A new white paper by Singlife and the Sustainable and Green Finance Institute (SGFIN) at the National University of Singapore highlights personal ownership as the primary driver of sustainable action among Singaporeans. The study, based on a survey of 1,500 Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, found that ownership accounts for 74% of sustainable actions, overshadowing awareness and knowledge, which account for 18% and 8% respectively.
The Singlife-SGFIN Sustainable Future Index 2026, launched on 10 September, reveals that Singapore’s overall sustainability action score is 56 out of 100. The report identifies responsible investing as a significant area for improvement, with only 21% of actions currently adopted but 43% intended within the next year. This suggests a substantial opportunity to convert intent into action by making sustainable investments more accessible and transparent.
The study also notes that sustainable behaviours are more likely to be adopted when they are easy, affordable, and convenient. For instance, 52% of respondents reported buying less fast fashion, whilst only 16% have adopted electric vehicles due to higher costs. The report suggests reducing barriers such as cost and complexity to encourage greater sustainability action.
Generational differences were also observed, with younger Singaporeans more engaged in responsible investing and cultural actions, whilst older generations focus on sustainable lifestyle habits. The white paper recommends tailoring sustainability initiatives to different life stages and motivations.
The findings call for a collective effort from government, businesses, and financial institutions to enhance personal ownership and make sustainable choices more practical and accessible.
