We are excited that Singapore’s housing landscape is poised for a significant transformation following an announcement by the Prime Minister during the recent National Day Rally HDB to launch new Plus flats in choicer areas on August 21, 2023. The introduction of new BTO flat classifications – Prime, Plus, and Standard – reflects the nation’s evolving housing needs. While this move captures the essence of change, there is another category that merits consideration – Smoke-Free flats.
Clean and unpolluted air is a fundamental human right, but the presence of smoking, incense paper burning, and incense stick burning within homes often make it impossible to achieve. As current regulations lack restrictions on the frequency, timing, and quantity of these practices, indoor air quality remains compromised. In a bold move toward a healthier SG, the addition of a Smoke-Free flats category is crucial.
Living in smoke-free homes brings benefits beyond personal health, fostering emotional well-being and serenity. It also enhances air quality and neighborhood appeal, benefiting the entire community as it also helps to eliminate neighbour disputes.
Smoke-free flats is especially needed as more public spaces are being heavily regulated against smoking now, homes have ironically become the last bastion for smokers. This unintentional allowance has transformed our homes into sources of air pollution, putting non-smokers at risk of secondhand smoke exposure. This discrepancy highlights a growing need to ensure that the air we breathe within our homes is free from pollutants.
Moreover, research has consistently shown secondhand smoke has a negative impact on heart and lung health and causes of many cancers. Smoke-free housing not only promotes healthier living but also eliminates cigarette butt littering, fire hazard risks, and loss of innocent lives.
An often overlooked factor is thirdhand smoke, which is the lasting chemical residue sticking to surfaces after secondhand smoke has vanished. This not only impacts health in the long term but also influences property value due to the challenge and expense of entirely eliminating it from the property.
In addition, the quality of indoor air has a substantial impact on well-being. Keeping windows shut to prevent secondhand smoke drifts compromises comfort and daily life. This concern is especially pertinent for young families aspiring to provide a wholesome upbringing for their children and seniors who seek an environment conducive to graceful ageing.
Therefore, embracing a Smoke-Free flats category within evolving BTO flat classifications aligns with the pursuit of healthier, safer, and more environmentally conscious living. Addressing air quality concerns, enhancing well-being, and boosting property values are essential for Singapore’s housing excellence and a healthier future.
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