This National Day, we would like to put the mental wellness of our nation at the centre stage with our ‘here. sunrise x sunset’ initiative. Through this heartwarming campaign, we hope to remind all to breathe because sometimes you might forget to, give yourselves the pause you deserve, and simply be in the present.

As part of this initiative, we are joining hands with Beyond the Label, a national movement co-led by the National Council of Social Service and TOUCH Community Services, dedicated to promoting social inclusion for persons with mental health conditions. This movement aims to combat mental health stigma by raising awareness, educating the public, supporting workplace adjustments, and encouraging early help-seeking.

Together, we hope to invite everyone to join us in fostering a supportive environment, sparking more open conversations, and building resilience within communities.

Let Music Power The Change

Music can change the world because it can change people.

As one of the key discussions at the National University of Singapore’s engagement session, ‘A Conversation on Emotional Resilience – Finding Emotional Well-Being Through Music’, it has been shared that music can build emotional resilience, manage mental conditions, and improve mental health.

Beyond enhancing our mood, music can tap into many cognitive and emotional processing centres in our minds – providing a sense of belonging, an avenue of self-expression, and a means to cope with mental well-being.

In line with Singapore’s 59^th birthday, there is no better time to showcase the healing power of music through local talents within our own community.

As part of our campaign, we are elated to collaborate with Sherman Zhuo, a homegrown award-winning singer-songwriter and Cross Ratio x Warner Music Singapore Artist. Sherman has topped the charts of Spotify’s Viral 50 Singapore with over 8 million streams, we are heartened to debut ‘endless shine’ – a song to inspire all to let music be the heartbeat of our lives and Power The Change from Within.

Composed as a letter to himself, the song reflects his journey of overcoming mental health challenges and societal expectations by finding joy in the little things in life. We hope this song can uplift those who are still navigating their way through their mental health journey and encourage positive change through music.

With that, we would like to invite you to press play for good by helping us achieve our goal of 1 million streams for ‘endless shine’ on Spotify and YouTube. Each stream will count towards our pledge to champion mental wellness and challenge mental health stigma, and we will donate $10,000 to Beyond the Label.

Vote For Your Favourite Lyrics

As you immerse in the lyrics and melody of ‘endless shine’, you can also vote for your favourite lyrics that inspire you the most. Simply visit www.heresunrisesunset.sg to vote from now till 31 August and stand to be 1 in 5 lucky winners to receive $100 eCapitaVoucher.

It Begins With All Of Us

We are also heartened to have well-known personalities like Tosh Zhang, Karyn Wong, Chen Yixin, Sherman Zhuo and Darshen, share their personal stories and challenge the mental health stigma.

Check out their posts below — we hope you can find inspiration from them for your own journey.

Visit #HereSunriseXSunset Pop-up Event

Join us at our pop-up event at Bugis Junction, Level 1 Atrium from 29 July to 4 August, 10 AM to 10 PM for an immersive experience with specially curated sound tube installations, heartfelt lyrics, and melody of ‘endless shine’, providing a therapeutic escape.

What’s more, stand a chance to win $100 eCapitaVoucher and receive a limited edition Geneco tote bag when you press play on our song and vote for your favourite lyrics.

Plus, be the first 50 visitors on 3 and 4 August from 3 PM – 6 PM to press play and vote to receive an exclusive Geneco Green Starter Kit worth $40 that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

To find out more about the campaign, you can visit www.here.sunrisesunset.sg.

Together, let’s change the world around us by changing our world within.

With the June holidays in full swing, now is the perfect time to keep the little ones engaged with fun and meaningful activities that will nurture their curiosity and appreciation for the environment. 

While schools have begun to incorporate environmental education into their curriculum, the holidays offer a unique opportunity for parents to deepen this learning beyond the classroom. 

In this month’s blog, we have curated a range of sustainability-themed activities to ignite your children’s passion for the environment. Let’s make this June holidays a time of discovery, growth, and eco-friendly adventures.

1. Build a green home with DesignTinkers

In an urbanised city like Singapore, our buildings account for over 20% of the nation’s carbon emissions today. In line with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, almost 55% of our buildings have been made greener, and plans are underway to green at least 80% of buildings by 2030, as part of the Singapore Green Building Masterplan. Even HDBs today are adopting large scale  energy-saving solutions like the implementation of smart technologies, such as sensors and solar panels to reduce our energy consumption. 

If your little one has shown an interest in built environments, DesignTinkers has organised a 2-day holiday camp where kids are exposed to the design and eco-friendly construction techniques used in our communities. 

