Green+ Malaysia's Premier Eco-friendly, Sustainable and Green Business Magazine

in this issue Ü Ü Ü Ü

Tea Team produces results Weaving hope for future Pomeroy unveils Newpark China’s land treatment success

NRE’s 11 goals towards a better environment

Implementation of CAAP critical in reducing greenhouse emissions and combating global warming

Nam Cheong launches new ‘green’ AHTS vessel Not just cost-effective but also fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly

Technology Provider As a premier solution provider, President and CE Dato’ Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof is the driver behind SIRIM’s quality and technology innovations that help companies to compete better

Editor’s Note

Back to the future Publisher

HK Gan

hkgan@theplus.my Managing Editor

Johnson Fernandez johnson@theplus.my Photo-Journalist

Kevin Wong

kevin@theplus.my Columnists

Lim Gene-Harn Zaini Abdul Wahab Kenny Hoo Kevin Hor Editorial Coordinator

Sarah Zain

sarah@theplus.my

I

n 1990, Zainal Abidin recorded the song “Hijau”. It climbed to the top of the Malaysian charts, defying naysayers who said any Malay song without “luka”, “duka” or “cinta” in it was doomed.

But Zainal’s song “Hijau” (Green) was about the environment. Ignore the dialect in the latter verses, focus on the first six verses. The song is a grim reminder of the rape of the forests, the pillaging of the environment, the don’t-care-less attitude of both government and private sectors whose only motivation is wealth, lots of it.

And why was that allowed to happen? Well, Zainal tells you why in the sixth verse: Korupsi, oppressi, obsessi diri Polussi, depressi di bumi kini Well, of course now there is (seemingly) concerted effort to do something about the environment. There are several ministries looking into preventing the devastation – Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local HIJAU Government.

Bumi yang tiada rimba We have comSeumpama hamba mitted to the Dia dicemar manusia international comYang jahil ketawa munity to reduce carbon emissions Bumi yang tiada udara intensity by 40 per Bagai tiada nyawa cent by 2020.

Pasti hilang suatu hari That pledge was Tanpa disedari m a d e by P r i m e M i n i s te r D a t u k Bumi tanpa lautan Seri Najib Razak in Akan kehausan Technology 2009, some twenty Pasti lambat laun hilang Provider years after Zainal Duniaku yang malang As a premier solution provider, President e s p ou se d t hat and CE Dato’ Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof is the driver behind SIRIM’s quality and something be done technology innovations that help Dewasa ini kita saling merayakan companies to compete better about the environKejayaan yang akhirnya membinasakan ment, lest the earth Apalah gunanya kematangan fikiran be destroyed and we Bila dijiwa kita masih lagi muda dan leave nothing for our children. mentah But it’s always better late than never, while Ku lihat hijau there’s still something of the earth to be saved.

Now there’s green technology, green busiBumiku yang kian pudar ness, green lifestyle, green architecture and Siapa yang melihat even green finance.

Di kala kita tersedar We’re definitely moving in the right Mungkinkah terlewat direction.

Malaysia’s exchange of green technology Korupsi, oppressi, obsessi diri via numerous international collaborations Polussi, depressi di bumi kini like Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC), Belgian Economic Mission, MalaysianOo... anok-anok German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tok leh meghaso mandi laok Malaysian-Dutch Business Council (MDBC) is Bersaing main ghama-ghama purposed to ensure that sustainability is a way of life.

Ale lo ni tuo omornyo berjoto Everyone seems to have their shoulders to Koto usoho jauh ke daghi malo petako wheel, pushing in the same direction so that we are able to return this land to the future.

Ozon lo ni koho nipih nak nak aghi in this issue

Ü Tea Team produces results Ü Weaving hope for future Ü Pomeroy unveils Newpark Ü China’s land treatment success

NRE’s 11 goals towards a better environment

Implementation of CAAP critical in reducing greenhouse emissions and combating global warming

Creative Director

Ahmad Aliff Azeem ahmad@theplus.my Head of Marketing

Wong Tze Cheen tcwong@theplus.my Head of Business Development

Alexander Lee

alexanderlee@theplus.my

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Nam Cheong launches new ‘green’ AHTS vessel

Not just cost-effective but also fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly

JOHNSON FERNANDEZ

Keno make asak hok biso, weh Pase maknusio Seghemo bendo-bendo di dunio Tok leh tahe Sapa bilo-bilo

We’ve found the perfect spot to grow the future.

That’s right, the Earth. Our interests in agribusiness currently span across 10 countries while opportunities for further expansion continue to knock at our door. And keen to keep the planet green, we always take care to innovate and cultivate responsibly.

For more info, visit www.feldaglobal.com

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Ingenuity Incorporated

CONTENTS 11 goals towards a better environment

Regenerative Design, the Next Conversation of Green Built Environment

12-15

Implementation of CAAP critical in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and combating global warming – Pages 12-15

Why going ‘Green’ is merely the opening chapter towards the better built environment we need to be in – Pages 30-33

Democratisation of Malaysia’s electricity supply industry

Key elements must be clearly stipulated and agreed upon

Independent & free solar energy or harnessing the sun’s energy using Solar PV for electricity – Pages 16-19

Investments from EPC projects implementation could also contribute to the growth – Pages 34-35

2014 KeTTHA Excellence Awards

Aim to encourage excellence service, innovation and entrepreneurship – Page 20

Tips for Lifepath enhancement 20

2014 MCCC-AEET Green Award

Alwin does Malaysia proud – Page 22

Energy efficiency as a fuel to compete with electricity generators

Charging stations in KL soon

Mindset of associating vehicles with social status must change – Page 23

All EU-28 countries are legally obliged to achieve a certain amount of final energy savings by 2020 – Pages 38-39

‘Change towards greener lifestyle’

MDBC Sustainability Awards (MSA) 2014 winners!

Malaysia managed to reduce more than 33 per cent carbon emission intensity – Page 24

Submissions considered by panel of independent, expert judges, led by Chief Judge H.E. Harry Molenaar – Page 40-41

Royal flavour

HRH Princess Astrid represented the King of Belgium at the event – Page 25

Malaysia’s great green potential

Best of Chinese and Indian influences combines with the rich indigenous Malay culture to create a unique gem of a nation – Pages 26-27

Building for a better tomorrow

Inaugural Green Buildings & Parks World 2014 designed to provide platform for developers, professionals and government bodies to converge and share – Page 28

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House with good Feng Shui features can be an excellent ‘tool’ or channel for personal lifestyle and lifepath enhancement, include the health, relationship, prosperity and wealth accumulation for family members – Pages 36-37

26-27

Sarawak Energy inks contract with Shanghai Electric

… for construction of 2 x 300MW Balingian coal-fired main power plant – Page 42

Sarawak Energy CEO Awarded CEO Of The Year at 2014 Asian Power Awards Datuk Torstein was recognised for his leadership – Page 43

GPNM seminar on Green Initiatives

Green Recycling and Green Purchasing Opportunities & Business partnership – Pages 44-45

APAC TUNNELS & BRIDGES 2015

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CONTENTS Busy as a Bee

Bees actually essential to the life of many plants – Page 46

46

Why the phrase ‘Busy as a Bee’ may be becoming extinct Bees actually essential to the life of many plants – Page 63

Nam Cheong launches new ‘green’ anchor handling tug supply vessel

Horse Sense

Horse meat was very popular on the menu of early humans in Eurasia – Page 64

Not just cost-effective but also fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly – Pages 48-49

Mad about Madagascar

Weaving hope for the future

Science has to struggle with the niches of each individual species – Page 65

And true beauty is priceless – Page 50

Hydropower means a lot worldwide

Tea team produces results

Twenty per cent of global electricity has been made by using renewable sources this year – Page 66

Clones of drought and frost resistant tea being grown – Page 52 56-57

Luxury eco-development at Sanctuary Ridge

PanaHome Malaysia enters JV with Gasing Meridian – Pages 54-55

Pomeroy Studio unveil Newpark

A new eco-township set in the 100-year-old former colonial town of Kluang – Pages 56-57

Shining with sustainability

System also allows members of staff to monitor energy consumption daily from laptops and iPhones to ensure it is working correctly – Page 58

Google: A better web

Better for the environment – Pages 60-61

Two perspectives on the biosphere

Economic growth is useless if all the forests are gone – Page 62 62

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If you can’t stand the heat...

Warm water now storing heat below the surface is liable to cause future atmospheric temperatures to rocket – Page 67

Forest loss in NZ reveals fire prevention ploys

Land use has shifted recently to accommodate frequent large fires – Page 68

Our ancient ancestors couldn’t digest milk

Other genes were found relevant to population changes – Page 69

Climate: What does the UN want?

Severe irreversible effects must be managed with stringent mitigation activities – Page 70

Future for Aral Sea hopefully assured

Still extremely unlikely dead sea will ever resume its former glory – Page 71

COVER STORY

CLOSING THE DEAL: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the cooperation was signed by SIRIM Berhad’s President and Chief Executive, Dato’ Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof and Fraunhofer‘s Member of the Management Board, Dr. Lorenz Kaiser. The signing, held at the Prime Minister’s Department in Putrajaya, was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Sri Najib Tun Razak. Also present at the signing ceremony were Minister of International Trade and Industry Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Datuk Dr. Ewon Ebin, SME Corp. CEO Dato‘ Hafsah Hashim, and SIRIM Chairman Datuk Jamaliah Kamis.

The only partner you need A premier solution provider in quality and technology innovation

By Kevin Wong

S

IRIM is a champion of quality and a recognised technology partner.

The body, which was incorporated on Sept 1, 1996 as a wholly-owned Government institution under the Ministry of Finance, has over 40 years of experience and expertise in technology innovation and research.

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As a premier solution provider, SIRIM drives quality and technology innovations that help institutions and companies to compete better through every step of the business value chain.

Its technology focus areas are aligned with national strategic initiatives in energy and environmental technologies, plant and machinery expertise and medical technologies.

SIRIM is also dedicated to helping local communities raise their incomes by improving their businesses and trade practices.

President and CE Dato’Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof said while big multinational c o r p o rat io n s ( M NC s ) a nd government-linked companies (GLCs) have their own research and development units, the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) do not have that luxury.

“A partnership is critical for SMEs which lack research and development capabilities,” said Dr Zainal Abidin.

“They can rely only on someone like us. That’s where we come in, to form a strategic alliance.”

“We can provide R&D capabilities, design and engineering expertise as well as standards consulting all under one roof. We combine technological innovation with a business-oriented

approach that delivers products and solutions which are relevant to today’s marketplace.”

As the national standards development agency, SIRIM’s extensive expertise in standards and certification helps SMEs meet the requirements of international markets. Dr Zainal Abidin said their network of regional offices would offer support nationwide.

SIRIM’s consultants could help evaluate the commercial viability of ideas, turn it into a solid product proposal and then build a working prototype of the product. That can be followed by organizing product trials, quality improvement initiatives and other pre-commercialisation activities before designing the product packaging and final proof-of-concept.

SIRIM’s services are built around three business areas that have the most impact on the world’s economic and societal well-being: industrial machinery, ecological sustainability and healthcare.

These business lines are served by professionals in multidisciplinary ‘flagships’ that offer end-to-end solutions across the value chain – from product designers and researchers to standards experts and

COVER STORY

We can provide R&D capabilities, design and engineering expertise as well as standards consulting all under one roof. We combine technological innovation with a business-oriented approach that delivers products and solutions which are relevant to today’s marketplace.

– SIRIM President and CEO Dato Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof

testing technicians.

“Basically, SIRIM offers everything you need under one roof,” added Dr Zainal Abidin.

He pointed out the key areas in SIRIM’s capabilities as:

are available for licensing and commercialisation.

Drug delivery systems Implants/prostheses Medical devices and equipment

PLANT & MACHINERY: SIRIM’s engineers and consultants can design solutions for various industries including food and agriculture, construction, manufacturing and line assembly.

Design and modelling Machine design Plant engineering System design Tooling and component development

“Our experts are well-versed at developing full-scale pilot plants for all kinds of products.

We help ensure that products meet local and global product standards during and after full scale-up. And if you have an idea we have not yet explored, we would love to hear from you.”

“We also offer independent third party testing, inspection and verification services to ensure that products or services comply with local and global regulations,” said Dr Zainal Abidin.

SIRIM’s extensive experience in R&D gives their professionals a unique understanding of what makes a good product. They can determine if a product is commercially suitable, and actively collaborate with other research institutions, government agencies and businesses to develop new, innovative products.

By leve ra g i ng o n t he i r expertise and experience, SMEs especially can benefit from their full range of products and services as well as their state-ofthe-art facilities.

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT: Like the rest of the world, Malaysia needs to achieve greater energy independence. SIRIM is focused on s u pp or t i ng bu s i ne s se s committed to environmental conservation and to mitigating the effects of climate change.

Energy generation

Energy storage

Eco-product development

Environmental technologies MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY: SIRIM researchers have made importa nt adva nc e s i n me d ic a l technology over the years. Many of these innovative technologies

SIRIM and Fraunhofer of Germany tie-up to assist local SMEs adopt technological innovation SIRIM on December 2 established a strategic cooperation relationship with renowned German research organisation, Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Institute (Fraunhofer), Europe’s largest applicationoriented research organisation.

The strategic alliance with Fraunhofer was made to strengthen SMEs development in the country through adapting the German eco-system of SME development, and to collaborate in advanced technologies, commercialization and upscaling.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the cooperation was signed by SIRIM Berhad’s President and Chief Executive, Dato’ Dr Zainal Abidin Mohd Yusof and Fraunhofer‘s Member of the Management Board, Dr. Lorenz Kaiser. The signing, held at the Prime Minister’s Department in Putrajaya, was witnessed

by Prime Minister Datuk Sri Najib Tun Razak. Also present at the signing ceremony were Minister of International Trade and Industry Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Datuk Dr. Ewon Ebin, SME Corp. CEO Dato‘ Hafsah Hashim, and SIRIM Chairman Datuk Jamaliah Kamis.

Fraunhofer is one of Europe’s largest research institutions with more than 23,000 employees and 67 institutes with an annual research budget amounting to 2 billion Euros. The key objective of Fraunhofer is to transform scientific expertise into applications to benefit private and public enterprise and society as a whole.

As a link between academic research and business practice, Fraunhofer contributes considerably to technology transfer between universities and industry.

SIRIM has always significantly contributed to the growth of both large industrial players and the small and medium entrepreneurs by focusing on discovering and developing new technologies that bring about improvements, impact and competitive advantage to the Malaysian industry.

Dr Zainal Abidin said, SIRIM has introduced the Industrial Innovation Model, which adopted and adapted the principles of the Fraunhofer model on applied research for SME development, to push the initiative of SME technology penetration, upgrading and technology audit.

Through this platform, the Malaysian Industrial Innovation Network would be established from qualified Centres of Excellence to pool technical competencies and technologies to provide technological solutions for industries, he said.

“SIRIM will leverage on Fraunhofer network of institutes to increase technology uptake of SMEs, with emphasis on joint research and technical services; exchange of personnel and information; and strategic innovation studies,” he said.

Cooperation between SIRIM and Fraunhofer will encompass on the following fields of key interest: Health and Environment, Mobility and Transportation, Communication and Information, Energy and Resources, Production and Services as well as Safety and Security.

Both research institutes will also cooperate in strategic studies on the basis of shared analysis and regular monitoring of market developments in Malaysia; initialisation and implementation of R&D projects to support the development of regional enterprises; and joint organisation of conferences, workshops and seminars.

The collaboration will be for a period of two years. green+.2014, november-december

9

ENERGY

SIRIM introduces new labels with enhanced security features Launches carbon footprint certification scheme and SIRIM Eco-Innovation Services

By Kevin Wong

S

CARBON FOOTPRINT IRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of SIRIM Berhad, will introduce new design labels for its Product Certification Scheme, with enhanced security features beginning January 1, 2015.

T he i nt ro duc t ion of t he labels is in line with efforts to ensure consumer goods such as electrical, helmets, seat belts and fire protection equipment controlled by the Energy Commission, Department of Road Transport Malaysia and Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, pass the required testings and only use valid labels from SIRIM. The new labels are equipped with enhanced security features including the use of thermochromic ink and new designs; are applicable to all controlled items except telecommunications and multimedia devices that will continue to use the existing labels.

SIRIM Berhad’s Senior Director of Energy and Environment Flag s h i p , Re sea rc h a nd Technology Innovation Division, Dr Chen Sau Soon said: “The carbon footprint label is being used in Thailand, Korea, Japan, China and Europe.

“The scheme is another step forward to reduce CO2 emissions.

A group of companies has successfully received the honour of being among the first manufacturers to have their products certified under the scheme, with carbon footprint information displayed on their products.”

The labelling scheme was developed as a result of the Switch-Asia Grant to SIRIM Berhad for the development of an Environmental Declaration Scheme for Construction and

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SIRIM Eco-Innovation Services was launched by Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Dr. Ewon Ebin in conjunction with the opening of the National Innovation Conference and Exhibition (NICE) 2014 . SIRIM Eco-Innovation Services is aimed at packaging economic and environmental target into business strategies to enable companies gain competitive advantage, new market segment, or new revenue stream.

Building Materials.

Chen added SIRIM also developed a toolkit called the Karbon Kalkulator to enable companies calculate carbon emissions, based on the specific PCRs. The verification of the data collected according to the requirements of each PCR is then done by SIRIM QAS International, as an independent third party certification body. If the results are acceptable, certification will be granted.

SIRIM Berhad began work on the scheme in January last year, with 45 companies invited to participate.

Chen pointed out the response by the companies has been very encouraging, despite participation being on a voluntary basis.

A f te r seve ra l e ngage me nt sessions to explain to them the relevance of this scheme, SIRIM is now assisting them via the Karbon Kalkulator to calculate the carbon figures.

SIRIM QAS International Sustainability Certification Section Head Aminah Ang said the main objective of the carbon footprint labelling scheme was to develop guidelines, tools and supporting mechanisms for product footprinting and

encourage continuous improvement of the environmental performance of products.

“The scheme will provide a quantified greenhouse gas profile for the life cycle of a product to enable better comparisons between products,” she pointed out.

SIRIM ECO-INNOVATION SERVICES

Dr. Chen Sau Soon, Senior Director, Energy and Environment Flagship, Research and Technology Innovation Division, SIRIM Berhad

labelling that meet the needs of the local and international ma r ke t , a nd to c reate t he recognition and preference for sustainable products from small and medium enterprises.

She added that purchasers and users would find the scheme helpful in making product comparison. Companies could make an assessment of the carbon footprint based on the figure printed on the product.

The scheme also aims to provide information for assessing the environmental impact of products over their life cycle and

The newly launched SIRIM EcoInnovation Services is aimed at packaging economic and environmental target into business strategies to enable companies gain competitive advantage, new market segment, or new revenue stream.

The business model that will be developed will identify innovations whether at the product (goods/services) level, market approach and even organisation structure.

The SIRIM Eco-Innovation Se r v ice s wa s lau nc he d by Minister of Science, Technology a nd I n novat ion , Dat u k Dr .

Ewon Ebin in conjunction with the opening of the National Innovation Conference and Exhibition (NICE) 2014 here, Friday.

SIRIM’s President and Chief Executive Dato’ Dr. Zainal Abidin

ENERGY Mohd Yusof said in line with global trends especially in developed countries to decouple the link between economic growth and environmental emissions in an economy, SIRIM has taken steps to develop a new area of service that intertwines economic and environmental benefits.

“The eco-innovation service i ncor p orate s t he bu s i ne s s approach while addressing sustainability challenges,” he said.

“Using existing expertise in eco-materials, eco-design, renewable energy, cleaner production, resource recovery, pollution abatement, accredited and OECD-GLP recognised testing, and environmental management techniques, SIRIM will assist local companies produce eco-products (including services) and enhance their marketability through instruments such as eco-labels and carbon footprint labels,” he added.

Dato’ Dr Zainal Abidin said, it is SIRIM’s aspiration to maximise its

multi-disciplinary human capital and well-equipped facilities, the most recent being the EcoIndustrial Design Centre (EIDC) to contribute towards societal wellbeing and business sustainability.

Companies or organisations that adopted the Eco-Innovation business model, among other things will gain added value such as access to new and emerging markets, being ahead of standards and regulations, attract financial resources, reduce production costs along their value chain, and increase their productivity and technical capacity.

As a service provider of EcoInnovation, SIRIM will enhance business performance and growth through services that include: Pollution Abatement GLP Compliance Carbon Footprint Eco-label Eco-product Eco-design Resource Efficiency

Renewables Cleaner Production Resource Recovery S I R I M a l so of fe r s Te s t i ng S e r v ic e s to s u p p o r t Eco-Innovation which include Non-Clinical Testing (Industrial Chemicals, Cosmetics, Pesticides and Pharmaceuticals), Chemical and Consumer Products Testing, Mate r ia l C ha rac te r i s at ion , Mechanical Testing, Physical Mechanical Testing, and Electrical and Electronics.

Other testing services offered are Energy Efficiency, Plastics Testing, Civil and Construction Testing, Fire Testing, Radio Frequency and Electromagnetic Compatibility; and Microbiological Test.

The SIRIM Eco-Innovation Services also consists of services

by SIRIM’s new Eco-Industrial Design Centre (EIDC) which was set up as cross-cutting enabler to drive the manufacturing and service sectors towards sustainability and global competitiveness.

Dr Ewon: Environmental labeling gaining acceptance

By Kevin Wong THE world’s witnessing various challenges where physical development needs to be in equilibrium with the environment. In relation to this, said Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Dr Ewon Ebin, the world has begun to see the effects and changes caused by environmental crises across the borders. He pointed out this did not only affect the environment and the people’s well-being but also economic development.

“Therefore, the industrial sector should also play a role to reduce the impact of global warming now. This can be done by reducing the carbon footprint by all parties in the country’s efforts to move towards becoming a developed nation to be in line with the sustainable management of natural resources and

biodiversity conservation in the country,” said Dr Ewon in his speech at the 2014 SirimIndustry Night on Nov 21.

“It is in response to this that the Carbon Footprint Certification Scheme was introduced, to reduce the impact of human activity on the climate through carbon footprint. The Carbon Footprint Certification Scheme is based on the Declaration of standard ISO / TS 14067.

“Through these certification schemes, the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the product will be measured using a life cycle approach (LCA) to ensure the product is produced and used in the most sustainable way.”

The scheme was developed due to the growing impact of global warming on the world. It’s without doubt that climate change is closely linked with global warming

and seriously threatened the environment and sustainable development, thereby affecting the welfare of mankind and the global economy.

Accordingly, efforts to develop a certification scheme by SIRIM QAS, a subsidiary of SIRIM Berhad, are expected from industry players and entrepreneurs in the country.

“Environmental labeling is gaining acceptance as an instrument for improving the sustainability of the industry and to prevent pollution, whether in Malaysia or internationally.

“The initiatives to create a certification scheme for sustainable products are also in line with one of the main goals under the 10th Malaysia Plan, namely Shaping Climate Resilient Development Strategies For Malaysia.

“Product certification under the Carbon Footprint

The scheme will provide a quantified greenhouse gas profile for the life cycle of a product to enable better comparisons between products.

– SIRIM QAS International Sustainability Certification section head Aminah Ang

Certification Scheme will to some extent help achieve our national goals to reduce carbon emissions by up to 40 per cent by 2020,” added Dr Ewon. The development of Carbon Footprint Labeling Program in SIRIM started in 2013 through collaboration between SIRIM, Carbon Trust (CT), Association of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), the Federation of Malaysia Green Building (GBC) and the Association of Building Materials Distributor Malaysia (Samdam).

Carbon Footprint Certification Scheme was initially open to local companies in the construction and building materials sector. A total of 45 companies from building materials sector have registered to participate in the pilot program for this certification scheme. This scheme will be phased into other sectors.

Through these certification schemes, these companies can report the performance of their products to customers in terms of product impact on the environment throughout the life cycle of the product.

green+.2014, november-december

11

ENVIRONMENT PART 1

E

NVIRONMENT has always been a concern for Malaysia.

In an interview with G re e n + , Dat u k S e r i G .

Palanivel, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, said they had identified several action plans to improve the environment.

They are: a. Emission Reduction of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) b. D e v e l o p m e n t o f M a l ay s i a n Environmental Performance Index (EPI) c. Utilizing Global Environment Facility Fund (GEF) for Global Environmental Benefits d. Strengthen Environmental Quality Act (1974) e. Strengthen Enforcement Activities f. Enhancing Water Quality g. Enhancing Marine Water Quality h. Enhancing Air Quality i. Protecting Ozone Layer j. Development of Environmental Awareness and Commitment Index k. Enhance Awareness on Environment and Climate Change

11 goals towards a better environment

Implementation of CAAP critical in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and combating global warming

By JOHNSON FERNANDEZ

EMISSION REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GASES (GHG)

Palanivel said the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) was drawn up in line with the “7th Green Strategy” in the National Policy on the Environment. The CAAP presented a set of strategies and indicators that together provide a roadmap to achieve better air quality by reducing the frequency, severity and duration of poor air quality episodes.

In the implementation of the CAAP, apart from achieving good air quality, it also generates co-benefit in terms of reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and combating global warming.

