Singapore Launches First National Plastic Passport Program

Singapore has launched the world's first national plastic passport program, developed in partnership with the research agency ASTAR and technology company SMX, to track the full lifecycle of plastics at the molecular level. This initiative addresses longstanding gaps in global recycling efforts by expanding beyond PET bottles to include industrial polymers, automotive resins, textiles, and electronics, embedding traceability directly into the plastics. The program represents a shift from voluntary and fragmented recycling efforts to government-backed infrastructure that enforces verified proof of recycling, positioning Singapore as a global leader and testbed for multinational brands and regulators. SMX's molecular marking technology enables every kilogram of recycled plastic to be verified and audited, transforming plastic waste into a bankable asset through a financial instrument called the Plastic Cycle Token (PCT). This innovation not only advances environmental sustainability but also creates economic opportunities by turning previously undervalued waste streams into measurable value across the supply chain. The initiative is expected to influence global standards and trade flows as ASEAN emerges as a major consumer market aligned with Europe, Japan, and the U.S.