Led by architects, designers and educators, the camp will teach children basic concepts and initiatives, ultimately helping them in the lead-up to creating a 3D prototype of their dream eco-home.

Through hands-on cardboard construction, they will have a go at putting their creativity in practice, crafting and assembling a sustainable home with principles that they have learned or seen in their daily lives. 

The little ones will undoubtedly feel immense pride in their final creation, and this experience may also spark a lifelong interest in architecture for your child. 

Register for their upcoming classes here.

2. Join an outdoor camp with City Sprouts

Now that school is out, the little ones can finally enjoy more time for outdoor play. After all, global experts recommend at least an hour of outdoor activity per day to stimulate their imagination, learning and improve their overall wellbeing.

A 2-day outdoor camp with City Sprouts will see little ones fully immersed in our natural environment in an effort to cultivate their appreciation for nature and wildlife.

Starting at the Kids’ Adventure Camp, the young ones will be guided through key themes, such as food security and biodiversity conservation. Set against natural landscapes, these camps allow children—who often spend most of their time indoors at school—to enjoy first-hand encounters with nature in a safe and sensible way. 

In addition, kids will get to improve their social skills as they mingle with other participants, with games and activities to promote collaboration, critical and creative thinking during the camp. 

With two camps located in Henderson and West Coast, you can find the one most convenient for your family here.

3. Get creative through sustainable crafts with Our Arts Studio

No holiday is complete without having a memento of the new experiences you have shared with your family. If you would like to create your own crafts but are no DIY expert yourself, you can join your little ones in an eco-casting workshop with Our Arts Studio. 

Using an eco-friendly, recyclable material known as jesmonite, the workshop will see participants create mini trays, coasters and even phone holders using various techniques like marbling and terrazzo. 

Jesmonite, celebrated for its versatility and sustainability, allows kids to unleash their creativity while making functional items for home use. This will not only hone their DIY skills, it will also help reduce environmental footprint through the process of handcrafting instead of buying mass-produced items. 

Much like the eco-home project, this will supplement your child’s understanding of sustainable materials, and it will give them a unique gift to remember this one of a kind experience with Mum and Dad. 

Learn more and register your family for the workshop here.

Attend a free movie screening with us

As we commemorate World Environment Day this June (5 June 2024), we would also like to invite families to join us for a screening of the multi-award winning climate change movie “The Human Element” at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, on Saturday night, 29 June 2024. 

The documentary follows the journey of environmental photographer James Balog as he tracks real-world heroes at the front line of climate change. Centering around the four natural elements, Balog’s film will surely be an insightful experience for your teenagers as they witness the reality of environmental issues today. 

If you would like to join us for a delightful evening, you can register here.

Keep sustainability in mind this school holiday

With a blend of education, creativity, and fun, the June school holidays can be both enjoyable and enriching for children. Whether your child is building a sustainable home, exploring the outdoors, crafting eco-friendly art, or learning about climate change through film, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

If any of these activities piqued your child’s curiosity in sustainability, you can also join our Facebook or Instagram giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 green learning adventure from our blog that you can experience with your child this June holidays”. The contest ends on 30th June 2024. Terms and conditions apply. 

Let’s continue to #PowerTheChange and inspire young advocates for a greener tomorrow.

With their vibrant colours, captivating fragrances, and aesthetic charm, flowers have an enchanting allure that can illuminate even the dullest of spaces. 

Beyond their visual appeal, flowers have been found to have great effects on your mental health, such as by reducing cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. For those working from home, surrounding yourself with floral displays can also improve your productivity and focus, by reducing mental fatigue, fostering creativity, and creating a more pleasant atmosphere conducive to efficient work.

While botanical products are readily available in stores, shopping local botanical brands allows you to enjoy high-quality, handcrafted products, while supporting the local economy and reducing your carbon footprint. 

In this month’s article, let’s explore three homegrown brands that are known on our radar for their unique botanical creations, and discover new ways to infuse your space with a natural elegance and elevate your living environment.

1. Experience the art of sustainable floristry with Echevaria.co

If you have attended large events, you would have noticed that fresh exotic flowers are often the go-to centrepieces. While visually stunning, these flowers tend to wilt quickly after the event, leading to unnecessary waste.

Moreover, the logistics of sourcing exotic plants can rake up significant carbon emissions, with Kenyan roses, for instance, taking up to 18 hours of flight time to arrive in Singapore. 

