewable source upon its ‘retirement’. An REC can no longer be sold again once it is retired, meaning no one else can claim that unit of renewable generation.

Difference between Renewable Energy Certificates and Carbon Credits

Individuals and organisations working towards their respective sustainability goals have various options when it comes to choosing how to lower their carbon footprints. These include activities that reduce emissions, energy efficiency measurements or switching to clean energy solutions. Recognising the difference between options such as RECs and Carbon Credits can help identify the best methods in achieving the respective goals while charting towards a greener future.

While both RECs and Carbon Credits help to lower the carbon footprints, they are different tools used for different purposes in achieving this greener goal. The key difference between the tools, is the purpose and mechanics behind it.

Carbon Credits helps to offset greenhouse gas emissions by supporting emissions reduction activities such as tree planting projects that remove these emissions from the atmosphere.

RECs offset electricity consumption from non-renewable sources. They support renewable electricity use claims and renewable energy development.

Renewable Energy Certificates landscape in Singapore

Renewable energy options are limited in a small, resource-constrained country like Singapore. There is a lack of water resources, our wind speeds and mean tidal range are low, and geothermal energy is not cost-effective. This leaves solar energy as the main source for renewable energy in Singapore. Even then, space constraints limit the number of solar installations that can be directly connected to consumers. As such, the adoption of RECs, particularly solar RECs for those who want to support local renewable energy, has become a more favorable option for businesses in Singapore in pursuit of sustainability goals and climate friendly policies.

To protect the interests of consumers, the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) has acted as the Qualified Reporting Entity (QRE) on the TIGRs (Tradable Instrument for Global Renewables) registry in Singapore since 2016. They validate the actual amount of clean energy generated by Singapore-based solar energy projects and then convert this into RECs before they are passed on to customers.

With Apple’s pioneering announcement in 2016 to adopt RECs in Singapore, DBS Bank and Microsoft have also declared their adoption of RECs in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Other businesses are forecasted to jump on the bandwagon as well.

Benefits of purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates

The purchase of RECs brings about many benefits for individuals and companies. They include

  • Reducing your carbon footprint
  • Leverage on clean energy without incurring the cost of solar panel installation
  • Supporting the revenue and profitability of current renewable energy projects, which in turn encourages even more future investments in such projects, supporting market growth and evolution
  • Demonstrating a company’s commitment to the environment with the adoption of renewable energy as part of one’s energy portfolio

How does Geneco support the RECs?

Geneco offers RECs from a variety of sources that advocate effective climate action and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We can help individuals and companies assert green energy use by procuring, retiring and certifying RECs.

Borderless

Whether it is local or foreign RECs, it’s your call and we source.

Hassle-free

With Geneco’s large pool of RECs suppliers, your purchase requirement would be easily matched. Enjoy cost savings by leaving the time-consuming procurement & administrative process to us.

Purchasing RECs, however, is not equivalent to buying electricity.

Which is why, here at Geneco, we have also bundled the purchase of RECs with our green electricity solutions for your convenience. Start your sustainability journey with us today by choosing Geneco’s Renewable Energy solutions.


Going green just got easier with Geneco’s newly launched sustainable energy solutions – Which one should you choose?

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Going green just got easier with Geneco’s newly launched sustainable energy solutions – Which one should you choose?

Advocating for a more sustainable lifestyle for our customers has always been at the core of Geneco. Beyond our position as a leading electricity retailer in Singapore, we believe that we have the responsibility to do good for our future generations and to protect the environment.

In celebration of Geneco’s 3rd anniversary and Earth Day 2021, we recently held our inaugural Plant-A-Tree event at Windsor Nature Park as part of our commitment to National Parks Board’s #OneMillionTreesSG movement. Presiding over the event was our newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Geneco – Mr Lim Han Kwang, alongside our ChangeMakers partners – The Food Bank SingaporeComcropCultivate CentralRefashRepair Kopitiam and Green Nudge, and Standard Chartered Bank partner. Sharing the same vision of creating a better and cleaner tomorrow for the future generations, these like-minded organisations took time out for this event to do their part for an environmental cause.

Planting the first 50 of the 250 trees we have pledged for the next 5 years, this commitment also aligns our support for the nation’s SG Green Plan, as well as the continuous efforts to #PowerTheChange for a more sustainable and greener nation.

