In an attempt to extend the life of its rapidly-filling landfill sites, Singapore will explore the use of treated incineration bottom ash as the base material for road construction.
Three companies, namely, Inashco B.V., REMEX Mineral Singapore and Zerowaste Asia, were selected to perform field trials using 3,000 tons of ash obtained from wasteto-energy plants. Branded as “NEWSand”, the treated ash will be used on a section of the Tanah Merah Coast Road around the middle of this year. Data from the trials will inform potential new environmental standards in regulating the use of NEWSand.
Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli said NEWSand is a result of Singapore’s efforts to build a critical waste resource.
He added that NEWSand would allow Singapore to close its waste loop and increase Semakau Island’s lifespan, which is the country’s landfill. Singapore wants to cut the amount of waste sent to landfill by 30% a day, in line with its Zero Waste Master Plan. By using NEWSand, it aims to extend the lifespan of landfills beyond the projected 2035 deadline.
NEWSand has already been used to construct a temporary concrete footpath of 105 meters in Singapore, and a 3D-printed concrete bench, the National Environment Agency (NEA) reported. There are also plans to build a second 24-meter footpath outside the Environment Building early this year.
NEA Chief Executive Tan Meng Dui said that NEWSand represents a step forward in Singapore’s aim to become a zero-waste country.
Source: www.opengovasia.com
