Green Technology in Malaysia

Malaysia is committed to advancing green technology to achieve sustainable development. Through policies and initiatives like the Green Technology Master Plan and National Green Technology Policy, the nation aims for carbon emissions and climate change mitigation.

 

What is green technology?

Green technology, or sustainable technology, involves using environmental science and innovation to conserve natural resources and minimise ecological impact. It includes renewable energy, energy-efficient designs, waste recycling, and sustainable agriculture.

 

Types of Green Technology

Green technology involves innovations and practices to promote sustainability and reduce environmental footprints, classified into categories addressing specific environmental challenges.

Renewable Energy

• Solar power uses photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems to convert sunlight into electricity or heat. It is a clean, abundant, and renewable energy source that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
• Wind energy converts wind's kinetic energy into electricity using turbines, often in high-wind areas. It's a rapidly growing renewable sector, valued for its efficiency and low environmental impact, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.
• Hydropower generates electricity through water movement, typically using dams on large rivers to turn turbines. It's a reliable and efficient renewable energy source with low environmental emissions but can have significant ecological and social impacts related to dam construction and water ecosystems.
• Biomass energy, derived from organic materials like plant and animal waste, is produced through methods such as combustion, digestion, and gasification. As a renewable resource, it can reduce fossil fuel reliance and aid in waste management, provided its sources are sustainably managed to prevent environmental harm.

Energy Efficiency

• Energy-efficient appliances perform the same tasks as conventional ones but use less energy. They include items like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, designed with advanced materials to minimise energy use.
• LED lighting is far more efficient than traditional incandescent and fluorescent options. LEDs use less power, last longer, and emit less heat, making them ideal for both residential and commercial use. Their widespread adoption has significantly cut energy consumption globally.
• Smart grids use digital tech to improve electricity network performance and reliability by enabling real-time communication and energy management. They support renewable energy integration, enhance grid stability, and give consumers control over their energy use, resulting in a more efficient and resilient energy system.

Pollution Reduction

• Carbon capture and storage involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes and power plants, transporting and storing them underground. This technology reduces greenhouse gases and helps mitigate climate change, offering a lower carbon footprint for industries reliant on fossil fuels.
• Air purification systems use methods like HEPA filters and activated carbon to remove pollutants, improving air quality and reducing health risks by targeting contaminants such as particulates, VOCs, and hazardous gases.
• Water purification systems remove impurities and contaminants from water using filtration, sedimentation, and chemical treatments. Advanced methods like UV irradiation and reverse osmosis ensure high water quality, crucial for healthy ecosystems and communities.

 

Waste Management

• Recycling systems collect, process, and repurpose waste materials like paper, plastics, glass, and metals. They reduce landfill waste, conserve resources, and minimise pollution, relying on sorting facilities, public awareness, and proper handling for high recovery rates.
• Biogas production involves anaerobic digestion of organic waste to generate biogas, mainly methane and CO2, used for heating, electricity, or fuel. The by-product, digestate, serves as a natural fertiliser, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions while providing a sustainable energy source.
• Composting is a food waste management method that decomposes organic waste like food scraps and yard trimmings into nutrient-rich soil. This process, aided by microorganisms, enriches soil for agriculture and gardening, reduces landfill waste, and lowers methane emissions.

 

Importance of Green Technology

Embracing green technology is essential for sustainable development, tackling environmental issues and providing national economic development. In Malaysia, it's key to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.

Environmental Benefits

• Green technology reduces carbon footprints by using renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
• Sustainable practices and efficient use of raw materials, such as recycling, composting, and sustainable agriculture, help conserve natural resources. Energy-efficient appliances and buildings also reduce resource consumption, preserving reserves for future generations.
• Green technology innovations reduce pollution by improving air and water quality through advanced purification systems and eco-friendly processes, leading to a healthier environment and better quality of life.

Economic Benefits

• Adopting green technology creates significant economic benefits by generating green jobs in sectors like solar and wind energy, energy efficiency, and environmental management. These jobs support green economic growth and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable job market.
• Long-term cost savings from green technologies outweigh initial investments through reduced energy, waste, and resource expenses, benefiting businesses, governments, and consumers financially over time.
• Boosting sustainable industries strengthens economic resilience and innovation by promoting green technology. This green growth diversifies the economy, advances technology, and reduces reliance on finite resources, leading to a more sustainable economic future.

Social Benefits

• Green technology improves public health by reducing pollution, promoting cleaner air and water, and decreasing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, leading to healthier communities and lower healthcare costs.
• Sustainable practices improve quality of life by ensuring cleaner environments, more green spaces, and better living conditions through renewable energy, reduced waste, and efficient resource use, making cities more liveable and sustainable.
• Promoting environmental awareness through green technology and public education encourages eco-friendly practices like recycling and energy conservation, fostering responsible behaviour to preserve natural resources for future generations.

Green Technology Financing Scheme

Malaysia's Green Technology Financing Scheme (GTFS) supports the green technology development and commercialization. Launched in 2010, it offers favourable loans for projects in energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste management, and water management.

 

Green Technology Examples by Ajinomoto Malaysia

Ajinomoto Malaysia's new manufacturing plant has achieved significant sustainability milestones, including a 1.3% reduction in electricity consumption and a 17.9% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the previous financial year.

The plant also reduced water consumption by 6.6% and achieved a 15.6% decrease in CO2 emissions. It complies with stringent effluent quality standards and reduces plastic waste by 118.51 tonnes.

However, food loss to landfill increased by 78.9% due to product testing. Overall, the plant demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and efficient resource management.

*Data as of annual report 2023