In his opening speech at the event to mark this special occasion on Earth Day 2021, Mr Lim also announced Geneco’s new comprehensive suite of sustainable energy solutions to ease and encourage customers to adopt an eco-friendlier lifestyle.

If you are kickstarting your eco journey and are overwhelmed by the multiple green energy options out there, here is a guide on our newly launched sustainable energy solutions for your home to consider.

Power Eco Total Home Solution

Customised renewable energy solution (solar panel installation with optional green electricity plan)

The Geneco Power Eco Total Home Solution provides solar panels installation for landed residential homes with optional add-on of any of our green electricity plans.

Available to both existing and non-existing Geneco customers, the solar panel installation service provides customers the opportunity to do good for the earth by adopting a 100% carbon neutral lifestyle, and also reduces up to 9,300 kg of carbon dioxide, which is equivalent to the annual CO2 absorption by 462 rain trees. Excess energy produced can also be sold back to the grid.

The benefits from this installation go a long way where households get to enjoy lower electricity cost, saving up to $4,600 on your electricity bills each year. What’s more, households even get to enjoy additional savings with up to $1,000 Geneco of bill rebates!

To ease the set-up cost of the solar panels’ installation, Geneco has partnered with Standard Chartered Bank to bring customers an exclusive promotion of up to $1,250 cashback with the approval for CashOne personal loan.

Power Eco Total Home Solution

  • Offset up to 9,300kg of greenhouse gases
  • Save up to $4,600 a year on electricity bills
  • Enjoy up to $1,000 Geneco Bill Rebates
  • Get up to $1,250 Cashback for Standard Chartered Bank CashOne personal loan

Complete your Power Eco Total Home Solution with any of the following green electricity plans below to go 100% eco-friendly.

If you are unable to install solar panels for your household, you can still do your part to offset your carbon footprint by signing up for a standalone eco plan for your residence. Furthermore, for a limited time only, Standard Chartered Bank credit card holders get to enjoy additional $35 bill rebate on top of prevailing promotions for new sign-ups with Geneco’s green plans when they set up recurring bill payment.

Get Sunny

100% solar energy plan

Solar energy has been touted as a key pillar in Singapore’s energy future with it gaining traction progressively. The ability of solar energy to reduce harm on the environment and the long-term benefits to our climate has garnered the attention of many consumers and organisations.

With Geneco’s Get Sunny electricity plan, it is a 100% renewable energy option that will be powered from Geneco’s parent company YTL PowerSeraya’s own solar photovoltaic (PV) system. This makes choosing a renewable energy plan a reality for residential households who would like to make the full commitment by choosing renewable energy but may not have the necessary infrastructure or resource to make it a reality.

If you are thinking of switching to a renewable solar energy plan, consider Geneco’s Get Sunny – where you will also receive a Renewable Energy Certificate, to pave positive impacts for the environment and #PowerTheChange.

Get It Green

100% carbon-neutral electricity plan

The definition of carbon-neutral electricity is to offset the amount of electricity generated from a person’s carbon footprint. This is executed through carbon credits which allows you to pay to reduce the carbon emissions that you have generated. Funds generated from the purchased credits are channelled to certified climate action projects. These projects reduce, remove or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and are a great way for any businesses, households or individuals to make a choice and help organisation to take immediate action.

Geneco’s Get It Green is a 100% carbon-neutral electricity plan that lets you do good for the earth even while consuming electricity at home for your daily needs. You will also receive Verified Carbon Units Certificate for making a simple yet conscious choice to offset your carbon footprints.

 

Here at Geneco, we understand that starting your eco journey might seem daunting, which is why we have launched this comprehensive suite of sustainable energy solutions to ease and encourage you to adopt a greener lifestyle.

The SG Green Plan 2030 has outlined the transformation we can expect for Singapore within the next decade as the nation furthers its green ambitions for a more sustainable future. With every kilowatt of energy consumed, make your usage count and #PowerTheChange with us today to secure a better environment for the future generations.


Carbon Neutral Electricity Explained

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Carbon Neutral Electricity Explained

A brief introduction to carbon emissions

Since the Industrial Revolution, sources of carbon emissions have increased. Human activities have led to a sharp and dangerous increase in these emissions, mainly through fossil fuel combustion in the electricity and heat, transportation and industrial (consisting of manufacturing, construction, mining and agriculture) sectors.