That is why local botanical studio Echevaria.co is reimagining floral artistry by opting for rooted plants and cuttings from local and regional flora, which can be potted back into soil after its use. Their unique approach not only reduces the environmental impact associated with imported flowers, but also allows guests to enjoy their bouquets long after the event. 

You can repot plant cuttings in your home garden, and with proper care and maintenance, they can transform into stunning houseplants for your living space. 

By shopping with Echavaria.co, you are not only supporting local and regional biodiversity but also contributing to the circularity of plant life as they continue to have a second lease of life. 

Discover their range of Repottable Bouquets, which includes succulents known for their low-maintenance qualities, ideal for beginners in this space.

2. Preserving nature’s beauty with Slow Green

Fresh plants are not the only way to bring greenery into your home. If your busy schedule leaves little time for tending to live plants, preserved plants might be the perfect alternative. 

As its name suggests, preserved plants don’t need watering, pruning or sunlight, yet they can retain their natural beauty and texture, offering all the visual greenery with zero maintenance. 

Slow Green is a local botanical studio offering their take on preserved plant arrangements using natural materials like plants, stones and woods to craft vibrant, ethereal decor pieces that can instantly transform any space. 

The founders at Slow Green are true artisans of their craft, meticulously creating each pot by hand, putting quality over quantity in their final creations. What’s more, they embrace an ‘all plants are equal’ approach, avoiding the trend of favouring rare or exotic species. This way, common flora can shine in its own right, while reducing the environmental impact of sourcing plants, helping to preserve our local biodiversity.

Choosing Slow Green allows you to admire nature’s gifts without the usual upkeep. Not only do you get long-lasting decor, but your purchase will also support a brand that prioritises sustainability while respecting the natural world. 

You can explore and shop their range of plants and decorative pieces on their website.

3. Indulge in artisanal, botanical soaps with Rough Beauty

Going beyond traditional pots and planters, another subtle way to bring flora into your space is through botanical-infused soaps. 

These days, many of us are opting for natural alternatives over mass-produced bath and body products, mainly because of their skin-loving, eco-conscious qualities that are in stark contrast to synthetic chemicals, which can harm both your skin and the environment with every wash.

Rough Beauty, a Singapore-based artisanal bath and body brand, provides a refreshing solution with their botanical soaps and bath essentials. On a mission to inspire mindful living, they handcraft soaps in small batches using botanicals sourced from around the world. Their commitment to using natural ingredients like essential oils and dried herbs ensures that only the finest, skin-safe elements make it into their products.

Their focus on natural ingredients and zero-waste practices also means their products are gentle on your skin and less harmful to water ecosystems. Moreover, they even sell loose soap pieces to minimise waste, demonstrating their dedication to sustainability.

By choosing Rough Beauty, you support a brand that prioritises both quality and the environment. Their botanical-infused soaps offer an easy way to bring the essence of nature into your daily routine, while offering an eco-friendly yet luxurious bathing experience. 

Check out their best-sellers on their website, along with household soaps to give your home an extra touch of luxury.

Bringing nature indoors

Whether it is through cultivating a green thumb or shopping for botanical products, there are plenty of ways to creatively introduce nature at home, and we encourage everyone to look to our local brands and support emerging talents in this space. 

If you have found these tips useful, you can also join our Facebook and Instagram Giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 local handcrafted botanical brand featured in our blog that can revitalise your home”. The contest ends on 31st May 2024. Terms and conditions apply. 

Together, let’s join hands to #PowerTheChange and nurture our nature for a sustainable future.

As global temperatures continue to rise, at a pace of 0.2°C per decade, the frequency and severity of extreme weather phenomena, from scorching heat waves to devastating hurricanes and wildfires, are on the rise globally.

Amidst the shifting climate landscape, Earth Day, which is held on 22 April every year, serves as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard and conserve the environment that we call home. Participating in planting activities, in particular, offers a meaningful way to commemorate this occasion, fostering hands-on education and a tangible connection with nature.

Here at Geneco, Earth Day represents more than a once-a-year celebration — it embodies our ongoing dedication to fostering environmental awareness all year round. As Singapore’s No. 1 Residential Electricity Retailer, we recognise the important role that we have in advocating for sustainability for the well-being of future generations.

From supporting local grassroots campaigns to participating in nationwide initiatives like the National Parks Board’s #OneMillionTrees Movement, we hope to inspire and encourage everyone to join us in playing your part and taking action.

If you are eager to extend your commitment beyond Earth Day, here are 4 innovative ways that you can cultivate sustainable habits and start sowing the seeds of change.

