Mr. Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and the Environment, addresses the importance of environmental sustainability efforts in schools and highlights Singapore’s commitment to climate action
Mr. Baey Yam Keng, the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and the Environment, delivered a speech at the SEC School Green Awards 2023. The event was attended by Ms. Isabella Loh, Chairman of the Singapore Environment Council, and Mr. Ho Tong Yen, Chief Executive Officer of Keppel Care Foundation, along with distinguished guests, teachers, students, and other attendees.
In his address, Mr. Baey emphasized the urgency of global climate action, citing a recent United Nations report that indicated the world is falling short of the 1.5-degree target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. He stressed the need for a 43% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, underscoring the collective responsibility of all nations, including Singapore, to take decisive action within the next seven years.
Singapore, being a small, low-lying island nation, faces increased vulnerability to rising sea levels and extreme weather events due to climate change. This was evident when the country experienced its highest recorded temperature in 40 years, reaching 37 degrees Celsius in May. Mr. Baey highlighted the importance of proactive measures to combat these challenges.
Singapore is actively working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 outlines key targets and strategies to transition to renewable energy sources, mitigate urban heat, and bolster community resilience. Examples include quadrupling solar energy deployment by 2025 and implementing measures to combat urban heat.
Schools play a vital role in instilling sustainability values among students. They serve as incubators for nurturing environmental stewardship. The School Green Awards ceremony, which saw participation from over 300 schools, recognized outstanding initiatives promoting environmental sustainability. Notable projects included efforts by APSN Chaoyang School to advocate for green habits, CHIJ Our Lady Queen of Peace’s ‘We Love Food’ initiative to address food waste, and Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School’s urban farming project contributing to food security.
Mr. Baey encouraged students to continue their efforts in advocating for sustainable living and to consider expanding existing initiatives. He highlighted the availability of the $50 million SG Eco Fund for community projects, with $9 million already awarded to 195 projects, including those by primary and secondary schools.
In conclusion, Mr. Baey congratulated the winners of the SEC School Green Awards and thanked all participants for their commendable contributions to environmental sustainability. He expressed gratitude to the Singapore Environment Council and Keppel Care Foundation for their dedication to promoting environmental advocacy in schools.
Source – MSE