Carbon emissions make up 97% of Singapore’s greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions cause more heat to be trapped in the atmosphere, leading to climate change. This interesting video created by researcher Antti Lipponen, from the Finnish Meteorological Institute, used publicly available data from NASA to demonstrate the rising temperatures, or global warming, across the world.

These are some of the few repercussions of global warming:

  • Widespread melting of snow and ice around the world
  • Rise in global sea levels
  • Ocean acidification
  • Coral bleaching
  • Increased flooding
  • Longer droughts
  • More frequent cold waves and heat waves
  • Stronger storms, cyclones and hurricanes

These effects, in turn, lead to a decrease in crop yield, famine, loss and extinction of flora and fauna on land and under the sea, threatened water supplies, rise in water, food and insect borne diseases, and many other issues.

What is Singapore doing to help?

Singapore experiences the effects of climate change along with the rest of the world. The buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere makes our weather hotter and raises the sea level around us too.

Reducing our carbon emissions is one important way of limiting the effects of climate change in the coming decades. As a responsible member of the global community, Singapore has pledged to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 16% below Business-As-Usual levels in 2020. The pledge, announced in 2010 ahead of the UNFCCC Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, was conditional on a legally binding global agreement. Singapore has also ratified the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1997, acceded to the Kyoto Protocol in 2006 and to the Paris Agreement in 2015.

Within Singapore, energy consumption is one of the main sources of carbon emissions. Our household appliances, transport systems, industrial and commercial activities all run on electricity and fuel.

Over the years, Singapore has switched to being less reliant on carbon-intensive fuel oil, using more natural gas instead. This means that Singapore can continue to be powered, while emitting less carbon. However, there are limits to how much further we can reduce emissions, since natural gas already constitutes more than 95% of our fuel mix for electricity generation today. Therefore, improving energy efficiency is key in our efforts to reduce emissions.

How are carbon emissions linked to my use of electricity?

Conventional electricity is generated through the burning of fossil fuels and this process results in the release of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) gases into the atmosphere. By using electricity, consumers indirectly contribute to these emissions.

How much carbon does a typical household indirectly emit from the use of purchased electricity?

Based on an average Singapore household consumption of 450 kWh of electricity per month, around 2.2 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent gases are estimated, per household, to be emitted to the atmosphere in a year.

How can I reduce my carbon footprint?

In order to reduce your carbon footprint, you first need to understand the extent of your carbon footprint. You can learn more about your estimated carbon footprint using a simple online calculator.

You can reduce your carbon footprint by making conscious and mindful decisions about your lifestyle. This would result in lower energy use, lower emissions and a better world for future generations.

Here are four ways to get you started:

1. At Home

Minimise your household carbon emissions by using energy, water and other resources carefully. Adopt some green ways to reduce your household energy usage.


2. Transportation

Take public transport instead of driving. If your destination is nearby, walk or cycle.

If you have to drive, choose a car that emits less carbon. Look out for the mandatory Fuel Economy Labelling Scheme (FELS) labels. These will tell you more about the amount of carbon emitted and fuel efficiency performance of the car model. With the enhanced Vehicle Emissions Scheme (VES) effective from 1 January 2021​, you will also get to enjoy a rebate when you buy a vehicle that emits less carbon.


3. Reduce, reuse and recycle

By choosing to use less, less will go to waste. When we do throw things away, we can make sure our waste gets reused by recycling materials such as paper, metal, plastic and glass.

Using recycled products can also help reduce carbon emissions, because it takes less energy to produce them.

Avoid using disposable utensils, cups and plastic bags whenever possible. Reduce waste by bringing your own utensils for meals and using your own reusable bag for grocery shopping. Also, consider whether you really need the packaging or wrapping when you buy things.

Watch this 71-year-old grandmother take on the 7-day zero-waste and plastic-free challenge.


4. Utilise carbon credits

Carbon credits are completely voluntary. Individuals and businesses can purchase carbon credits to balance out their carbon footprint.

In a nutshell, carbon credits let you pay to avoid/reduce the carbon emissions, instead of making radical or impossible reductions of your own.

When you buy credits, you fund projects that reduce carbon or greenhouse gas emissions. Some examples of these projects include renewable energy projects, updating power plants and factories, or increasing the energy efficiency of buildings and transportation.