“Major contributors of GHG emissions that are addressed in the Plan include emissions from motor vehicles, industries, forest fires and open burning activities. It is also aimed at contributing to the country’s commitment of achieving a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by the year 2020,” said Palanivel.

Example of efforts to combat climate change outlined in the Plan are as follows:(a) Improvement in emission standards from motor vehicles; (b) Improvement in fuel quality; and (c) Implementation of the Fire Prevention Programme at Peat Lands.

DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI)

Palanivel pointed out Malaysia was enhancing its monitoring network

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to include monitoring of PM2.5 in the ambient air. The full coverage of the network is expected to be completed early 2015. With the establishment of the PM2.5 network, Malaysia will be in a position to provide sufficient information for the PM2.5 component in the Malaysia EPI.

STRENGTHENING THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (1974) AND ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES

Datuk Seri G. Palanivel

Major contributors of GHG emissions that are addressed in the Plan include emissions from motor vehicles, industries, forest fires and open burning activities. It is also aimed at contributing to the country’s commitment of achieving a 40% reduction in carbon intensity by the year 2020.

With regards to strengthening the enforcement activity for the environmental protection and conservation, the Department of Environmental has made some amendments to the Environmental Quality Act, 1974 in 2012.

“We took some pro-active measures,” said Palanivel, listing them down as below.

1. Deterrent Enforcement Enforcement of environmental laws under the Environmental Quality (Amendment) Act 2012 emphasizes the element of prudence and strict enforcement (deterrent measures) with amendments and additional provisions, such as a higher increase in fines under Section 34A (8), a prohibition order and stop work order under Section 34AA and the power to arrest under Section 37C. Through strict implementation of the provisions under EQA and deterrent enforcement, the process of nation-building can be achieved in a sustainable manner through awareness and high commitment of developers and industries on the aspects of environmental management.

ENVIRONMENT

was also held to obtain feedback from stakeholders in the industry to enable compliance with the prescribed limits or standards can be achieved (achievable) and can be effectively enforced by the DOE (enforceable) and to protect public health and safety.

National Park, Terengganu.

2. Self Regulatory Through the provision of Section 49A, such as a competent person and special provisions under the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Wastes) Regulations 2005, Environmental Quality (Sewage) Regulations 2009, Environmental Q u a l i t y ( I n du s t r i a l E f f lu e nt s ) Regulations 2009 and Environmental Quality (Clean Air) Regulations 2014, the developers and industry players need to self - monitor their own process activities and management of the waste so that its complies with the requirement under EQA. Each and every industry or project needs to have dedicated competent persons (recognized by the Department of Environment (DOE) through certification programs) that will be responsible in environmental management of industrial involved segment of scheduled wastes, water and air as to ensure compliance with the standards set limits and without the need for regular inspections by the DOE. This indirectly also optimizes the use of resources, whether in the industry or DOE. Self-monitoring and self-reporting by industrial sectors also involved the use of applications system such as continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS) for monitoring of emissions to air in real time; electronic consignment note (E-CN) for monitoring the production, movement and disposal of scheduled wastes; and monthly discharge monitoring report (MDMR ) for effluent discharge monitoring and reporting. Performance monitoring aspects on pollution control equipment whether water or air is also applied in respect of self-regulatory

program. This is to enable the industry to monitor and ensure that pollution control equipment operates optimally at all times, thereby ensuring compliance with emissions or discharges limit.

Paya Indah Wetlands.

3. Continuous revision of the environmental rules and regulations Revisions, amendments and development of regulations under the Environmental Quality Act 1974 also made holistic s​​ o that it is more comprehensive, effective and consistent with the current technology (best available techniques economically achievable).

Studies also made before any regulations enacted or amended to enable DOE to assess whether limits or standards can be achieved by the industry in line with the availability of technology or technology-related changes related to pollution control. In addition, the stakeholder’s consultation

The river water quality information provided from monitoring program will assist the enforcement in many ways such as identifying possible polluter, assessing their effectiveness and helping in strategizing stronger enforcement in the future.

4. Internal Control In addition to the setting rules and limits or standards under the Environmental Quality Act 1974, the DOE also improve, update and provide training on internal work procedures or Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The DOE given priority and emphasis on investigation of the repeated complaints cases and emergency cases related to pollution, especially those involving the interests of public health and safety including illegal dumping of scheduled waste, illegal discharges into river and open burning. Continuous monitoring and enforcement of the sources of pollution made t​​ hrough early detection approach such as Pollution Sources Survey (PSS). Enforcement is also through the involvement of public which involves active participant from Rakan Alam Sekitar (RAS) which is called Pollution Monitoring Team (Pasukan Pemantau Pencemaran - 3P).

ENHANCING WATER QUALITY

An essential part in enhancing water quality is river quality monitoring.

Consistent and long-term monitoring strategies will provide valuable information on pollutants content levels in rivers. Such information helps to strengthened enforcement activities apart from shaping our future development planning while preserving river water quality at its best state.

“Currently, DOE is implementing the river water quality monitoring through its 891 manual stations and 10 automatic stations covering 477 rivers within 140 identified river basins. Fiftyfive of the manual stations have been set up to monitor river water quality at upstream of selected raw water intake for domestic raw water treatment plants.

“DOE will continue to step up its enforcement on pollution sources and industries discharging effluents into rivers to ensure all related legal requirements stated in Environmental Quality Act, 1974 were successfully complied with. ”The river water quality information provided from monitoring program will assist the enforcement in many ways such as identifying possible polluter, assessing their effectiveness and helping in strategizing green+.2014, november-december

13

ENVIRONMENT stronger enforcement in the future,” added Palanivel.

In 2013, there were 275 (58%) rivers classified as clean, 173 (36%) slightly polluted and 29 (6%) as polluted based on river Water Quality Index. The percentage of clean rivers has slightly decreased by 0.6% compared to previous year. The same trend also has been recorded in the number of polluted rivers which has decreased by 1.9%.

ENHANCING MARINE WATER QUALITY

The Minister said Malaysia implemented various strategies in order to enhance the marine water quality status for beneficial uses in particular to recreation, fishing and marine parks. Efforts undertaken by the Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE) to curb the pollution namely from shipping activities, oil and gas exploration, marine installation and ports activities include: i. Enforcement via Environmental Quality Act, 1974 and Exclusive Economic Zone Act, 1984 to ensure effective control of sources of marine pollution and illegal discharges; ii. Implementation of National Marine Water Quality Monitoring program that consists of 321 monitoring stations that was established at estuaries (76), islands (90) and coastal areas (155). Based on the marine water quality monitoring data in 2013, 30 stations were categorized as poor, 229 stations categorized as moderate, 56 stations categorized as good and 6 stations were categorized as excellent. iii. Established the sustainable development through conservation of resources via Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); iv. Promotion of environmental education and awareness through forums, joint programs and seminars such as National Oil Spill Combat Exercise that engaged other relevant government agencies, port and platform operators as well as industries; v. Inter-Agency and Federal-State Cooperation via joint enforcement; vi. Strengthening the bilateral, regional and international cooperation between littoral states and ASEAN countries; and vii. Implementation of National Oil Spill Combat Plan (NOSCP) during oil spill incidence in Malaysian waters.

ENHANCING AIR QUALITY

As an enforcement agency, the DOE had been enforcing the Environmental Quality Act 1974, to control emissions from various sources such as industries

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National Park, Pahang.

and motor vehicles with the view that Malaysians will enjoy a cleaner, safer environment and at the same time have a better quality of life.

“In addition, the Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) was drawn up in line with the ‘7th Green Strategy’ in the National Policy on the Environment.

The CAAP presents a set of strategies and indicators that together provide a roadmap to achieve better air quality by reducing the frequency, severity and duration of poor air quality episodes,” said Palanivel.

Referring to the recent transboundary haze, Palanivel said Malaysia has urged Indonesia to immediately extinguish land and forest fires in Sumatra that are causing the haze in the country.

The urge was extended to Indonesia in a letter by Department of Environment’s Director-General to her Indonesian counterpart recently. The letter expressed Malaysia’s concern with the

We may not guarantee that the haze will not return, but Malaysia is hopeful that nations affected by the haze would be able to find a joint solution in the spirit of ASEAN and continuously take preventive measures to prevent land and forest fires and the recurrence of transboundary haze.

increase of hotspots which cause haze intermittently in the country since June 2014. The southwest monsoon played a major role in bringing the haze to Malaysia and this was expected to continue until middle of September 2014.

“As transboundary haze pollution remained a major and persistent challenge to ASEAN region, we must not quit from finding concrete solutions and retain our momentum in tackling this perennial problem. ASEAN member nations must acutely implement the action plan at ground for the initiative to witness tangible outcomes.

“We may not guarantee that the haze will not return, but Malaysia is hopeful that nations affected by the haze would be able to find a joint solution in the spirit of ASEAN and continuously take preventive measures to prevent land and forest fires and the recurrence of transboundary haze,” said Palanivel At national level, Malaysia will continue to take all necessary mitigating measures to prevent haze resulting from local sources such as open burning, emissions from motor vehicles and industries and earth works activities.

Malaysia has also prepared a plan of actions to face with a likelihood of El Nino developing in the second half of 2014. The plan of actions includes: multi-agency intervention in curbing open burning and land and forest fires; intensifying law enforcement against offenders; and strengthening our national preparedness and firefighting capabilities.

“In addition, we had reviewed our National Haze Action Plan and the

ENVIRONMENT amended version of the Plan has been approved by the Malaysian Cabinet Ministers in June 2013.

“The amendment to the National Ha ze Ac t ion P la n i s to e n s u re actions taken by the key agencies such the National Security Council, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Department of Environment, Meteorological Department and other relevant government departments are implemented at early stage according to the air quality status and current weather condition.

“The amended Plan will enable the agencies to take more practical and proactive measures in dealing with recurrent deterioration of air quality and haze as well as to prevent the air quality from worsening.

“The action lines will also ensure the public to get accurate information on the air quality status and thus be more alert to take preventive measures in their health care during the haze particularly to the high risk people such as the elderly, children, patients with respiratory problem and asthmatic patients,” said Palanivel.

Under the auspices of the Agreement, ASEAN over the years has developed and implemented numerous activities at the national and regional level in the areas of prevention, monitoring and mitigation of haze. Substantive measures and concrete on-the-ground activities to address land and forest fires in the region include among others:1) implementation of the Regional Haze Action Plan (RHAP); 2) i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f A S E A N Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution; 3) implementation of ASEAN Peatland Management Strategy (2006-2020) to promote sustainable use of peatlands and alternative livelihoods, while preventing land and forest fires as peatlands are a major source of smoke haze in the region; 4) ado pt io n o f z e ro - bu r n i ng / controlled-burning policy and strict enforcement of the policy; 5) e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f Pa n e l o f ASEAN Experts on Fire and Haze Assessment and Coordination to undertake rapid assessment for fire suppression ; and 6) the establishment of ASEAN Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee (MSC) on Transboundary Haze Pollution in 2006 to oversee the plan of action, foremost of which to foster and strengthen regional cooperation to effectively tackle transboundary haze pollution resulting from land and forest fires.

Palanivel said despite preventive

Hills surrounding FRIM are shrouded in mist.

measures, Malaysia recognised more concrete and well-coordinated procedures for immediate fire suppression need to be outlined and adopted

by ASEAN countries. In this regard, Malaysia hosted the inaugural ASEAN Task Force Meeting to Review Alert Levels and Trigger Points on Fire Suppression on June 11-12, 2014 in Kuala Lumpur.

This ASEAN Task Force comprising of Panel of Experts on Fire and Haze Assessment and Coordination is established pursuant to the Environment Ministers’ decision at the 9th Meeting of the Conference of Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (COP-9) held on Sept 25, 2013 in Surabaya, Indonesia. The ASEAN Task Force Meeting agreed to recommend to the upcoming Meeting of Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution (COP) in Lao PDR in September 2014 to adopt the alert levels, trigger points and actions on fire suppression to ensure expeditious response in preventing the occurrence of transboundary haze.

OZONE LAYER PROTECTION

Malaysia acceded to the Vienna Convention and ratified the Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the ozone layer on 29 August 1989.

Kuala Muda Bird Sanctuary.

Being classified as Article 5 country under the Montreal Protocol, Malaysia is qualified for financial assistance from Multilateral Fund to the Montreal Protocol and thus eligible for technical assistance including transfer of technology in phasing out ozone depleting substances to the industries.

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, via Department of Environment, is the focal point for the Montreal Protocol in coordinating the implementation of projects and activities related to phasing out the ozone depleting substances (ODS) in the country. Under Multilateral Fund financial assistance, ODS phase out projects are implemented with support from other international agencies such as United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and World Bank.

Malaysia took early action towards controlling consumption of ODS with prohibition on import of chloroflurocarbon (CFC), halon and carbon since 1st January 2010. Prohibition of Methyl Bromide used for non-Quarantine Preshipment will prohibited by 2015.

The latest Malaysia’s obligation under the Montreal Protocol is to phase out hydrochlorocarbon (HCFC) by 2030 with the development of HCFC Phase out Management Plan (HPMP).

The objectives of the HPMP’s strategy are to facilitate Malaysia’s compliance with control targets for HC FC Con s u m pt ion w it h minimal impacts on the national economy and environment. The implementation involves combination of interventions such as technology transfer investment, policies and regulation, technical assistance, capacity building of industries and enforcement officers, management coordination and monitoring.

The HPMP is currently being implemented with the support from UNDP for HPMP Stage 1 (2012 – 2016) in order to meet the 2013 freeze and 2015 reduction target of 10% of HCFC under the Montreal Protocol. HPMP Stage 2 (2016-2020) is a way forward to address further reduction of HCFC in Malaysia until it reaches its total phase out by 2030. HPMP Stage 2 is still at its preliminary stage and the proposal will be submitted to the Executive Committee of Multilateral Fund for approval on the funding.

PART II: The Minister speaks about Malaysia’s efforts in sustaining the forest and tackling country’s water woes green+.2014, november-december

15

ENERGY

Democratisation of Malaysia’s electricity supply industry using solar photovoltaics Independent & free solar energy or harnessing the sun’s energy using Solar PV for electricity

G

REEN+ had the opportunity to visit and interview Ahmad Shadzli, President, and Chin Soo Mau, Vice-President of the Malaysia Photovoltaic Industry Association (MPIA). MPIA’s ambition is to make Solar PV a mains t rea m e ne r gy sou rce t h rough programmes which are measurable with reasonable payback period. Its possibly the most proven self-sustaining operation and may be one of the most viable solutions for free energy source to power our future generations with democratising of electricity supply.

This is especially true since the energy source is free forever.

Shadzli and Chin were both very enthusiastic about renewable energy, especially their solar PV industry systems, displaying their wide knowledge and experience during our discussion.

They were ever-ready to forward their

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BY ALEXANDER LEE

much-collated statistical reports and propositions on interesting possibilities to use Solar PV as one of the most reliable way of forever harnessing the solar energy from the sun.

Their reasons and concerns are obvious – in the coming decades more than 70% of fuels for electricity generation comes from imported coal and gas. The forecast energy mix issued by government authorities are as follows:Consequently, the propositions were tabulated systematically and are calculated based on scenarios for viable return on investments that are measurable. It will also be meaningful for the electricity supply industry on many fronts in terms of investment, distribution and transmission, independence, sustenance, savings and also job creation and good spin offs for the industry and its alternative use of technology under their proposals.

It is without question using Solar PV through the existing Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) mechanism has benefitted many PV developers, solar farms investors and Rooftop installations for home, commerce and industries for the overall PV Industry. However, they reckon the FIT quota system needs to be more balanced especially in benefitting direct consumers and those who are making contributions for the 1.6% levy on electricity.

Most of the investments for solar farms are capital-intensive projects and usually taken up by the “big boys”, whereas rooftops for homes, industrial and commercial applications were quite limited going by the quota system for FIT applications approvals.

MPIA requested the authorities to democratise the energy supply market to benefit the solar PV Industry.

MPIA is keen to propose applying

ENERGY

Ahmad Shadzli (left) and Chin.

their alternatives for democratization of the electricity supply market that can be achieved by commercializing of Rooftop PVs for all without quota limits with means like the Net Energy Metering Program added in that may avail investors to get their payback from such investments in less than 10 years without recourse to premium FiT payment by SEDA. Their request to the authorities concerned, like KeTTHA and SEDA, to increase the FIT allocation for up to 400MWp by 2017 has been ongoing. These figures are derived from comparing with the geographical region current PV Capacity Targets from 2014, 2020 and 2030 with other countries where it’s very positively applicable and can be done with political will and support for this infinite energy from the sun. (Refer to Fig1).

MPIA presented their case of solar PV market scenario and energy capacity usage with the 2014 Global PV Utilization chart. Malaysia is seen to be only having about 200MWp of installed capacity by end 2014 compared to other countries like China (34,000MWp), Japan (12,000MWp), Korea (1,500MWp), Thailand (800MWp) and Taiwan (~ 350MWp).

Comparing 2014 against 2020, there are exponential percentage growth projections in capacity ranging from nearly 300% for China (100,000MWp), Japan (28,000MWp, 230% increase), Korea (~6,000MWp or~400% increase), Thailand (3,000MWp or 375% increase), Taiwan (4,500MWp or 1285% increase) and Singapore increasing from 45MWp in 2014 to 600MWp (1,300% increase) by 2020 projection out of which 350MW ( or 770% increase) are designated to be investments by the Singapore government itself.

These figures signify the convincing commitment by major Asian countries including our neighbour’s commitment to invest in the future on PV, putting

Business Spin Offs of PV Industry Local Manufacturing of Solar PV Components Economic Benefits

RM 300 million for domestic electrical/ electronic industries

RM 300 million for local steel manufacturing industry JOB CREATION

RM 150 million for local and international consultancy

DC Circuit Breakers, DC fuses, DC SPd’s

6000 new generation of highly skilled workers 600 technicians /supervisors 100 Engineers

RM 45 million for R & D and training

confidence in solar energy. By harnessing the energy from the sun, it is without doubt the way forward, as it is safe, independent and one of the most plentiful, reliable and non-depleting resources. No inhibitions or concerns of inflationary costs like feed-stocks purchasing, preparation or transportation and distribution cost or from any untoward price increase or crisis of a finite nature.

Moreover, it may be in the long term the most suitable green solution to reduce costs and CO2 emissions. It will also benefit the Electricity supply players by relieving them from the need for high investment costs for utilities planting up, reducing need for heavy grid distribution investments and maintenance costs and reducing

Malaysia Current PV Target and Comparison with other Countries Cur rent cumulative I nstalled capacity (MWp) in 2014

Target Capacity in 2020 (MWp)

China

34,000

100,000

Japan

12,000

28,000

India

2,200

20,000

Korea

1500

~6,000

Thailand

800

3,000

Geographic R egion

Taiwan

~350

4500

Malaysia

200

FI T - 400 (2017)

Singapore

45

600 (350 MWp

by Govt)

Australia

3,800

2,800

Target capacity in 2030 (MWp)

Target % Solar PV Contribution To Energy mix 20%

53,000

10%

6,300

4.8% in 2025

23,000

20% by 2020

green+.2014, november-december

17

ENERGY energy loss due to distribution of energy through the grid.

Chin indicated in The World PV Market scenario, at present in the beginning of 2014, Malaysia had 100MW installed. It will have a cumulative capacity of 150MW (as at Sept 2014) or 180GWh/year that is only 0.17% of National Electricity Demand compared to the average Global indicators of 43.5GWp installed with cumulative 139GWp (2013) or 160TWh/ year indicating a 0.85% usage of Global Electricity Demand, whereby IEA forecasted growth to 11% of global electricity demand by 2030.

With 85% of Solar PV modules being manufactured (36GWp) in Asia, whereby China and Taiwan are the major producers, Malaysia is still contributing about ~3,800MWp (approx.

10.5% ). It is perceived that Malaysia should also take a lead in PV installations and benefit from Solar energy as one of the major producing countries in Asia.

The Malaysian Photovoltaic Industry Association would like to suggest the following: NET Energy Metering (NEM)-Allow the Commercial and Industrial players to produce their own electricity but using the NEM methodology to have independence and security of energy supply.

The idea of net metering came about as electricity generation from RE resources by users has become more competitive compared with that from conventional fuels (mainly coal and gas). The most important of these initiatives have been the growing competitiveness of grid-connected solar PV systems, although other renewable energy sources such as biogas, biomass and small to mini-hydro can also qualify.

PV is a rapidly growing RE resource due to its substantial and sustained cost reduction over the years resulting from its production volume “explosion” and technology development. PV provides the option of a “clean, green & indigenous” source of electricity generation, with virtually unlimited generation capacity. It also has the advantage of generating its output during the national system peak demand period, just when it is most needed and most costly to generate from conventional generation sources like Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs).

In the Malaysian context, Net Energy Metering (NEM) has now become a very viable option to complement (or even displace) the current Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) mechanism as the latter is seen as an undesirable (and even socially

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Proposed Strategies and Future PV Landscape for Malaysia Commercial and Industry - NET ENERGY METERING (2015 – 2025) 2015-2020 - With Investment Tax Allowance (1.75GW) 2021-2025 - Without Investment Tax Allowance (5 GW) 2026-2035 - Without Investment Tax Allowance (22.4 GW) Extension of FIT +NEM – Individual/Residential Quota Only (2016-2025) 2016-2025 – 10 years Power Purchase Agreement (1.65GW) - 200,000 rooftops 2026-2035 – Net Energy Meter ( 8.45GW) – 1,000,000 rooftops PV Utility Scale Installation - Future

unjust) burden on the electricity consumers who have to pay for the FiT’s “top-up” tariff. Moreover, the RE Fund levy limitation constrains more rapid expansion of the PV market due to the limitations of available fund from the 1.6% levy imposed on the affected electricity customers. These are contributions from consumers.

The NEM scheme would give greater opportunities to the consumers concerned to generate their own electricity from RE resources, especially solar PV for their own consumption thereby hedging against any future tariff increase.

MPIA also proposed strategies and future PV landscape for Malaysia for Commercial and Industrial market with NET Energy Metering including FIT + NEM for individual /Residential installations as per above self explanatory diagram.

Utilities may perceive NEM as a major threat but it could actually benefit all parties –from the energy users or customers to the utilities and the country as a whole.

Guiding Principles for Net Energy Metering (NEM)

The following guiding principles should be considered for

the adoption of the NEM mechanism: Self-Generation and Access to the Utility Grid: Qualified retail electricity customers should have the right to install RE generation facilities such as rooftop solar PV systems at their premises and connect them to the utility grid without any discrimination.

Value of Solar PV generated Electricity: Rooftop owners of solar PV generation systems can offer many benefits to the electricity supply system and the nation. These include: ➲ Reduction in utility capacity and energy generation requirements, especially during the peak demand period that coincides with the PV generation profile. ➲ Reduction in distribution system losses. ➲ Avoidance or deferral of distribution and transmission system reinforcement investments. ➲ Hedging against fuel price volatility especially for imported fossil fuels. ➲ Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

These benefits should be quantified to determine the true value of solar PV generated energy delivered to the grid.

Capacity Limit on Rooftop PV Installations: No capacity limit should be imposed on the total rooftop PV generation as it forms “generation at point of use” and is a valuable addition to the national electricity generation fuel mix.

However, the terms and conditions can be considered for NEM applicable as follows with a proposed NO QUOTA LIMIT : ➲ Maximum Installation capacity:

ENERGY 80% of declared maximum demand ➲ Energy Export Limit: Shall not be more than 25% of energy imported ➲ Export Tariff: 10% lower than the import tariff. ➲ Access to Billing Data: Billing statements from utilities should clearly show the consumer’s total electricity use and the net energy exported to the utility grid. ➲ Metering Equipment: The NET Meter system should be introduced under a new amendment for the RE Act ➲ Customer Classes: All customers should be able to participate in net energy metering.

Proposed Net Energy Metering (NEM) Programme Ba se d on t he a b ove Gu id i ng Principles, MPIA wish to propose the following: A consistent and pragmatic NEM program starting from 2015. The details below show proposals for the first 10 years up to 2025. A comprehensive review of the NEM will be made during and after 2025 to ensure its effectiveness and fulfill its intended benefits.

Based on Suruhanjaya Tenaga’s long term load demand forecast as contained in Peninsular Malaysia Electricity Supply Industry Outlook 2013, we hereby propose the possible annual PV capacity installations for the period 2015 to 2025, as follows:General Cost / Benefits Analysis of NEM The proposed capacity of rooftop PV systems is planned to be limited to 30% of the national electricity system maximum demand to shave the system peak and reduce the need for costly peak period generation plant like OCGT. This means that the maximum capacity rooftop PV systems can be as high as 6,634 MWp by 2025. [See Table 1 above] Foregone revenues for PETRONAS to provide gas for power generation will be eliminated as gas subsidies are removed.

The peak period energy generation cost to a utility is normally well above the average retail selling price. Thus TNB should see a net gain in profits even though its overall revenue may drop slightly. This is because every KWh sold during the peak period that is generated from conventional generation plant would have cost more than the average revenue derived for the sale.

