Understanding the Rise of Duplicate Images in Singapore: Background Context and How We Arrived at This Point

Singapore has seen a significant increase in duplicate images circulating online, with many of these images being shared on social media platforms and messaging apps.

This phenomenon matters now because it has implications for the city-state's efforts to position itself as a tech and AI hub, as well as its green corridor and sustainability drive. The proliferation of duplicate images can lead to increased data storage needs, higher energy consumption, and a greater carbon footprint, all of which run counter to Singapore's sustainability goals. Furthermore, the spread of duplicate images can also contribute to the dissemination of misinformation and fake news, which can have serious consequences for the country's social cohesion and political stability.

In Singapore, this issue is particularly relevant in areas such as Orchard Road, where many shopping malls and businesses have a strong online presence, and in neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, where community groups and local businesses often share information and updates on social media. Organisations like the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the National Environment Agency (NEA) have a role to play in addressing this issue, whether through public education campaigns or initiatives to promote sustainable data storage practices. The Singapore Management University (SMU) and the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) are also well-placed to contribute to the development of solutions to this problem, through research into AI-powered image compression and data analytics.

According to data from the IMDA, the total amount of data stored in Singapore's data centres increased by 25% between 2020 and 2022, with the average cost of data storage per gigabyte standing at SGD 0.05 as of January 2026. Meanwhile, a survey conducted by the NEA found that 70% of Singaporeans are unaware of the environmental impact of their online activities, including the sharing and storage of duplicate images. These statistics highlight the need for greater awareness and education on this issue, as well as the importance of developing sustainable solutions to reduce the proliferation of duplicate images. As of June 2026, the Singapore government has announced plans to launch a new initiative to promote sustainable data practices, with a budget of SGD 10 million allocated for the programme.

Addressing the Issue

So what can be done to address the issue of duplicate images in Singapore? One practical step that individuals can take is to be more mindful of the images they share online, and to make use of image compression tools and sustainable data storage practices. Businesses and organisations can also play a role by implementing sustainable data management practices and investing in AI-powered image compression technologies. The government can continue to support initiatives to promote sustainable data practices, and work with organisations like the IMDA and the NEA to develop public education campaigns and promote greater awareness of this issue. By working together, Singapore can reduce the proliferation of duplicate images and promote a more sustainable digital landscape.

In the coming months, Singaporeans can expect to see more initiatives and programmes launched to address this issue, including workshops and seminars on sustainable data practices, as well as the development of new technologies and tools to reduce the environmental impact of online activities. The Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre will host a conference on sustainable data management in September 2026, which will bring together experts and stakeholders from across the industry to discuss solutions to this problem. By staying informed and taking practical steps to address this issue, Singaporeans can help to create a more sustainable digital landscape for the future.