PENANG is at the forefront of green efforts, said Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin.
She said the state has been constantly tackling environmental issues.
“I would like to congratulate the state for being the first state in Malaysia to ban plastic bags every Monday from July 1 this year; after successfully imposing the ‘No Plastic Bag Day’ policy in Penang 10 years ago.
“The ban on Mondays would mean that there would be no plastic bags for shoppers even if they are willing to pay 20 sen at selected participating outlets.
“Plastic pollution is a serious environmental issue and it is not going to get better if we do not have a proper management plan to address it.
“Malaysia plans to reduce single-use plastics by encouraging plastics industries to transition to eco-friendly products. This is to ensure that the environment is safeguarded while the industry thrives by adopting green technologies,” she said in her speech at the Penang International Green Conference and Exhibition (PGIGCE) 2019 at Gurney Paragon Mall today.
Yeo said that Malaysians were still relying heavily on single-use plastics.
She said the responsibility to conserve the environment has to be shared by both the government and the public.
Penang Green Council general manager Josephine Tan welcomed the public to pledge as a Penang Green Citizens to care for the environment.
“Start reducing single-use plastics and save energy,” she said.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the theme for the PGIGCE 2019 was ‘Penang Green and Smart City’.
“It is about making our city sustainable, prosperous and future-inclusive for the people of Penang,” Chow said.
He said Penang has its own solid waste management station in Batu Maung which uses vertical compression technology; and could also function without electricity.
“Our recycling rate at 42.7% last year (2018) was double of the national percentage rate of 21%.
“The Penang Green Council has also formulated the Penang Green Agenda, a three-year policy realisation project, aimed at implementing strategies to build a resilient community in Penang.
“This is a major step towards realising the Penang2030 vision,” Chow said.
PGIGCE 2019 is touted to be the largest platform for environmental education in the northern region.
The last day of the event is tomorrow (Sept 29) from 10am to 10pm.