TNB will also gain in reducing the consumption of natural gas in running Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) during peak demand, as solar PV will meet it during that

TABLE 1

Forecast Forecast Proposed Cumulative Cumulative Contribution

Annual Annual MD Annual PV PV Installed Cumulativex from

Electricity NEM (MWp) under NEM generation solar PV

Sales (GWhr) (MWp) from PV

(GWhr)*

(MW)

(%) 2015 108,167 17,671 150 150 93.75 0.08% 2016 112,586 18,338 195 345 309.38 0.25% 2017 116,540 18,926 244 589 583.59 0.46% 2018 120,780 19,558 305 893 926.37 0.70% 2019 124,788 20,149 381 1,274 1,592.87 1.17% 2020 129,482 20,847 476 1,750 1,890.42 1.34% 2021 133,640 21,456 595 2,345 2,559.90 1.77% 2022 136,832 21,908 744 3,089 3,396.75 2.29% 2023 138,201 22,067 930 4,019 4,442.81 2.97% 2024 141,227 22,490 1,162 5,181 5,750.38 3.77% 2025 144,188 22,900 1,453 6,634 7,384.86 4.75%

Note: * the specific energy yield is assumed @ 1,250 KWhr/KWp period.

Saving in CO2 emissions. Assuming on average, a conventional fossil fired power plant emits 0.70 ton/ MWhr of CO2, the total reduction in CO2 emission amounts to 5.17 million tons in the 10-year period.

Improves energy security for the country as it reduces country dependence on gas and coal.

The new employment created by the PV industry will be at least 40,000 direct/indirect employment and over RM10 billion of economic activities by 2025.

Encourage growth of local components manufacturing capacity. For example the current solar PV manufacturers i.e Malaysia Solar Resources, TSI and Panasonic have a combined manufacturing capacities of about 500 MWp annually that could provide critical support in meeting the expected increase in demand when the NEM programme is fully implemented. So are other industries such as manufacturing of other components such as solar cables, SPD’s, steel and Aluminum industry.

Proposed Fiscal Incentives for Net Energy Metering

To encourage commercial and residential owners to invest in the PV system for their own consumption, the government is requested to provide the following incentives, in addition to the existing Capital Allowance (CA) made available to incentivise the industry, that is Investment Tax Allowance (ITA): Exemption of import duties of major PV system components such as PV modules and inverters.

If these fiscal incentives are offered as a whole complete package, commercial and industrial sectors could get

their payback from such investments in less than 10 years without recourse to premium FiT payment by SEDA. MPIA, therefore, proposes that the government offers to commercial and industrial premise owners a complete package of fiscal incentives combined as listed above.

Concluding remarks

MPIA believes that the implementation of this Net Energy Metering mechanism will bring about enormous benefits to the utility, PV industry and to the country. MPIA also proposes that the programme should be implemented as soon as possible and should be in full swing in 2015 if possible. It will help to reduce the need to install or operate peak load generation capacity and reduce the need for costly peak period energy generation from OCGTs. MPIA has the following wish list: All future buildings designs must be Solar ready Investment Tax Allowance and Capital Allowance to be extended to 2020 Tax Rebates for individual investments for Solar PV Rooftop owners To allocate more funds human capital building especially for human resource competency training in the Solar PV Industry Incentivise the Local manufacturing of Solar PV system components such as solar cables, DC fuses/DC breakers, customized PV modules for buildings Extension of FIT for Residential Installations only(Proposed contributions from PETRONAS, TNB & IPPs for a special GREEN FUND for these installations) green+.2014, november-december

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4:56 PM

2014 KeTTHA EXCELLENCE AWARDS

KEA recognises best in energy, green technology and water sectors Aim to encourage excellence service, innovation and entrepreneurship

PROUD WINNERS (from left): Datuk Ir Hj Mohd Khalid Nasir (CEO, Syarikat Air Melaka Bhd), Datuk Abdul Taib Bachek (Vice-chairman, SAMB), Dato Seri DiRaja Mahdzir Khalid (Deputy Minister, KeTTHA), Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili (Minister, KeTTHA), Datuk Loo Took Gee (Secretary-General, KeTTHA), Hj Isnin AMan (CEO, Kumpulan Melaka Bhd), Datuk Hj Radzali Hassan (Group Managing Director, Harta Maintenance SB)

T

H E Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water ( Ke T T H A ) on Sat u rday awarded Kumpulan Melaka Berhad, Harta Maintenance Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad as winners of the KeTTHA Excellence Awards 2014 (KEA) at a ceremony held in conjunction with the 5th International Greentech Eco Products Exhibition and Conference 2014 (IGEM 2014).

KEA, which is in its second year, recognises Malaysian companies that have excelled and made outstanding contributions in the fields of energy, green technology and water sectors.

In line with the government agenda to spur the three sectors, KEA aims to encourage excellent service, innovation and entrepreneurship to spur growth in these sectors. Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, in his speech read by Minister of Energy, Green Technology and Water, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Maximus Johnity Ongkili, said the KeTTHA Excellence Awards 2014 was significant as it recognized achievements made in the energy, green technology and water industry, especially in its role in increasing the standard of living and well-being of the people.

“More so, as reliable and quality electricity and water supply contribute to a more comfortable living. At the same time, I believe it is time for all of us to adopt green practices and lifestyle in line with rising environmental concerns,” said Muhyiddin.

“This importance that we have placed in these sectors is reflected in KeTTHA slogan which is Water is Life, Energy is Wealth and Green Technology is the Game Changer.”

The three award categories under KEA are the Energy Excellence Award, the Green Technology Excellence Award and the Water Excellence Award. A total of 53 submissions were received.

Given its commitment to transform the Melaka Historical City into a green technology city by the year 2020, Kumpulan Melaka Berhad was awarded the Energy Excellence Award for its 5MWp Solar

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(From left) Datuk Ir Hj Mohd Khalid Nasir (CEO, Syarikat Air Melaka Bhd), Datuk Abdul Taib Bachek (Vice-chairman, SAMB)

ROLL OF HONOUR Energy Excellence Award Kumpulan Melaka Berhad Green Technology Excellence Award Harta Maintenance Sdn Bhd Water Excellence Award Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad

GreenTech CEO Ir Ahmad Hadri (2nd right) poses with (from left) Harta Maintenance Sdn Bhd’s Faizal Moiduny (Operations Director), Datuk Radzali (Group Managing Director) and Jamiah Jaafar (Business Development Director).

Farm Project. The evaluation of projects submitted for the Energy category was based on creativity, innovation, sustainability, impact and accountability.

Harta Maintenance Sdn Bhd, a total solutions provider for building maintenance which offers a range of green cleaning products and equipment, bagged the Green Technology Excellence Award.

Under this category, submissions were evaluated based on their effectiveness in the implementation of low carbon strategies and promoting future green technology initiatives that could transform the landscape of green business.

Finally, Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad won the Water Excellence Award for successfully reducing the Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate in the state of Melaka - from 33.9 per cent to 22.0 per cent over a period of five years from 2008.

Through its initiatives the company has

successfully conserved a total of 97.8 million metric cube of water during this period. The projects submitted under the Water category were evaluated based on operational effectiveness, efficiency, delivery on consumer services, community engagement, technological impact, innovation for sustainability and environmental conservation initiative.

KEA is organised by the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water, as part of its continuous efforts to recognise the commitment and excellence rendered by Malaysian companies within the energy, green technology and water sectors. The judging panel that evaluated the 15 nominees for KEA 2014, included the Sustainable Energy Development Authority, Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara and Malaysian Green Technology Corporation.

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2014 MCCC-AEET GREEN AWARD

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ALAYSIA’S Alwin Long Su Wen emerged first runnerup in the annual 2014 Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) and Asean Academy of Engineering And Technology (AEET) Green Award held on Nov 24 in Kuala Lumpur.

The winner was Brunei’s Queenie Chong Chin Yee, while the second runnerup was Ophath Sengmany of Laos.

Alwin is Founder &CEO/CTO of ATECH Malaysia.

Queenie is an Education Officer with Brunei’s Ministry of Education.

MCCC and AAET have collaborated since 2011 to further promote the green growth concept in among Asean members by initiating the annual MCCC-AAET Green Award.

The joint efforts are to achieve their goals to promote the business and technology communities in achieving inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development and also promoting the development of innovative products or solutions that meet the goals of environmental sustainability.

Also the Green Award emphasises that the inculcation of green awareness must be started from a younger age and for the younger generation to play a leading role in green activities.

At the same time, the Green Award is also to recognise outstanding young green technopreneurs and young contributors to the Green Growth in the Asean region.

The participants were judged based on three main components: Extensive business and technology network By leveraging on the extensive network of both MCC and AAET, the green messages are effectively promoted to the ASEAN communities in every member states, including the less developed CLMV countries.

Comprehensiveness and inclusiveness The Award promotes and recognises

About Alwin

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Alwin (kneeling, left) with other winners and participants pose with MCCC and AEET officials

Alwin does Malaysia proud He specialises in R&D and commercialisation for low carbon building materials and sustainable living concepts for rural communities contribution from a wide range of green workers, among them are scientists, engineers, researchers, government officers, entrepreneurs, journalists and NGO members.

Continuous action The Green Ambassadors will visit ASEAN member countries to promote green concept and environmental sustainability to the young people.

The Green Award has became an effective platform to connect green workers, scientists, researchers and technopreneurs of Asean countries for further deliberation on the sustainable development of the region.

Alwin is Founder &CEO/CTO of ATECH Malaysia.

He specialises in R&D and commercialization for low carbon building materials and sustainable living concepts for rural communities.

His major project entitled “SLIM” (Sustainable Living In Malaysia), which is in partnership with a university and Technology Park Malaysia (TPM) is to develop a sustainable

november-december, green+.2014

Simultaneously, the joint project between MCCC and AEET has also created a replicable model for the science, technology and innovation (STI) and industry linkages in achieving a greener and sustainable development in Asean and other regions, particularly among South-South countries.

The other country winners were: Dr Seng Bunrith (Cambodia), Wai Wai Hlaing (Myanmar), Kristine Rodulfo Tolod (Philippines), Mark Cheng Jin Quan (Singapore) and Do Huu Dao (Vietnam).

A C e r t i f i c ate o f M e r it wa s awarded to Thailand’s Nuttapong Phadungpattanapong.

living environment for rural areas.

Alwin is also a service provider who develops green business models and training programmes on sustainable technical workforce for MNCs. He is also actively advocating green concepts and green entrepreneurship through various camps, conferences, lectures, training and NGO activities.

AUTOMOBILE

Charging stations in KL soon Mindset of associating vehicles with social status must change

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uala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will soon install c ha r g i ng s tat ion s for electric cars at strategic locations around the city.

Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal said: “DBKL has been working with two car companies for the purpose, in living with its objective to reduce carbon emissions.”

He said the charging stations would be made available to the public.

“DBKL was also scrutinizing more areas where they could reduce parking lots based on the reliability of public transportation,” he added after after taking part in the 12th KL Car Free Morning event (KLCFM).

Ahmad Phesal added DBKL will allow up to 30% of parking space if it was within 200m of reliable transportation points for new developments.

He added the mindset of associating vehicles with social status must change, however there has been a growing trend of the high-income earners investing in bicycles.

The mayor understands that it can be dangerous to cycle on the city roads and that is why the council are in the

process of installing designated bicycle lanes.

In regards of the success of KLCFM, Ahmad Phesal was very happy with the initiative that has fostered unity among people while having a healthy lifestyle.

He then added there will be more community-centred programmes next year, in line with Kuala Lumpur being chosen to host the third Governors and Mayors of Asean Capitals conference in 2015.

Feather in MPSJ’s cap The Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) was awarded the Gold Award for Environmental Best Practice 2014 for its “My Biomass Way” project at the International Green Apple Awards (IGAA) last month.

MPSJ deputy president Abdullah Marjunid received the award at a ceremony held at The House of Parliament in London.

He said the council’s aim of participating in IGAA was to improve the skills and expertise of MPSJ staff , to work towards making the township of international standards and introduce MPSJ to the world stage.

Abdullah said: ”The award recognised MPSJ’s efforts to form the MPSJ Green Town Action Plan 2030 with the aim of creating an environmentally-friendly, clean and comfortable township, as well as the greenest town in Malaysia.”

Initiatives under the biomass project included organic-waste composting, anaerobic digestion biogas, vermicomposting, food waste separation and cooking oil recycling. green+.2014, november-december

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EVENTS

‘Change towards greener lifestyle’ Malaysia managed to reduce more than 33 per cent carbon emission intensity

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A L AY S I A N G r e e n Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia) and Green Purchasing N e t w o r k M a l ay s i a (GPNM) organised the International Conference On Green Procurement and Eco-Labeling at Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral on Dec 2.

The event was officiated by the Energy, Green Technology and Water Deputy Minister, Dato’ Seri DiRaja Mahdzir Khalid.

During the deputy minister’s opening speech, he declared green procurement plays an important role as a catalyst for socio-economic development of the country, where government procurement accounts for 12% to 15% to the Gross Domestic Product.

Recognising the importance of the Green Procurement Government in improving the competitiveness between local companies, five ministries and agencies were selected as pilots for the implementation of the Pilot Project Implementers Green Procurement Government.

The ministries namely the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Health Malaysia, the Economic Planning Unit, the Prime Minister’s Office (UPE , JPM), and the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA). A total of six groups of environmentally friendly

A stall promoting Green concept

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Dr Chen Sau Soon of Sirim

Dr Gerhard Weih Participants at the seminar listen to a speech from one of the delegates.

products were also selected for implementation of pilot projects GGP such as ICT equipment, Energy Efficient Lighting, Cement and Paint / coatings, Paper and Cleaning Services.

In the meantime, the government also recognized Eco-Labeling as one important instrument to support the implementation of green procurement.

With the eco-labeling, it will help consumers make more informed choices by providing information to understand the products and services and its impact on the environment.

Ke T T H A t h rou gh G re e n Te c h Malaysia has introduced MyHijau Program, MyHijau Mark and MyHijau Directory which is an initiative to promote the production and use of environmentally friendly products and services among industry players and consumers (private household).

At present, there are three agencies in Malaysia namely SIRIM Berhad, Energy Commission (EC) and the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) that provide certification schemes on the environment. The Ministry also plans to involve the participation of other agencies such as the Malaysian Good Agriculture Practices (MyGAP) and Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme in their products and services to expand the use of environmentally friendly labels in their related industries.

Mahdzir also informed that with all the efforts and initiatives that have been implemented, Malaysia has so far managed to reduce more than 33% carbon

emission intensity although there are some constraints and obstacles faced in meeting the promises made in 2009.

The KeTTHA deputy minister also stressed that in order to achieve the target of 40% reduction in carbon emissions intensity, people’s lifestyles must change through the Renewable Energy generation, promote the use of green transportation and green growth industries. For this purpose, the government will continue to encourage the introduction of more green products and green building as well as a facilitator for the development of electric vehicles.

He also noted that efforts towards a green economy involving all parties, people’s lifestyles today need to change towards greener lifestyles of various aspects. He also urged Malaysians to work together with the government in realising Malaysia as a country that has a sustainable and green community and to be passed on to the future generations.

The International Conference on Green Procurement and Eco-Labeling programme, which lasted for two days, include seven plenary sessions and accompanied by a panel discussion with Q & A from within and outside the country to help participants understand the concept of green procurement and eco-labeling and also sharing with the them the best practices in addressing issues and challenges associated with the implementation of green procurement and eco-labeling. .

EVENTS

Royal flavour HRH Princess Astrid represented the King of Belgium at the event

Princes Astrid

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RH Princess Astrid added a touch of class to the Sustainable Urban Development, Cleantech Solutions For Modern Cities seminar at Mandarin Oriental on Nov 24.

Princess Astrid represented the King of Belgium.

It was acknowledged at the seminar that by 2050, there would be 1.4 billion people living in Asian cities.

The increase in urban population is also happening in Malaysia. At present, three out of four Malaysians live in an urban environment, and this ratio continues to increase.

This growth gives rise to new opportunities and challenges.

With urbanisation there is economic growth, leading to an explosion in water usage, energy demand, production of waste, as well as carbon emissions.

As the world is experiencing a new era of urbanisation and industrialisation, and many emerging economies are suffering from a rapidly deteriorating environment, there is growing demand for knowledge, products and concepts to take on these challenges in waste,

water and energy.

The seminar also discussed management of solid waste and material management, water management, sustainable energy, waste to energy (W2E) and clean air.

Germany, UK share experiences with Malaysian counterparts EXPERTS from Malaysia, Germany and the United Kingdom got together in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 25 to help shape Malaysia’s journey towards implementing greener, lowcarbon modes of mobility.

The Sustainable Mobility Conference at Sheraton Imperial Hotel was jointly organised by the German embassy in Kuala Lumpur, the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur and the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The conference aimed at bringing policies, guidelines and practices from both Germany and the UK closer to Malaysian stakeholders and decision-makers. The conference also served as a platform for experts and panellists to share their knowledge and experiences with the audience.

The opening keynote address by Dato’ Sri Abdul Wahid bin Omar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department responsible for the Economic Planning Unit, was followed by a number of experts presentations, panel discussions and workshops and finally ending

with a discussion on the future implications of Malaysia’s sustainable mobility agenda.

The conference coincided with the Malaysian government’s new ‘National Automotive Policy’ (NAP) announced in January this year, which partly focuses on strengthening the energy-efficient vehicles industry. The government has also announced the gradual removal of fuel and electricity tariff subsidies, thereby stressing the importance of sustainability. In addition, a vision to strengthen the public transportation system is being implemented in phases.

Malaysia’s aims of becoming a highincome nation by 2020 and at the same time reducing the carbon intensity of its economy by 40 per cent must converge into developing a sustainable, affordable and efficient transportation system, within and between its major cities.

Germany and the UK have both developed innovative and far-reaching policies to support sustainable mobility. Energy efficient technical solutions from car manufacturers

and suppliers, integrated transportation concepts and renewable energy solutions have made individual and public transport more efficient. At the same time, carbon emissions have been reduced substantially.

In order to achieve Malaysia’s goals, sustainability and industrial development can go hand in hand. Stakeholders ranging from policy makers to governing authorities, research and development bodies to industry players and consumers are required to work together to drive this long term goal.

Against this background this jointly organised one-day conference focussed on all forms of energy-efficient transport and sustainability solutions policies and best practice examples from Germany and the UK along with those from Malaysia were presented and innovative solutions to the common challenges were evaluated. The results shall contribute to the formulation of proposals that will support Malaysia’s vision of achieving a higher sustainability in the transportation sector. green+.2014, november-december

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Malaysia – a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony

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had the wonderful privilege of spending 11 days in Kuala Lumpur this October. If I were asked to summarise my impressions, I would use two words: beautiful potential.

I believe that Malaysia in all its beauty holds the key to Asia’s green future.

I have lived in the global melting pot of the United States all of my life.

Through my work with Green Project Management® (GPM®), I have traveled throughout Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia experiencing the best of what each culture has to offer.

Looking at Malaysia through the eyes of a global citizen, I see something special. The best of Chinese and Indian influences combines with the rich indigenous Malay culture to create a unique gem of a nation. In “The Way Forward,” the former prime minister Dato Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad called it “a confident Malaysian society infused by strong moral and ethical values”.

In an honorary doctorate acceptance message at the University of Malaysia in August 2010, Daisaku Ikeda stated that “the key to building a peaceful and humane global society in the 21st century lies in developing our ability to respect diversity and learn from

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Malaysia’s great green potential Best of Chinese and Indian influences combines with the rich indigenous Malay culture to create a unique gem of a nation

By Dr. Joel Carboni President and founder of Green Project Management

different values and cultures.”

This is what I believe is the promise to Southeast Asia and the rest of the world that Malaysia represents.

I titled this article “Malaysia’s Great Green Potential” as the foundational building blocks necessary to realize monumental achievements towards a green Malaysian economy. Now, it is a matter of bringing them to fruition.

The budget that was recently released is one such aspect and is critical that the government serves as a driver. The 2015 budget provides opportunities for growth and development, the advancement of women, enhanced job opportunities, and improved education. All these components will be critical in moving Malaysia up the

Value Chain. One such measurement to look for is a higher ranking on the UNDP Human Development list where Malaysia is currently 62nd (neighboring states Singapore 9th, Thailand 89th, and Indonesia 108th).

Referring back to Dr. Mahathir’s paper and the nine challenges he presented, one comes to the forefront in the context of unlocking Malaysia’s great green potential; the challenge of ‘establishing a scientific and progressive society, a society that is innovative and forward-looking, one that is not only a consumer or technology but also a contributor to the scientific and technological civilization of the future’.

The keys to achieving these goals can be found in two places. The first is

COLUMN in the transition towards a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy that will reshape the labour market and open new opportunities for job growth.

Malaysia’s outlook towards 2020 for renewable energy is expected to create RM70 billion and support in upwards of 50,000 jobs while reducing carbon emissions by 40%.

The commitment to achieving these targets looms large as globally, the relationship between sustainable development, green growth and good labor market performance, while not automatic, are mutually reinforcing.

Investing in renewable energy, waste management, sustainable forestry, green technology and sustainable business practices can serve as economic drivers, stimulate job creation and national development while mitigating environmental and social challenges.

The second, and what I believe is the most critical of the two, exists on a fundamental level and must become part of the cultural landscape for business nationally: sustainable business practices.

In order for Malaysia to become a fully developed and high-income nation, national corporations must invest in their greatest asset, their workforce.

They must also look across its borders at sustainability leaders among counterparts from other nations, set goals and be determined to raise the bar locally. The number of organizations that practice sustainability reporting through the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) needs to increase, as well as the participation in the UN Global Compact

by Malaysian CEOs. This establishes ties to global entities that drive sustainable development directly and naturally elevate Malaysia’s status among developed nations.

The additional benefits of having a national increase in sustainability reporting will be realized in greater agility in planning, monitoring, and evaluating the effectiveness of national policies, as well as establishing a firm trajectory up the global value chain. For the corporations, through compareand-contrast activities, they will establish market differentiation and investor and shareholder confidence while increasing organizational maturation.

There is a quote that has been popping up on social media that depicts a CEO and CFO holding a conversation where the CEO asks, “What happens if we train our employees and they leave?” The CFO responds, “What happens if we don’t and they stay?” This is a great message about investing in your best assets: your workforce.

To develop OCC, organizations must first have the organizational structure in place that encourages a systems approach to thinking by breaking the rigid silo approach and therefore has the entire organization in mind and the buy-in from all levels when making critical decisions.

Further establishing organizational capacity for change requires continuous improvement and repeatedly asking these questions: Where are we? – Do we have a benchmark that outlines how our organizational systems approach change initiatives, and are they sustainable?

What is working and what is not working?

– This is self-explanatory, but oftentimes, organizations that operate in silo capacities do not have the objectivity to look inward and change what is holding them back.

Where do we want to be? – Set a clear target for productivity and sustainability. The two go hand in hand.

What do we need to change, and what are the key priorities? - Establish a roadmap that includes short- and long-term goals, as well as

quick wins.

How will we get there? – Work with a third party to assist in performing an assessment with health checks.

How will we know we are there? - Establish key performance indicators (KPI) and a level to achieve against an international rating system.

Periodic health checks using external evaluation systems such as the GPM® PSM3™ Sustainability Assessment Model supports organizations in building the capacity to make the right decisions. In order to achieve the benefits that drive an organization upward, it can leverage what works well across the enterprise and establish key metrics that the organization can measure, manage, and ultimately achieve.

The developed nations of the world are fast realizing the gains by investing in sustainability and with Asean Free Trade Agreement (Afta) coming into full effect in 2015, Malaysia can capitalize by increasing its collective capacity for change by investing in the assets that are already in place, emphasizing a culture of innovation. This will transform potential into momentum and reality.

An even more powerful message could read, “What happens if we invest in our employees, and we are not change ready and therefore can’t benefit?” or, “Why are we investing in training our employees in areas that are not relevant or a priority for our organization right now?”

In a 2013 a survey of 1000 CEOs was conducted by Accenture and the United Nations Global Compact that spanned 27 industries in 103 countries, 93% regarded sustainability as a new key for business success.

These outcomes indicate that there is little argument that organizations are realizing that they must become more sustainable and “get in shape,” the question that is most commonly asked is “how?” The key lies in aligning organizational priorities to strategy and expectations. Growing towards a sustainable model requires organizational capacity for change (OCC). green+.2014, november-december

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EVENTS

Building for a better tomorrow Inaugural Green Buildings & Parks World 2014 designed to provide platform for developers, professionals and government bodies to converge and share

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oncern about the environment and the renewability of our resources, with global warming and changes in our weather pattern of late is currently at the heart of the real estate and urban planning industry. The development of innovative technologies greatly affects our daily lives and offers a wealth of new possibilities. This also applies to today’s buildings and those of tomorrow.

The emerging technologies for the development of energy-efficient buildings are attracting consumers and businesses to demand for green development. The trend is clear: new materials, pioneering technologies for utilizing renewable energy and the use of landscape and parks are significant innovations in construction and building technologies of recent years.