1. Grow your own fresh greens at home

Growing a garden at home might seem difficult and tedious, but with microgreens, it is easier than you think. 

Packed with up to 40 times more nutrients than mature plants, microgreens take up less space and resources to grow, making them the perfect solution for those looking to cultivate gardening habits in our compact homes. 

With Everything Green, a local start-up that specialises in growing microgreens through containers, you will find a wide range of planting seeds and beginner-friendly starter kits, with no special equipment or skills required. The best part is, that each of these seeds is GMO-free and cultivated using sustainable farming practices, without using any synthetic fertiliser, pesticide, or herbicide.

Founder Sakina takes pride in demystifying home gardening, encouraging Singaporeans to turn their balconies, window sills, and even office desks into green hotspots. With microgreens that are ready for harvest in less than a week, there are endless possibilities for fresh, flavourful greens right at your fingertips. If you are interested in starting, do check out the Everything Green Microgreen Starter Kits available on their website.

2. Pick up the skill of home-harvesting mushrooms

Once you have mastered microgreens, dive into the fascinating world of mushroom cultivation. 

Mushrooms, beyond their delicious umami flavours, play a crucial role in the health of our ecosystem. In the wild, they help to decompose organic matter, recycle nutrients and even support plant growth.  

Local organisation Bewilder is leading the way in demonstrating the real-world application of fungi. With circularity as its core principle, they transform various local waste materials into gourmet and medicinal mushrooms, cultivating over 20 types of gourmet and herbal mushrooms, from Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Golden Oyster, Flower Lingzhi, and more. 

They also offer the only Mushroom Grow Kit in Singapore, with controlled, small-batch production to ensure quality and freshness for every home harvest. 

By growing your own mushrooms at home, you can help to reduce reliance on commercially produced food, thereby lowering carbon emissions associated with transportation and packaging — another way you can make a positive impact beyond Earth Day. 

You can shop their Mushroom Grow kits directly here.

3. Elevate your home decor with terrariums

Beyond growing edible plants, you can also start your own indoor gardening project with succulent planters by building terrariums with the little ones.  

Terrariums provide a charming and low-maintenance alternative compared to potted plants, not only adding visual greenery, but also improving air quality by filtering out toxins in the air. 

If you would like to add a personal touch to your home decor, check out The Green Capsule for their latest terrarium workshops. With classes designed for various age groups, you can gather with your loved ones and flex your botanical creativity, while relishing in its therapeutic nature to destress at the same time. 

Book an upcoming workshop here or you can also shop their range of terrarium and DIY kits.

4. Plant a tree for a greener tomorrow

Today, Singapore’s standing as one of the world’s greenest cities is a testament to our nation’s efforts in restoring nature into our urban landscape. Beyond moderating temperature through transpiration and shading, trees play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gases, helping to mitigate the impact of climate change.

With the vision to restore nature back into our city, the National Parks Board’s (NParks) has launched the #OneMillionTrees movement, which aims to plant a million more trees across Singapore by 2030.

As part of Geneco’s commitment to NParks’ Plant-A-Tree programme, under their #OneMillionTrees movement, we have been planting 50 trees each year over the last four years towards our goal of planting 250 trees over five years. In celebration of Geneco’s 6th Anniversary and Earth Day 2024, we are proud to be holding our 4th annual Plant-A-Tree event at East Coast Park this year.

As community is key to the success of this movement, you too can be a part of the initiative and take action to help expand Singapore’s green canopy. By contributing to NParks’ Garden City Fund, you can get to sponsor or volunteer to plant a tree in one of NParks’ managed green spaces.

To get started, visit NParks’ website here.

Let’s foster sustainable habits today

Making a meaningful impact on the environment starts with a first step. Whether you are growing microgreens, cultivating mushrooms, creating terrariums, or planting trees, every small action contributes to a greener, more sustainable future for our next generation. 

If you have found these tips useful, you can also join our Facebook and Instagram Giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit  (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag.

Simply answer the question in our comments section: “Name 1 of the ways featured in our blog that you can sow the seeds of change this Earth Day and beyond”. The contest ends on 30th April 2024. Terms and conditions apply. 

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange and sow the seeds of sustainability for a greener tomorrow.

Contrary to common perception, adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle can be very affordable — and you might be pleasantly surprised at just how easy it can be to integrate sustainable choices into your daily routine, especially within the comforts of your home. 

By making small yet impactful changes at home, you can not only create a more environmentally friendly living space, but also inspire your family to join in the journey towards a greener future.

