Your letters: Adopt sustainable methods The Jakarta Post | Readers Forum | Wed, July 10 2013, 11:40 AM Paper Edition | Page: 8 Readers Forum The Clean City Air Coalition (CCAC) is deeply concerned about the severe haze that took place in Singapore in June. Due to the slash-and-burn methods used in Sumatra, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in Singapore hit historical highs and pushed well into the hazardous range. Even as the haze recedes, we continue to be watchful of a potential recurrence of the haze, as the dry season will continue into September. We would like to urge corporations and smallholders operating in Indonesia to recognize their responsibility to the peoples of the region and to comply with laws against the use of fire, and adopt more sustainable methods when clearing land for agriculture. We also remind businesses in Singapore to keep their own operations environmentally sound and not to add to current levels of air pollution. We would also like to bring attention to the fact that not only do forest fires harm the environment, they also have adverse effects on the economy and businesses. Outdoor entertainment, tourism, travel and sporting activities have all been affected by the haze. In addition, business traffic is being impacted as fewer people go out. These can have severe implications for the overall economy for Singapore and also the region. In this context, while taking measures for their health, we hope that all in Singapore will continue as much as possible with their lifestyle and work activities. It is hoped that effective solutions can be found by all parties involved to create a situation in which business and sustainability can go hand in hand, so as to curb sources of pollution in the long-term. We also hope that consumers and investors alike educate themselves about the sources of the products and commodities they are purchasing or investing in, and we would like to encourage and support companies that are known to be green and sustainable. Finally, we would like to reiterate that clean city air is a resource that is becoming increasingly scarce, with pollutants such as PM2.5 – fine particles 2.5 micrometers in diameter or less — being at levels higher than the recommended target set by the World Health Organization’s Air Quality Guidelines, even on haze-free days. Governments, corporations and individuals need to work together to ensure that Singapore continues to thrive as a vibrant and livable city. Simon Tay Chairman Singapore Institute of International Affairs Singapore
Posted on: Wed, 10 Jul 2013 09:26:23 +0000
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