What could drag Singapore's sustainable economy?

Long working hours and income inequality confront the city-state.

Singapore emerged as the top Asian city and second globally in the latest world sustainability index, but a lack in social infrastructure investments could drag the city-state’s economy.

According to the Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index, the city faces an ageing population and a need for greater funding in social infrastructure. Coupled with long working hours, income inequality and affordability, this impacts Singapore’s people subindex ranking.

Despite this, Singapore has lined up several sustainability initiatives that will proactively help the economy to evolve and remain competitive in the years to come.

“For example, with a population predicted to grow to more than six million people by 2030, the government has committed significant investment over the next decade to improve mobility and connectivity within the city,” the survey said.

The global financial centre also invested in two new underground lines, extensions to four existing MRT lines, a new terminal and runway at Changi Airport, a high-speed rail link between Singapore and Malaysia and the relocation of the container port.

It is also seeking to turn at least 80% of all its buildings “green” by 2030 to help spur a vibrant, high-quality and resilient living environment

Singapore ranked first in profit performance and it was also in the top 10 for all six indicators in the profit sub-index, topping the world in ease of doing business and tying with Macau for the top spot for tourism.