Learn about RP's involvement in sustainability initiatives and activities.
July & August 2024
RP students developed PolyHarvest, an award-winning clean energy device that converts plastic waste into electricity using Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) technology. By repurposing discarded PET plastics, the project not only reduces waste but also demonstrates how renewable energy can be harvested from everyday motion such as walking or exercise. The innovation won Merit Awards at the Engineering Innovation Challenge 2024 and the Asia Design-to-Make Skills Competition 2024, while also gaining recognition at the Tan Kah Kee Young Inventor Award. Beyond competitions, students are continuing research to amplify its electrical properties for real-world applications in areas like fitness equipment, flooring, and infrastructure. PolyHarvest reflects RP’s commitment to innovation, climate action, and the circular economy—showcasing how the next generation can create solutions that power a more sustainable future.
April 2024 – March 2025
What if vegetable trimmings could fuel tomorrow’s farms? At RP School of Applied Science, students and staff developed a way to upcycle discarded greens into nutrient solutions for hydroponic systems. Instead of becoming waste, these by-products are transformed into liquid fertilisers that support urban agriculture. This innovation reduces food waste, cuts costs for farmers, and advances Singapore’s food resilience efforts under the “30 by 30” goal. The initiative exemplifies sustainable thinking in action: students applied classroom knowledge, tested real prototypes, and connected with urban farm partners to validate the solution. Beyond the lab, the project also educates young innovators about circular economy principles, demonstrating that sustainability is not only about reducing harm but also about designing smarter systems. With continued development, this solution has the potential to strengthen Singapore’s urban farming ecosystem and reduce the nation’s reliance on imported agricultural inputs.
Lettuce grown in Biodigested Compost 1 July 2024
September 2024
Could yesterday’s soya bean pulp become tomorrow’s plant booster? RP researchers tested an okara-based biostimulant on campus landscaping plants and found it improved flowering while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers. By tapping into food industry by-products, the project showcases how waste can be turned into value, closing the loop in Singapore’s food system. The okara solution is cost-effective, locally available, and environmentally friendly, offering landscapers and urban farmers a sustainable alternative. Conducted right on RP’s green campus, the trial also gave students hands-on learning in applied sustainability and sparked ideas for further collaboration with industry. As RP continues to integrate circular economy principles into both teaching and operations, projects like this exemplify how science, innovation, and education intersect to create practical green solutions that improve everyday life while reducing environmental impact.
How do you turn sustainability into a household habit? Through the Adopt-A-Block project, RP students visited 386 households in Woodlands to promote simple but powerful green actions such as switching off lights, reducing water use, recycling, and planting greenery. Conducted under the Social Emotional Learning module for Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP) students, the initiative combined character education with real community impact. Residents received practical tips, while students learned first-hand how small changes at home contribute to national goals like the Singapore Green Plan 2030. The project also supports students’ National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) journey, deepening their sense of civic responsibility. Adopt-A-Block exemplifies RP’s role as a community partner, empowering youths to champion sustainability not only on campus but also in the neighbourhoods where they live, learn, and grow.
Monthly, 2024 – 2025
What if a weekend hike could clean up a park? Since 2021, RP students and staff have been taking part in Trekking with a Purpose, a monthly eco-trek that combines fitness with sustainability action. Each session involves hiking through local green spaces such as MacRitchie Reservoir or Coney Island while picking up litter along the way. This simple but effective activity raises awareness of waste pollution, reinforces the importance of stewardship of Singapore’s natural heritage, and builds camaraderie among participants. By integrating well-being with sustainability, the initiative shows that climate action does not have to be confined to classrooms or campaigns but can be a lived experience that bonds people to nature. Trekking with a Purpose continues to inspire RP’s community to see every journey as an opportunity to care for the planet.
2024 (Ongoing)
What happens when unused bicycles get a second chance? Cycle It Forward breathes new life into pre-loved bikes, refurbishing them for donation to communities in need. RP students and staff partnered in this movement by collecting, repairing, and restoring bicycles, turning them into safe, functional rides. By integrating well-being with sustainability, the initiative shows that climate action does not have to be confined to classrooms or campaigns but can be a lived experience that bonds people to nature. Along the way, RP students pick up valuable hands-on skills in repair and maintenance, while learning about the power of circular economy thinking. Each refurbished bike tells a story of care, collaboration, and community spirit. Cycle It Forward reminds us that sustainability is not only about protecting the environment—it’s about creating opportunities, improving lives, and making every ride count.
