$1.5 billion set aside for next chapter of Singapore's 'clean and green' journey

SINGAPORE - Singapore will commit $1.5 billion over the next five years to make the country more clean and green. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced this at the launch of the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint 2015 on Saturday. The document sets out the Republic's targets and strategies for green and sustainable development up to 2030.

First released in 2009, the blueprint was revised this year to take stock of achievements in the last five years as well as developments in Singapore and the rest of the world. More than 6,000 people took part in public consultations and focus group discussions for the new document. "This is our collective vision to make Singapore a cleaner and greener home," said PM Lee.

The updated blueprint sets out targets and projects under five broad categories: To make towns more "eco-smart and endearing", reduce the number of cars and boost walking and cycling, reduce waste, encourage green business practices, and promote graciousness and environmental-friendliness among Singaporeans.

Several upcoming projects include an electric car-sharing trial, more cycling paths and networks, and more greenery and waterways for recreation. "Pioneers in our midst may remember the first Keep Singapore Clean campaign in 1968 was a massive effort," said PM Lee. "We have built a clean and green home we can be proud of... and we must build on this culture."

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