In this month’s blog, from finding creative ways to repurpose your household items, to simply making a green switch on your electricity plan, let’s explore how easy it can be to create a sustainable home without breaking the bank.

1. Composting waste

If you love to grow plants at home, starting a composting habit is a great way to help you save money, as compost acts as a natural fertiliser and boosts plant resilience against pests and diseases.

Beyond its cost savings, composting is a great way to teach children about the importance of waste reduction. In fact, 60% of the typical household’s waste can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost, making it one of the most impactful ways for families to reduce their waste footprint at home.

Kickstart the composting journey by teaching your family about compostable items and involving them in the sorting process. You can even make it a regular habit by managing the compost bin together, giving the little ones a chance to foster a deeper connection with the environment. 

To get started with composting at home, you can check out Soil Social’s Magic Composter Kit. This comprehensive kit includes an informative booklet to guide you through every step of the composting process, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience for the whole family.

2. Upcycling household items

While online shopping offers households more convenience, it contributes to our throwaway culture where items are quickly replaced, leading to more waste. Instead, finding alternatives to lengthen the lifespan of the products can help to save money in the long run. 

To counter this trend, families can embrace the growing practice of upcycling, transforming old or unwanted items into new and functional creations. Take inspiration from eco-conscious individuals who transform empty jars into charming fairy light fixtures or repurpose coffee pots into plant pots or terrariums. Even seemingly obsolete items like egg cartons can be transformed into imaginative organisers for jewellery or small trinkets.

By making upcycling a regular family activity, parents are not only igniting creativity within the household, but also instilling a mindset of reusing and repurposing.

If you need a little creative spark to start, here are some simple and creative ideas that your kids will be sure to love.

3. #GoGreenYourWay for your electricity plan

Beyond everyday activities, a simple and fuss-free way for families to make your homes eco-friendly is to consider opting for green add-ons for your electricity plans.

Geneco’s Power Eco Add-On is Singapore’s FIRST and ONLY customisable green add-on. Starting from just $1 more per month, you can now #GoGreenYourWay by avoiding up to 4,001kg of CO₂ emissions with 197 rain trees. Simply opt-in for either Carbon Credits (CC) or Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) at your preferred level of green contribution (25%/50%/75%/100%) and kick-start your eco-journey.

With our commitment to building a greener tomorrow for the future generation, we are offering a 6th Anniversary Exclusive for all, available only for a limited time! Hurry, sign up with Power Eco Add-on today or if you are an existing customer, simply opt-in or upgrade to enjoy the first 6 months for FREE.

While this might seem like a small upgrade for households looking to make a difference for the environment, the collective effort of this sustainable choice definitely makes an impact. 

For more information, visit our page here.

The journey towards a greener future

Sustainability is not just a destination, but a continuous, evolving path. You can take the first step by cultivating greener habits in your home and making conscious choices to build a greener living space for your loved ones.

If you enjoyed reading these tips, you can also join our Facebook and Instagram giveaway and be one of 20 lucky winners to take home a $26 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a foldable umbrella, collapsible water bottle, reusable straw, and grocery net bag. 

Simply comment on our Facebook or Instagram giveaway post by answering this question: “Name 1 of the 3 affordable ways featured in this blog that you can build a greener home with your family.” The contest ends on 31 March 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

Together, let’s #PowerTheChange and nurture the next generation’s passion for a greener tomorrow.

Coral reefs are one of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth as about 25% of the ocean’s fish are dependent on healthy coral reefs for survival.

With approximately 60% of Singapore’s reef area lost to land reclamation, our nation is left with over 250 species of corals that can still be found largely around our southern islands, such as Pulau Satumu, Pulau Semakau and the Sisters’ Islands.

In view of this issue, the National Parks Board (NParks) recently launched an initiative to scale up existing coral restoration efforts and plant 100,000 corals in Singapore’s waters under their Plant-A-Coral, Seed-A-Reef (PACSAR) Programme.

This Chinese New Year, together with NParks, and alongside Marshall Cavendish Education (MCE), we hope to invite Singaporeans to dive deeper with us, explore the vast coral reefs that are thriving within our waters, and join us in our conservation efforts, through our #VoyageToProsperity initiative.

Pledge your support by playing the Voyage To Prosperity Game

In collaboration with MCE, we have co-created the Voyage To Prosperity Game, together with 10-year-old Gabriel Chin. 