July 2024 – March 2025
Singapore’s path to a zero-waste future requires skilled leaders. RP, together with the National Environment Agency (NEA), launched the Zero Waste Manager Course, a first-of-its-kind programme that equips waste managers, supervisors, and executives with practical skills to cut waste, comply with regulations, and design circular solutions. Covering topics from food waste valorisation to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements, the course has trained over 145 professionals across sectors. Participants leave not only with technical know-how but also with strategies to drive cost savings and strengthen corporate sustainability. The course also supports Singapore’s Extended Producer Responsibility framework and aligns with the Green Plan 2030. By developing industry capabilities, RP is helping to shape the governance and practices that will underpin a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.
April – November 2024
How do you prepare small businesses for big climate goals? Partnering with DBS, RP delivered an SME Masterclass that trained 78 business leaders from 59 companies on their journey to net zero. The programme covered decarbonisation, sustainability reporting, and stakeholder engagement, equipping SMEs with the skills and confidence to embrace the low-carbon transition. Participants reported immediate positive impact, with many adopting new practices and engaging employees in green projects. The masterclass exemplifies RP’s role as a trusted partner in capacity-building, bridging the gap between national climate ambitions and the needs of enterprises. By empowering SMEs, the backbone of Singapore’s economy, the initiative ensures that sustainability transformation is both inclusive and impactful across industries.
Mandatory climate reporting is on the horizon. To prepare, RP collaborated with Call Lade Enterprises, a key contractor in PSA’s supply chain, to co-design a sustainability reporting framework. RP staff provided consultancy support and structured On-the-Job Training (OJT) to build internal competencies within the company’s new sustainability department. The project not only readied Call Lade for FY2027 reporting requirements but also created a culture of awareness among its 600 employees. This collaboration exemplifies RP’s industry impact, extending its sustainability expertise beyond campus to uplift Singapore’s business ecosystem. An MOU is expected in March 2025, marking a milestone in RP’s continuing efforts to support organisations in aligning with international reporting standards and Singapore’s Green Plan 2030.
June & November 2024
RP’s Agri Centre researchers are turning to nature’s tiny allies to solve a big problem: plant disease. In a MOE-funded project, they are developing insect-derived antimicrobial products as sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. Showcased at the Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia 2024, the project demonstrated how compounds extracted from local insect species can help urban farmers manage plant pathogens without synthetic chemicals. Collaborating with Cuprina Pollination, the research team also explored genetic approaches to enhance plants’ ability to produce antimicrobial compounds. This innovation reduces reliance on pesticides, supports consumer demand for safer produce, and strengthens Singapore’s food resilience. By bridging science, sustainability, and industry needs, RP is contributing to a healthier, greener food future.
June 2024
How do you turn passion into purpose? At the Green Bootcamp @ North West, RP School of Applied Science (SAS) collaborated with the North West Community Development Council to equip youths with the skills and confidence to become sustainability changemakers. Over a week of workshops, site visits, and team challenges, participants explored real-world issues such as food security, waste management, and energy conservation. Mentored by RP staff and industry partners, the teams developed practical green solutions and pitched them to a judging panel. Beyond new knowledge, the bootcamp instilled values of leadership, creativity, and responsibility, helping participants understand that sustainability is not just a topic in class but a way of life. The Green Bootcamp continues to grow as a platform where young minds meet urgent challenges, demonstrating RP’s commitment to nurturing future-ready, environmentally conscious leaders.
October 2024
Recognition matters, and RP School of Applied Science (SAS) proudly received accolades at the SEC-StarHub School Green Awards 2024. These awards, organised by the Singapore Environment Council, celebrate schools that champion sustainability through impactful projects, education, and campus practices. SAS’s win reflects the school’s consistent efforts in integrating sustainability into its curriculum, operations, and community outreach. From hands-on research in food waste valorisation to student-led projects in circular economy innovation, SAS has embedded environmental responsibility into its DNA. The award not only honours these achievements but also affirms RP’s role as a leader in greening education. For students, it serves as an inspiring reminder that their projects have real-world impact and recognition on national platforms. The School Green Award is more than a trophy; it is a testament to RP’s continued journey towards building a sustainable campus, curriculum, and community.