By CALVIN YEO yeop@thestar.com.my
GREEN technology should be adopted in daily activities as it could help create a more friendly environment, said Assistant Minister of Environment, Datuk Peter Nansian.
He said adopting green technology would not only help reduce the amount of waste generated but would promote low usage of fuel energy.
He said there were many ways where people could play their roles in creating a better and friendly environment.
“Recycling used materials for instance is one of the ways where we can play our part. In Japan for instance, discarded refrigerators and electrical appliances are recycled and turned into raw materials to make new products.
Playing his part: Nansian watering the newly planted tree after the launching ceremony while others look on.
“Used cooking oil has also been processed again to be used as engine oil in certain countries,” he said when officiating at a community-based environmental education and Local Agenda 21 at Desa Ilmu in Kota Samarahan near Kuching yesterday.
He said recycling tyres and composting were also alternative ways to reduce the amount of wastes generated.
“An estimated 6,000 tonnes of used tyres are discarded every year in the state and these do not include those from the big project sites.
“There are also an estimated 600 tonnes of food and kitchen wastes discarded in Kota Samarahan alone which has a population of about 700,000,” he said.
“We have to make it a point to use only when it is necessary and the right amount to avoid wastage,” he said.
He also said more attention should be given to maintain water quality as water source had become scarce.
“We must ensure our water is not polluted and remain clean as there are still people who depend on the river to earn a living and if it is polluted, then their source of income will be affected,” he said.
He also revealed 14 solar street lightings would be installed in Kota Samarahan area this year at an estimated cost of RM80,000. Four such street lights costing RM50,000 had been installed last year.
Earlier, Samarahan District Council chairman, Frederick Bayoi said knowledge and awareness were important aspects in environment conservation.
“Therefore, it is important for everyone to lend a helping hand towards government efforts to create a better and healthy environment,” he added.
