For the first time in 17 years, Singapore is raising water prices.
Specifics have not yet been discussed, but the objectives are clear: to conserve water through lower use; to raise funds for building and maintaining water infrastructure; and to ensure that our water needs will be met in the future.
The decision is bound to create some controversy. Proponents point to the need to ensure water security in a future impacted by climate change. Others fear increasing costs of business and wonder if poor households will be able to cope.
Martin Stavenhagen is a research associate for the Institute of Water Policy, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. His research focus is on urban water demand management strategies. Joost Buurman and Cecilia Tortajada are senior research fellows at the same institute.
This article was first published on The New Paper on 22nd February 2017.