Visual Analytics of Singapore’s Waste System: Behavioural, Industrial, and Policy Dimensions

This study presents a comprehensive data visualization–based evaluation of Singapore’s waste management performance, focusing on behavioural, industrial, and environmental dimensions. Using multi-source datasets from 2014 to 2023, the research examines key factors shaping the nation’s waste profile, including the growth of plastic waste, public participation in recycling, and the dominance of non-domestic waste sectors. Through interactive dashboards and comparative time-series analyses, the findings reveal persistent structural challenges despite strong policy initiatives and public awareness campaigns. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced consumption habits, triggering a surge in single-use plastics due to food delivery dependence, while household recycling rates remained low. Industrial and imported waste volumes continued to rise, underscoring the need for upstream policy interventions. The study also quantifies energy and crude oil savings from recycling, highlighting non-ferrous metals and plastics as the most resource-efficient materials. Overall, the research underscores the importance of integrating behavioural incentives, industrial accountability, and policy innovation to achieve Singapore’s Zero Waste Masterplan and Sustainable Development Goal 12 targets.