Attached is an opinion piece regarding the haze and drought that Singapore has been experiencing. While most of us think that these issues of the haze and drought are just temporary changes for us, it brings about a bigger debate regarding the effects of global warming and trans boundary haze. I hope my viewpoints will make Singaporeans aware that they can do their way to conserve water and that the government should have a greater role to play in terms of tackling the problem of the haze issue.
I feel that everyone can do their own part in coping with the haze and drought that Singapore has faced (“Drought and Haze: Is This the Future”; previous week’s Voices TODAY).
Many Singaporeans are affected by the drought as there has been no rainfall for the past few months and the haze is worsening particularly towards the late afternoon of the day. Unless we do our own part to conserve water and change our habits to combat these weather anomalies. The extreme weather conditions might last longer than expected due to the El Nino effects that have increased the humidity levels.
Recycling of water such as when cooking or taking a shorter time in the showers can cut down the amount of water being used and to use the recycled water to water the plants. Water conservation tips should be given out to households as most are ignorant about saving water. Water rationing exercises should be carried out if the situation persists.The dry spell is largely caused by the effects of global warming that has been taken lightly, while the haze might be brought on by the dry conditions or a man-made issue which involves the illegal practice of the clearing of lands. These illegal practices should be condoned due to hazardous health effects and the various government agencies should look into this issue. I do not think that water rationing is required yet but small water saving steps can help in the long run.
The government must monitor the situation and act accordingly if the dry spell and prolonged haze intensifies. The health of the people should not be compromised and precautions need to be taken such as practicing water conservation habits and staying indoors whenever possible.The haze has been a lingering problem and with the changing of the wind directions, Singapore has borne the brunt of the fumes and potential health problems may arise amid the dry weather conditions. The government should be prepared in stocking up on the N95 masks which should be readily available and the issuing of health advisories to tell people to stay indoors if possible. Activities should be minimise to the indoors to protect children from being exposed to the haze.
These simple steps can help us wait out the dry season and avoid the haze. Singaporeans should take the initiative and implement these habits in every household so as to understand the importance of water and not take it for granted.
Darren