What are carbon credits?

Carbon credits (or carbon offset) are credits given for greenhouse emissions reduced or removed from the atmosphere by an emission reduction project, and which can be used by governments, industry or private individuals to compensate for the emissions they are directly and/or indirectly generating.

How do carbon credits work?

While there are different types of carbon credits available in the market, they all work in similar manner. One of the most widely issued carbon credits are the Verified Carbon Units (VCUs) issues to projects developed under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program.

Through the VCS Program, more than 1,300 certified VCS projects have collectively reduced or removed over 200 million tonnes of carbon and other GHG emissions from the atmosphere.

Projects developed under the VCS Program must follow a rigorous assessment process in order to be certified and include a wide variety of technologies and measures which result in GHG emission reductions and removals. These projects are categorized by their sectoral scope, which range from renewable energy projects to land use projects.

All VCS projects are subject to desk and field audits to ensure that standards are met and methodologies are properly applied. Projects are assessed using a technically sound GHG emission reduction quantification methodology specific to that project type.

Once projects have been certified, project developers are issued VCUs, with one VCU representing one metric tonne of carbon-equivalent emissions reduced or removed from the atmosphere.

Purchasing and retiring these VCUs allow individuals and companies to offset their own emissions. Carbon neutrality is achieved when emissions are fully offset.

Parties interested in purchasing and retiring these VCUs, use the trusted and secure platform, the Verra Registry, which was launched in April 2020 and is the cornerstone for the implementation of VCS standards and programs. Geneco is one such party, and strive to provide our customers with carbon credits of similar or even higher standard of assessment and quality assurance. 

How does Geneco support the reduction of carbon emissions?

In the UK, Geneco is acclaimed for its work in recycling and renewable energy. Landfills of junk and waste are used to power homes, buses, cars and more. We have won 13 awards for our green efforts, including National Recycling Awards for both 2015 and 2016, British Renewable Energy Awards for both 2015 and 2017, and many more.

Geneco brings this same expertise to the Singapore Open Electricity Market, giving consumers a choice to build a sustainable energy future through the purchase of a carbon neutral electricity price plan.


Start your sustainable journey today by customising your green add-on for your electricity plan with Geneco’s Power Eco Add-on (Carbon Credits).


How to be a successful plant parent

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How to be a successful plant parent

House plants are a great addition to any home – and they come with many benefits ranging from improving the air quality of your room to being a mood booster and even improving your wellbeing. A pot of monstera or a spider plant would make a great décor piece, breathing life into the corners within any home with their perky green leaves.

Despite these benefits, many might think they do not have a green thumb and would still choose to go without having any plants at home. Don’t be discouraged if you had a bad experience at your first attempt of growing a house plant. To help you on your journey to be a successful plant parent without the unnecessary struggle, here are some tips to help you succeed the smart way, not the hard way.

1. How many golden hours do you get?

Before anything else, draw your curtains wide open and figure out exactly how many hours of sunlight your room of choice normally gets as this is crucial in deciding what type of house plant to buy. Some plants can survive on less than two hours of sunlight a day, while some need up to eight hours of light.

If you spot some brown ends on the leaf of a plant, that could be a sign of scorching, which happens when there is too much sunlight and not enough water. The direction of your window would also give you an indication of how many hours of sunlight you will be getting and how strong the sunlight would be. In the same way we all have different preferences, your plants and your environment would have to be a great fit for each other so that it can thrive in your home.

2. The watering trick they don’t tell you about

Too much of a good thing can be bad, and the same goes for watering your plants. It is a common misconception that all plants need as much water as they can get. Each species of plants has their own watering needs, and many plant-health related issues start from overwatering.

Not well known to most people, the term ‘overwatering’ does not refer to the quantity of water. In fact, it is important to water the plant to the point of saturating the soil. ‘Overwatering’ actually refers to watering too many times, and depending on the plant, the appropriate number of times can range from once a day to once a month. With the right plant, you can enjoy bright green leaves while watering at a frequency that suits you.

