Eh, Singaporeans, have you noticed more rubbish around lately? It’s not just you. Many are saying Singapore isn’t as spick and span as it used to be. Let’s see what’s going on.
Declining Cleanliness Standards
- Singapore’s reputation for cleanliness might be fading. More people are noticing litter in public spaces.
“The past few years, I have been noticing more trash lying around our streets. Compared to 10 years ago, where it is hard to spot tissue paper or wrappers lying around, I feel that Singapore has become dirtier.”
- Toilets, even in malls, are reportedly dirtier than before. One person mentioned being impressed by toilet cleanliness in 2013, but now sees a decline.
“Toilets are undoubtedly dirtier even in malls. When I first lived in SG in 2013 I was blown away at the cleanliness of toilets in particular, now it’s slipped big time.”
- Some point to reduced frequency of cleaning by town councils. One person noted their estate used to be cleaned every weekday, but now it’s only 2-3 times a week.
Challenges and Root Causes
- A key issue is that Singapore is a “cleaned” city, not a “clean” city. This means cleanliness depends heavily on cleaners being deployed.
“SG is not a clean city, it’s a cleaned city. Singapore is dirty where cleaners are not deployed like public spaces with cheapo landlords”
- Some blame the older generation for littering. Tossing tissue paper around markets and shops is a common complaint.
“Yep, old boomers throwing their tissue paper everywhere around the market and shops.”
- Others point to a decrease in the number of public trash bins. This makes it harder for people to dispose of waste properly.
- There are complaints about inconsiderate residents leaving rubbish outside their flats, expecting town council workers to clean up after them.
Possible Solutions and Actions
- Education and enforcement are crucial. One person reported a persistently dirty area and was told that these measures are needed, not just cleaning.
“Even told that it’s education and enforcement that is needed not cleaning up. But they still reply that it’s now clean and I don’t see any notices or enforcement for it.”
- Report issues via OneService app. If you see uncleaned areas, make a report. Collective action can make a difference.
- Individual responsibility is key. Don’t leave rubbish lying around, and dispose of waste properly. It’s about keeping Singapore clean for everyone.
“For SGeans, you can see how within the blocks itself the old mentality of placing things at the current floor lift landing and expecting the TC worker to come up to every floor to clean up your mess. The notices are obvious not to leave rubbish beside the chute but they can’t even.”
- Advocate for more public trash bins in areas where they are lacking. Make it easier for people to do the right thing.
