Singapore’s ambitious “zero-waste” goals are facing obstacles not from lack of public participation, but from the global recycling market. The core issue isn’t collecting recyclables, but ensuring they meet the stringent cleanliness standards demanded by international buyers. Increasingly, exported recyclables are being rejected due to contamination, leading to increased costs and undermining the effectiveness of local recycling programs. This situation highlights a broader global challenge where the economics of recycling are shifting, and previously viable practices are becoming unsustainable. The country is now grappling with finding solutions to improve sorting and cleaning processes, or face the prospect of increased waste incineration. This necessitates a re-evaluation of the entire recycling supply chain and a focus on reducing contamination at the source. Ultimately, the future of Singapore’s recycling program depends on adapting to these evolving global market dynamics.