3. Keeping away the pesky pests and other plant health problems

The health of your house plants can be severely impacted by house pests and fungi, which could be using your plant as a home, or source of food and nutrients. There are many different types of these pesky little fellas, but luckily, there are simple ways to prevent infestation:

  • Isolate new plants from the rest for at least a month before putting them together. In this time, check the new plant to see if there are any bugs
  • Wipe down a planter whenever you re-pot a plant
  • Remove dead leaves and foliage
  • Wipe your plants down occasionally with a soft cloth and lukewarm, non-toxic soap water
  • Make use of a common household product to create your own natural fungicide (we found baking soda to work wonders for our plants)

Selecting your first house plants

We know the above may sound daunting and like a lot of work, but once you get the hang of it, you will be rewarded with healthy and happy plants that will brighten your home and improve your mood. To get you started, here is a list of low maintenance plants that you can consider having at home.

  • Snake plant
    Snake plants are a fan favourite, because of how low maintenance they are. They require very little watering, and they do well in most conditions. Their strong green leaves feature interesting snake-like patterns, which makes every plant different from the next. Talk about a unique indoor plant! They are resistant to most pest problems, and research has shown that they have air purifying effects as well. If you are looking for a beginner plant that is beginner-friendly and easy to maintain, look no further than to explore having a snake plant as part of your starting collection.

  • Spider plant
    The plant got its name from the way the little plants dangles, much like a spider web. Raising a pot of spider plant can be very gratifying, because they grow quickly and very easily. They also purify your air and remove harmful chemicals. Don’t worry about the brown tips either, it’s completely normal and is caused by the salt build up in the soil.
  • Monstera
    You might have seen this guy in many interior design magazines because of its interesting appearance. With the holes in its leaves, it is no wonder that its nickname is “Swiss cheese plant”. It would turn any living area into an oasis, sitting beside your couch while you chill and relax on the weekend, giving you the tropical hotel experience right from your living room.

As we incorporate house plants into our homes and enjoy the benefits it brings to our lives, let us not forget the importance of trees and how they serve as the lungs to the earth. Not only do they help combat climate change by reducing carbon emissions, but they also form the life-support system of many wildlife species.

In celebration of our 3rd Anniversary, and as part of commitment to the nation’s #SGGreenPlan, Geneco is joining the #OneMillionTreesSG movement by planting 250 trees over the next 5 years. Be a part of this movement with us by joining in our giveaway in the post below and stand a chance to win a special eco-friendly lifestyle set, comprising of a tote bag, reusable water bottle, lunch box, cutlery set and win $30 Dairy Farm vouchers.

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange!


5 activities to do with your family this Earth Hour

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5 activities to do with your family this Earth Hour

Every year, the world comes together to switch off their lights for 60 minutes as part of Earth Hour, global movement to show their commitment and support for a more sustainable planet.

The event was originally started by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and its partners, and was first held in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Now it is being celebrated across the globe, with people participating from 180 different countries. Earth Hour will be happening on 27 March 2021, from 830 – 930PM at your local time. The goal of the event is to catalyse a positive change for our environment through standing together as one human race to make a statement for the planet.

If you are thinking of joining this movement with your family this coming weekend, you will be happy to know that there are still plenty of activities that can still be done even with the lights switched off! We put together some fun family-friendly activities that are perfect to help you make the stand and make the experience a little easier even for the little ones.

1. Take a night walk for some fresh respite

With the lights at home all switched off, one of the easiest ways to spend time would be to head outdoors. With social distancing still in place, we recommend avoiding crowded locations but instead opt to explore the neighbourhood parks within the heartlands. Singapore is home to lush nature spaces and green corridors. Our small garden city is home to more than 450 parks and we are sure that there is bound to be one within your estate to take a walk in.

Taking a night stroll in the parks with your family is a perfect after-dinner activity to enjoy the cool breeze while still doing your part for the environment. If a solitary walk is your choice, take the chance to clear your mind and enjoy being one with nature after a long busy week.

2. Have a candlelit family dinner

If dinner is a late affair in your household, a candlelit dinner would be well suited to commemorate the event. Plus, with the children at the dinner table, we think it is the perfect opportunity to share on the significance of this movement and why this dinner is so special with the lights switched off as a dinner topic.

Often, we need to speak with our actions, and we believe a unique dining experience with the lights switched off and breaking out the candles will be the perfect starting point to show why doing their part for the earth is important.

3. A classic movie night

What better time than to suggest a movie night for the entire family this Saturday evening? Spending the night watching a movie not only commits your family to the entire movement, but it could even allow you to clock in twice the amount of time since movies tend to run longer than an hour.

