In response to persistent hotspots and fire incidents in the region, the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) has stepped up measures under the enhanced Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS+) to address transboundary haze pollution and uphold sustainable sourcing (read the press release).
Notice of Temporary Restrictions issued to Asia Pulp & Paper
On 18 October 2026, SEC issued a Notice of Temporary Restrictions on SGLS+ Certification to Asia Pulp & Paper (APP). Under the notice, APP is subject to daily fire-response reporting and strict monitoring of fire prevention and suppression for the concession areas managed by:
- PT Bumi Mekar Hijau
- PT Bumi Andalas Permai
- PT Sebangun Bumi Andalas Wood Industries
These three entities are wood-fibre suppliers to APP and operate concessions in South Sumatra, Indonesia. On 16 October 2026, Singapore’s National Environment Agency issued them preventive measures notices under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, along with four other entities that are not SGLS+ certified.
APP’s SGLS+ certificates remain valid while the notice is in force. If APP’s additional reporting does not show that strengthened monitoring, fire prevention and suppression measures are being carried out effectively, the certificates may be suspended. Use of the SGLS+ logo on the associated products would then have to stop.
Supply-chain declarations from all SGLS+ certified companies
SEC is also requiring all SGLS+ certified companies to check their supply chains. Each must declare whether it sources or buys wood, paper or pulp products from any of the seven entities served with preventive measures notices.
About SGLS+ for pulp and paper
SEC launched SGLS+ certification for pulp and paper products in 2017, after the severe regional haze of 2015. Its requirements aim to reduce fire risk on agroforestry plantations through sustainable peatland management, robust fire prevention and strict zero-burning compliance throughout the supply chain. Around 58 pulp and paper products, such as printing paper and hygiene paper, are certified under SGLS+.
Checking a product’s certification status
The Singapore Green Label Directory is the authoritative public record of Green Label certification. Each affected APP listing now carries a notice about the restrictions. You can search “APP” to see them all in one list. Any change in certification status will be shown in the directory.
Consumers make daily purchasing decisions that influence companies’ environmental practices. Looking for the Singapore Green Label, where it applies, is one way to support more environmentally responsible products.
Read SEC’s press release (19 October 2026)