NEA to conduct study on environmental impact of disposable packaging

Plastic microwaveable container which hawkers use for packaging takeaway food. PHOTO: ST FILE

SINGAPORE - The National Environment Agency (NEA) called for a tender on Wednesday (Aug 24) to study the life-cycle assessment of disposable packaging for takeaway food or dining in and single-use carriers commonly used in Singapore.

It will analyse how different materials commonly used in disposable packaging compare in terms of cost and impact on the environment.

The assessment will evaluate the environmental impact associated with all the stages of the disposable packaging's life cycle. This includes the raw materials needed, as well as their manufacture, distribution, use and disposal.

The study, which is expected to start in September or October (2016) and end by the second quarter of next year (2017), will provide insight into whether alternatives to commonly used disposables can be less damaging to the environment.

The tender will close on Sept 13.

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