Singapore scores well for innovative approach to sustainabilty and the environment

Singapore has been ranked highest among eight regional cities in terms of its innovative approach to sustainability and the environment, according to a study released on Thursday. -- ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI 
Singapore has been ranked highest among eight regional cities in terms of its innovative approach to sustainability and the environment, according to a study released on Thursday. -- ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI 

SINGAPORE- Singapore has been ranked highest among eight regional cities in terms of its innovative approach to sustainability and the environment, according to a study released on Thursday.

Called "Engaging Cities: The Growing Relevance of Soft Power to City Reputations in Asia Pacific," the study was conducted among 4,147 people online by public relations firm Weber Shandwick. It examined eight cities including Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong.

Going beyond a city's reputation in politics, military might and economics, the study looked instead at characteristics such as standard of living, tourism, food, and architecture and design.

Tokyo had the best scorecard - it was ranked top across 10 of 16 attributes examined.

In total, 39 per cent of the respondents recognised Singapore the most for its innovative approach to sustainability and the environment.

"The Government's commitment to create a "city in a garden" along with continued investment in a highly effective public transport network is clearly working," said the study.

About half of the respondents also ranked Singapore as a city with a high standard of living. The study found that while an attractive tax structure is a "contributory factor," its "efficiency in delivering a diverse experience" makes it a place other cities want to emulate.

In partnership with KRC Research, the firm also interviewed 20 experts from various sectors such as media and architecture.

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