Green Pulse podcast — Podcast Trove

Singapore’s beverage container return scheme has been battered with criticisms. Why do we need it?

Season 3, Episode 5

Show notes

The scheme could help to improve Singapore’s low domestic recycling rates.

Blue recycling bins filled with non-recyclable trash have become a common sight around Singapore. This contamination has resulted in poor domestic recycling rates in the country, as food and liquid waste thrown into the commingled bins taints the other recyclables.

To overcome this challenge, the National Environment Agency on Oct 1 fully implemented its Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) to ensure that plastic bottles and cans are segregated for recycling. But this initiative has also been plagued with complaints.

In this episode, host Audrey Tan chats with Ang Qing and Shabana Begum, environment correspondents at ST, on whether these criticisms are warranted, and whether Singapore should continue pushing ahead with the scheme.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:31 The BCRS scheme in a nutshell; observations on the ground

6:00 Why we need this 10-cent incentive at this stage?

7:55 Why Singapore needs this scheme now

9:11 Why the blue bin scheme is not sustainable given poorer habits in Singapore

11:05 Is 10 cents enough of an incentive to Singaporeans? Why BCRS is worth persevering with

13:00 Observations of current and various recycling operations in Singapore

13:56 Not ideal conditions: Seeing discarded syringes among recyclables

15:35 “Completely different”: Shabana’s experience at a BCRS sorting facility

17:25 “When the public sorts things properly upstream, it makes things easier down the line”: Qing

18:25 Challenges, little-known behind-the-scenes additional costs SME retailers face

23:25 Is 10 cents enough of an incentive for the public in general?

25:35 Should more drinks be worked into the BCRS scheme? Such as glass bottles

26:15 Media reports about side hustles using the BCRS scheme: Controversial?

29:55 2026 stats show Singapore disposed a record amount of trash

Read more:

• More green spaces to be retained in Gillman Barracks, Maju Forest: Alvin Tan: https://str.sg/tjCJ
• Timeline, reclamation profile of new western island not yet determined: Chee Hong Tat: https://str.sg/FUPJ

Read more from Bhavan Jaipragas: https://str.sg/b49w

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Host: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producer: Ernest Luis

Follow Green Pulse Podcast every Tuesday as we discuss how environmental issues intersect with business, politics and society:

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Oct 5, 2026 33 min

Singapore’s green paradox: Planting trees while losing forest cover

Season 2, Episode 38

Show notes

Our hosts try to make sense of conflicting developments in this city state.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times provides you with a South-east Asian perspective to global environmental challenges.

Trees can keep urban environments cool, and Singapore has been leveraging this “superpower” of nature by expanding its tree-planting efforts. There is a plan to plant a million trees across the country by 2030, while organisations are rolling out microforests and skyrise greenery to beautify and cool down concrete environments.

Yet, at the same time, Singapore is also cutting down secondary forests to meet other national needs, including for housing and industrial purposes. How can we make sense of this green paradox?

Listen to the discussion on this episode of Green Pulse, and stay tuned till the end for a special announcement!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:50 How has Singapore’s greening strategy changed over the years?

11:40 What are some existing tools used in Singapore to make decisions on which secondary forest plot to conserve or develop?

18:15 Can Singapore consider an EIA law or biodiversity offsets?

25:25 Do Singaporeans recognise the inherent value of nature?

Green Pulse LinkedIn newsletter: https://str.sg/green-pulse-nl

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

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Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

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Apr 20, 2026 29 min

How can Singapore beat the heat and high electricity prices without aircon?

Season 2, Episode 37

Show notes

Improving people’s ability to withstand hotter weather is one part of Singapore’s adaptation plan.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times provides you with a South-east Asian perspective to global environmental challenges.

As Singapore’s hottest month of the year, May, approaches and global energy volatility drives up Singapore's electricity tariffs, how can Singapore beat the heat in 2026? In this episode of Green Pulse, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty explore Singapore’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan and its focus on heat resilience.

Beyond national cooling strategies, they also share practical ways to lower your energy bills and stay cool without aircon. From individual cooling hacks to the latest on climate adaptation, discover how individuals can thrive in a hotter city-state.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:50 What is climate adaptation?

3:58 To cope with rising heat, we need tailored solutions for different groups of people.

8:30 El Nino is looming. It’s time to prepare for sizzling temperatures.

10:30 Apart from heat, what are the other climate impacts facing Singapore?

16:02 Are adaptation investments bankable? Are they wise bets for business?

21:03 Better climate risk assessments and new financial tools are needed, too.

23:25 Top tips for keeping cool as the mercury, and energy costs, rise.

