Climate Change and Emergence of Novel Pathogens and Pandemics and Preparations Needed

NOTICE PAPER NO.1494
NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER
FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 7 NOVEMBER 2022

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Dr Tan Wu Meng
MP for Jurong GRC

Question No. 2378

To ask the Minister for Health (a) whether the Government is studying how climate change may contribute to the emergence of novel pathogens and pandemics which may affect Singapore; and (b) if so, what are the ensuing assessment of the risk environment and additional measures needed to prepare for the next pandemic.

Written Answer

The Centre for Climate Research Singapore (CCRS), under the National Environment Agency, examines the impact of climate change on Singapore and develops scientific projections to inform policy-making.

Through the Climate Impact Science Research Programme launched in July 2022, CCRS works with public agencies, research institutes and institutes of higher learning to support research in key areas, such as how climate change affects the transmission of infectious diseases and the potential impact on Singapore.

To prepare for the next pandemic, agencies adopt a whole-of-Government approach to detect emerging public health threats, including diseases that may arise due to climate change. Government agencies have pooled resources to strengthen their global and local surveillance capabilities for timely detection, joint risk assessment and reporting. This takes into account the latest available information, international developments, and the outcomes of our own research in climate science.