The Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) and Singapore Post (SingPost), with support from the National Environment Agency (NEA), are leading a new Alliance for Action (AfA) on Packaging Waste Reduction in the e-commerce sector. This initiative aims to develop voluntary, sector-specific guidelines for sustainable packaging within e-commerce.
These guidelines will build on the Technical Reference on Sustainable Packaging Guiding Framework and Practices (TR109:2023), launched in 2022, by tailoring it specifically to the e-commerce industry. The focus will be on packaging materials used or added for e-commerce transactions, including transportation, mailing, void-fill packaging, and labels.
The goal of the guidelines is to assist e-commerce companies in making informed decisions about sustainable packaging to reduce, reuse, and recycle packaging waste. The AfA will explore initiatives promoting sustainable packaging within the e-commerce marketplace, and provide solutions for various commonly used e-commerce packaging types. The guidelines will include actionable steps, potential benefits and challenges, and relevant case studies.
Chan Chin Kai, Chief Sustainability Officer of NEA said, “NEA commends the e-commerce industry for coming together via an Alliance for Action to develop sustainable packaging guidelines. This voluntary initiative is a testimony to the importance and commitment that the e-commerce industry places on reducing its environmental footprint. As environmental sustainability increasingly takes center stage, we call upon other sectors to similarly organise themselves and chart the path towards a greener and more sustainable future.”
Lennon Tan, President of the SMF said, “At the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, we recognise the urgent need for sustainable practices in e-commerce. This Alliance for Action reflects our commitment to driving industry collaboration in reducing packaging waste. By developing practical guidelines, we are helping businesses manage packaging materials responsibly, pursue innovative practices, and work towards zero waste, all while contributing to Singapore’s sustainability goals.”
Michelle Lee, Chief Sustainability Officer of SingPost said, “The number of e-commerce parcels arriving in Singapore doubled between 2019 and 2023, and with the continuous expansion of e-commerce, packaging waste will skyrocket. There is an urgent need for the ecosystem in Singapore to work together to make informed decisions and take action. We hope the local guidelines will raise awareness and accelerate efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle.”
The AfA, which includes 15 members from across the e-commerce value chain, trade associations, and NGOs, plans to publish the guidelines by early 2025.