The inaugural Green Buildings & Parks World 2014 that was staged on December 1-3, 2014 at the Borneo Convention Centre in Kuching, Sarawak was designed to provide a platform for developers, professionals and government bodies to converge and share, learn and collaborate to improve the green buildings and parks of their

To share and exchange ideas on latest designs and innovations in green buildings and eco-building materials To identify key trends and issues confronting the sustainable development growth for the region’s green buildings To provide networking and build business opportunities whilst engaged in discussion on pertinent issues with industry experts

Technical Tour: Welcome Remarks by Ir. Simon Loh, Manager (Corporate Shared Services - Property), Sarawak Energy Berhad

countries. The areas of discussion including: Latest Green Certification Criteria and Scores Eco-building Materials Green Building Design Innovation Landscapes & Parks in Green B

uildings Green Incentives for Developers The objective To provide an overview on the latest green certifications criteria and scores of the region’s green buildings

VIPs and Guest of Honour officiating the launch of Green Buildings & Parks World 2014 (from left): Mike Cannon, Managing Director of Sarawak Convention Bureau, Safri Zainudin, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Communications Sarawak, Maria Boey, President of Institute of Parks and Recreation Singapore and Dato Sri Michael Manyin Ak. Jawong, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Communications Sarawak, Paul Martin Yeo, CEO of Confexhub Group.

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The highlights A High Calibre Summit The Comprehensive Services Showcase Business Matching Meetings Post-conference Technical Tours Benefits Unrivalled access to a target audience of developers, consultants, engineers, manufacturers, policy makers, regulators and captains of the industry A flagship event to exchange ideas with the industry experts while being updated on the latest policies, green certifications, regulations and developments in the green building industry A platform for networking and establishing contacts for future business collaborations

Deep discussion: Green+ Managing Editor Johnson Fernandez chaired the session on Green Incentives & Financing Options For Green Infrastructure.

The panelists were (from left) Azrin Azizuddin (EXIM Bank Senior Manager, Business Support Department), Zaini Abdul Wahab (Principal Consultant & Director, Connecsys Group) and Ir Kevin Hor (National Project Manager and Consultant, Bullding Sector Energy Efficiency Project)

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Regenerative design, the next conversation of Green-built environment Why going ‘Green’ is merely the opening chapter towards the better built environment we need to be in

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reality check indeed.

Recently I gave a talk in the World Diabetes Day (14/11/14) awareness exhibition which was held at KLCC Esplanade, in partnership with Novo Nordisk, a pharmaceutical company which manufactures one fifth of the world’s insulin supply. So you may be thinking, what does a green building consultant have to do with World Diabetes Day? Winston Churchill once quoted “We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us”. The evidence of us unveiling the pandora’s box of urban planning is irrefutably obvious, from the increasing occurrence of flash flood around the greater Klang Valley, to being a nation rated as the highest among Asian countries for obesity. It nonsensical to place an escalator serving a gym, neither designing a wide spread horizontal city that requires ever stationary human beings sitting in their carbon releasing machines crawling across the miles when they could just walk actively in a multi usage medium density vertical city.

Cities are the physical testimonies of any civilization success, be it the famous historical landmarks, ever increasing modern skyscraper, efficient public transportation system or the public squares and parks.

Nevertheless, it is a fact that our built environment revolves closely with the driving force of economics today, which has subsequently caused many externalities which are not accounted for. One of it is public health impact and community well-being which I had elaborated during the talk then.

It is exciting to see the progressive growth of green building wave which is participated by various authorities and property markets ever since Green Building Index was introduced in 2009. To date, GBI has charted 100 million square feet of green buildings certified and many related built environment stakeholders are proposing various alternative green building rating tools.

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Insight By Gene-Harn positive externalities, in contrast to the current, much economic development centric building industry progress which means little for mankind progress. Regenerative design develops a mutually enhancing relationship with the earth. It augments the capacity of existing resources and systems, rather than depleting or simply maintaining them. If we measure our built environment performance against the following 6 aspects and 3 fundamental principles, it is clear that our current state of green building wave progress is incommensurate to the rate of deterioration of our built environment in respect to the holistic principles of regenerative design.

FOOD AND SOIL

Gene-Harn currently works as a Green Building Consultant at IEN Consultants based in Bangsar. The architecture masters student is passionate towards the potential benefits of sustainable urban design and green buildings towards the aspect of social, environment and economy for a better world.

Redefining Sustainability through Sufficiency Themed Design Process

However, one needs to be cautiously optimistic because even with the entire city and all buildings certified as ‘green’, that is merely solving the tip of the iceberg of our built environment complexity issues. Sustainability is a noble ambition, but one I believe is short sighted and increasingly meaningless in today’s developing world. Even, the word “Sustainable Development” is probably the most oxymoron term ever existed. Simply due to the fact that it is not possible for an infinite growth on a finite planet, this is also even if you have a very low carbon or ecological footprint per capita, but with a projection of 10 billion population by 2030.

If one is to evaluate the true sustainability of our built environment, one has to look at regenerative design, the process oriented systems theory based approach to design, or, to design the way of our city. Communities should restore natural capital and produce

Soil is Gold. Soil is a non-renewable resource that is often taken for granted.

While the green revolution in agriculture is credited with allowing relatively few farmers to feed over 7 billion people across the world, it has been extremely damaging to the natural health and productivity of the soil as well as the social fabric of rural communities.

There is a finite amount of arable land in Malaysia alone which is only 8% of total area space, and we need to use land judiciously and according to its capabilities and assets. The factuality of nature cannot be our total morality, but by being ignorant of nature we are ignorant of our limits as well as our possibilities. Most of us simply do not know the origins of the food on our plates and also where does the 930 tonnes of Malaysia food waste go to daily.

There is an urgent need to decentralize and relocalize growth, variety, distribution and waste handling of food, to replenish and rejuvenate the soil by closing the nutrient loop, to encourage urban permaculture trend to be commercially recognized. The crucial fact is that by decentralizing and encouraging community sufficient food system, there will be food security through localized food sovereignty. Both

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Shao Lyn (Right), founder of Eats Shoots and Roots, raising the awareness on the need of urban farming and permaculture.

tangible, and intangible benefits result from local food system support, these includes health, the local economy, the environment, and the well-being of the community, including the social networks that are vital in nation building.

SHELTHER AND PLACE

Regenerative design is not merely on the built and natural environment, but the software of it, people, which is equivalent essential in justifying the fairshare of our planet resources without the monopolization by certain interest groups. The human spirit needs inspiration and nurturing. Communities are created when people feel attached to a place and attached to people. The urgent social security we face today is the inequality within society that has caused us insecurity in our social living environment. We need to cultivate places with a diversity of people, species, incomes, functions, and a varied built environment that leads to more tolerance and allow these elements to support each other.

It is utterly gibberish to have a neighbourhood design that promotes environmental sustainability but socially discriminate the rich from the

EPIC Home, a social enterprise which aims to build relationship between the urban and rural divide through the activity of building homes for underprivileged indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia.

poor. This includes the many elite gated and guarded communities we see today, which I highly doubt its communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social cohesiveness can be any better than that of the low cost flats population instead. Cities must be designed to enhance social connections and the

serendipitous culture of the street, which also respects and emulates the spirit of the place. Our built environment shall build dignified homes for all members of society, granting equivalent rights for all to assess to green space and wild space, and even, inviting green+.2014, november-december

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COLUMN other species to share the land together as part of the good practice of biophilic city design. Aldo Leopold summarized it well “We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.”

WATER

Another hard truth we face in this 21st century is the global water crisis. Only 0.3% of the freshwater in the world is readily accessible surface water. By 2025, 52 countries, with two thirds of the world’s population, will likely to face fresh water shortage. Water is the blood of the Earth. It is a vital to all the organisms who live on Earth as our blood is to us. An unhealthy aquatic system can lead to algal blooms, swimming closures, weed infestations, fish kills, waterborne illnesses and contaminated ground water. A river will be clean only if nothing fouls it up in the first place.

With the 300,000 tonnes of garbage, enough to fill 100 Olympic-sized swimming pools being dumped into our Malaysian rivers yearly and many other source of contaminants, what makes us think that we deserve clean water after all?

The rules towards a justifiable usage of water are simple and widely known but only few or none of us practice them due to our dirt cheap subsidized potable water, that does not reflect the true ecological externality cost. The fact is the built environment we live in today sees water as a cheap commodity so much (or even free!), that we isolate ourselves from the very much perceived “contaminated” rainwater for simple hand washing for example.

Yet, we hear citizens complaining on the water shortage while free and clean water is pouring down on their roofs then. We need to regenerate our cities and peoples’ mind sets to celebrate the availability of water by harvesting precipitation while allowing ground water replenishment, by treating greywater and blackwater as a resource, by enhancing aquatic health, instead of glorifying our magical water taps at home. The health of waterways is important in the health of the entire ecosystem, including human’s.

ENERGY AND TRANSPORTATION

It is known from Malaysia National Energy Balance 2012 sheet that the transportation and building sector accounts for 37% and 15% of the total energy usage. The scattered forms of development that both urban and rural areas have adopted over the last 60 years require significant

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Good Design: Singapore’s Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park features water playground which offers a different outdoor learning experience for its surrounding residential community.

Jeffery Lim (Left), the founder of Cycling Kuala Lumpur Bicycle map, leading a group of cyclist over a one day tour to rediscover the lost spaces of Petaling Jaya.

transportation infrastructure dependent on a cheap and accessible supply of energy. Today, we live in an increasingly mobile world where we expect to be able to fly or drive outstation over the weekend. The modes of transport and the high energy demand environment we live in require large amounts of fossil fuel, produce air pollution and contribute to climate destabilization.

On the contrary on design thought, how would society and our sense of place be impacted by reduced mobility and recreational activities that occurred closer to home?

Energy and transportation demand

can be reduced by creating beautiful whole communities. Do people feel less of a need to escape to the countryside when they have a strong sense of place and attachment to their community?

Perhaps there need to be more places to escape to within the city, this includes having access to recreation in natural spaces, quiet sheltered repose, vibrant street lie and shopping opportunities among other things. By designing for integrated communities with multipurpose infrastructure and encouraging active mobility such as walking or cycling, there is huge earning in the aspect of energy conservation before we even start talking

COLUMN about energy efficiency or renewable energy.

MATTER AND WASTE

It is a matter of fact that industrialized nations have become throw-away societies. We label ourselves as ‘consumers’ as if this is what our purpose in life is. Media and marketing do not just advertise products, they redefine your “wants” as “needs”. Obsolescence is built in to product design so that a replacement product will have to be purchased in a few years. This not only consumes large amounts of material and resources but rapidly exhausts landfill capacity. How can attitudes toward purchases be changed from choices based on immediate cost to choices that consider the quality, durability and carbon footprint of the product? Take for instance, a plastic pop bottle cannot become another pop bottle upon recycling. It will be turned into a product or material of lower quality with fewer possible uses. Eventually, a product that has been downcycled like this loses its ability to be recycled hence becomes a waste.

The idea of ‘waste’ needs to be discarded. From the aspect of regenerative, the output of the system of human consumption must become input for another process. This is popularized by the term “Cradle to Cradle” concept by William McDonough. In order to be able to achieve zero waste, all material needs to be categorized as either biological or technical. Technical materials, or nutrients, consist of non-toxic synthetic materials that can be continuously recycled without losing their integrity or quality. Biological nutrients are organic materials that can be returned to the natural environment to decompose once they are no longer useful to humans. These two categories needs to be kept separated from source so that objects and their components stay circulating continuously within their stream.

ECONOMIES AND GOVERNANCE

Our current economic paradigm is based on flawed theories. It fundamentally ignores the ecological foundations upon which all systems on earth are based. Its sole focus is financial capital – ignoring natural capital, human capital, social capital, and built capital. Can a system that simply measures one output – Goss Domestic Product GDP accurately measure the well-being or progressive growth of a society? For example, the disparity between rich and poor within a nation has a strong correlation to the health of the entire population. The less of a gap there is

Biji Biji initiative, a social enterprise which focuses in product design of upcycled material, has been constantly finding creative ways to reuse trash through various prototype development and production.

between those on top and those on the bottom, the healthier all citizens are.

The regenerative aspect seeks a holistic alternative instead of the traditional economics. The true “Genuine Wealth” as proposed by Mark Anielski, an ecological economist, measures five capital assets: human, social, natural, built and financial. The findings conclude that the localization of the economy is an effective way of circulating resources within the community, thus impacting several of different types of capital simultaneously. Governments should facilitate policy to be flexible enough to encourage continual adjustments as we learn from the implementation of new strategies as described above to address the environmental, social and economic issues facing society.

Driving all these to happen

While the amplification of regenerative

WWW.MESYM. COM Malaysia Environmental Sustainability Youth Movements, an integrated virtual platform crowdsourcing on environmental movements within Malaysia, organizes monthly documentary screening which tries to bridge various stakeholder to a casual discussion.

design written into six different aspects spanning across three major t h e m e s , t h e c o nve r s at i o n o n regenerative design is still relatively novice and its academic definition is still on the argument board. However, each of the regenerative principles themselves are quite broad and there are many ways of being true to them through design. These may be discovered as our worldviews evolve to see problems in a new light, or as the application of certain design ideas fails – perfection should not get in the way of greatness – let’s start by doing something, which we have already, by riding on the green building wave, and improve it as we go. One thing is certain, that our current economic model and built environment p ro g re s s d o e s l i t t l e o r n o n e progress to the overall well-being of society. green+.2014, november-december

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COLUMN PART 2

Key elements must be clearly stipulated and agreed upon

Investments from EPC projects implementation could also contribute to the growth

H

ere I would like to share on key steps and key elements that need to be considered in implementing energy saving projects using the EPC energy saving model.

Key Steps In the Implementation Process

Based on my reading and some research on EPC, below is how I could summarise on key steps involved to ensure EPC process will work.

1. EPC needs confirmation by Building Owner: The building owners have made assessments and EPC agreed by top management as a model that is employed for the implementation of energy saving projects over the use of the internal budget where the potential building has been identified.

2. Preparation of basic information, objective, assessment criteria and guidelines in the implementation EPC project in the building.

3. Notification and publicity for the invitation to the implementation of the EPC project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to spread the news to all interested parties about the project with the eligibility requirements and criteria in a nutshell.

4. Briefing by building owners to interested ESCOs, site visits and the handing over of basic information of the building.

5. Submission of the preliminary proposal by ESCOs based on the evaluation criteria and basic information.

6. Evaluation preliminary Proposal

by ESCOs based the assessment criteria.

7. The appointment of ESCO to implement EPC project based on an energy audit to be carried out with the conditions agreed in the EPC contract.

8. ESCO to conduct a detailed energy audit, propose implementation and investment proposal using EPC model together with the draft EPC contract document.

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By Zaini Abdul Wahab

9. Negotiate EPC contractual terms of the proposed investment for the implementation where the conditions discussed by the ESCO and the building owner to be finalized.

10. Signing of EPC Contract with conditions that have been agreed upon.

11. EPC Project Implementation which will cover improvements and the installation of energy efficient equipment and systems, testing and validation of performance and measurements of actual energy savings based on the baseline and methods that have been agreed upon; 12. Monitoring and verification actual achieved and monthly payments to the ESCO

Key selection criteria of ESCO to perform EPC projects

The selection of qualified and capable ESCO is very-very critical in determining the success of the implementation of the EPC project to achieve energy savings as had been committed.

Apart from having the capability in terms of technical expertise to identify and implement energy-savingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential project or proposed measures, there are several other criteria that must be considered.

Among them are: i) The ability of the qualified and competent management and technical personnel of the ESCO to manage and execute EPC projects; ii) The financial strength of the company to fund a project either by using internal financial resources or loans from financial institutions, and iii) Track record and experience in implementing projects with EPC concept including the scale of investment in the projects A s a g u i d e , t h e M a l ays i a n Association of Energy Services Company (MAESCO) has proposed a list of criteria to evaluate an ESCO that can be used as a reference or basis based on feedback and experience of its members in implementing EPC projects.

A summary of the proposed criteria

include the following: i) The minimum paid-up capital and financial position ESCO - to ensure that the ESCO has enough basic financial position to be considered by the bank for any financing; ii) The need to have a top management and technical teams with minimum qualifications and experiences in project implementation Energy Conservation projects especially in using EPC model; iii) The need to have permanent technical support groups to implement the proposed energy saving projects; and iv) The need to have the basic equipment for conducting detailed energy audit.

In addition to the criteria mentioned above, other important criteria to ensure that the qualifications and capability of an ESCO to implement the EPC projects particularly in the government sector are as follows: i) The Company has been registered with the Energy Commission as an ESCO;

COLUMN

Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia all show significant power generation growth, with considerable opportunities also emerging in Myanmar as the government makes power sector reforms.

ii) Must be registered with the Ministry of Finance as a provider of services under the Green Technology Code 222 801; iii) To submit a record and information about EPC projects ever and is being implemented as a reference mainly involving largescale investments; iv) Submission of proposed method for the measurement and monitoring of energy savings each month on a regular basis over the term of the EPC contract to be implemented. The method of calculating the energy savings achieved must be based on the actual measurement of the difference in total energy consumption before and after implementation of the proposed energy conservation project; v) Be prepared to conduct a detailed energy audit of buildings at no cost to the owner of the building facilities.

Lastly, is the most crucial part to get the EPC project implemented

which is the key elements and contents of EPC contractual documents.

Key elements that must be clearly stipulated and agreed between the ESCO and the facilities owner are as follows: + The proposed duration of the contract with the guarantee of energy cost savings and conditions: + The minimum amount of savings expected to be achieved + The method, report formatting and formula for calculating shared savings will be paid to the ESCO; + Conditions to be applied if savings achieved are less than guaranteed by the ESCO. + The cost savings with significant changes of operations at the facilities. + The responsibilities of building owners and the ESCO throughout the contract period. + Maintenance, use, maintenance and modification or removal of the equipment that was installed

by the ESCO by the facilities owner. + If the equipment installed by the ESCO is lost or damaged and guarantee of losses and liabilities

by ESCO to the facilities owner.

I n a b i g g e r p i c t u re , t h e investments from EPC projects implementation could also contribute to the growth of our economy and reduction of carbon dioxide gas emission through the reduction of energy consumption. That will be derived from investments made

by ESCOs which will create more jobs from each EPC project and the increase in the use of energy efficient technologies and products by among intensive energy users among business communities in Malaysia.

Other benefits are more EPC projects implementation will create interests among younger generation and encourage more professionals to be look energy efficiency industry as a new field of attractive and good career prospects in the future.

Zaini Abdul Wahab is a principal consultant & director of Connecys Sdn Bhd which specialiszes in consultancy for sustainable energy management system. He was also Director of Energy Efficiency at Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia and led the national EE initiatives under ETP and also was the key resource person in the drafting of EE & Conservation Act by the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water

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COLUMN

Tips for Lifepath enhancement House with good Feng Shui features can be an excellent “tool” or channel for personal lifestyle and Lifepath enhancement, include the health, relationship, prosperity and wealth accumulation for family members

I

f you are in the midst of selecting, designing or renovating your lovely home now, here are some of the important and useful Good Feng Shui tips that I want to share with my readers.

Good Feng Shui always refer the stove as the “heart” of the house. The stove in the kitchen represents the Fire element and it is a very important element because it affects the health, wealth and harmony amongst the family members.

Avoid installing the stove within the Northwest or Southwest sectors of the house. Also ensure that the stove does not face any mirror, water basin, refrigerator, washing machine, main door, room door or toilet door. Also ensure that the stove is not installed right below the sewerage pipe else it will cause negative impacts to the family members’ health, relationship and prosperity status.

“Good Feng Shui Converge Water Technique” is the highest skill in Feng Shui implementation. A lot of people have been mistakenly made to believe that water in the Southwest sector surely brings great wealthluck. However, in the year 2014 (i.e. from now until the 3rd of February, 2015), we should avoid installing any Water Feature such as aquarium or water fountain within the Southwest sector of the house, either internally

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By Kenny Hoo

or externally, because it may trigger unnecessary love affairs, health problems or relationship tension amongst the family members.

When selecting a house, in general Feng Shui principles, we always wish the house face to an open and wide space with greens, if possible backed by higher land or mountains. Usually houses facing pools of water such as ponds, lakes, swimming pools or seafronts are more valuable. This is because these features provide stronger Feng Shui effects as it gathers a good set of Qi and thus is able to accumulate greater wealth and promote good health.

Most people only want to acquire houses that face water pond, river or sea-front as these can bring about better fortune. However, houses facing

mountains can be a good point too. The mountain in front of the house is able to accumulate good Qi at the Bright Hall.

If the mountain in front of the house is smooth and greenish, the occupants especially the offspring of the family will enjoy better health, wealth, and prosperity for multi generations.

We are now living in the 8th Period of Feng Shui cycle which began in 2004 and will last until the year 2023.

According to the Good Feng Shui principles, houses facing Northeast or Southwest directions are able to capture more easily the good and auspicious Qi during this period of time.

However, through further Feng Shui customization, especially with Water Feng Shui Technique, houses facing other directions, such as facing

COLUMN Southeast, Northwest, North or South can also achieve auspiciousness through good Feng Shui adjustments such as fine-tuning or calibration at the main door’s direction, or correct water features implementation. Therefore, do not be upset even if your current house is not facing Southwest or Northeast.

In the 2014 Wood Horse year, Fire element is one of the most auspicious elements. The Firerelated industries will benefit a lot in the year of 2014. These include bridal house, optometry, optician, photography, restaurant, beautician, entertainment, lightings, movies, nuclear power, power plant, power generator, tele-communications.

Avoid making any renovation or alteration in the South nor North sectors of your house or office as this will trigger negative Feng Shui effects .

Wood-related industries will generate lots of luxurious income in the year of 2014, as it is able to generate lots of Wealth-luck in 2014. The relevant industries include timber, furniture, education, interior design, printing, newspaper, magazine, florist, kindergarten, nursery, dancer, publication, landscape and gardening. Avoid making any renovation or alteration in the East sector of your house or office, as this will reduce the positive Feng Shui effects.

Avoid installing mirror facing the main door or main entrance as it may introduce negative forces to the house, thus affecting health and wealth fortunes. Avoid mirror facing windows. Also avoid placing mirrors on the ceiling as this may create health problems.

Avoid installing air-conditioner above the bed’s headboard or room door, as this will create health problems to the occupants. It can be installed above windows.

When selecting a house, be more concerned about the external factors as it contributes 70 per cent of the Feng Shui influence. Avoid houses facing or next to the road junction, bridge, lamppost, temple, church, mosque, police station, hospital, transformer substation, tower.

Usually houses like this will be more difficult to resell in the future, and suffer lower appreciation value.

An experienced Feng Shui master or expert should be able to calibrate the internal Feng Shui arrangement and implementation, for a house or office, by linking or matching the BaZi or Lifepath of the whole family members involved.

Master Kenny Hoo is the Founder & Chief Researcher of GOOD FENG SHUI® Geomantic Research, a research-based company that actively involves in providing professional Feng Shui (Geomantic science) research, authoring seminars and consultation services for domestic home, business, factory, hotels & resorts, township, property development & ancestral graveyard. To find out more about Kenny and his Feng Shui please visit www. goodfengshui. com.

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COLUMN

Energy efficiency as a fuel to compete with electricity generators

All EU-28 countries are legally obliged to achieve a certain amount of final energy savings by 2020

E

nergy efficiency which is regarded as a “fuel” by many countries has not been openly embraced by utilities. While ensuring energy supply security is imperative and discussions for nuclear is underway within the different stakeholders, the author wishes to present an alternative which could be as financially attractive.

Utilities have the potential to engage with their customers to drive energy efficiency. Whilst information campaigns, the provision of free energy audits, or similar have often been undertaken by the government of Malaysia, such “soft” activities have had negligible impact on overall energy consumption. While the utilities have taken steps to engage with the public to encourage energy efficient behaviour, utilities have only been shown to be capable of either delivering or fostering large scale energy conservation in the case of capacity constraints (such as in Japan post-Fukushima) or where there is strong regulation and incentive to do so.

A Utility Energy Efficiency Obligation (UEEO), also known as a white certificate scheme, is a regulatory method of financing energy efficiency upgrades and driving large investment in energy efficiency that utilities can, if they so choose, use to decouple their income from the sale of energy. This is an emerging form of policy, used in Australia, the US, Europe and Brazil.

This is an ideal regulatory intervention which does not require the creation of a new act. Enabling such a scheme would likely require an amendment to the Electricity Supply Act, or alternatively a new Act. UEEOs are used by several European countries (eg Italy, France, Demark, the UK, Poland), roughly half of the states in the United States, in four Australian states, in China and in Brazil. The European Union Energy Efficiency Directive (2012) mandates that all EU-28 countries are legally obliged to achieve a certain amount of final energy savings by 2020. A range of mechanisms

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By Kevin Hor (Project Manager and Component 3 Consultant) kevin.hor@jkr. gov.my

Figure 1: Deeming savings brings forward actual savings,

Figure 2 - Example of on-bill financing applied to purchase of a high efficiency air conditioner

are required, one of which is the obligation to use energy efficiency obligation schemes or other targeted policy measure.1 UEEO places an obligation on energy utilities to save energy, with a fixed amount of “negawatts” or negative watts to be generated each year. This obligation is placed on the utility to purchase the “negawatts” from a purpose created “Energy Efficiency Generator (EEG)” as has been done in the USA state of Vermont.

UEEOs are operationalized through deemed forward savings method where essentially the benefits are paid for before they are realised. This creates an adverse initial cash flow, with a high upfront initial investment required to realise the savings. For example if across all measures implemented in a UEEO scheme the average deeming period is 10 years, an amount equal to the cumulative savings over ten years has to be paid for up front as shown in Figure 1.

