A Certificate of Entitlement (COE) is a unique system in Singapore that controls the number of vehicles on the roads by requiring potential vehicle owners to bid for the right to own and use a vehicle for a fixed period, typically 10 years. While the COE system may seem costly and restrictive at first glance, there are several compelling reasons why it is considered beneficial for the country.
1. Traffic Congestion Management
One of the primary reasons COE is good is its effectiveness in managing traffic congestion. Singapore is a small city-state with limited land, and without proper control, the number of vehicles on the road could easily exceed the capacity of the infrastructure, leading to severe traffic jams. By capping the number of vehicles through the COE system, the government ensures that traffic remains manageable, and commuting times are kept within reasonable limits. This also reduces the stress on public infrastructure and keeps the city moving efficiently.
2. Environmental Benefits
The COE system contributes significantly to environmental sustainability. Fewer vehicles on the road mean lower emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants. Additionally, the high cost of acquiring a COE encourages people to consider alternative forms of transportation, such as public transit, cycling, or car-sharing schemes, further reducing the environmental impact. The system also indirectly promotes the use of newer, more fuel-efficient, and less polluting vehicles, as people may opt for newer models when renewing their COE.
3. Encouragement of Public Transport Use
The COE system incentivizes the use of public transportation, which is more sustainable and efficient in a densely populated urban environment like Singapore. The government has heavily invested in an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including buses, trains, and a growing network of cycling paths. By making car ownership expensive, the COE system nudges citizens towards these alternatives, reducing the overall demand for private vehicles and contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.