The National Environment Agency (NEA) has committed $1.76 million to a new fund for alleviating food wastage problems.
The agency yesterday announced the Food Waste Fund, which will cover the cost of implementing food waste treatment solutions for businesses.
The fund will be open to groups such as firms, non-profit organisations (NGOs) and managing bodies. Applications will be from 18 May this year to 28 Feb next year.
NEA said the fund is in line with “efforts to secure Singapore’s climate resilient future and help companies transition towards a Zero Waste economy amid the current challenging economic conditions”.
The fund, capped at $100,000 per applicant, covers the capital cost of food waste treatment systems, equipment, and infrastructural improvements.
It will be disbursed in two stages, with the first 50% of the approved grant disbursed upon installation and commissioning of the food waste treatment system.
Industry groups, including the Singapore Food Manufacturers’ Association, Singapore Hotel Association, said the grant will benefit companies that are keen to integrate food waste management practices into their businesses.
From 2024, owners and operators of commercial and industrial premises where large amounts of food waste are generated, such as large hotels and malls, will be required to segregate their food waste for treatment.
NEA said the fund also aims to help companies adopt food waste segregation and treatment ahead of the mandatory requirement.
Read more here.
Source: The Straits Times, 8 May 2020