Singapore’s Building Construction Authority (BCA) says that construction firms who want to bid for public projects must be working to green standards by 2016.

If the firms don’t adhere to green standards set out in the Green and Gracious Building Scheme by this time period, then they will fail to make it on to the BCA’s registry.

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Firms working on public projects must be working to green standards

The scheme, which used to be voluntary, was designed to encourage more construction firms in the area to work sustainably. It is thought that 70 builders in the area have signed up to follow the measures since the scheme was first introduced in 2009.

Senior minister of state for national development and trade and industry, Lee Yi Shyan, also said at an industry event that the BCA has enhanced the scheme’s sections relating to good human resource practices and noise management.

According to channelnewsasia.com, Mr Lee singled out an example at the event, telling spectators:

“Kajima Overseas Asia Pte Ltd used remote control wall saws and mini crushers during demolition works which reduce the impact of noise, dust and vibrations generated.

“China State Construction Engineering went beyond its call of duty and constructed a barrier-free access ramp for elderly citizens visiting a restaurant adjacent to its construction site.”

He urged other firms in the area to implement such practices too. It is expected that around 300 firms will be affected by the new measures, according to straitstimes.com.

Author: Samantha Bartlett    Date Written: 28 October 2013