Singapore commits to net zero emissions by 2050

It also aims to reduce emissions to approximately 60 MtCO2e by 2030.

Singapore has announced its commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 as part of its Long-Term Low-Emissions Development Strategy (LEDS). 

In a joint statement by NCCS and MSE, the country will also aim to reduce emissions to approximately 60 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) by 2030, following peak emissions earlier. These updates will be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by the end of 2022.

The commitment builds on previous targets, including a successful pledge to reduce emissions by 16% below Business-as-Usual (BAU) levels by 2020.  Singapore achieved this goal, reporting 2020 emissions at 52.8 MtCO2e, which is 32% below BAU levels.

Given its status as an island city-state with limited renewable energy resources, Singapore's targets depend on advancements in low-carbon technologies such as hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). 

The government said that meeting these targets requires international collaboration and commitment to the Paris Agreement.

To support this transition, Singapore has introduced a national hydrogen strategy and aims for the public sector to reach net zero emissions by around 2045 under the GreenGov.SG initiative. 

Additionally, the Jurong Lake District will also target net zero emissions for new developments by 2045.

These revised climate goals were announced at the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2022, following discussions with over 1,700 members of the public and key stakeholders as part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030. 

Whilst challenges remain due to its small size and limited resources, Singapore is committed to sustainability for future generations. Achieving net zero emissions will require collaboration across public and private sectors, communities, and individuals to create a low-carbon future.