A long term guarantee purchase contract has to be provided to the EEG to allow the EEG the security to raise funds required to generate annual target for energy savings, effectively generating “negawatts.” This competes

COLUMN with the conventional generation business model where instead of paying for generation it is possible to be cheaper to produce “negawatts” and removes the split incentive for a utility that also wants to maximise its sales of generated electricity.

Since no tariff charge will be required to fund the obligation, there will likely be a loss of revenue scenario to the utility. To offset the loss in revenue, utilities can recoup through embracing a new business model of on-bill financing of energy efficiency. This then shifts the obligation partially to the beneficiaries. UEEOs have arisen because essentially most energy users are unwilling to invest in EE. UEEOs essentially subsidise the cost of EE, reducing paybacks down to a level where ordinary energy users are willing to invest some of their own money in a more efficient product or improving the efficiency of their existing buildings.

Similar to building generation capacity, achieving large energy savings requires large investment, which the private sector is generally unwilling to make unless substantial incentives exist. A UEEO is an effective way of financing and creating these incentives.

UEEOs are a relatively complex instrument and are significantly more complex to administer than the Feed in Tariff as already exists in Malaysia. Without effective administration, measurement, verification, evaluation and enforcement a UEEO is unlikely to be effective. Strong commitment across all political divides is required to develop a sustained, long term UEEO.

What sort of activities are undertaken to generate savings from UEEOs?

Savings can be generated from either “standard measures” where the savings are deemed (i.e. estimated) or “project measures” which require measurement and verification of the savings achieved.

Some examples of activities include: + Efficient Water heating + Efficient Heating and cooling + We a t h e r p ro o f i n g a n d insulation + Efficient Lighting

Figure 3 - The electricity market with an EEG-on-bill.

+ Standby power controllers + Efficient appliances, such as televisions, refrigerators, clothes dryers + Efficient Pool pumps + Efficient refrigerated display cabinets + Efficiency refrigerator fans + Efficient motors + Metered baseline for commercial and industrial (any activity can be implemented, providing savings can be measured) With on-bill financing each beneficiary of the reduced upfront cost of an EE measure pays for the financing provided through an additional charge on their electricity bills.

There is no need for tradeable certificates or a marketplace.

Example in Figure 2 shows how this would work for the purchase of a 5 star air conditioner.

Such a scheme: + H a s a s e t o f r e g u l a to r a p p rove d s ta n d a rd measures for EE fixtures. For example an air-conditioner, insulation installed in a roof cavity, installed light fitting are all fixtures. A domestic refrigerator is not a fixture. + Ha s re gu lator a pprove d standard calculations for determining the amount of financing that can be provided and the payback period. + Attaches the on-bill payment to the electricity meter number. So that is, irrespective of whether a property is sold or changes tenants, a payment is still made, for a fixed number of payment periods.

+ The payment could normally be expected to be less than the savings arising from EE. As shown in Figure 3 below, the utility company is not required to pay the EE generator any more than what it collects form the on-bill payments and potentially generate income to supplement the revenue loss from the on bill financing business model. Whilst it may lose some revenue due to decreased sales of electricity, its electricity purchases from generators will also drop.

Enabling Legislation

Possible ways of creating the enabling legislation are: + I n c o r p o rate it i nto t h e Electricity Supply Act (as has been done in NSW, Australia) + Create a separate Act (as has been done in Victoria, Australia) + Links to both these pieces of legislation are included at the end of this document.

If changes were to be made in the Electricity Supply Act a new part VB could be incorporated into the Act. Alternatively it could be incorporated in Part VA – Efficient use of electricity – although a UEEO is substantially different to Part VA, and for the purposes of clarity it would be better to have it has an entirely new part.

Synergy with other policies, regulations and thrusts

A UEEO has substantial synergy with other proposed measures

mentioned in the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan. It complements MEPS, and the expansion of MEPS. It can be used to incentivise improved whole of building performance. It can be used to drive electricity savings in both the building and industrial sector, and create significant employment opportunities in energy efficiency. A UEEO has synergies with a range of other policies and regulations: + Labelling and MEPS. A UEEO can use MEPS to allow certificates for the purchase of 5 star appliances. This leverages the labelling system + A n e n e r g y e f f i c i e n c y rating tool for buildings.

Improvements in performance based on the rating tool could be used to award certificates. + A national EE energy consumption database. This adds value to a UEEO by facilitating measurement and verification of savings. For example, if a lighting upgrade was undertaken and certificates claimed under a UEEO for the upgrade, the actual drop in electricity consumption at the site where the upgrade was undertaken could be identified from a national energy consumption date based. With appropriate database design, this could be used to tune the methods used to calculate savings. + Building energy performance standards. Certificates could be used to incentivise performance that was measured to be better than the standard. + Energy savings at large facilities (i.e. those facilities subject to the Efficient Manager of Electrical Energy regulations) – based on reductions in energy use certificates could be generated. + Promotion of ESCOs. ESCOs could create certificates from a range of activities + Enabling of mortgages for EE in housing. The deeming methodologies used under the scheme could be used as the basis by which financial institutions can calculate the amount they can lend for different EE features (such as high efficiency air conditioning). + Need to allocate resources to analysing the data and fine tuning policies. green+.2014, november-december

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MDBC SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS 2014 (MSA’14)

Malaysian-Dutch Business Council Sustainability Awards (MSA) 2014 winners!

Submissions considered by panel of independent, expert judges, led by Chief Judge H.E. Harry Molenaar

T

h e M a l ays i a n - D utc h Business Council (MDBC) Sustainability Awards 2014 has grown and evolved into a more innovative and inclusive programme as they had introduced two new segments this year: the MSA Innovation Pioneer and the Jaffar Indot Award on Corporate Governance.

The winners of the 2014 MDBC Sustainability Awards were announced by the Minister of Energy, Green Technology & Water, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Maximus Johnity Ongkil during the awards ceremony dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur on Dec 3.

Dutch Lady Milk Industries won the award of Best Business Sustainability by a multinational company by demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability, corporate social responsibility and contribution to the Malaysian economy.

While Asian Perlite Industries, a service provider for greenhouse structures, irrigation, water storage, greenhouse production, soil steaming, harvesting, grading, labeling, packaging, cooling systems for vegetables, fruits and flowers. received the Best Business Sustainability by a small & medium enterprise The MSA Innovation Pioneer Segment was won by &samhoud, a management consultancy firm that encourages new ideas and give their employees ownership from ideation to implementation.

When asked about the addition of the new “MSA Innovation Pioneer” segment in this year’s MSA, MDBC Executive Director Marco Winter said: “Those who do not have the foresight and willingness to invest in the future risk losing relevance in the marketplace. Each company has to encourage a culture of innovation in their organisation, which is the challenge for this segment. The acknowledgement and inclusion of innovation in this year’s MSA is therefore a reflection of the continued growth and evolution of the awards; it is in fact, part and parcel

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All MSA’14 winners and organisers together for a group picture, with YB Datuk Seri Panglima Maximus Ongkili, Minister of Energy, Green Technology & Water (5th from right).

Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad’s SP Ching and Wong Ee Laine receiving the award for the Best Business Sustainability by an MNC from Minister YB Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, Netherlands Ambassador Harry Molenaar and MDBC Chairman Zainul Rahim.

of our own journey along the path of sustainability.”

Submissions were considered by a panel of independent, expert judges, led by Chief Judge H.E. Harry Molenaar (Ambassador, Embassy of the Netherlands).

Sharing his thoughts on the MSA, the Ambassador commented: “Innovation is used as a driver for sustainability whilst at the same time, sustainability can function as a catalyst for innovation; it has become a strategy for sustainable economic growth. Resource scarcity, climate change, technological development and a higher demand for products have forced many companies to integrate sustainability into their line of business.

With the MDBC organising the MSA for the fourth consecutive year, it presents itself as a platform for those companies that embrace thinking of solutions today for the global challenges of the future.”

After an intense day programme with final presentations by shortlisted finalist, three well – known companies

MDBC SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS 2014 (MSA’14)

Shortlisted companies in the MSA14 Innovation Pioneer Segment, from left MaxGrip, &samhoud, Shell Malaysia, Mega Fortris Malaysia, ISC Innovators and Besi APac, together with Netherlands Ambassador Harry Molenaar, Minister YB Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili and MDBC Chairman Zainul Rahim (4th – 6th left).

emerged as the sustainability and innovation leaders in their fields.

meter in Cameron Highlands to reduce any further destruction of the highlands. They also focus on the reduction of chemicals in flowers and vegetables by introducing new products from The Netherlands.

Best Business Sustainability by a Multinational Company

Winner: Dutch Lady Milk Industries Dutch Lady showed a commitment to environmental sustainability, corporate social responsibility and contributions to the Malaysian economy.

Specifically, they have developed strategies to enhance self – sufficiency in their sector. Their CSR programs are unique with a strong emphasis on empowering local entrepreneurs. By purchasing sustainable raw materials, reducing consumption of energy, water and waste at their production facilities, Dutch Lady has also proven their commitment to environmental sustainability. They implement sound business plans and ensure satisfactory returns to their shareholders, as well as contribute to the growth of the local economy.

The MSA Innovation Pioneer Segment

Asian Perlite Industries’ Luuk Runia receiving the award for the Best Business Sustainability by an SME from Minister YB Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, Netherlands Ambassador Harry Molenaar and MDBC Chairman Zainul Rahim.

Special Jaffar Indot Award on Corporate Governance

Best Business Sustainability by a Small & Medium Enterprise

Winner: Asian Perlite Industries Asian Perlite Industries’ holistic approach and profitable venture seamlessly linked economic, social and environmental benefits. This company aims to increase the production of flower and vegetables per square

Winner: &samhoud An energetic company, &samhoud truly believes in their company culture; for them, empowerment from the start promotes innovation. The company encourages new ideas and gives their people ownership from ideation to implementation. The leadership provides constant mentoring and coaching to all employees to make sure that they are motivated and that these innovations are aligned with the purpose of &samhoud.

Minister YB Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili receiving a token of appreciation from MDBC Executive Director Marco Winter (right) , Netherlands Ambassador Harry Molenaar (2nd left) and MDBC Chairman Zainul Rahim (far left).

Winner: Dato’ Mizanur Rahman Ghani Dato’ Mizanur is an active member of various organizations involved in Sustainable Development and Corporate Responsibility including Chambers of Commerce. In addition to going above and beyond what is required by his regular job, he has made a big impact on the local business community. green+.2014, november-december

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ENERGY

Sarawak Energy inks contract with Shanghai Electric For construction of 2 x 300MW Balingian coal-fired main power plant

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arawak Energy in early October entered into a contract with one of China’s leading electrical equipment manufacturing conglomerates, Shanghai Electric Group Co Ltd (SEC), for the construction of the Balingian Coal-fired Power Plant Project.

The contract will see SEC undertaking the construction of the 2 x 300MW Balingian Coal-fired Main Power Plant, the first coal-fired plant with CFB (Circulating Fluidized Bed) boiler of this capacity in Malaysia.

In comparison with conventional Pulverized Coal (PC) boiler technology, CFB boilers have the ability to handle a wide range of coal designs, including high moisture coal which is commonly found in Balingian, to ensure total utilization of the resource. This is improving the environment foot print of the plant significantly.

Second Planning and Resource Management Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who is also Public Utilities Minister, witnessed the signing of the contract between three parties namely Sarawak Energy, SEC and Shanghai Electric Power Generation (M) Sdn Bhd (SEPG), which is a wholly owned Malaysian subsidiary of SEC. Signing for Sarawak Energy were its Chief Executive Officer Datuk Torstein Dale Sjotveit and its Senior Vice President of Thermal Department Mr James Ung while signing for SEC were its Chairman Mr Huang Dinan and General Manager of Shanghai Electric Power Generation Group, EPC Mr Yi Xiao Rong. For SEPG, it was signed by Director Mr Wen Weihua and Shanghai Electric Power Generation Group, EPC Vice-Chief Engineer Mr Qiu Minghua.

The contract is valued at around RM1.5 billion and the construction of the main power plant will commence next month.

A comprehensive procurement

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Sarawak Energy Chief Executive Officer Datuk Torstein Dale Sjotveit exchanges documents after the signing with Shanghai Electric Group Co Ltd Chairman Mr Huang Dinan as Second Planning and Resource Management Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan (centre), Sarawak Energy Chairman Datuk Amar Abdul Hamed Sepawi (fourth from left) and other distinguished guests look on.

process was undertaken in accordance with Sarawak Energy’s internal procurement procedures and in alignment with recognised industry best practices to identify the tender offer representing ‘best value’ and designed to maximize local content and knowledge transfer to local companies.

The Selection of Contractor for the package commenced with market survey where thereafter proceeded with invitation and prequalification of international EPC contractors with CFB boiler works experience.

SEC is one of the largest e q u i pme nt ma nu fac t u r i ng conglomerates in China and possesses a comprehensive provision of modern, complete equipment sets and engineering works contracting. Since the 1990s, SEC’s sales revenue has ranked top 3 in the Chinese equipment manufacturing industry. The company has undertaken power plant projects on Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis, both in China and abroad with more than 20 years of experience and has achieved continuous enhancement in its core competitiveness and independent innovation capability.

In his speech, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah said the demand for energy in the region records a steady increase of 3% to 4% a year but in Sarawak, there would be an expected rapid growth in power demand from the earlier 1,250MW to more than 5,000MW by 2020.

He said the rapid growth was due to the large demand from the committed and future energyintensive industries expected to set up within SCORE and the increase in local domestic, commercial and industrial organic customers.

“Sarawak is blessed with indigenous hydro, coal and gas energy resources which give Sarawak the comparative advantage to produce bulk power at globally competitive power prices to encourage investment here. The development of these indigenous resources which is within the state’s control and not subjected to international market price fluctuation will ensure price stability for the SCORE customers and local organic customers.

“With the strategy to utilize local coal and hydropower resources, the State and Sarawak Energy are confident to meet the rapid demand growth for power and realize the state’s SCORE agenda. This is necessary if we are to achieve a high income status for our people of Sarawak by 2020 and uplift the living standards including the rural communities,” he added.

Awang Tengah said with the power generation fully developed to meet the demand in 2020, the generation capacity mix was expected to comprise 60% hydro, 20% coal and 20% gas.

“The construction of a new power plant in Balingian will also open up more opportunities especially for the locals. Their

income is expected to improve with the growth of businesses in Balingian as the economic activities increase. The Balingian Coal-fired plants will also trigger socio-development in terms of generating job opportunities in the semi-skilled and skilled professions,” he added.

Commenting on the partnership in realizing this significant development trigger project, Datuk Torstein said the Balingian Power Plant would help enhance the State Grid System, particularly to meet the demand from the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) customers.

“With an adequate and stable supply in place, we will be able to further convince investors to bring their businesses here to Sarawak to strengthen the State’s economy.

“We are having multiples discussions with potential new investors who would choose Sarawak as their preferred destination for their business operations and we anticipate encouraging response from more energy intensive industry players in the time to come,” he added.

Located in Balingian, Mukah, the whole project consists of a total of nine work packages namely the construction of the main power plant, plant site earthworks, upgrading of the access road, administration and ancillary buildings, operator’s village, the 33kV supply, 275kV EHV Substation, 275kV Transmission lines and ash pond.

The whole development of Balingian Coal-Fired Power Plant consist of nine work packages of which, about 45% will be undertaken by local contractors.

Earthworks and the upgrading of the access roads have already begun in May this year and these works have been undertaken by Sarawakian contractors.

The whole works is expected to complete in the first quarter of 2018 with the first power expected to generate by the end of 2017.

ENERGY

Sarawak Energy CEO Awarded CEO Of The Year at 2014 Asian Power Awards Datuk Torstein was recognised for his leadership

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arawak Energy Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Torstein Dale Sjotveit, was awarded CEO of the Year at the Asian Power Awards 2014 held in one of the leading hotels in Kuching . The award presentation was the highlight of the event which was held in conjunction with the ASEAN POWER WEEK in Kuala Lumpur on Sept 10-12.

Datuk Torstein was recognized for his leadership in transforming the Sarawak State-owned utility company into a modern and agile corporation, in line with its vital role in powering Sarawak’s development through the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy

Sarawak Energy Chief Executive Officer Datuk Torstein Dale Sjotveit (right) receiving the honor of CEO of the Year at the Asian Power Awards 2014 from Asian Power Magazine Editor-in-Chief Tim Charlton.

(SCORE).

Appointed as CEO of Sarawak Energy in late 2009, Torstein has vast experience of more than 30 years in various industries, including shipbuilding, oil and gas, petrochemicals and aluminum.

In his acceptance speech,

Datuk Torstein attributed the award to the hardworking employees of the company.

“It is not my work alone that had made the achievements possible, but it was a collaborative effort that started from the visionary development agenda of the

Sarawak Energy Plays Host to HAPUA Working Group Sarawak Energy played host to the Meeting of HAPUA Working Group 1 on Best Practices of Asset Management in mid-October at Menara Sarawak Energy here in Kuching.

HAPUA (Heads of ASEAN Power Utilities/Authorities) is an international organization established in 1981 with the founding members of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. HAPUA aims to enhance bilateral relationships between its member nations and serve as a centre for information as well as promote and distribute relevant information in the field of energy within

the ASEAN region.

HAPUA is comprised of five working groups, with each one focusing on a specific area within the energy industry. These groups are Transmission, Distribution and Power Quality & Reliability (PQR), Policy Studies & Commercial Development, Human Resources and Generation and Renewable Energy, with Distribution as the driver behind this year’s event.

In welcoming the delegates, the Chief Operating Officer of Sarawak Energy Mr Lu Yew Hung said: “It is indeed a rare opportunity that we can have a group of

experts from different cultural backgrounds gather together with a common goal. We hope that through the course of this event, everyone will gain new experiences, make new friends and forge new alliances.”

Sixteen international delegates from around the ASEAN region, namely Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos PDR and Malaysia joined a group of internal delegates to discuss matters related to Best Practices of Asset Management over a course of two days from 13-14 October 2014.

The event, a follow up to

Sarawak State Government to the relentless combined efforts of my team, from management down to operational levels,” he said.

Datuk Torstein expressed his gratitude to the State Government, the Board of Directors, management and staff of Sarawak Energy for the significant achievements experienced by the company.

The CEO of the Year Award was the main highlight of the awards ceremony. Among the categories of awards were Power Retailer of the Year (Singapore), Smart Grid Project of the Year (Singapore), Coal Power Project of the Year (India), Transmission & Distribution Project of the Year (Hong Kong), Independent Power Producer of the year and the Power Utility of the Year Award, which was also won by Sarawak Energy.

In the same event, Sarawak Energy also won the Utility of the Year Award – Malaysia.

The Asian Power Awards aims to set the benchmark of corporate excellence in the power industry.

Currently in their 10th year, the awards have been recognising top achievers, best practices and innovations in Asia. Organised by the Asian Power Magazine, the award was presented by its Editorin-Chief, Tim Charlton.

the HAPUA Working Group 3 Committee Meeting (Project 1) which was held in Singapore in May, is part of HAPUA’s series of meetings and events aimed to foster better relationships among power utility providers in the ASEAN region and provide a platform to discuss related topics was well received and participants look forward to next year’s event.

There will be two days of workshops led by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and Sarawak Energy respectively, with Day One focusing on Life Cycle Cost Analysis and presentations on Life Cycle Cost Analysis in the ASEAN region. The delegates will also discuss on Workshop Best Practices on Asset Management. The delegates will also be brought to visit one of Sarawak Energy’s 132/22kV substations to learn and share ideas on best practices.

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ENERGY

GPNM seminar on Green Initiatives

Green Recycling and Green Purchasing Opportunities & Business partnership

I

n l i n e w it h t h e M a l ays i a n Government’s objective to increase the use of green technology in all sectors, Green Purchasing Network Malaysia embarked on many collaborative projects. The seminar, on Oct 17-18, was carefully put together to showcase the many opportunities of collaboration among manufacturers, suppliers and developers to tap the wide spectrum of the ‘green market’.

The speakers detailed how the different government sectors were undertaking big developmental steps towards implementing green developments, eg. Green Cities being planned in Malacca; and the involvement of MIGHT to ensure that the high standards are maintained.

The seminar then proceeded to deal with two very important and fundamental aspects of a green city. + Green Recycling and resource recovery which inadvertently highlights. + How Safe and Green Buildings will be the obvious outcome.

From the physical emphasis as a result of green aspects in development,

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ENERGY two speakers showed how the use of eco-friendly products will transform any organization or living space into a highly energy-efficient and resourcesaving environment.

Therefore, the outcome of this seminar was a firm collaboration of the different parties that will have a big impact on the development of many more green cities. Within this ecosystem, there will be more emphasis on eco-labelled products and services especially the government’s MyHIJAU mark.

Wit h t he Gove r n me nt Gre e n Procurement directive issued last April, all Government departments and agencies are to embark on green purchasing activities. This policy will provide the needed impetus to accelerate the growth of green economy in Malaysia.

The afternoon session of the seminar saw the participants discuss and put forward recommendations on Public Private Participation on green initiatives such as the Green City in Malacca in the following areas:

+ Green recycling and waste

recovery solutions

Proven sustainable and integrated waste management Wongpanit system in Thailand, a communitybased and industry led initiative, and endorsed for implementation in Malaysia through Entry Point Project (EPP) on Waste Recovery Alternative Solution (WARAS) will be proposed for pilot implementation in Melaka. Industry players through 1PROGRES (Program on Green Solution) consortium in partnership with MIGHT and Melaka Green Technology Corporation will spearhead the project proposal for implementation.

Green recycling involves mindset and attitude changes of individuals, organization and corporations. This important aspect of education, awareness and promotions on zerowaste concept will be an integral part of the implementation plan.

+ Energy Efficiency Industry participants on energy efficiency proposed a package solution for Green and Smart City implementation through energy service companies (ESCO) and players in solar PV and thermal, LED lighting and energy storage. There is huge business potential through Energy Performance Contract services which enable Governments and corporations to save energy with little or without investment.

A green initiative on deployment

of energy storage devices to replace fuel-based power generators in Pasar Malam enables government to create air and noise pollution-free night markets. Rural and off-grid communities too will benefit from applications of green storage devices.

To encourage local green industry a number of policy and legal changes need to be adopted. Authorities such as MITI and Energy Commission c a n u nde r ta ke me a s u re s to prevent uncontrolled influx of substandards foreign EE products and specify use of local EE products by energy service companies (ESCOs).

Public programs on EE awareness and education should be intensified.

+ Green Services - Green

and Safe buildings and communities and green education and training

A proposal to ‘Start small then go global’ on Green, Guarded and Gated (3G) community-based program was suggested to be implemented in Malacca. Desa Park City 3G community model can be emulated where local council and residence association work together to establish community safety and emergency response teams and conduct recycling activities. To incentivize communities to undertake such program, the government

can reward the ‘Green and Safe Community Award’ to successful communities.

To this end, Green Purchasing Network Malaysia (GPNM), Malaysia Industry-Government Group on High Technology, MIGHT, through its subsidiary Might-Meteor Advanced Manufacturing (MMAM) and Avenion Greentech Sdn Bhd, the proponent of WARAS will embark on a collaboration to implement projects especially on 1. Sustainable Waste Recovery and Management 2. Green Human Capital Development 3. Sustainable Consumption and Production (Green Purchasing and Sustainable Public Procurement) and 4. Energy Efficiency learning and Certification A Memorandum of Understanding will be signed on the second day of the seminar between these 3 parties to ensure the process of implementation is undertaken.

Therefore, the final outcome of these two days was the realization of actual projects to be started by all parties concerned; each being experts in the different fields but with one sole objective: Towards 40 per cent reduction of carbon emissions by GDP by 2020 for the nation achievable through smart partnerships to ensure the correct ecosystem is in place. green+.2014, november-december

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ENERGY

China reveals magic land treatment success Revitalised paddy fields have proved able to produce crops Credit: © Shutterstock

Why the phrase ‘Busy as a Bee’ may be becoming extinct

The rice harvest is being gathered. In Hebie province, would you eat the rice if it has not been thoroughly tested? Many international companies and Chinese enterprises are involved but how long has the complex bacterial action been allowed to work with so much land unavailable for agriculture?

H

ebie is a Chinese province that is being progressive.

They call it bioremediation, but essentially, the new idea is to treat soil that is affected by waste with degrading bacteria such as Dehalococcoides and other microorganisms.

Many other Chinese provinces are also involved as the revitalised paddy fields have proved able to produce crops. Only 85% of contaminants and salt are removed, but this seems sufficient, for plants at least.

The worst pollution at the moment in China is caused by heavy metals: cadmium, mercury and copper, associated also with arsenic, contaminating 50 million hectares. The microbes are able to fix these poisons so that they are not available to plants, and reside in the soil just like the miniscule amounts in rock. With many farms closed down for this treatment, there must be worries that the treatment will work in the long-term, after flooding or if other bacteria reverse the process. However, the companies involved are in most cases capable of this bioengineering.

Earth Times is having a close look at the secretive technology. The

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closest we have is the rock-breathing bacterium, that can be used for this kind of function, although it is better known for oil spill clean-ups.

