NEA tracking haze hotspots and sources as earlier investigations under Transboundary Haze Pollution Act continue

“As such, NEA is unable to disclose further details,” it added.

WHAT IS THE TRANSBOUNDARY HAZE POLLUTION ACT?

Singapore periodically experiences severe haze caused by forest and peatland fires in neighbouring countries.

The Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, which came into force in September 2014, allows authorities to take legal action against companies responsible for causing or contributing to haze pollution in Singapore, even if their activities take place overseas.

Under the Act, a poor air quality episode occurs when the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) for PM2.5 reaches 101 or higher in any part of Singapore, and remains at or above that level in the same or another part of Singapore for the next 24 hours or longer.

The 24h PSI reported by NEA has been in the unhealthy range in at least one region in Singapore since Oct 5.

However, meeting the air quality threshold alone does not automatically establish liability under the Act. Authorities must also establish that an entity caused or contributed to haze pollution in Singapore.

Companies found guilty of causing or contributing to transboundary haze pollution can be fined up to S$100,000 (US$78,100) a day, capped at S$2 million.

The law applies to entities operating both within and outside Singapore, including those that condone activities resulting in haze pollution here.

It also empowers authorities to issue preventive measures notices requiring companies to take steps to prevent, reduce or control haze pollution.

Individuals and businesses in Singapore can also pursue civil claims against responsible entities for personal injury, property damage or economic losses arising from haze pollution.