As part of MCE’s Summer Coding Hackathon themed ‘Code the Ocean’, students aged 9-12 from around the world were invited to create games of their own to raise awareness for ocean sustainability, and among the shortlisted entries was this game creatively coded and designed by Gabriel, which theme is focused on ocean clean-ups. 

Simply play this game to pledge your support, and we will donate on your behalf, towards our $10,000 donation to the coral reef conservation and enhancement efforts by NParks’ Garden City Fund.

Haul in a prosperous Chinese New Year with Geneco’s marine-inspired red packets

Together with NParks’ Garden City Fund, this year, we are illuminating the beauty of coral reefs, which serve as a pivotal foundation for a thriving marine ecosystem. 

Each red packet, printed on FSC-certified paper, features a radiant flow of fishes in vivid hues of pink, blue and gold, as well as blooming corals to represent their flourishing prosperity. 

Within each red packet, you will find unique lesser-known facts about our native coral reefs, such as “While our reefs are only 0.01% the size of the Great Barrier Reef, they host about half as many coral species, showcasing the remarkable resilience of our local marine biodiversity.”

If you would like to receive one of these exclusive red packets, you can head down to our pop-up event happening now at Tampines Mall. More details below.

Breathe new life into used red packets

2024 marks the fourth consecutive year of our Used Red Packets Recycling Initiative. This year, we are joined by new and returning partners, including CapitaLand malls, CRU, IUIGA, OTO,  PAP Action for Green Towns, REFASH, and Wisma Atria, who are hosting our recycling bins at over 90 locations across the nation from now till 31 March.

These red packets will then be collected by SG Recycle, who will repurpose them into new paper products. 

Plus, join our Geneco Facebook or Instagram giveaway and let us know which CapitaLand mall you will be visiting to drop off your red packets in our recycling bins, and you could be one of the 40 lucky winners to walk away with a $28 eCapitaVoucher. Contest ends on 11 February 2024.

Join us at #VoyageToProsperity pop-up event

From now till 6 February, come on down to Tampines Mall, Level 1 Concourse, to show your support for local coral reef conservation efforts at our #VoyageToProsperity pop-up event. 

Together with your little ones, you can play the Voyage To Prosperity Game at the event and stand to win a $28 eCapitaVoucher, when you are amongst the top five players of the week, and a limited-edition Geneco reusable straw. 

What’s more, you can drop by between 3pm to 6pm on 3 & 4 February and stand to receive an exclusive set of Geneco Red Packets and a Geneco Green Starter Kit (worth $40) that consists of a silicone water bottle, reusable straw, recyclable umbrella and a grocery net bag if you are among the first 50 players each day.

If you have used or excess red packets at home, you can also bring them down to our recycling bins at the pop-up event. 

For more information on our campaign and event details, visit https://www.voyagetoprosperity.sg/ 

Together, let’s embark on a #VoyageToProsperity towards a sustainable nation for our next generation.​ 

And beyond.

Beyond our lush urban greenery, Singapore is home to a vibrant mosaic of oceanic biodiversity, with over 12,000 species of marine organisms living in our waters. 

At the heart of this lively marine community, our native coral reefs, also known as “the Rainforests of the Sea”, emerge as magnificent marvels, over countless generations of corals and reef organisms. Within their intricate ecosystems, you can find over 120 species of reef fishes and about 200 species of sponges creating a rich and diverse underwater habitat. 

Through meticulous conservation, we can do our part in helping our reefs to persevere through threats, such as climate change and land reclamation, and support a thriving and harmonious ecosystem. 

In this month’s blog, join us as we delve into 4 activities that you can do in Singapore to instil awareness about the importance of marine conservation from an early age.

1. Making a difference with ‘Our Singapore Reefs’

Established in 2017, Our Singapore Reefs (OSR) has been an emerging leader in local marine conservation. Led by a quartet of avid divers – Sam, Tai Chong, Lynette, and Yvonne – OSR chiefly organises reef clean-ups, taking volunteer divers on expeditions to clean up marine litter lying on our seabeds. 

Despite the common practice of properly disposing of our waste, trash such as plastic containers and empty glass bottles are still often left behind on our beaches. Subsequently, during high tide, these remnants are swept into the ocean, causing pollution and disruption to coral ecosystems.

OSR’s goal is clear— every dive uncovers new litter, fueling their ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation, and serving as a reminder to all that maintaining cleanliness in and around our waters is our responsibility.

If you would like to join their cause but are not a diver yourself, OSR also co-hosts beach clean-up sessions with Georges, providing an opportunity for families and young ones to get involved. These sessions are often accompanied by expert sharing programmes, serving as an educational avenue for newcomers to learn about marine diversity, mangrove protection and more. 