It is related to iron bacteria, sulphur bacteria, nitrogen bacteria and other chemosynthesisers.

Farm production will rise by between 15 and 80% if the crops can be safely eaten. Even more land from oilspill pollution could also be recovered in a similar way. Even there, though, there have been concerns that enough time needs to pass before bioremediation effectively removes enough toxins from the environment.

New Zealand vets have reservations about food safety there, following oil contamination. With 12 million tonnes of rice and other staples polluted each year, the highly toxic heavy metals pouring into the Yangzi and other rivers also have to be stopped, of course.

The Chinese vice minister of land and resources, Wang Shiyuan, said that 3.3 million hectares of arable land is contaminated land, in grain-producing areas. We just hope he’s willing to eat all his rice from there, when it is declared safe for human consumption. – www.earthtimes.org

Recently scientists have been studying the mass occurrence of dead bees, which they believe is caused by colony collapse disorder. In other words, their navigation is shot, preventing them from being able to return to their hive. The ongoing research suggests that the problem can be heavily linked to human causes.

Factors such as climate change and pesticides are some examples of how humans are intervening with the natural process of pollination that the bees need to survive. This is one account, last year of the EU’s ban on neonicotinoids in To bee or not to bee.

Although bees are feared for their ability to sting, they are actually essential to the life of many plants.

Bees are the main pollinators of many plants, so without them, many fruits and vegetables we take for granted will begin to disappear, or at least start costing more.

Without natural pollination, farmers will have to invest in manual pollination techniques. This would increase the price of their produce, causing an economic impact in the grand scheme of things. Your plants you could miss that require pollination include apples, oranges cucumbers, bananas, tomatoes, vanilla, beans, cotton lemons, coffee, onions and broccoli.

A company working to develop a product that works to help the bees stated in their research notes that: In order to produce a pound of honey, over 750 bees must log over 55,000 miles of flying. During this extensive flight programme, visiting over 2 million flowers to collect nectar, the insects also pollinate the plants that make I out of every 3 bites of food we eat.

Hady Ghassabian, an Italian designer, invented a product called, the bee saver. The bee saver is a simple keychain with a nectar container. The product works by providing nectar when someone sees an exhausted honey bee or bumble bee struggling. They can offer it the nectar to help reenergise the bee so that it can continue working for its hive and for us. The bee saver has not yet been officially launched, but the company is preparing a campaign to help spread awareness of mass deaths of bees and promote their product.

So the next time you hear that familiar buzzing sound around your ear, maybe you won’t freak out and start waving your hands to kill the animal. Maybe you will fully appreciate the little bee and let her get on with her busy bee day! – www.earthtimes.org

Why us?

Who is DHES?

Quality Service

DRB-Hicom Environmental Services Sdn Bhd (938781-W) or “DHES” is a fully owned subsidiary of Alam Flora Sdn Bhd and is under the DRB-HICOM BERHAD Group.

We offer diverse quality services related to the environment including consultancy, systems analyses and technical inspection.

We have more than 100* staff in the management and technical areas and over 400* support staff stationed all over Malaysia. Established in the 1990s**, and we have more than 18 years experience in this industry and we assure our customers quality service.

Reliability Technical Capabilities Group Synergy Strategy Driven Value For Money

* Data until September 2014 ** Alam Flora Sdn Bhd

LEADING

AGGRESIVE

3R & Industrial Scrap

Waste Management Facility & Services

Integrated Facilities Management (IFM)

Our main Recycling Centre is located in Precint 9, Putrajaya.

By our “Buy Back Programme”, you can earn some income while helping the domestic economy and conserving the environment.

DHES has started its business in waste management in Malaysia since 1990s. Our vast experience in this industry has widen our range of services into;

Our focus is to ensure quality that our customers demand and maximise the building’s life cycle. Our services are:

Besides 3R activities, DHES is also involved in providing a comprehensive service for the large scale industry. On an average we manage 110 tonnes of scrap per day, equivalent to 40,000 tonnes yearly. Our industrial scrap waste consists of various types of iron and metal, wood, aluminium and other hard materials. Hence DHES has become the largest Bumiputera company in Malaysia in managing industrial scrap.

• Management of Transfer Station • Management of Sanitary Landfill • Industrial, Commercial & Institutional (ICI) Waste • Renovation & Construction Waste (RCW)

• Mechanical and Electrical Systems • Civil and Structural Systems • Environment Management • Parking Management • Security Management • Computerised Maintenance Management System • Utilities Management • Landscaping and Grounds Services • Cleaning and Housekeeping Services • Fire Fighthing Systems • Vertical Transportation • Pest Control

Level 2, EON Head Office Complex, No.2, Persiaran Kerjaya, Taman Perindustrian Glenmarie, Seksyen U1, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor.

Tel: +603-78030518 / 0844 / 1428 / 1472 | Fax: +603-78030137 | www.dhes.com.my

FEATURE

Nam Cheong launches new ‘green’ anchor handling tug supply vessel Not just cost-effective but also fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly + First vessel based on Nam Cheong’s proprietary design; + Fuel-efficient, simplified design and environmentally friendly vessel; + Secured Letters of Intent worth US$186 million from new and repeat customers, with a mix of sale and also charter of 12 of this new series of vessels; + Secured options for sale of eight additional units of such vessels; + 100% take-up rate of a total of 20 vessels planned for delivery; + Secured Letters of Intent from Bumi Armada and Farid Khan-controlled company, each for four vessels and option for four additional vessels.

SINGAPORE

Nam Cheong Limited, a leading global offshore marine player listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the SGX) and Malaysia’s largest Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) builder, in October announced that it has launched a new Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessel, the NCA80E. The vessel is a 64.8m diesel electric powered AHTS with 80 tonnes bollard pull and is based on Nam Cheong’s proprietary design.

Nam Cheong’s Executive Chairman, Datuk Tiong Su Kouk said: “The launching of the NCA80E vessel is a major milestone for the Group as it is based on Nam Cheong’s proprietary design and is also our first vessel launch in Singapore. “ Cu s tome r s a re i nc rea s i ngly demanding for such sophisticated OSVs and we received strong interest from customers worldwide for such a vessel that is versatile to be deployed in waters globally. Backed by our deep expertise in engineering and cutting-edge technology required to design and build such vessels, we are confident in powering ahead in the industry and are excited by the prospects.”

Nam Cheong has secured Letters Of Intent (“LOI”) from five customers worth approximately US$186 million, with a mix of sale and charter of 12 NCA80E vessels.

The Group has also secured options for the sale of eight additional NCA80E vessels.

The five customers are Bumi Armada

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From left Nam Cheong’s senior management - John Tiong (Executive Vice Chairman), Datuk Tiong Su Kouk (Executive Chairman), Leong Seng Keat (Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Tiong (General Manager).

Berhad, Geooffshore Pte Ltd, Opstad Group, Sofield Marine & Offshore Sdn Bhd as well as Vega Offshore Group. The potential sale of the 20 vessels through the LOIs and options represent a 100% take-up rate of the 20 vessels planned for delivery.

Leong Seng Keat, Nam Cheong’s

Besides the superior performance of the NCA80E vessel, we are also mindful of the need to incorporate environmentally-friendly features such as electric propulsion that leads to lower exhaust emissions that helps to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.

– Leong Seng Keat, Nam Cheong CEO

Chief Executive Officer said: “As a global OSV builder, we aspire to construct vessels which are of sophisticated quality and will serve as the industry’s gold standard. We believe in continuing to forge our R&D capabilities and in keeping our ears close to the ground to understand what our customers’ requirements are. These efforts have been a bright guiding light towards Nam Cheong’s success today.

“In developing the design of the NCA80E vessel, Nam Cheong’s engineers have integrated specifications and features highly demanded by customers to arrive at an elegant vessel design that suits their requirements of a high performance vessel that’s also cost efficient.”

Leong also commented on the green and compliant aspects of the vessel: “Besides the superior performance of the NCA80E vessel, we are also mindful of the need to incorporate environmentally-friendly features such

FEATURE

Vessel Details The NCA80E vessel boasts an energy efficient design from the efficient hull lines and is equipped with selected electric drives which lead to lower fuel consumption without a loss in power to the electric drives due to the vessel design’s exploitation of newer technologies. In addition, the vessel features a simplified design and is “Asianised” to allow for an efficient building process to reduce delivery time and yet, is flexible enough in its capabilities to be

deployed in multiple roles.

The vessel is also backed by enhanced performance of high speed and high bollard pull with a number of key features such as medium speed controllable pitch thrusters that provide better response and operational flexibility, flexibility in cargo configurations as well as low pressure system anchor handling or towing winches which have been proven to be of greater robustness and reliability.

Vessel Type Specifications AHTS Length: 64.8 metres Bollard pull: 80 tonnes Other features: Diesel-electric propulsion systems, Dynamic Positioning Systems 2 (“DP2”) Class: American Bureau of Shipping (AB)

as electric propulsion that leads to lower exhaust emissions that helps to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.

“The vessel will also come equipped with oil spill recovery capabilities and is in compliance with the latest statutory regulations.”

An LOI was secured from repeat customer, Bumi Armada, a Malaysiabased international offshore oilfield services provider. The customer intends to order four vessels with the option for four additional vessels. In addition, an LOI for two vessels was also secured from repeat customer, Norway-based Vega Offshore, which has a presence in Brazil, to facilitate their fleet expansion programme.

Leong noted: “As an established and key repeat customer of Nam Cheong, Bumi Armada’s interest in the NCA80E vessel is indeed a strong endorsement and support for our capabilities. We have an excellent working relationship with Bumi Armada and we look forward to strengthening this mutually beneficial affiliation in the years ahead.”

Separately, LOIs were secured from new customers, Geooffshore, Opstad and Sofield. Registered in Singapore, Geooffshore is an emerging OSV owner, controlled by Singapore businessman, Farid Khan, who is also the regional managing director of an international service provider leader in the offshore oil

and gas industry.

Geooffshore intends to order four NCA80E vessels and also have the option to purchase four additional vessels.

Leong commented: “The strong interest from Geooffshore is significant as Farid Khan is a well-known veteran in the oil and gas industry and a recognized expert in the operation of OSVs. As such, we are heartened by the affirmation of Nam Cheong’s quality of vessels from such a reputable partner.”

Opstad is an established OSV owner and seismic support operator based in Norway while Sofield is a Sabahanowned emerging offshore and marine company based in Malaysia. The company which is also a Petronas licensee, ambitions to benefit from the robust oil and gas business opportunities in East Malaysia with this new vessel.

Leong commented: “We are working towards our ambition of being the largest OSV builder in the world by 2017.

With our built-to-stock business model, it has allowed a shorter lead time in our delivery to customers, securing Nam Cheong a first mover advantage in rolling out the technologies of the NCA80E vessel.

“As can be seen from the developments over the years, our DNA has evolved from an OSV player focused on cost efficiencies to that of building

NCA80E, a 64.8m diesel electric powered AHTS with 80 tonnes bollard pull, based on Nam Cheong’s proprietary design

vessels which are not just cost-effective but also fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly.

“As we go forward, we anticipate our DNA to develop into a master systems integrator to tap on the trend of increasing connectivity in vessels’ ecosystems.

On the outlook, although we have seen recent volatile oil prices, we believe our strong reputation within the highly resilient shallow water segment remains robust as we continue to see good demand from customers for our vessels. Going forward, we plan to stay ahead of the competition by producing proprietary designs and committing to our philosophy of Quality, Reliability and Delivery.”

Datuk Tiong concluded: “With the strong interest in the NCA80E vessel at this early stage from repeat and new customers, it is heartening and is also a clear testament to the relevance of Nam Cheong’s capabilities and commitment to maintaining close relationships with our existing customers and in forging new ones.”

The NCA80E vessels are of American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) class and are being constructed as part of Nam Cheong’s built-to-stock series in the Group’s Miri shipyard in Sarawak, East Malaysia as well as the Group’s subcontracted yards in China. green+.2014, november-december

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PRODUCTS

Weaving hope for the future And true beauty is priceless

E

c o - c o n ta i n e r s a n d household items made by special women from magazine paper!

This is a social enterprise project to help women help themselves and protect the environment for future generations. Reduce carbon footprints that make climate change such a hot topic nowadays!

These handmade woven containers have been lovingly & patiently made by disadvantaged women. Each container

Top left: A basket-weaving teaching session. Top right: Fong Ye weaves a basket.

Above: Agila shows how it’s done

is patiently woven from paper strips & they are varnished with non-toxic paint & shellac. So they are safe to use for packing gifts like fruits, chocolates, toiletries, toys, serviettes, cookies and anything Each basket is unique & is a

About eHomemakers & Salaam Wanita Ecobaskets eHomemakers empowers women who need to work from home to balance their family responsibilities with employment. One of eH’s primary missions is to train women who are homebound due to mental and physical disabilities and chronic diseases to support themselves. In some cases, the women are staying home to take care of children and dependents that have disabilities.

In 2002, eH started providing basic eco-basket training sessions for low-income women in Ipoh and Klang Valley. Since

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then, over 200 women have been trained and the weavers have developed more complex and intricate patterns that make the Salaam Wanita ecobaskets stand out in the marketplace. Salaam Wanita means “Recognizing Women”. Their willingness to try something new, determination to conquer the frustrations involved with mastering the weaving process, and originality in creating new designs illustrates how successful each of these women can be when presented an opportunity.

work of art.

You can have baskets with same colours for your “hantaran” gifts and have a green wedding!

You can also give the weavers your corporate logo papers to weave various items for branding purposes. Imagine 500 beautifully woven gifts with your company logo for your attendees at your open house / product launch or your company annual dinner for the shareholders!

Give the women a helping hand, order in bulk for corporate annual gifts, door gifts, festival corporate gifts, gifts for media & product launches, speakers’ gifts, thank you gifts, wedding gifts, or surprise gifts!

The women making them are from low income areas, some are single moms, some are disabled and some take care of dependants who are sick or disabled.

Your purchases will enable the women to sustain themselves continuously. They are not stretching out their hands for donations, they are making beautiful things for you.

And true beauty is priceless.

SEDA_210x275mmNEWBleed Blue091014ANLB.pdf

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8:37 AM

PRODUCTS

Tea Team produces results Clones of drought and frost resistant teas are also being grown Credit: © Shutterstock

Tea is the world’s favourite beverage, after water, and it provides a livelihood for millions of people around the globe. These projects show that the industry is committed to helping smallholder farmers and workers earn a decent wage and farm better, and that it understands that this is fundamental to building secure supply chains and future success,” so says Sarah Roberts who leads the Ethical Tea Partnership or ETP. The projects she is talking about involve a much more sustainable approach than the well-known tea plantations. The ideas were delivered this week in London at “Team Up,” the annual major conference of the tea industry.

Already Farmer Field Schools in Kenya have increased yields by 33% in over 48,000 small farms. They now continue their techniques in Asia and elsewhere in Africa.

The ETP works with The Sustainable

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Trade Initiative (IDT) in India and Vietnam as well as Malawi, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania. Many major tea brands are involved and prestigious conservation movements such as the Rainforest Alliance.

Securing supply chains and building a “brand” for the teas produced is critical in the projects. Apparently 8 million small farmers should be brought into the safer environment provided as they produce 70% of the “world’s favourite beverage”.

It is their livelihoods and production techniques that are causing concern, with Rainforest Alliance Certification a late addition to the achievements gained by the successful tea growers. Costs are low over the 12-month programme that illustrates different possible farming techniques.

However, 25% of the course can include optional kitchen garden or livestock handling diversifications. Its’ likely that one farmer can also train his

The Cameron Highlands of Malaysia has been a well-known tea-growing area for many generations.

Now the sun is rising on a fair deal for crops, especially from the smallholdings seen in many growing areas.

or her neighbours in the novel parts of the programme. Good news spreads fast!

Basically the whole programme has: + Improved production and yield + Increased gross margins + Improved farm management + Achieved greater diversification of income + Achieved better living standards + Improved health and safety Other programmes now aim to help 100,000 Kenyan farmers secure their farms against climate change there and be aware of affordable finance for their improvements. This involves tree planting (for shade and nitrogen enrichment of soils), rainwater harvesting, and drip-irrigation.

Clones of drought and frost resistant teas are also being grown, to emphasise a more scientific approach to problems in these environments.

Malawi and Uganda will also soon be involved.

MEDIA PARTNER

MIS2015AA-Ad_Green+_210x275mm with Green+.pdf

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ARCHITECTURE

Luxury eco-development at Sanctuary Ridge PanaHome Malaysia enters JV with Gasing Meridian

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anaHome Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a housing company under PanaHome Corporation Japan (a subsidiary of the Panasonic Group) which provides comprehensive home-building solutions and total township development implementations, announced its joint venture with Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd (a member of the Sanctuary Gasing Group with property developments worldwide including Malaysia, Australia, and China) to push ahead one of Malaysia’s premier luxury eco-property developments at Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City, a 38-acre luxury development which will be home to 69 units of bungalows.

Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City is a freehold, low-density, and gated development located only five minutes from Bangsar and it offers last-ofits-kind colonial-sized lots averaging 19,000 sq ft.

Foreigners, permanent residents (PR) and foreign companies affected by the RM2 million cap and other new guidelines imposed by Selangor can aim their sights at Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City. Its land (which fall under the district of Wilayah and starts from just RM288 per sq ft) and bungalow prices are comparable, if not more competitive, than luxury neighbourhoods in Selangor; and it is located adjacent to the Petaling Jaya district, so owners can enjoy the closest proximity to key commercial and residential areas in Selangor while enjoying one of the most sought-after Kuala Lumpur addresses.

“We are indeed excited about this joint venture as it marks another milestone to express our capabilities in the construction and housing development industry in Malaysia. It is our earnest vision to build an ECONATION Malaysia, and this is a first step towards that end.

Together with Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd, a developer with international credits, we are very pleased to introduce our new building technologies to Malaysian communities,” said Toshiro Baba, Managing Director of PanaHome Malaysia.

Already known for its awardwinning development, Sanctuary Lakes in Melbourne, Australia, which rehabilitated salt wasteland into a benchmark

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residential development, township and bird sanctuary for Victoria, Gasing Meridian is set to enhance its pro-eco property development portfolio by collaborating with PanaHome Malaysia to introduce luxury homes showcasing new building technologies which are ideal for Southeast Asian homes.

“Malaysia is the second country that PanaHome has ventured into after Taiwan and we are very proud and honoured to be one of their first partners in Malaysia,” said Leo Tan, Director, Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd. PanaHome is one of the world’s leading Green Innovation companies in

the housing industry and we are truly impressed with PanaHome’s home building solutions as it demonstrates sustainable living without compromising on aesthetics. These are qualities in which our very discerning and increasingly environmentally-conscious land and house owners are looking for in their dream home.”

“The designs, that we will offer, will integrate various technologies from PanaHome’s green building solutions.

We also encourage land owners to integrate PanaHome’s green building solutions package, which we offer as an option, when designing their own home,” Tan added.

The joint venture will culminate in an approximately 8,000 sq ft show house, which is expected to complete by the end of 2015. The three-storey bungalow will be a functional and practical twogeneration home with common areas for family activities and private areas in which each family can retreat. All the bedrooms will be designed to enjoy the view of Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

This state-of-the-art Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City show house will showcase the elements of ‘Eco’ and ‘Smart’ home ideas for Southeast Asian homes, reflecting the two

ARCHITECTURE

companies’ commitment to environmental sustainability.

Based on the planned design and features, the owner can expect to enjoy greater energy savings and, possibly, to even earn a small income if the owner chooses to apply for the Feed in Tariff (FiT) programme. Introduced by our government in 2010, the programme compensates consumers of renewable energy who produce a surplus of electricity that can be used by the national grid.

The amazing KiraTech tiles, which will be featured on the building’s exterior, helps to decompose pollutant gases (decomposition of NOx) and a 200sqM area of KiraTech tiles has been shown to be equivalent to the air cleaning capability of approximately of 14 poplar trees.

A s ide f rom it s a i r - pu r i f y i ng function, the KiraTech tiles has selfcleaning capabilities for longer lasting and cleaner tiles, which translates into long-term maintenance cost savings.

The construction of the show house at Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City can be completed within six months through PanaHome’s building methodologies and design approaches,

Malaysia is the second country that PanaHome has ventured into after Taiwan and we are very proud and honoured to be one of their first partners in Malaysia.

– Leo Tan, Director, Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd.

which has been successfully tested and completed on their office located in the neighbourhood of Bangsar.

Construction methods utilizing prefabrication technology (steel’s frame structure) ensure a consistent and high quality building while accomplishing shorter construction time relative to

conventional methods.

Also incorporated is the heat insulation technology to minimize heat transmission from the outside; the unique PanaHome PureTech (structured embedded ventilation system) supplies effective circulation of natural cool air to keep the internal living space naturally cool and clean hence reducing energy consumption.

The PureTech system will eliminate contaminated indoor air without opening windows and this will assist in minimising pests from entering the home while enhancing security.

The show house will also come with high-grade waterproofing features to overcome common water leakage problems faced by homes in tropical countries with frequent heavy rainfall.

“With this joint venture, we hope that Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur City will become a benchmark for Malaysian eco-property development in the luxury segment,” said Tan. PanaHome and Gasing Meridian exhibited at the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM 2014) from Oct 16-19 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). green+.2014, november-december

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ARCHITECTURE

Pomeroy Studio unveil Newpark A new eco-township set in the 100-year-old former colonial town of Kluang

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ward-winning green designers Pomeroy Studio have unveiled plans for an innovative park and skygarden orientated ecotownship, located in the 100-year old former colonial town of Kluang, Johor.

Close to the most important Expressway in West Malaysia (the North-South Expressway), ‘Newpark’, will be the largest masterplanned commercial project in Kluang and seeks to balance 21st century trade and education with green living.

It will host a diverse mix of uses that will mark the town’s evolution from a palm oil production centre to a preeminent vocational education and trade leader. Centred in the middle of Johor state, Kluang is set to capitalize on trade

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Artist Impressions of Kluang Serviced Residences

and expositions through Newpark’s state of the art infrastructure.

Its enviable position near the celebrated natural landmark of the Gunang Lambak hills allows the masterplan to draw its green inspiration in order to establish a new chapter in Kluang’s history.

Jason Pomeroy, founding Principal of Pomeroy Studio, said: “We are delighted to be undertaking this landmark project that combines our green architecture, masterplanning, landscape design and environmental consultancy skills in order to give the town of Kluang a truly sustainable built

We are delighted to be undertaking this landmark project that combines our green architecture, masterplanning, landscape design and environmental consultancy skills in order to give the town of Kluang a truly sustainable built environment for its future growth.

– Jason Pomeroy, founding Principal of Pomeroy Studio

ARCHITECTURE environment for its future growth.”

Tey Fui Kien, Executive Director of Majupadu Development Sdn Bhd, a reputable developer with accolades from local and state authorities for creating quality real estate through innovative, life-improving commercial and residential developments in Kluang said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Pomeroy Studio given their track record of pioneering green design. Their ability to balance design innovation with culture is just what the town of Kluang needs. This project is an opportunity to upgrade Kluang for the future. This is a game changing moment for us.”

Central to the masterplan is a new park, called the Promenade, which draws inspiration from the Gunang Lambak hills that forms an iconic backdrop to the town. The Promenade will connect an expo-trade centre, an education hub, serviced apartments, a business hotel and its associated convention facilities, shop offices and business parks and a residential community.

Not only will the Promenade offer an abundance of social and recreational amenities for both residents and visitors, but it will also be a zero energy public realm - given its ability to generate enough energy to offset the public utility infrastructure.

The hotel and the convention centre at Newpark forms the gateway to this vibrant new development and is where the new life of Kluang begins.

Embracing the districts trade and education focus, it will become the town’s epicenter of social and economic activity and will incorporate a multitude of different functions to cater for visiting trade and education delegates.

Standing as the tallest building in Kluang, it will house over 250 businessclass rooms, suites and family suites. It will also contain offices, retail, speciality restaurants, bars and a state of the art convention centre that will serve multiple needs from trade and government conventions, weddings, to cultural celebrations in its 1200 capacity grand ballroom. Crowning the development will be a rooftop bar that will offer unprecedented views to Gunang Lambak hills.

The Deck will be a holistic entertainment and leisure destination associated with the hotel and convention centre.

It will comprise a myriad of different amenities that include lap and recreational swimming pools, indoor, outdoor and water gyms, a spa, yoga and pilates zones, a running track, outdoor chess, children’s day care and play area and an abundance of seating areas for social events, relaxation or

Artist Impressions Top: Newpark Promenade | Bottom: Newpark Residence | Middle: Residence Lobby

quiet contemplation.

All the facilities will be set within a verdant green garden that will help reduce temperatures to ensure a conducive outdoor environment that guests and visitors alike will be able to enjoy.

Majupadu’s commitment to transforming the community by elevating the quality of life in Kluang will also see the town receive its first serviced

residences at Newpark. The concept seeks to balance the contemporary living with the delight of resort – style recreational amenities.

Offering a range of suites that have views to either the Promenade, or the distant hills of Gunang Lambak, the design of this landmark residential development will be a lesson in green design.

Residents will enjoy reductions in energy and water bills given the building’s optimization of natural light, natural ventilation, grey and rainwater harvesting methodologies and the exploration of solar energy.

