Singapore’s Second Update of Its First Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and Accompanying Information.

This second update of Singapore’s first NDC is a cross-sectoral policy document covering the period of 2021 – 2030. It reflects Singapore’s commitment under the Paris Agreement in support of the multilateral framework of cooperation to address climate change. Singapore’s NDC is an economy-wide absolute GHG emissions limitation target to reduce its GHG emissions to around 60 MtCO2e in 2030 after peaking emissions earlier. Key sectors covered are: Energy, Industrial Processes and Product Use, Agriculture, Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) and Waste. Greenhouse gases covered are: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3).
According to the policy document, Singapore’s second update of its first NDC builds on the enhancements of the first update in 2020, and has been updated with a more ambitious goal to reduce emissions. The NDC was prepared taking into account Singapore’s national circumstances, challenges and opportunities for mitigation. Singapore is alternative energy disadvantaged. The country has one of the highest population densities globally. As one of the most globalised economies and a trading nation with no natural resources, Singapore is heavily dependent on the global supply chain for its food and energy. Its economic activity and emissions are also highly sensitive to the volatility of regional and global developments and escalating climate impacts. These challenges mean that Singapore’s climate strategies have to respond to international developments that may affect its economy, water, food, and energy, including preparing Singapore to be more climate resilient. The policy document further indicates that Singapore’s climate vulnerabilities will require comprehensive adaptation efforts. As a small, low-lying island state, Singapore needs to pursue a comprehensive adaptation programme to protect its coasts, low-lying areas and communities. These adaptation actions will impose significant costs for the Singapore Government and people.