Orchard Road’s sustainability efforts are accelerating as malls, restaurants, hotels, and offices join forces to reduce, reuse, and recycle. The Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA) has spearheaded Singapore’s inaugural precinct-wide e-waste recycling drive, collaborating with ALBA E-Waste Smart Recycling. This initiative involved a coordinated collection of discarded electronics across 32 building managements and tenants in 10 precinct locations, saving over 500km in transport mileage and reducing carbon emissions by half a tonne.
The drive, held from 27 to 29 October, offered free doorstep collection of electronic waste, typically a paid service by ALBA. This effort is part of ORBA’s broader sustainability roadmap, which has seen 14 more establishments pledge to adopt sustainable practices, increasing the total to 39.
At the third ORBA ESG Showcase, Chairman Mark Shaw praised members for their commitment to climate action amidst global challenges. Highlighting the importance of proper e-waste disposal, Shaw noted the drive’s success in collecting 1,198 kilos of e-waste.
The event also featured sustainability journeys from stakeholders like Castlery and The 1872 Clipper Tea Co., who shared their innovative approaches to reducing packaging waste. Castlery redesigned furniture packaging, cutting costs and waste, whilst Clipper Tea developed compostable tea sachets and eco-friendly packaging materials.
ORBA continues to promote sustainability through various initiatives, including a ‘Sustainability By Design’ trail and free counselling for Orchard Road workers, aiming to integrate environmental responsibility into Singapore’s iconic shopping district.