By participating in OSR’s activities with your family, you will not only be contributing to the ongoing efforts of marine conservation but also cultivating knowledge and enthusiasm for marine conservation early. Head over to OSR’s Instagram to discover more about their activities. 

2. Educating from young with “Let’s Discover Our Seashores, Singapore!”

While sustainability topics have been weaved into the classrooms in recent years, it is equally important that parents continue cultivating these learnings and interests at home — and what better way to do so than with an interactive children’s picture book.

Titled “Let’s Discover Our Seashores, Singapore!”, the picture book authored by father-daughter duo Professor Emeritus Chou and Diana Chou is a visual and aural experience that invites parents and young readers to explore the world of marine creatures living on our shores. 

Featuring 25 unique sea creatures, the book incorporates visual illustrations and QR codes linking to animated videos online, where Professor Emeritus Chou, a marine biologist at the Tropical Marine Science Institute, explains in deeper detail the interesting traits and behaviours of these animals. 

For example, young readers may discover animals such as an eight-armed seastar extending its arms, with small, flexible tube-like structures to enhance its speed during incoming tides. Interesting as it may be, this newfound knowledge can enrich your child’s learning, making their next trip to the beach more engaging and rewarding. 

Through captivating visuals and tech integration, there are endless ways in which children can nurture their interest in marine life conservation. If you are keen to kickstart your child’s educational journey, you can do so by picking up a copy of “Let’s Discover Our Seashores, Singapore!” at any Popular, Kinokuniya and Times bookstore near you.

3. Exploring new coastal trails on Big Sisters’ Island

Beyond our mainland beaches, families can take their curiosities further with the upcoming opening of Big Sisters’ Island this year. With a host of exciting new activities lined up, you can now look forward to exploring a whole new side of Singapore, just a boat ride away.

The island features a 230-metre coastal forest trail, complete with a hilltop viewing deck that offers an unobstructed view of our cerulean seas. You will also find lush green canopy throughout your hikes, all of which were strategically placed to enhance coastal habitats for sea creatures in our waters.

Besides the sights of the native animals living on Big Sisters’ Island, the little ones can experience the sea within the confines of a lagoon tidal pool, designed to retain seawater during low tide. Kids and parents can even partake in snorkelling activities, spotting moon snails, sea cucumbers and even octopi during their swims.

By providing children with a unique and immersive experience, we can help instil a deeper appreciation for marine conservation. This initiative is further enhanced by the collaboration between the National Parks Board and Singtel, who will incorporate 5G technology across the island to boost monitoring and virtual education programmes as well. 

Discover more coastal activities and amenities on Big Sisters’ Island here.

4. Diving into coral reef and marine conservation with #VoyageToProsperity

This Chinese New Year, we would like to invite you to dive deeper with us, explore the vast coral reefs that are thriving within our waters, and join us in our conservation efforts.

Through our collaboration with Marshall Cavendish Education (MCE), we have co-created the Voyage To Prosperity Game together with 10-year-old Gabriel Chin. As part of our initiative, we will be donating $10,000 to the coral reef conservation and enhancement efforts by NParks’ Garden City Fund, and you and your little ones can join us to pledge your support for coral reef conservation efforts, simply by playing the game. Each gameplay will count as a pledge towards conserving our coral reefs.

Together with the NParks’ Garden City Fund, we are also illuminating the beauty of coral reefs, which serve as a pivotal foundation for a thriving marine ecosystem on our Geneco Red Packets. 

This is symbolised by the radiant flow of fishes in vivid hues of pink, blue and gold, as well as the blooming corals to represent their flourishing prosperity. Within each red packet, you will also discover the lesser-known facts about our coral reefs and how they are vital to our marine life.

For a chance to win a set of limited edition Geneco Red Packets and $28 eCapitaVoucher, you can also take part in our Facebook and Instagram giveaway contests simply by sharing with us one of the places where Singapore’s coral reefs can be found.

By nurturing an appreciation and sense of responsibility for our marine environment from a young age, we hope to inspire and empower the next generation of environmental stewards to build themselves a sustainable future.

Together let’s embark on a #VoyageToProsperity towards a sustainable nation for our next generation. 

And beyond.

In Singapore, many of us understand the need to embrace sustainability and minimise our environmental footprint. However, when it comes to taking action, we can see that there is more to be done — each of us generates roughly nine tonnes of CO2 every year, exceeding more than four times the target required to maintain a sustainable footprint.