Make the most of the evening by choosing a movie with a green message for the earth! It could make for a great themed movie night to get the entire family on board. Some favourites include WALL-E, Happy Feet and Free Willy. Have the popcorn popping and get comfy among the cushions and look forward to a night of movie fun for the entire family!

4. Reign victorious with game night

With the living space to be darker than usual, a fun way to inject some old-school family fun would be to gather the family for a game night! Card and board games might be the usual picks, but for this special edition of game night take your pick from your favourite virtual games and have a blast. Hot favourites include virtual Chess, Drawful 2 or even Heads Up!

5. Get creative with shadow puppets

With the advancement of technology, children have access to online games, on demand shows and handheld consoles easily. Creating a unique fun experience in the dark would probably be the last on their minds. With the commemoration of Earth Hour, take a step back from the usual and take advantage of the lights being switched off by staging your own shadow puppet show. Let their imagination run and create stories together with the children by using a torch light and upcycling items around the house to illustrate the silhouettes and shadows on a blank canvas.

It truly is a fun activity that can peel the eyes away from the screen for one night and inject some good old nostalgic fun into the world of children today!

Here at Geneco, we encourage you and your family to be a part of this movement. By taking the first step to participate in Earth Hour, it also translates into taking a first step towards building a more sustainable future. With the realisation of the impacts of our every action, it can spur for a more conscious approach on the way we live. Join us this Earth Hour to make your action count towards powering a change for a greener future.


Global Recycling Day 2021 – Be a Recycling Hero today!

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Global Recycling Day 2021 – Be a Recycling Hero today!

For most of us, we are familiar with the 3Rs of sustainability – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. While we know that the first two can be easily implemented at home, the idea of the third one might be somewhat foreign to the majority. How much do we really know about recycling in Singapore and do we know what is the right way to recycle?

Global Recycling Day occurs on 18 March every year. The inception of it was with the intention of changing the mindsets of governments, businesses, communities, and individuals — encouraging the adoption of recycling to preserve precious primary resources and not generate more waste. It also aims to reinforce the importance of this issue at a global level and the need for it to be tackled to actualise big changes.

With that in mind, the theme for 2021’s Global Recycling Day is #RecyclingHeroes, where it will focus on celebrating the recycling efforts of people, places and activities all around the world. As Singapore charts forward with the SG Green Plan 2030, let’s find out how we can play a part in this movement too.

The Importance of Recycling

Many of world’s natural resources are finite and non-renewable. This means that once we run out of them, the world will no longer have these natural resources. As with the need to tap on the earth’s natural resources, it gives rise to more problems for our environment such as deforestation and pollution.

Recycling will help in extending the life of something that has been utilised for its initial intention and reduce the dependency on natural resources of our planet.

Therefore, it is important to learn how to recycle and the active role mankind plays in preserving our environment. Countries all around the world have rallied its citizens and implemented necessary measures to do good for the earth and encourage a culture of recycling.

  1. Germany
    In Germany, the recycling process is very comprehensive and precise. There are various coloured bins for different types of waste. For example, blue bins for paper, yellow bins for recyclable goods and a different coloured bin for different coloured glass. There are even bins for compostable goods such as food scraps, and boxes for battery recycling in supermarkets. The system may be detailed, but most German citizens are well-informed on how to carry out the process. In fact, up to 56.1% their waste is recycled! [1]
  2. Austria
    When Global Recycling Day first launched in 2018, Austria hosted an exhibition to educate the public on the importance of recycling. Today, Austria has a blanket ban on several types of waste going to the landfill – this means that these waste materials must go through recycling. The country also promotes a producer responsibility model, where companies are held accountable for the waste they generate. Companies would collect back the remaining waste from the products they create, and this complete ‘circle’ of responsibility is what is referred to as a circular economy.
  3. South Korea
    We often see the characters within Korean dramas sorting out their waste within communal recycling bins. This is not just a scene out of a drama. In fact, the culture of recycling is heavily embedded within the country where the average recycling rate for municipal waste in South Korea stood at over 50% [2] and that number is projected to increase in the near future. Back in 2019, South Korea also launched recycling education packs for local schools, in celebration of Global Recycling Day [3]. Looking forward, South Korea is progressively implementing the banning of plastics, in order to create an eco-friendlier environment.
  4. Taiwan
    More than half of Taiwan’s waste is recycled, and it is hard not to see why as this island country has an advanced 4-in-1 recycling programme that includes four strengths: Public Community, Local Authorities (Cleaning Teams), Recycling Enterprises and Recycling Fund. The programme has been launched since 1997, inculcating a culture of recycling among the young people and future generations [4]. These four strengths come together as a collective effort to create a complete recycling network for Taiwan.

