From modest beginnings, Singapore rapidly developed its industrial base which today comprises high technology and high value added industries. Economic growth was accompanied by a comprehensive housing and urban development programme.The formation of the Ministry of the Environment and the Anti-Pollution Unit in the early seventies marked Singapore's commitment to protect the environment in the face of rapid developments.Together with the rapid industrialisation, housing and urban development programme, Singapore also implemented a programme to prevent pollution as well as to control pollution from those sources which cannot be prevented.The success of these programmes is evident today and we have an environment that compares well with that of any nation in the world.