Green Pulse LinkedIn newsletter: https://str.sg/green-pulse-nl

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

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Apr 6, 2026 28 min

Higher energy prices, war in Middle East: A boost for renewables?

Season 2, Episode 36

Show notes

As the Middle East conflict sends oil and gas prices soaring, Green Pulse hosts discuss if geopolitics will break ASEAN’s fossil fuel addiction.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times provides you with a South-east Asian perspective to global environmental challenges.

The war in the Middle East is causing energy prices around the world to spike, due to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz – an important shipping route for oil and gas – and attacks on fossil fuel production facilities.

For energy-importing nations, the volatility is no longer just an economic concern. It’s a matter of national security. Coming on the heels of the war in Ukraine, the latest crisis poses a difficult question: How can Singapore and its ASEAN neighbours insulate themselves from global shocks?

Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss energy security and the role of renewables in this episode.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

3:19 Everyone is scrambling for fossil fuel supplies. Is this the time to be talking about renewables?

5:54 This latest energy crisis needs to accelerate the birth of the ASEAN Power Grid.

7:06 What lessons did the world learn from the 2022 energy crunch?

14:45 Boosting ASEAN’s energy resilience limits the region being held hostage by geopolitics.

19:17 ASEAN needs a clean-energy champion. Who will step up to rally the region?

Green Pulse LinkedIn newsletter: https://str.sg/green-pulse-nl

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

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Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Mar 16, 2026 23 min

Why is S’pore even considering nuclear energy?

Season 2, Episode 35

Show notes

Fossil fuel supply chains are unstable, and renewable energy alone can’t meet all its energy needs.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Singapore is exploring the use of nuclear energy to meet its energy needs, and has taken several steps to build its knowledge and expertise in this area.

But why does the small city-state even need to consider such a controversial energy resource, especially given historical nuclear incidents?

And why is the business-as-usual option to continue with fossil fuel use no longer as viable as before? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the global nuclear renaissance, and Singapore’s role in it, in this episode.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:05 How is the global nuclear renaissance shaping up?

3:47 Let’s talk about Singapore’s nuclear context.

10:32 Historical concerns vs benefits - can new nuclear tech win over critics?

14:33 Singapore’s energy conundrum – ensuring stable, secure and affordable power

17:41 Is nuclear energy safe? And what steps are needed to boost safety?

23:47 Are we there yet? Is fusion energy the future?

Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Mar 2, 2026 29 min

30 by 30 no more: What is S’pore’s plan for local food production?

Season 2, Episode 34

Show notes

As local farms keep closing, will stockpiling, import diversification and global partnerships be enough to safeguard Singapore’s food security?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

The past few years have not been fertile ground for the growth of Singapore’s local farms. Many agri-food businesses have closed or scaled down their operations amid a high operating cost environment. Last November, the Singapore Food Agency finally announced thathttps://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/singapores-30-by-30-farming-goal-pushed-back-to-2035-with-revised-targets-for-fibre-and-proteinit will be dropping its original “30 by 30” target, under which Singapore aimed to produce 30 per cent of its nutritional needs locally by 2030.

There are other efforts in place to safeguard the food import-dependent country’s food security, such as import diversification, stockpiling and global partnerships. But with climate change wrecking havoc on crop yields and recent geopolitical events disrupting long-standing bilateral relationships, can Singapore afford not to have a strategic plan for local production? Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss the challenges in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

3:38 Why do farms in Singapore keep closing?

10:49 What are the four pillars in Singapore’s approach to safeguarding food security?

12:48 With climate change affecting crop yields, how effective will import diversification and intergovernmental pacts be in ensuring food security?

16:05 Other than securing supplies of food, what are other areas to look at to boost food security?

Read more on The Straits Times: https://str.sg/sLPM

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Feb 16, 2026 24 min

From Greenland to deep sea mining: Is geopolitics killing climate action?

Season 2, Episode 33

Show notes

Yes, it’s a scary time. But more than ever we need to talk about climate and nature.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Right now, it seems we’re in an ‘ice age’ for climate action. Geopolitics is all we can talk about and it’s pretty much wiped climate change and nature from the headlines. Wars and conflict, trade rows, attacks on climate policies and science and the fracturing of multilateralism have created a more fraught and uncertain world.

Some countries and businesses have weakened their environmental targets and policies, even as the climate and nature crises worsen. So what can be done? Can the shift to bilateral and regional climate and energy agreements replace unified global action? Can renewable energy remain a powerful uniting force? And how can we get climate and nature back into the headlines?

Join hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions and more in the latest episode of The Straits Times’ Green Pulse podcast.

Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:51 For all the talk of fossil fuels, renewables are stealing the show

7:59 Rush for resources and the Greenland reality check

12:59 Weakening of multilateralism is changing the way we talk about climate and nature.

18:51 Focus on climate and nature might be in a rut. What will it take to refocus minds?

25:33 The human touch. Journalists need to put people at the centre of their environment stories.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Feb 2, 2026 27 min

Should we just give up on cultivated meat?

Season 2, Episode 32

Show notes

Lab-grown meat. The way of the future or a hard act to swallow?

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

In this episode, hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty get their teeth into cultivated meat, a topic that was very much in the headlines a few years back. Singapore was the first nation to approve the sale of cultivated chicken meat in 2020 but investment in the sector, after much fanfare, has slowed.

So is there still potential for this sector to take off? The pay-off could be huge if companies can create safe, tasty and affordable beef, chicken, lamb and even seafood in bioreactors instead of relying on huge tracts of land and the sea. Meeting the needs of billions of people, could slash the impacts on the environment and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Is this your vision of the future? Or still too soon to say? Let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:24 What is the difference between cultivated meat and plant-based alternatives?

3:24 Why the interest in cultivated meat? What are the environmental benefits?

6:20 How cultivated meat products are made and why is the process challenging?

12:14 If companies succeed, the prize could be huge but there are still hurdles

20:32 Stay the course: Cultivated meat could become an important tool to fight climate change

23:04 Better information, better decisions by consumers. For instance: CO2 content labels on food products

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Jan 19, 2026 28 min

“Not entirely on the road to hell”: Will the world get real on climate action in 2026?

Season 2, Episode 31

Show notes

Green Pulse hosts share what’s worth looking out for on the environmental front in Singapore and South-east Asia

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

For the first episode of 2026, Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty discuss whether the new year will add wind to the sails of the climate movement, or whether it will be another year of climate action being stuck in the doldrums.

David seems optimistic about certain developments, such as the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty. But Audrey is more cautious on other fronts. Singapore’s carbon tax is expected to go up from $25 per tonne of emissions in 2025 to $45 per tonne in 2026 and 2027, but will “allowances” given to emitters dampen the signal a carbon tax is supposed to send?

Who do you agree with? Let us know!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:45 Key events for 2026 - High Seas Treaty ahoy!

5:33 Can climate agreements really deliver on their promises?

11:03 ‘Less talk, more tangible action this year, please.’

16:43 What’s the weather forecast for 2026?

19:31 Let’s talk about positive things – will global CO2 emissions peak in 2026?

23:08 To sum up: Good to be cautiously optimistic – it’s not all gloomy!

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Jan 5, 2026 26 min

Unpopular Opinion: Some gifts are clutter and real Christmas trees are overrated

Season 2, Episode 29

Show notes

We’re not Scrooges, we just want a less wasteful Christmas.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Christmas is just around the corner, and many are diving into frantic gift shopping and feast planning. But as Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty ask in this episode, do these traditions really spark joy – or do they just add clutter, waste and unnecessary spending? Tune in for practical tips on a clutter-free, eco-friendly Christmas, from smarter gift-giving to reducing food and packaging waste. Do you agree with their takes, or are they just being Christmas grinches?

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:00 How to give sustainable gifts that people actually want

6:30 Regifting – faux pas or a sustainability win?

8:17 Is Christmas gift wrapping environmentally friendly?

15:11 The lowdown on reducing food waste at Christmas feasts

18:10 The debate over real vs fake Christmas trees

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

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Dec 29, 2025 25 min

Why Greta Thunberg’s shock protests in Venice can backfire

Season 2, Episode 30

Show notes

How to turn anger about environmental issues into constructive action in Singapore and beyond.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

With the world settling for yet another watered down deal at the UN climate conference COP30, combating climate change is in an uphill battle.

Some activists have even taken matters into their own hands to provoke stronger action. In November, climate activist Greta Thunberg joined environmental group Extinction Rebellion in dyeing the waters of Venice’s iconic canals green with a non-toxic liquid to highlight the effects of climate collapse.

In this episode co-hosted by ST environment correspondents Shabana Begum and Ang Qing, they discuss whether individual actions can help make a meaningful difference to the global problem.

They are joined by Mr Veerappan Swaminathan, chief executive officer of consultancy Sustainable Living Lab (SL2) Group. He also co-founded Repair Kopitiam, an initiative that helps residents fix their household items to reduce waste.

Also unpacking the issues is National University of Singapore assistant professor Alisius Leong, who investigates public opinions on environmental and health issues.

