UN envoy urges Singapore to align climate and rights goals

The expert called for a stronger focus on environmental justice and equitable policymaking.

Human rights must be a cornerstone of Singapore’s sustainability and climate efforts, said UN Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes Riaño, following an official visit to the city-state.

“Considering the triple planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and toxic pollution, Singapore can and must increase efforts to reduce demand for energy, water, and resources,” Riaño said.

The envoy called for a stronger focus on environmental justice and equitable policymaking, warning that without it, the city-state’s transition risks leaving the vulnerable behind.

“Access to information, public participation and access to justice in decision-making processes are essential elements of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment,” she said.

Puentes Riaño praised Singapore’s expertise and capacity but noted a gap in addressing core environmental and human rights issues.

Highlighting the health risks from climate impacts, she urged Singapore to strengthen protections for at-risk populations.

“Air quality with a public health perspective could improve people’s well-being, including for older people and others in vulnerable situations, as heat worsens existing situations of vulnerability,” she stated.

Despite accounting for just 0.1% of global emissions, Singapore ranks high in per capita emissions.

“Therefore, there is significant space for improvement,” said Puentes Riaño, adding that climate mitigation policies must be grounded in rigorous controls and transparent monitoring.

She also stressed that “shifting focus away from economic growth and increasing attention on human rights and nature could ease pressure on Singapore’s limited natural resources and the impact overseas.”

During her visit, Puentes Riaño met with government officials, civil society groups, academics, and community members. Her full report will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2026.

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