Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Removing Beverage Containers from Public Refuse

Question:

Ms Yeo Wan Ling: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) what will guide the Ministry’s enforcement approach towards persons found removing beverage containers from public refuse bins, including in instances where no waste is scattered or no public hygiene issue is caused; and (b) whether the Government will study and address the potential root causes of such behaviour, including financial need, where relevant.                

Answer:

The National Environment Agency (NEA) occasionally receives public feedback on individuals rummaging through refuse bins. This was the case even before the Return Right Beverage Container Return Scheme was introduced.

We discourage members of the public from rummaging. Apart from the potential disamenities to the wider community, there are also hygiene and safety concerns for the individuals doing so.

NEA focuses first on public education to promote good hygiene practices. When such incidents occur, NEA takes a calibrated approach in determining whether enforcement actions will be taken. Where individuals are found rummaging through public refuse bins without leaving litter on the ground, our officers may provide an advisory.

Where appropriate, we may also refer such individuals to social agencies for further support. The Ministry of Social and Family Development works with community partners under the Vulnerable-in-Community Network to engage vulnerable individuals to understand their circumstances, and provide them with the necessary support.