This episode was recorded and filmed on Dec 2 at SPH Media’s revamped auditorium, in front of a live audience of 60 ST readers. It was the sixth and final ST Podcast Live! Session for 2025, capping a special series celebrating The Straits Times’ 180th anniversary.

Highlights (click/tap above):

3:36 How can individual actions make a difference

12:56 Do protests about climate change work

18:12 Which environmental issues in Singapore deserve more attention

25:36 How can the public participate in conversations about nuclear energy

SG Eco Fund:: https://www.mse.gov.sg/take-action/sgecofund/

Repair Kopitiam: https://repairkopitiam.sg/

Resources for workplaces and workers: https://str.sg/Hup2

Heat stress levels: https://str.sg/5WrT

Follow Ang Qing on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/ichp

Read her articles: https://str.sg/i5gT

Follow Shabana Begum on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/83Ge

Read her articles: https://str.sg/5EGd

Hosts: Ang Qing (aqing@sph.com.sg) & Shabana Begum (nshab@sph.com.sg)

Produced by: ST Podcast Team, ST Outreach & Engagement Team & Studio+65

Edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel: https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify: https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

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Dec 15, 2025 32 min

COP30: How it will affect lives, jobs and politics in Singapore, SE Asia

Season 2, Episode 28

Show notes

Why climate conferences are the only forum that can unite the world in fighting climate change.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Annual UN climate conferences, or COPs, have become giant gatherings that bring together governments, business, scientists, civil society and much more, showing the world wants to fight climate change, showcase solutions and rewire the global economy.

But can COP30 and future climate summits really make a difference to heatwaves, floods, green jobs and climate finance – or are they just full of hot air?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they unpack why climate COPs matter to everyday lives, jobs and politics in South-east Asia and beyond.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:59 Why are climate COPs so important?

3:40 More money needed for adaptation investments and tools to measure progress

7:46 How to scale climate cash up to US$1.3 trillion a year – that level of funding could transform communities in SE Asia

10:39 COPs: A showcase for solutions to cut emissions and boost adaptation

18:33 Boosting green jobs as nations focus on cutting emissions

22:49 The Paris Agreement targets: Driving regional partnerships to boost green investments and strengthen climate politics

26:31: A tale of the hare and the tortoise….

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

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The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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Nov 17, 2025 29 min

Can the insurance industry keep up with climate change in SE Asia?

Season 2, Episode 27

Show notes

Vital need for insurance to bridge the region’s ‘protection gap’ and drive the green transition.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Insurance is a safety net and is increasingly vital as climate change risks grow and as more people, homes and businesses are in the path of disaster. But in South-east Asia, the majority of people do not have access to insurance. And the region is facing worsening threats from floods, sea-level rise and heat stress.

Only 5 to 7 per cent of all climate-related losses are insured in South-east Asia, says Mr Daniel Fairweather, head of food security systems and biodiversity at Howden, an insurance broking firm.

But there is plenty of hope to bridge this “protection gap”, he tells Green Pulse podcast hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty. There are insurance products that can help communities when disaster strikes by rapidly releasing cash payments to meet emergency needs. Mutualised insurance risk pools that combine premiums can also pay out in times of need.

Two things are key: Insurers need to work closely with governments and businesses to better assess climate risks and vulnerabilities. Secondly, spread the financial risk by building connections across the region, such as linking up local and national insurance mechanisms, such as risk pools.

“Every risk is insurable,” Mr Fairweather says, adding that insurance coverage is also critical to accelerate green investments in the region.

Have a listen, and let us know what you think!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:04 What are some of South-east Asia’s top climate change risks?

4:51 Will insurance losses increase mainly because of climate change or for other reasons, too?

9:10 What are some of the insurance products that can protect communities in the region?

16:06 In some places in the US, insurance coverage has been withdrawn. What’s the reason for this?

24:28 What about the role of insurance in boosting green initiatives in South-east Asia. Is it a catalyst?

28:28 Can the insurance industry thrive despite the rapid march of climate change?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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Nov 3, 2025 31 min

Ahead of COP30, Temasek’s sustainability chief on scaling climate finance for Asia

Season 2, Episode 26

Show notes

A greener, climate-friendly future is an opportunity to do well financially and not just to do good.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

What is it like to be on the frontline of climate finance and investing? To many, it might seem a pretty challenging time, with some nations and big oil and gas firms doubling down on fossil fuels. And the world is distracted with wars and upended trade flows.

But to Ms Kyung-Ah Park, Chief Sustainability Officer for Singapore investment firm Temasek, there’s plenty to be hopeful about. Investors are increasingly looking at the opportunities in South-east Asia, a huge market of 700 million people with growing energy needs.