The result will be green living with enhanced safety and security blended with healthier lifestyle choices.

The first phase of the development will commence in early 2015, with the first phase comprising of a combination of shop offices alongside the landmark hotel and its convention centre, and the serviced residences. green+.2014, november-december

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ARCHITECTURE

Shining with sustainability

System also allows members of staff to monitor energy consumption daily

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eb Earth has brought its ethos of sustainability closer to home by installing Solar PV panels on the rooftop of the group’s Singapore headquarters.

The move comes as growing numbers of companies in Singapore are switching on to the many benefits of renewable energy.

The system has been designed to power all the practice’s communal facilities as well as its lifts, lighting and water pumps.

The aim is to reduce the building’s overall energy consumption and the system also allows members of staff to monitor energy consumption daily from laptops and iPhones to ensure it is working correctly.

Web Structures’ state-of-the-art headquarters is already one of the most environmentally friendly in Singapore.

The five-storey building at 40 Carpenter Street – one of the city’s prime business locations – was designed with sustainability in mind.

Minimal use of materials was key in all areas of its renovation to minimise the embodied emissions associated with the office. Recycled cardboard has been used to create furniture.

And where new equipment was required existing lighting was replaced by high efficiency T5 lighting and controlled by motion and daylight sensors where applicable.

Richard Outhwaite, director of Web Earth, oversaw the project to put panels on its rooftop and says solar power is proving to be an attractive investment for companies in Singapore.

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A view from the top floor

He says: “Singapore is a great place for PV panels because we have yearround, constant sun exposure.

“All the country’s energy is imported from neighbouring Indonesia and Malaysia and energy costs are at an all-time high in Singapore.

“Current prices mean returns of between 12-15 per cent on investment and a seven to eight year payback.

“Leading companies, such as food distributor and supermarket retailer

Sheng Siong, recently installed large PV arrays on their warehouse rooftops, with investment and profitability one of the main drivers.”

Web Earth has incorporated the use of solar PV panels in its approach to eco-friendly design excellence.

They include residential homes in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, targetting zero energy consumption and the new eng Wah retail development at Clenmenti, achieving green mark platinum status recently..

Richard says: “Solar panels are playing an increasing role in our approach to incorporate renewable energy into our design and they really can make a big difference, both financially and in terms of sustainability.

“Increasing numbers of our clients are looking to benefit from cheap, reliable and environmentally friendly solar power.”

He adds: “The solar energy market in Singapore is so competitive right now and there are start-up businesses entering the market that will install solar panels on a roof free of charge!

“The tenant then buys the energy, at a cheaper price than local utility tariffs, from the solar leasing company over 20 years.

“The market in Singapore has developed a sustainable path to open the city’s extensive building stock to renewable energy on a large scale.

“Some of Singapore blue chip companies, such as Woh Hup, the largest privately owned construction company in Singapore, have installed large PV systems under a leasing model to cut their energy bills and reduce their operational carbon emissions.”

This paper is produced in a plant awarded the ISO 9001:2008 for Quality Management System, ISO 14001:2004 for Environmental Management System , and ISO 9706 for Permanency Paper

ENERGY

Google: A better web Better for the environment

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oogle has worked hard to minimise the environmental impact of their services.

In fact, when they provide an active user one-month of Google services, they use less energy than driving a car one mile and if you add in their renewable energy and offsets, their footprint is zero.

Google continues to find new ways to reduce the impact even further.

Data centres that save energy

Google data centres are some of the most efficient in the world, to be specific, their data centres use only 50% of the energy of most other data centres. In addition to reducing the impact on the environment, their efficient data centre designs have saved them over a billion dollars to date and according to an independent study, Google uses very little of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electricity (less than 0.01%). Additionally, Google was the first major Internet service company to gain external certification of its high environmental and energy management standards throughout their data centres.

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Greening their power

Currently, very little of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power is from renewables like wind and solar. Google has been working on changing that by buying electricity directly from wind farms near their data centers. Google also is working with their utility partners to find solutions that will make more renewable energy available for us and for others.

All of these initiatives help it get clean energy at competitive prices and the wind farm owners get the money they need to finance new clean energy facilities. Together, they make the grid a little bit greener.

On their own turf

Googleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to reducing the environmental impact extends to

ENERGY

offices worldwide. Most of the on-campus green initiatives were started by Googlers, and have now grown into company-wide efforts. From the solar panels on their roofs to their bike-to-work programme, these initiatives eliminate the equivalent of more than 21,500 metric tons of CO2 per year.

Carbon offsets: getting to zero

Even after efforts in efficiency and renewable energy, Google still impacts the environment. To eliminate impacts on climate change, they have invested in projects that reduces carbon emissions at another source outside of Google and can be very picky as they want to make sure that investments that have been made have a positive impact and that it wouldn’t have happened without them.

For example, Google pays for reductions in emissions from a landfill near their data centre. By investing in these projects, the total climate impact ends up being zero. This means that all products and services from them are carbon neutral.

Their footprint: beyond zero

Efforts in efficiency, buying clean energy and purchasing carbon offsets bring the carbon footprint down to zero. Google is going beyond carbon neutral by committing over $1 billion to renewable energy projects that create far more renewable energy for the world than they have consumed as a company. In addition, Google’s products have enabled users to save energy themselves.

Renewable energy for everyone else

In addition to investing in renewable energy for Google’s own operations, they have also been investing in renewable power projects to grow the industry as a whole. They have specifically committed over $1 billion to renewable energy projects such as large-scale wind and rooftop solar and when added up, these projects represent a total capacity of over 2 GW, which is far more electricity than is used. To put this in context, this electricity is equivalent to that consumed by more than 500,000 homes.

You can save energy too

Google products provide over 100 billion searches every month, map information for over 1 billion monthly users, and host over 5 million businesses in the cloud.

In addition to being carbon neutral, Google’s products can help you reduce your impact on the environment. green+.2014, november-december

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GOING GREEN Credit: © Shutterstock

It is wrong to choose just one species to represent conservation, but the turtles are among the most unique and the most threatened of all How much longer will be we be able to touch the largest chelonian, before their unique lifestyle disappears, along with all the others we have destroyed? Change is certainly needed among those who can create enormous directional modifications to this mad flight to self-destruction, and it is needed right now.

Two perspectives on the biosphere

Economic growth is useless if all the forests are gone

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ulia Marton-Lefèvre and E.O. Wilson are two people you probably aren’t aware of. That is because they are, respectively Director General of IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) for eight years, and Pulitzer Prize-winning sociobiologist and renowned evolution and ant expert! Not exactly the pop world.

They share one great criticism this week of the world’s politicians and technologists. While one criticises the lack of logic in politicians’ behaviour towards

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conservation of resources, the other suggests that ethics are needed for a solution to the same problem: unless we save other species, then our own is doomed to extinction too.

Professor Wilson has a sciencecentric way of thinking that deludes the non-scientific. Politicians believe him to be egocentric, unless they are scientists themselves. On the other hand Julia Marton-Lefèvre is able to state that 9bn people need to gain their food, water and shelter from the protected places she wants politicians to be much more aware

of. Without fish, for example, much of the coastal population will starve. Yet only 3% of marine life is protected, compared to 15% of land species.

We would question whether diplomacy or straightforward logic would suit a world in which we need much more conservation, both nationally and on an international and cooperative basis.

You can read much more on the current publications and conferences with which this ageing professor and this vigorous, somewhat-younger lady are involved. Julia, if she will forgive us using her name, can be found in the Guardian and elsewhere, representing the IUCN at the decadal World Parks Conference in Sydney.

Edward (the prof) officially retired in 1996, so he has a more relaxed tour of what he mistakenly calls the mother country, selling yet another book he’s written, The Meaning of Human Existence, but also promoting a Dorset Memo (Mass Extinction Monitoring

GOING GREEN Credit: © Shutterstock

The Global Green Economy Index 2014 The Global Green Economy Index is now onto its 4th biennial edition of separating the cabbages from the clowns.

Green performance entails an awful lot of renewable energy or eating cabbage, while the clowns think they can still get away with uneconomical cars and coal-fired power stations.

Top of course are the Scandinavians, whose policies have been green for generations, although an awful lot of oil and gas have powered Norway’s expensive conversion to the green side.

Germany naturally gets the perception award for being so much in the forefront of renewable energy and showing European leadership in the necessary economic and environmental change.

Behind Sweden and Norway, the 3rd spot for performance goes for first time entrants, Costa Rica, whose efforts, especially in sustainable building, are only helped a little by their small size. Large nations do have a problem with the absolute expense of change. Of the 60 countries and 70 cities surveyed, larger nations such as China, Poland and lastly,

Mongolia bring up the rear.

Many countries are not perceived as being green enough or they appear much more green than they really are. The African countries of Ethiopia, Mauritius, Rwanda and Zambia deserve credit for becoming very environmentally friendly.

Cities that have been poor performers long ago, now rank highly. Being rich enough to alter your infrastructure is also a help. With London and its eco-buildings 5th and New York 7th, only the obvious ones such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam beat them.

The nicest cities seem to be all green, such as, in order, Stockholm, Vancouver, Berlin and Singapore, not forgetting Oslo in 10th.

Concern has to be expressed about developed countries that have fallen behind. Australia, Japan, the Netherlands and the US perform poorly compared to other similar countries.

This group seem to class themselves as fairly green, but this just doesn’t add up in reality Likewise, the UK is inconsistent and therefore

Observatory) to 860 extinct species since the dodo in 1662. The newspaper covering this epic event is The Times with King of the Ants.

The Director General is more diplomatic when she states that the Aichi Biodiversity Targets are unlikely to be attained in 2020. She is simply not optimistic that commitments can be met. She herself is stepping down this year - hopefully not retiring yet, either!

Her organisation is fighting poachers in particular but politicians too.

Her agreement with the professor is reasonable to assume. It isn’t about the love of birds and butterflies; it’s about our survival. We need to behave better towards our planet and behave better towards each other.

In other words, economic growth is

In Paris, they have their own ideas about how green a building or a city should be. France performs very well compared to some neighbours in this survey, but its perceptions of itself are less good!

never excels in the survey, unlike many other European countries that exceed even their own green perception of themselves. Opposite to the UK, France outranks it on performance but sees itself as much less green than the UK! In similar fashion, Colombia, Chile and Peru are imperceptibly green on the outside, but are blossoming on the inside!

useless if all the forests are gone. They are needed alive and still standing, as habitats and food sources, just as the marine forests are! With only 25% of protected areas managed at all well and half of our most biodiverse sites totally unprotected, the pessimism she feels is reasonable.

Between $45bn and $76bn will be needed just to manage the poachers (and the politicians), but this is only 2.5% of global military spending. It is an old argument that never worked, but it’s always worth mentioning.

Of the IUCN Red List’s 73,686 species, 22,103 are classed as threatened. With EO. Wilson adding the extinct 860, that leaves a “helluvalot” more work to do for those of us remaining. His 50 years of earnest and thoughtful work have left

Buildings are often the key to “green-ness”, as their emissions are prominent among polluting sources.

So we can judge a nation’s performance on climate, energy and their environment almost with only a sustainability of building report. The Dual Citizen LLC consultancy produce the GGEI report from the US. – www. earthtimes.org

him believing technology will not rescue us from the mess we have created.

Our emotions and our institutions are ill-fitted to the task of changing the world around. We must save the environment but new technologies are the only route by which the organisms and their habitats can provide us with a healthy biosphere.

Whoever has the better argument, we certainly need them both. The people who make up this world are unfortunately responsible for the other species and the whole biosphere. It is up to those with this knowledge and this experience to lead us to new conclusions about action. And I am sorry, time is up for us all, given the warmings, the droughts, the floods and the tears. – www.earthtimes.org green+.2014, november-december

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BUSINESS

Transformers, but with your house!

Parent company claim great ambition for that Zero Energy places them above similar companies

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he Netherlands have exported their unlikely substitute for building energy efficient houses.

Instead of that expense, they take old houses and coat them with insulation and solar panels! The concept is hardly original but if industry takes to it, what can you do?

Net Zero Energy has now transferred its refurbishments to two neighbouring countries at least, after a successful and quick 4-year surge of acceptance in the Netherlands. Energiesprong (Energy Spring) negotiates with housing associations, local councils (council estates, often called social housing), and builders and has achieved deals for at least 100,000 homes in each country.

The biggest attraction, as the name Net Zero implies, is the carbon neutral retrofit.

The parent company claim great ambition for that Zero Energy places them above similar companies. With a cost higher than current energy bills, the idea is that as energy costs rise, the protagonists can all save money in time. Performance guarantees persuade house owners, who all have to agree before a building can be transformed. It’s the IKEA kitchens, fridges, electric cooking and bathroom refits that help in that argument with thee hausfrau.

The great volume of demand has managed to attract builders investment in the idea. Financiers also seem strangely inclined to offer help too, so there’s gold in them buildings!

Naturally, governments are attracted to the political achievement of greater energy savings nationally. 40% of European carbon emissions derive from heating and lighting in buildings and this renovation can make old housing (99% of the buildings standing) produce the net zero emissions necessary in

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Credit: © Energiesprong

A former ministry in The Hague was the site for a celebratory balloon release on September 29th in the form of a house

new-builds. Most maintenance (for 40 years) is normally included in the costs of refurbishing, so the political gain could be lengthy, if the deal lasts as long as the house.

Remember that the housing situations chosen may include housing stock, such as 50-year-old buildings that would need massive maintenance anyway. Private housing is less popular at the moment, but the deal obviously works for them too.

If the wind used to blow through their windows and doors, some of the converted tenants have commented in the UK that their new home insulates like a tea cosy! If you don’t know what that is, just imagine…. In Holland, the retrofit can take as little as 10 days. EU money is given out for French and English projects, again using that old housing stock.

From London to Lille, the outlook for these houses is bright and green. While social banks have been financing the projects in the Netherlands, high street banks will probably now be involved. Tenants pay their old energy bills and rent, until the bill is paid, so all seem to end up happy.

Your future is here, housing tenants, so get the neighbours to agree and get in there! – www. earthtimes.org

Horse Sense The Yukon horse and the Nevada horse represented the last traces of a North American phenomenon that has perplexed us for generations-the evolution and the loss of recent horse species. The Yukon, Equus lambei resembled Przewalski’s species, Equus ferus przewalskii, while the large Nevada, Equus scotti, is thought to be close to the basic zebra line. This species could even stretch its ancestry to the very early European Equus stenonis, which was also a big species.

While some recent horse species evolved in America, then migrated 11mya to Eurasia and Africa, those remaining in their native land area eventually became extinct. The reasons are not hard to imagine. Most of the so-called megafauna died out at the same time, because of climate change in the form of global cooling, grass species change and/ or human disruption.

Unfortunately, horse meat was very popular on the menu of early humans in Eurasia, at least, and still is. The modern domestic horse, Equus ferus caballus, the domestic donkey (also found in the wild as the ass), the ass cousin the onager, the tarpan, kiang and zebras are all we have left, with none in North America, save a few remnants of ferals that the ranchers allow from the once-thriving mustangs brought in by the Spanish.

Most successful in the wild are the plains zebra, Equus quagga (not the extinct quagga).

Strange discoveries may still remain in the opposite direction from Eurasia, which the equines reached via the link area known as Beringia (after the Bering Strait.) In South America, which was already connected via the Panamanian isthmus, Equus andium and

Credit: © Shutterstock

Looking a little inbred, this herd of Przewalki’s horse are the ideal-more than a simple breed-an actual subspecies that has remained wild (and stubborn) since their speciation

4 other small species are thought to have survived well from the Middle Pleistocene (1mya) to the early Holocene (700,000ya.)

They could not have replaced horse species that lived there before them, as it is likely they crossed over when the isthmus formed, around 3 million years ago.

The reverse of the usual scientific process is happening here. More often than not, we allow information about wild species to illustrate how domestic species have changed. The rich genetic information we have used from 59 horse genomes in “Horses look back” informs us about how wild species may have evolved.

The graphs and detail in that paper give a real feel of the background science.

What makes horse sense is that the modern horse species’ teeth, longer legs and neck, one-toed hoof and digestion suit the plains of America, Eurasia, Africa and even the pampas, it seems. We can be grateful that magnificent creatures like these still remain on the planet at all. Many are disappearing fast, as we read. They can be saved with real appreciation of what horses mean to humans, not only in our history, but at an iconic, almost religious level.

– www.earthtimes.org

NATURE

Mad about Madagascar

Science has to struggle with the niches of each individual species

Bad news for corals and divers

The tomato frog, Dyscophus antongilii, is a near-threatened endemic from Antongili Bay in Madagascar’s north east. The species’ situation is yet another example of gross negligence and lack of understanding, as pet-traders profited from the export of vast numbers from the island.

Beautiful and endangered, like all of the unique wildlife of this great natural nature reserve.

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ason L. Brown and his fellow researchers from Duke University (and City College NYC), Queen s, Belfast and the Technical University of Braunschweig have studied the reptiles and amphibian of Madagascar for years.

With Africa possessing some of the most biodiverse hotspots on earth, the large island, although only having 0.5% of the land surface on earth, surpasses its continent in sheer isolated magnificence. The processes that made these endemic species possible have now been recreated using their mixed-spatial model.

The patterns of biodiversity from 8,362 records of 745 species were fed in. Using many possible biogeographic movements, the observed patterns seem to have been influenced by many more than one simple diversification process. As the team say, One size certainly does not fit all. The conclusions would be that species richness, endemism and the similarity of different communities can be used to explain the Madagascan situation.

The main groups studied in this paper differed from each

other in the response they made to their magic environment. For the future, climate change and land use must now be taken into account if we are to save the many critically threatened habitats and species on this extensive natural nature reserve! To help, other researchers are already preparing papers on the unique climate, geology and environment of Madagascar. Just in time, as we tend to lose the forests quickly in the current political climate.

Ninety per cent of the animals here are found nowhere else, as you can tell when our stories on Madagascar never fail to amaze our staff, let alone the readers. Large geckos have been our stock-in-trade elsewhere recently, while 50% of chameleon species live here, feeding sometimes on tiny iridescent frogs and reducing their own size to miniscule too.

The island situation largely helped the survival of endemic species by remaining stable throughout thousands of years and more. Now, global warming has shifted the goalposts for theses rare animals and plants.

Instead of useful models, science

The corals of Hawaii, specifically in Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, represent the great majority of coral with US jurisdiction.

They are represented largely

by Porites, mainly P. lobata and P. Kompressa.

Montipora and Pocillopora species make up most of the other dominants on the reefs. The loss of many corals in the Pacific Ocean this summer, due to warm sea surface temperatures, is a potential disaster. Recovery is vital. The previous loss of Caribbean corals, and of course the multiple species of animal and plant that need the coral, are explained in this article: Coral Cover’s Deadly Decline.

Oahu has been badly hit at numerous points, while, even 1000 miles northwest, mass bleaching has occurred at Lisianski atoll, with lesser events at Midway, Pearl and Hermes atolls. Courtney Crouch is a researcher at Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, so when she calls the situation dire, it’s probably true! 35% of the sites have been bleached.

The cause of bleaching

has to struggle with the niches of each individual species to investigate how best to preserve both the habitat and their whole environment in the cause of conservation. Without these creatures of the big island, our hopes of maintaining the whole planet become lower and lower.

We plunder scientific papers on Madagascar almost daily, but we find gems such as the tiny chameleons (world’s smallest

is accepted nowadays as being thermal and this was the warmest summer for 50 years. The algal symbionts within coral are lost after 8 weeks of high-temperatureinduced stress but can return if the bleaching doesn’t continue too long.

Unfortunately, it will be October before temperatures lower, so more profound deterioration is possible.

El Nino is held responsible, moving the warm water north as the summer progresses.

The last time this happened was in 2002 and 2004. Last week, along the windward coasts of Oahu, the Hawaii Department of Land Resources rapid response team examined the damage.

Among them administrator Frazer McGilvray reported the corals as appearing, snow white.

This entails a moderate to severe bleaching event, needing careful monitoring and avoidance of the corals by ocean users such as divers. Photographs will be needed though, to keep the authorities up-to-date with the situation, day to day. – www.earthtimes.org

reptile) on tiny islands in the north: “Miniature chameleon discovered in Madagascar”. This new paper reveals much more on these amazing reptiles and others thanks to the author’s hard work, published in Nature Communications and entitled “A necessarily complex model to explain the biogeography of the amphibians and reptiles of Madagascar”. – www.earthtimes. org green+.2014, november-december

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ENERGY

Hydropower means a lot worldwide Twenty per cent of global electricity has been made by using renewable sources this year

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h e p re s e nt b o o m in making electricity from hydroelectric sources pays no heed to some political considerations, but helps the trend continue towards renewable energy. Dams grow everywhere possible in developing countries and emerging economies, while construction companies are delighted to do the work.

Apart from the national rivalries exposed by this loss of water, rivers have a lot to lose (about 20% of large free-flowing rivers currently extant) in terms of biodiversity.

The University of Copenhagen recently closed its conference on Global Challenges: Achieving Sustainability. This

Credit: © Shutterstock

commendable confab is also setting up a novel Biofresh DataPortal. Massive support for indices of species and observation of the states of hydrology worldwide will be provided.

The news of doubling hydropower is the door into a new era for dams. Professor Christiane Zarfl of the University of Tübingen studied the hydropower boom at the Leibnitz Institute in Berlin and produced a database. We have compiled available data on future expected hydropower dams - to form a key foundation for evaluating where and how to build the dams and how to operate them sustainably, she reports at the congress.

Twenty per cent of global electricity has been made by using

renewable sources this year. 80% of that is hydropower, with 3,700 new dams about to add to that, making a total of 1,700GW available from this renewable! China, with its disputed giant Yangzi dams and many others will still

be the leader of this water race.

Meanwhile their dominance will be challenged by Amazon and La Plata projects in South America and Ganges-Brahmaputra dams in India and Nepal. Here is the story of the enormous DRC dam plan for the great Congo in Africa.

The river dolphins, the migratory fish, the rare amphibian and even reptiles such as turtles will be joined by countless insect species, vital to the ecosystems of rivers, who will become threatened by loss of flow. Plant species will be affected first, with the herbivores which devour them next.

Specialised predators will probably disappear while those organisms requiring clean, oxygenated water will be disappearing. Prospects seem dim, but hopefully the embryonic database system will keep track better than previous attempts to map extinctions. Because it is extinction of whole river systems we are dealing with. The energy is needed, but the use of smaller dams may avoid nation fighting nation for the pure water, the power and the glory.– www. earthtimes.org

Fracking still rears its ugly head Jerry Brown, the Californian Governor, is moving to halt wastewater dumping into the state’s aquifers from up to 30 injection wells. These fracking operations are not only using great amounts of drought-stricken California’s water, but carelessly dumping where freshwater aquifers have been contaminated.

Further afield, the UK energy minister, Owen Paterson, has regularly pushed his right-wing party further in the fracking debate, without too much objection, from them at least. Desolate parts of the small country should be used for fracking, according to some in his party. The rest of the world, however is deeply concerned with this water pollution, mini-quakes and land rights.

We need an international

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approach to all fracking and similar undermining of the need to escape from our fossil fuel addiction. While dinosaurs might have retained their opinions on how climate change would not affect them, thinking humans need to improve on our dismal record of air pollution. CO2 alone has almost directly caused a temperature rise approaching 2oC. We have finally realised, apart from one or two politicians, many of the links this has with vast changes in our environment, both now and more so in the future.

In the US fracking has long been acquiring a terrible reputation, which people like Patterson pretend to ignore.

The great white hope for him is destined to become an even larger grey cloud. Highly

pressurised water, sand and chemicals including the carcinogens benzene and toluene are used and released in these hidden, but dirty, operations. The Central Valley Water Board in California has found half of its wells with excessive amounts of toxic chemicals. Some way has to be found there quickly to dispose of waste water in safe ways, well separated from natural aquifers.

In the UK, the outgoing government seems desperate to copy some of Europe’s fossil fans, and the American dream of cheap fuels. The vigorous anti-fracking campaign has persuaded them that their opponents are exaggerating their argument.

Take some bribe money from the frackers and enjoy the cheap energy seems to be

their only argument!

Perhaps the local Scottish example and the German and Italian non-renewable approach would appeal more to those voters who don’t seem to be particularly fond of people who also claim they have no rights to prevent fracking under their land. If this government repeal the Climate Change Act of 2008, flouting the EU’s approach completely, perhaps that will be their last desperate act!

Fracking seems bound to go on, but what a pity that people have to rediscover consequences that have been clearly shown in comparable situations for decades. Do they really believe that any fuel company is going to clean up, after all of the recorded quakes, contaminations and spills? – www.earthtimes.org

CLIMATE

If you can’t stand the heat...

Warm water now storing heat below the surface is liable to cause future atmospheric temperatures to rocket Credit: © Shutterstock

The days when the flap of butterflies’ wings were theorised to cause potential storms across the earth are not over. But instead of chaos theory, we now have real storms caused by outdated technologies that pollute and then warm the whole planet

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he top 10 normally refers to something popular, pleasant or in some way profitable. This time it’s the bad news. Since this millennium started, we have now had the 10 hottest years.

Only four have failed to breach the records. Carbon dioxide concentrations naturally rose to the highest in the last 30 years in 2013, too.

