Second Committee

STATEMENT BY MS JACQUELINE LOO, DELEGATE TO THE 65th SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON AGENDA ITEM 20, ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, SECOND COMMITTEE, 1 NOVEMBER 2010

Thank you Chair,

I would like to begin by aligning myself with the statements by Yemen, on behalf of the G77 and China, and Indonesia, on behalf of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

2 The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in 2012 (UNCSD) will discuss the two themes for the Conference - green economy within the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication, and institutional framework for sustainable development. For a successful outcome at the Conference, it is important that UN Member States further our discussions on these issues in the lead up to 2012, such as through the sharing of experiences and lessons learnt. We should also involve the private sector and civil society as there is much that we can learn from them in these areas.

3 In this regard, I would like to share with you Singapore's experience in achieving a green economy. We have taken measures to ensure that our development path is undertaken in the most sustainable and efficient way. This is vital for Singapore as it is a small island developing state, with limited water and natural resources and an open economy that makes us vulnerable to external influences. As an alternative-energy disadvantaged country, it is critical for Singapore to boost energy efficiency by improving the way we use key resources such as energy and water, so as to achieve growth with fewer resources while keeping Singapore competitive in the long run.

4 Singapore therefore launched the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint in 2009* which steers us on our development path via sustainable means. Our strategy is based on a four-pronged approach: boosting our resource efficiency, enhancing our urban environment, building our capabilities and fostering community action. To help guide our efforts on resource efficiency, Singapore has set targets, such as a 35% target on energy intensity improvements by 2030 from 2005 levels, and attaining a recycling rate of 70% by 2030. In our endeavour to meet these targets, we have launched a nationwide energy efficiency masterplan that promotes energy efficiency technologies and measures, builds capability to drive energy efficiency efforts and raises awareness to stimulate energy efficiency behaviour among the population. We have also enhanced land-use planning and promoted energy-efficient buildings, through the use of energy-saving devices.

*"A Lively and Liveable Singapore: Strategies for Sustainable Growth"

5 We also aim to provide 0.8ha of green space for every 1,000 persons, increase greenery in high-rise buildings to 50ha by 2030, improve walkways and cycling infrastructure and have 70% of morning peak hour journeys made via public transport. We intend to do this by providing more parks, increasing leisure options and improving transport links.

6 To build our capabilities, we will invest in R&D, such as solar energy, and facilitate international sharing of knowledge through global event platforms convened by Singapore, such as the World Cities Summit and the Singapore International Water Week, to promote sustainable development among cities. On fostering community action, we engage community, grassroots and non-governmental organisations to educate the public on ways to adopt more eco-friendly lifestyles.

Mr Chairman,

7 It is simply not sustainable for countries to develop their economies intensively with scant regard for the detrimental effects it may have for the environment. Achieving a green economy that addresses developmental needs without compromising the environment, is therefore important if we want to develop in a sustainable manner. Singapore remains committed to doing its part in meeting our sustainable development objectives and we would be happy to share with others our experiences and lessons learnt. We look forward to actively taking part in the UNCSD and its preparatory process.

8 Thank you.

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