Sure, there are headwinds, she tells Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty, with AI soaking up a lot of investment cash, plus geopolitics and policy uncertainty buffeting investors. But the direction is clear. As a long-term investor, the clean energy and transition agendas are a “must do”, she says. It’s just good business and a lot of investors are staying the course.

And the trick is to make green investments appealing, with different layers of risk and reward that attract investors with differing appetites, a bit like a sandwich.

Have a listen to our latest episode and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

2:11 You were just at New York Climate Week and the UN General Assembly. Are you feeling more hopeful about global climate investment?

7:20 What is the appetite for climate investments in SE Asia?

10:35 And what are some of the investment risks? What are some of the key obstacles for the region?

19:25 How do you de-risk some of these investments to make them more appealing, more appetising?

28:45 There’s been a heavy reliance on Western capital – but are things changing? Is this Asia’s time to rise?

31:19 What would success look like at the COP30 UN climate talks? Is the US$1.3 trillion finance goal achievable?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/theusualplacepodcast

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Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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Oct 20, 2025 35 min

Seaweed rising: Can it fuel Asia’s blue economy?

Season 2, Episode 25

Show notes

Tune in for a discussion on whether there is an environmental and business case for Asia’s ocean crop.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

As discussions on the blue economy pick up, one particular area has garnered plenty of attention: Seaweed.

Environmental groups have pointed to the environmental benefits of restorative seaweed aquaculture, while investor interest in the crop has also grown. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN has also noted that seaweed production can generate socio-economic benefits to coastal communities.

But given the world’s long history of seaweed aquaculture, why has this crop suddenly gained so much attention? And what promise does this emerging area have for South-east Asia and its coastal communities? Host Audrey Tan chats with Mr Simon Davis, founder of seaweed biotechnology company Seadling, on this issue.

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:52 What accounts for the resurgence of interest in seaweed?

3:50 What are the environmental benefits of farming seaweed?

16:00 What are the challenges to scaling up seaweed farming?

19:48 How is Seadling working with farming communities to upskill them?

23:38 Are there negative environmental impacts of seaweed farms?

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy

Read his articles: https://str.sg/JLMu

Hosts: Audrey Tan (audreyt@sph.com.sg) & David Fogarty (dfogarty@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Hadyu Rahim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis & Lynda Hong

Follow Green Pulse Podcast here and get notified for new episode drops:

Channel:https://str.sg/JWaf

Apple Podcasts:https://str.sg/JWaY

Spotify:https://str.sg/JWag

Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg

SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg

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Follow more ST podcast channels:

All-in-one ST Podcasts channel: https://str.sg/wvz7

Get more updates: http://str.sg/stpodcasts

The Usual Place Podcast YouTube: https://str.sg/4Vwsa

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Get The Straits Times app, which has a dedicated podcast player section:

The App Store: https://str.sg/icyB

Google Play: https://str.sg/icyX

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Oct 6, 2025 25 min

Is blended finance the right recipe to speed up climate investments in Asia?

Season 2, Episode 24

Show notes

Public, private and philanthropic money is proving to be a successful mix to accelerate climate action.

Synopsis: Every first and third Tuesday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

When it comes to climate action, financiers are increasingly turning to the Three Ps to find the cash they need: Public, private and philanthropic money.

With trillions of dollars needed annually to shift the world away from polluting fossil fuels, cash-strapped governments don’t have the financial muscle to do this. Much of the money needs to come from the private sector, with philanthropy providing a much needed boost.

This mix of money from all three, called blended finance, is designed to be cheaper concessional capital. It helps de-risk early-stage investments, especially in developing nations, and helps attract more investors. In 2023, climate blended finance totalled US$18.3 billion, up from about US$6 billion in 2015.

But while the amount is growing, it’s still a fraction of what is needed. Are there positive signs blended finance can be significantly scaled up? And is there a risk only certain types of projects will be attractive candidates for blended finance?

Join Green Pulse hosts Audrey Tan and David Fogarty as they discuss these questions in this episode.

Have a listen and let us know your thoughts!

Highlights of conversation (click/tap above):

1:13 What is blended finance?

5:16 Why is blended finance becoming increasingly talked about?

8:52 What are some of the projects in Asia that could benefit?

10:40 How much money has been flowing into blended finance, especially for climate projects?

13:04 But what are some of the drawbacks – is there a risk that some types of projects will miss out?

18:06 COP30: If a roadmap for US$1.3 trillion in climate finance is sketched out, this could be a big boost.

Follow Audrey Tan on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/848W

Read her articles: https://str.sg/JLM2

Follow David Fogarty on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/jcvy