It is becoming clear that every action, no matter how small, matters. With more and more community members stepping up to embark on that change together, we can count on our now easily start with supporting these brands for our everyday essentials. 

In this month’s blog, we explore 3 shops that have created unique, eco-friendly products to supplement our daily routines. Read on to find out what they have to offer.

1. High-quality, long-lasting activewear

If you enjoy living an active lifestyle and exercising daily, you will know the importance of having workout attire that is not only durable but also makes you look and feel good.

To safeguard the health of our community and the environment, Outfyt offers an alternative to the usual mass-produced activewear — with classic-cut, Scandinavian-inspired garments that focus on clean production, minimalism and functionality. 

Unlike fleeting fashion trends, Outfyt adopts a capsule collection instead. This means timeless designs in limited batches, utilising only rescued fabrics like ECONYL® Regenerated Nylon and LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ to ensure workout pieces resist fading and maintain their shape for years to come. 

From their manufacturers to materials and packaging, and even to their boutique, Outfyt ensures that their sustainability efforts are fully extended from production to sale. And the best part? 1% of proceeds from every purchase you make is donated to Healthy Seas, going towards cleaning the seas, saving marine wildlife and more.

More than activewear, their pieces are versatile too, so you can wear them whether you are lounging at home, heading out for a grocery run or even dressing them up for social occasions. 

Shop their latest collection on their website.

2. Fun and edible cutlery for the family

As a nation with a strong ‘takeaway’ food culture, there is no denying the convenience of packing your favourite hawker dish to go. However, what is also undeniable is the environmental impact of our single-use cutleries, which according to the National Environmental Agency, has amounted to 200,000 tonnes of disposables in a year as a result of our frequent plastic use. 

To address this concern, along with the issue of inadequate nutrition among urban dwellers, local entrepreneur, Anna Lam, ingeniously introduced Crunch Cutlery. Put simply, Crunch Cutlery is a set of 100% edible utensils, packed with a dose of nutritious superfoods to ensure that Singaporeans meet their daily vitamin intake while reducing the use of disposable plastics. 

These bite-sized cracker-like utensils contain flax seeds, chia seeds, and wholewheat, each bite providing a boost of Omega 3, Vitamin B3, Lignans and fibre. They also come in gluten-free and vegan-friendly varieties so that everyone can enjoy a bite or two with their meals. 

If you are unsure which flavours to get, you can try out all four new flavours — Strawberry, Banana Goji, Caramel Oats and Brown Sugar Oats — when you pick up an All Flavours! Zero Waste Gift Box (Set of 8).

With Crunch Cutlery, you can easily choose to be eco-conscious with your daily meals, without the hassle of washing up after. Find out more about this tasty cutlery via their website.

3. Stylish yet durable rubber footwear

Living in a tropical metropolis where walking is a way of life, it is important that our choice of footwear extends beyond functionality. With sandals and slippers being everyday favourites, the emphasis is on durability and style, ensuring that they not only serve their purpose but also stand the test of time. 

With sustainability in mind, Indosole gathers discarded rubber tires, which take approximately 50-80 years (or longer) to decompose, and transforms them into stylish, long-lasting soles. Their process prevents around 1.5 million tires from entering landfills every year, where they are often burned as low-cost fuel. 

Rather than relying on synthetic materials that further strain our environment, Indosole reshapes these used materials into waterproof, ergonomic shoes that are perfectly suited for urban dwellers navigating various terrains on foot.

By choosing Indosole, you are not just choosing comfortable and reliable footwear; you’re also actively diverting tires from landfills and reducing the emissions associated with new shoe production.

Moreover, making a conscious choice to support products made responsibly goes a long way in ensuring your positive impact on both the environment and your community. 

Explore the full Indosole collection here.

Fostering a Community of Green Living

Living sustainably is no longer just a trend, but a necessity in the face of climate change. By prioritising brands that support sustainability as our go-to, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also investing in the well-being of communities, ensuring that everyone has access to a more eco-lifestyle. 

You can also join our Facebook and Instagram giveaway and be one of 10 lucky winners to take home a $30 eCapitaVoucher and a Geneco Starter Kit worth $40. 

Simply comment on our Facebook or Instagram giveaway post by answering this question: “Name 1 brand featured in our blog that is creating sustainable staples for Singaporeans.” The contest ends on 31 Oct 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

Let’s continue to champion sustainability for a greener tomorrow and #PowerTheChange together as a community.