The Miracle of Singapore’s Water Management
With a population of six million people, Singapore shines as a vibrant, multicultural, and prosperous city-state. Despite being one of the most water-stressed countries globally, Singapore has successfully managed to meet the growing water needs of its population and economy, setting an example for the world in water management.
Instead of relying on hard infrastructure, Singapore has adopted a “soft path” approach to water management. This approach focuses on using water efficiently, looking at new sources of supply, and preventing waste. The city-state’s efforts have been recognized by experts, such as hydrologist Peter Gleick, who praises their strategic approach to managing water resources.
Through a comprehensive masterplan, Singapore has established four pillars of water supply known as “national taps,” including imported water, desalination, local catchment, and NEWater. By utilizing innovative technologies like desalination plants and rainwater catchment systems, Singapore aims to achieve water self-sufficiency by 2060.
By investing in infrastructure, raising public awareness, and implementing sustainable practices, Singapore has become a global model for effective water management, showcasing how a city-state can thrive even in the face of water scarcity.