Recycling in Singapore

Singapore’s only landfill, Semakau Landfill, is projected to run out of space by 2035. This suggests that Singapore has to find an alternative to our current waste disposal system, and recycling is one of the possible solutions.

In a study by the National Environment Agency in 2019, it was found that 6 in 10 Singaporean households recycle regularly [5]. However, a significant proportion mistakenly classified items which should be reused or disposed of as recyclables, such as Styrofoam boxes or old clothes. Much education and awareness behind the importance of recycling and the proper way to recycle is still needed within the nation. The inconvenience to dispose your recyclables in the right manner is a small price to pay for the environment’s future.

How to recycle responsibly in Singapore?

Recycling in Singapore can be easy once you are well informed on what can be recycled. If you are unsure whether that plastic soap bottle or biodegradable bag can be recycled, a good place to start is by debunking certain myths on plastic recycling in Singapore or reviewing the things around you that you never knew you could recycle. The more we learn about proper recycling methods, the more we can grow and develop as an eco-friendly community.

To further encourage the rest of your family to be a part of this movement, have a recycling corner within your home to make recycling easily accessible. The steps are easy for the entire family to follow

Step 1: Check the blue bins on what can be recycled (National Environment Agency has even provided a list here)

Step 2: Ensure all items are rinsed and not contaminated with any food or liquids

Step 3: Drop clean recyclables into the communal blue bins

By following these steps, we can help improve our domestic recycling rates, and solve our impending waste disposal issue. Other areas to channel recyclables in Singapore include smart Reverse Vending Machines located across multiple locations in Singapore to drop off plastic drink bottles and aluminum drink cans and be rewarded in the process.

Electronic waste (or e-waste) such as laptops, cables and lightbulbs can be recycled as well. However, instead of dropping them in the communal blue bins across the estates, do take note that the recycling collection method for them is different and blue bins do not accept e-waste.

As the composition of each electrical item is different with some containing a certain amount of heavy metals and other substances of concern, a different recycling channel has been set aside to have these electronic equipment properly treated and recycled. With improper disposal and treatment of the various components, it can lead to environmental pollution and in turn harming human health. As such, various locations with dedicated e-waste recycling collection points across the island has been set up to allow easy drop off of electronics for recycling.

Overall, there is still much room for improvement in terms of the nation’s recycling effectiveness and efficiency. More Singaporeans are increasingly becoming more environmentally conscious and with the launch of the SG Green Plan 2030, it is a testament as a nation to work towards building a more sustainable Singapore. As we work towards this on the upcoming Global Recycling Day, let us all #PowerTheChange and do our part to be our own recycling heroes!


References:

  1. [1] (2017, December 18) World Economic Forum, Germany recycles more than any other country
    https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/12/germany-recycles-more-than-any-other-country/
  2. [2] (2020) Recycling rate of plastic waste in South Korea from 2008 to 2018
    https://www.statista.com/statistics/1074985/south-korea-plastic-waste-recycling-rate/#:~:text=The%20plastic%20recycling%20rate%20has,stood%20at%20over%2050%20percent.
  3. [3] Global Recycling Day, GLOBAL RECYCLING DAY STARTS TO ANNOUNCE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FROM ACROSS THE WORLD
    https://www.globalrecyclingday.com/global-recycling-day-starts-to-announce-events-and-activities-from-across-the-world/https://www.healthline.com/health/heartburn#causes
  4. [4] (2019, June 18) Rapid Transition Alliance, Taiwan’s Transition – from Garbage Island to Recycling Leader
    https://www.rapidtransition.org/stories/taiwans-transition-from-garbage-island-to-recycling-leader/
  5. [5] (2019, April 4) National Environment Agency, 60 Per Cent Of Singaporean Households Recycle Regularly
    https://www.nea.gov.sg/media/news/news/index/60-per-cent-of-singaporean-households-recycle-regularly