NOAA has recorded these facts for us, with politics and economists finally turning to the warm side as well.

With those CO2 figures, we are due for a century or two of continued warming. The struggle will be to contain that temperature to a 2oC. rise. Politically, those who thought previously we could manage our emissions regarded that aim as achievable. Now it is very unlikely.

Warming oceans have, hidden depths, if you like.

T he wa r m wate r now storing heat below the surface waters is liable to cause future atmospheric temperatures to rocket.

Wi t h Au s t ra l i a ’ s d ay temperatures breaking their records and the UK with a hottest September, only 1976 stands out with a below 20th century average temperature over the whole globe. There was a cold winter last year, but only in the US (the eastern bit.)

The final months of this year are not included in NOAAs annual Septemberfest of world climate figures.

The awful truth is that 2014 will almost certainly set an annual record for heat. Of 9 months so far, 4 have been record breakers with most others contributing to the prospect for record warmth.

Ocean temperatures ca n ’ t c ha nge q u ic k ly , leaving us to finish off the year in literally hot water!

Last year’s report is also interesting, to compare the approaches in “Remember November”. Politicians and decision makers should pay much more attention this time around.

The El Niño Southern Oscillation is set to bring us that awesome harbinger of disaster, with estimates of a 60% chance of its warming presence by December this year. That means the intense flooding in Jammu and Kashmir and the terrible loss of Arctic ice (not as in the Antarctic) will simply be symptoms of worse to come. The droughts and flood, ice loss and giant cyclones (hurricanes) will be with us for a long time, and with a vengeance. – www.earthtimes.org

Our climate change is related to deep ocean currents and glaciations The mapping of currents deep in the oceans has been a protracted study. A combination of deep ocean sediment core samples and NASA imaging now reveal that climate change is affected at least as much by the sea as by the air temperature. Rutgers University academics Stella Woodard, Yair Rosenthal, Kenneth Miller, James Wright, with Kira Lawrence (Lafayette College) and Beverly Chiu, all contributed to the paper in the journal Science that puts a new perspective on climate change.

We recently looked at Atlantic/Pacific deep ocean current links in Ocean temperature alarm call. The amount of greenhouse gases in circulation within our oceans has also possibly been underestimated. As the earth has cooled over the last 2.7 million years and continental ice has built up, ocean circulation changed to that we saw in the previous paper.

The cause could have been the major expansion in northern hemisphere glacier volume, associated with falls in sea level.

Heat and CO2 began then to be pulled into the Atlantic and moved from north to south before being conveyed to the Pacific and released. Antarctic ice would have played a role too, cutting off heat exchange at the surface there, and forcing heat energy to the depths.

And the effects of carbon dioxide? Well, 3 million years ago, in the late Pliocene, we had similar levels of the gas in the atmosphere, with higher temperatures (around 2.3oC.), so there is a possibility we could assume those ancient oceanic and atmospheric conditions again. Phew!

Global climate change was not caused then by carbon dioxide levels rising, so the ice changes explain the cooling instead. That modern circulation in the oceanic deeps is revealed in sediment core samples up to 3.3 million years old. Prof. Yair Rosenthal has the last word on that with his summary here.

“Our study suggests that changes in the storage of heat in the deep ocean could be as important to climate change as other hypotheses - tectonic activity or a drop in the carbon dioxide level - and likely led to one of the major climate transitions of the past 30 million years,” he said. – www. earthtimes.org

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SCITECH

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he ancients are always a puzzle, whether colonising Europe or even when they left Africa and bred with Neanderthals. See the latest DNA evidence from a Siberian femur for that one! The genetic reason for this European success is now becoming more evident. The colonists developed advantageous genes, combined with several other factors based on their technologies.

The Hungarian Plain has always been at the centre of European invasions. The study concerned here used samples of DNA from skulls dated 5,700 to 800BC. The late Neolithic led there into the Copper Age Baden Culture, the early Bronze Age and the early Iron Age as the Near East, the steppes and Central Europe all swapped technologies.

The Hallstatt Culture began there, in Transdanubia, with the fabled Scythians further east on the fertile plain.

Did the invasions bring new people, or just a few with the requisite technology? Agriculture provides the answer here, if we twist around the evidence to include knowledge of the genomes.

Evidence of Mesolithic hunter gatherers, like them is scattered here and there, apart from northern Hungary and also to the north. We want to know if these early settlers intermarried with the farmers appearing from the south and the east.

Genome results show that Neolithic people has southern Mediterranean, mainly Sardinian affinities, as has been found before. Local male hunter gatherers became incorporated into farming

Our ancient ancestors couldn’t digest milk Other genes were found relevant to population changes

Credit: © Shutterstock

communities, but in the 3rd millennium BC, the Bronze Age must have been revolutionary. Trade increased and heavily fortified settlements grew in Carpathia and its mountain passes.

Only one Iron Age sample was taken from the Mezőcsát Culture (possibly pre-Scythian in 830-980 BC.) Asian

influence is obvious here, probably from the steppes. Technology then involved horse domestication, carts, chariots and the obvious metallurgies. Today’s Hungarians have more western genome affinities, presumable due to mixing of European populations since then.

The real excitement of this mixture

Birds run carefully in the rough Placing feet in the right place concerns robots and runners, and almost all bipeds and tetrapods. Here is an article of interest to in Runners. The UKs Royal Veterinary College (and Oregon State University) have often studied small crouching creatures and large upright birds such as ostrich.

The mass of these birds ranges from 0.2kg to 117kg, so the strategy for movement could be extremely varied.

Aleksandra Birn-Jeffrey, Monica Daley and 4 colleagues published their findings in the science journal JEB as Don’t

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break a leg: running birds from quail to ostrich prioritise leg safety and economy on uneven terrain. Being bipedal, stability of the body seemed likely to be a priority, but the maintenance of consistent forces from the running legs was found to be more important. Economy in terms of energy expended and the safety of the legs turned out to be major results of that consistent running mode, no matter how uneven the ground was.

When birds first flew, it would have given them

ecological advantages. If take-off speed was a precursor, however, then running in a stable manner could have influenced avian evolution too.

The stability of the animal does seem to be a control priority for many species.

As all birds are dynamically similar as they approach a step obstacle (from 0.1 to 0.5 times their leg length), the leap they make onto the object seems to be followed by a crouch that keeps them stable there. The forces exerted in the procedure showed up how they negotiated the steps. They all jump off

with extended legs.

Some ostriches used in the experimental work had to be reared from chicks for two years, so that their imprinting on humans could be used to decrease any aggression and enable handling. These big guys were expected to vault upward and then immediately step down, but every bird performed the basic crouch on top of the step.

With an Oregon University computer model, the runners could be modelled exactly.

They discovered two alternative task level priorities. The

SCITECH of history and genetics lies in these rare (and expensive) sources of endogenous DNA in certain skulls. Unfortunately, with the increasing prevalence of dairy products and milk from various animals, lactose intolerance remained.

The lactose persistence allele is found only after the Neolithic/Copper Age and the late Bronze Age samples are the first found, around 1,000 BC. Oetzi the Ice Man, who we have written about before in Oetzi, was lactose intolerant, and was alive during the Tyrolean Copper age.

Other genes were found re leva nt to p o pu l at io n changes. The transition to the lighter pigmentation of modern Europeans is indicated but periods of genetic stability show up the changes that occurred at the advent of the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron technologies.

Cristina Gamba and Ron Pinhasi of University College Dublin and numerous colleagues from Trinity College, the Universities of Potsdam, Cardiff, and Oxford and several Hungarian museums produced these spectacular results in - Genome flux and stasis in a five millennium transect of European prehistory. – www.earthtimes.org

prioritisation of stability and returning to the steady gait required for running was one. The other involved minimising the costs to the bird in energy exertion. The model simulated the cautious responses of all of the birds if the leg posture was carefully controlled to avoid the leg being overloaded.

Next, a very stable, bipedal robotic ostrich which we will all find very useful for ---? – www. earthtimes.org

Forest loss in NZ reveals fire prevention ploys Land use has shifted recently to accommodate frequent large fires

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u r N Z c ou s i n s , the Maoris, landed 750 years ago and did what humans always do. They trashed the forest. Considering what the British did later, with sheep, stoats and cats, the damage was less, but still destroyed many species of flora and fauna, leaving half of the 13th century native forest for the later colonisers to destroy in the 18th century. This would have been evergreen closed-canopy broadleaf forest dominated by podocarps.

The Initial Burning Period of the Maoris can be checked in pollen and charcoal remains and found to have taken place in mere decades. One vulnerable site was found that was dry while a wetter site was thought to be less liable to be affected.

David B McWethy with others from Montana State University joined with several colleagues from New Zealand’s Landcare Research, and the University of Auckland to investigate this unique example of anthropogenic colonisation effect.

They publish their paper as- A High-Resolution Chronology of Rapid Forest Transitions following Polynesian Arrival in New Zealand.

The particular interest is in how small groups of transient humans can be so effective in this environment that is made so vulnerable to fire. Part of the answer seems to have been the fire-prone open shrubland vegetation appeared in place of the ancient podocarp forest, just as it appears in some present-day deforestation situations.

Land use has shifted recently to accommodate frequent large fires. To fight this regular and very wide occurrence, study of forest loss could lead to solutions involving a negative feedback to fire disturbance. We know that scrub, grassland and shrubby vegetation encourages fire. The

Credit: © Shutterstock

In Whanganui National Park, thousands of endangered brown kiwi (here) and blue duck survive in the ancient podocarp forests, this time in North Island

encouragement of resistance to fire would save lives, livings, habitat and ancient woods.

T he 3 he c ta re La ke Kirkpatrick (dry, lowland) and 1.5 hectare Dukes Tarn (wetter, high elevation) in South Island represent two vulnerabilities to fire. AMS (accelerated mass spectrometry) results from the sites were able to give accurate radiocarbon dates from the lake sediment cores. Twentytwo dates were obtained from the 2 sites, using invaluable charcoal and terrestrial plant macrofossils.

Lake Kirkpatrick still has some stands of native silver beech while the Tarn has patches of black beech. The first human-set fires rapidly created forest transitions. It took only 17 years at Lake Kirkpatrick and 48 years at the Tarn for a significant decline in native plants to take place. Every 50-100 years after that, more fires devastated the flora until 1600, when the activity decreased.

Southern beech, Nothofagus menziessi, Prumnopitys and podocarps declined from 99% to 47% of the pollen at the first fires, with ferns and grasses increasing, then decreasing around 1642. There was some variability before 1792, after which native trees pollen reduced to <30% in the 20th century with the advent of exotic pines, docks and dandelions!

All of this may seem inconsequential, but the podocarp forest had a wealth of New

Zealand endemics within it. We know what happened to the giant moas, but the interest lies in smaller flora and fauna, some of which may have never been viewed by human eyes.

Without making the topic too exciting, simply consider how many flightless parrots would be left if human and other animal influences had never taken such a great toll? The Maori gardens created insignificant clearings compared to the later sheep farming, especially in the sparsely-inhabited South Island. Population levels have not played as conclusive a part as many models often predict in fire vulnerability studies.

What is clear is that high mature canopy cover makes fires die because the understory lacks sufficient fuel and the moisture levels are very high.

Flammability can therefore decrease with the age of the forest. Opposing fire seems linked to maintaining forest without small ignition events, a l low i ng moi s t u re level s to increase and kindling to decrease.

The natural tipping pint of old forests in many countries is therefore likely to be approached in the near future, given the land-use changes now taking place. If fire had been removed from the New Zealand equation, perhaps the podocarp forest would have renewed, as many tropical forests have, in the past. Because the disturbed areas continued for a century or so, more fires then maintained their integrity, preventing any resurgence of native flora for 750 years. The warning is there for rapid transitions unless some native forest is retained or rehabilitated.

Simply as an illustration of how ecology can affect flammability of forest, here is an older Canadian example, affected by pine beetle infestation. – www. earthtimes.org green+.2014, november-december

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POLITICS

Climate: What does the UN want?

Severe irreversible effects must be managed with stringent mitigation activities Credit: © Shutterstock

If the UN is that single plant struggling to survive, then the Asian rainforest here represents how we have desolated the earth with our emissions and exploitation. Sustaining that plant will need resources placed in the hands of new technologies and developing nations, with fossil fuels removed from the great industrialists.

Their own resources must also be used for cooperative and sustainable developments

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t is difficult to juggle every report and come to conclusions about exactly what needs to change and who on earth will be willing to change their levels of emission.

Climate change has almost run its full cycle in people’s minds from incredulity to tacit acceptance. The final step is the most difficult. Everybody must agree on certain steps that will result in high initial costs and create new political problems.

Ready for Paris 2015, Ban Ki-moon has broken off his regular commenting on various more local problems and concentrated on Synthesis Report 5..

The IPCC livened up late last year with their, coalition of ambition, in - COP 19 Warsaw’s COP19. Now they look likely to continue with a 6th IPCC Report, despite objections from some sources. Now their key findings reveal huge concern that human influence on climate systems has increasing impact on every single continent. The severe irreversible effects must be managed with stringent mitigation activities.

The IPCC 5th Assessment Report is condensed into this report, after their scientific and necessarily vast

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assessment of climate change. It is obvious that the biggest report ever does not cause movement in itself, but the IPCC Chair, R. K. Pachauri, believes, we have the means to limit climate change.

Combine that hope with people’s opinions that we must do something to prevent any further effects of climate change and there is a possibility of political change. In the background is the growing extent of greenhouse emissions that must now be reduced. From 2000 to 2010, they were at their greatest extent known.

We tend to agree now that greenhouse gases are predominantly the cause of our observed warming. With the criminal emissions of large countries such as the US and China, the warming looks set to go on. Developing countries have special restrictions on energy use because they have few alternatives and are given more time to remove fossil fuels from their energy portfolios.

Many in fact find solar energy especially a method by which they can progress. In less sunny climes, there are other future options or which we all need to give international help. Mr Pachauri in fact states that, “many

of those most vulnerable to climate change have contributed and contribute little to greenhouse gas emissions”.

The days of independence in individual and even national action are likely to be over. As ever, international cooperation has been unpopular in many quarters but it is the only possible solution to this awesome problem.

Mitigation measures are claimed to limit global warming to less than 2oC. The end of the century should have more or less zero emissions of any greenhouse gas. To make this happen, societal change will be necessary in conjunction with new technologies.

City transport systems already seem to be heading in that direction, where personal transport, is prohibitive and often impossible (without the familiar pedal-power).

It would also be wrong to deny the destruction wrought on the land by many industrial style agricultural and exploitation operations. Their emissions and contributions to the release of carbon from these precious environments have become obsolete in the world we need to rebuild. – www. earthtimes.org

POLITICS Credit: © Shutterstock

Future for Aral Sea hopefully assured Still extremely unlikely dead sea will ever resume its former glory

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t is extremely unlikely that the dead Aral Sea will ever resume its former glory. The governments of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in particular have tried to recreate lakes and some of the lost water supply. The result has so far been disappointing, but this large body of water was not just about extinct fish and ecology.

It also fed the economic needs of local populations and created a health headache when poisonous dust plumed up and circulated far and wide in the atmosphere from the dead sea-bed.

The toxins are varied but dioxins were responsible for a host of maternal and child health problems. Fortunately they should have decayed chemically by now.

The health problems remain however, as the affected individuals still suffer the consequences. We have been covering the Aral Sea closely and very recently looked at the conferences ecological perspectives.

The Urgench conference last week was very successful, with wise

investment in projects that stretched from the essential and expensive health programmes to true ecological afforestations and more examples of local damming for lake creation. The ultimate problem is water supply, as global warming creates even hotter and drier conditions throughout the Aralkum and neighbouring Karalkum desert.

How the rivers can be reincarnated to their former flow rates is debateable. The Amu Darya in particular is still diverted too often for the lucrative cotton crop. In the head waters, the luxury of persuading more water to descend is complicated by the needs of neighbouring Tajikistan.

The 3rd programme of the IFAS (International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea) organisation had $2 billion dollars to spend but further necessary work on these multiple problems was supported by a large and ongoing Turkish aid programme in agricultural education, irrigation and forestry.

Japan is also extraordinarily generous with a magnificent $3.6billion aid

The great jerboa, Allactaga major, is a typical inhabitant of the Aral region, important in the predation of insects and as prey for the little owl and many others

programme to the 5 Central Asian nations so far distributed. With Latvia currently presiding over the EU, their report was almost as generous, as 160 million will be exclusively available to Uzbekistan between 2014 and 2020.

Such monies will be dedicated to water and waste issues, with private companies already signed up to deliver the much needed help.

In cooperation with UNDP, German Federal Government help has always been forthcoming too, with GIZ supporting water resources management, combating desertification and creating an environment favourable for the growth of small business and vocational training.

Many types of funding from banks such as the Islamic Bank, UNEP and UNESCO stem from their officials based in Tashkent. The Danish Secretary General of the UNECE (Economic Commission for Europe), Friis Bach, was present to give his account of how aid was contributing to afforestation projects through the guidance of IFAS. The increasing threat from climate change was integral to his speech.

This is possibly the greatest problem, as we try to conserve more water with modern irrigation techniques. The insufferable summer heat in the future will evaporate even more of the water needed despite efforts to improve the Aral Sea’s economy, ecology and health. – www.earthtimes.org green+.2014, november-december

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75

ENVIRONMENT

MSPC’s interaction at Lake Club Key mission to provide platform and focal points for services providers

By Alexander Lee

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N Nov 22. Choo Kok Beng, the President of MSPC , who is also the Founding Fe l l ow o f t h e A s e a n Academy of Engineering & Technology(AAET), held a gathering to recognise its members with an acceptance certification presentation at the Lake Club, Kuala Lumpur.

The meeting began with the president presenting the key objectives, key missions and visions including events and contributions from their members and elaborated on the services industry scenario.

It was followed with introducing and networking with members, recognition with the committees and a good lunch.

The other significant participants were Shaifubahrim Saleh, immediate past president of MSPC, and Adviser of PIKOM, The National ICT Association of Malaysia, Ar. Amzar Ahmad, Malaysian Institute of Architects, Datuk Sr. Zakaria Hashim, past President, MSPC & Council Member of NAPSEC, Matrade, Dato’ Abd Radzak Abd Malek, National President, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Sr Hassan Jamil, President of Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia, Datuk Dr. Arumugam, President of Malaysian Mediacal Association, Ir. KC Yong, National Vice President, Australian & New Zealand Graduates Association in Malaysia and Ir. Dr. Ooi Teik Aun, Director of IEM Training Centre.

The key mission of MSPC is to provide a platform and focal point for services providers to formulate common strategies, make recommendations and submit relevant material of concerns and proactive suggestions to the government.

Their mission is to promote and contribute towards the development of a more efficient and service friendly environment. On top of that the committee and members will assist in facilitating bilateral, regional and multilateral framework for trade and services.

Through MSPC, it is envisage that with their networking strength it shall be a formidable establishment to foster business links and services opportunities with counterpart organizations at local, regional and global levels. This would be especially true in 2015 with Malaysia holding the helm as chair of the Asean Economic Community that

Seated L-R: Dato’ Abd Radzak Abd Malek, Ar. Amzar Ahmad, Datuk Sr. Hj Zakaria Hashim, Ir Choo Kok Beng, Ir. KC Yong, Datuk Dr. Arumugam, YM Ungku Anna Mohammed and Shaifubahrim Mohd Saleh.

Back Row L-R: M. Venkatash, Ir. Dr. Ooi Teik Aun, Sr Hassan Jamil, Ms Shelly Shen and Louis Tay CS.

Sr Hasan Jamil, President of Royal Institution of Surveyors receiving the Membership Recognition Certificate.

involves a total population of 650 million people in Asean.

The government had announced in budget 2015 a commitment to implement initiatives for the services sector as it aims to achieve 60% of GDP in the services sector by 2020. It is timely for the government to be implementing the services sector blueprint too. The initiatives announced were: Setting up a services sector guarantee scheme amounting to RM5 Billion for SMEs in the services sector Establish a research incentive scheme for enterprises with an allocation of RM10 million for high technology, ICT and knowledge-based industries.

Reintroducing the Services Export Fund (SEF) totaling RM300 million to encourage SMEs to conduct market feasibility studies and undertake export promotion to penetrate new markets.

It has been projected that by 2020 at least 46% of jobs will require technical and vocational qualifications. An

amount of RM1.2 billion has been allocated for technical and vocational education.

Further deduction on training expenses incurred by an employer for employees to obtain certificate qualifications from accredited vocational and professional bodies.

Also with several infrastructure projects to be implemented in 2015 for highways, expressways and LRTs etc the opportunities made available will be a boon for professionals in their specialist fields. 2015 will be a very potential year and MSPC encourages its members and all service provider to utilise its platform to widen their services and professional opportunities on both a local and global basis as the avenue is now made available with the added initiatives.

MSPC Committee also encourage the members to apply for the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) as it is a special business travel privilege card that facilitate business mobility among the 19 of the 21 APEC member countries and economies in the Asia Pacific Region.

ABTC enables card holders to enter and remain in for a period (depending on the economy) without separately applying for a visa and access to a fast track entrance and exit lane at major airports of participating economies. The card is valid for three years but all holders must always carry their passports when they travel.

For more information please refer to the MSPC portal at www.mspc.my and look for the ABTC service blog. . green+.2014, november-december

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2014 IGEM

Ir Ahmad Hadri Haris at the appreciation brunch.

Roaring success IGEM 2014 also saw the signing of seven MOUs between GreenTech Malaysia and several key partners

T

h e 5 t h I nte r n at io n a l Greentech & Eco Product Exhibition and Conference (IGEM), held recently at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, achieved about RM2 billion worth of business leads, further solidifying IGEM’s position as the region’s latest green technology platform, invigorating the country’s green economy.

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA) and co-organised

by Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia), the five-day event saw the participation of 357 exhibitors presenting products and services in 616 exhibition booths, with over 49,000 visitors from over 20 countries.

During an appreciation brunch held at Carcosa Seri Negara, GreenTech Malaysia Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris said: “As the world’s battle with climate change intensifies, green technology is soon establishing itself as the critical catalyst for change in economies across the globe.

“To thrive in the climate change era,

businesses must evolve not only to save cost and reduce their impact on the environment, but also to meet the demands of increasingly discerning green conscious and knowledgeable consumers.

“The world is indeed changing, and GreenTech Malaysia together with KeTTHA have played a synergistic role in introducing new economic instruments, strengthening the understanding of green technology and

The electric vehicles waiting to be test driven.

promoting foreign and domestic direct investments into the country.”

Apart from the display of the latest green technology innovation and solutions, IGEM 2014 also featured a series of concurrent events namely the IGEM Conference, Minister-Industry Dialogue, MATRADE International Business Matching, MIDA Business Consultation and One-to-One Bizmatch Programme among others.

Aptly themed Creating Green Wealth, IGEM 2014 also saw the signing of seven Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) between GreenTech Malaysia and several key partners namely the Department of Standards Malaysia, Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd, AMDAC (M) Sdn Bhd, First Energy Networks Sdn Bhd, Green Data Center LLP and Kloth Malaysia Sdn Bhd, to further drive the nation’s green agenda. “ Gre e n Te c h Ma lays ia a s t he country’s lead agency tasked with promoting green technology will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a sustained environment conducive to adopting and applying green technology. As the industry is in its infancy in the country, the opportunities are vast and we are honored to be in a position to play our part to increase the availability, acceptance and adoption green technology,” Ir. Hadri concluded.

As part of the appreciation session and GreenTech Malaysia’s efforts in promoting sustainable transportation under its Electric Mobility Flagship project, the participants were also given first-hand experience to test drive electric vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi iMiev, Renault Zoe and Renault Twizy. green+.2014, november-december

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EVENTS

Green Events Listing in Malaysia for 2015 been successfully held for 17 times(the first half year in Beijing, the second half year in Shanghai). Besides that, Shibowei Organic Expo is the only one Chinese Organic Expo got allowance by Chinese Commerce Ministry.

Build Eco Xpo (BEX) Asia 2015 2-4 September 2015 @ Marina Bay Sands Convention, Singapore, Singapore.

Water Malaysia 2015 International Exhibition and Conference 22-24 April 2015 @ Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KL Wat e r M a l a y s i a ( W M ) 2 0 1 5 International Exhibition & Conference is the biennial event that encompasses all across the entire water cycle. Water resource management, irrigation and drainage management, water supply, wastewater management, non-revenue water (NRW) management, and rainwater harvesting technologies are some of the areas covered in the event. Water Loss Asia (WLA) 2015 will be held concurrently. To address the severe water stress faced by the world, WM 2015 will also be promoting sustainability with the inclusion of Environment Asia 2015 as the concurrent event.

Local SMEs are beginning to address the increasing demand for healthy and natural food products.

Build Eco Xpo (BEX) Asia 2015 is the global business sourcing, networking and knowledge-sharing platform for the sustainable built environment in Southeast Asia. The event draws together international brands of green building technologies and advancements, to the heart of the region’s community of architects, building owners, contractors, consultants, developers, facility managers and energy managers, for business opportunities and experiential engagement.

Aquatech India 11-13 August 2015 @ Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.

2014 BEX Asia

Aquatech India displayes the latest products and innovations in process, drinking and waste water and is a one-of its-kind, international, high quality water technology event serving the complete Indian water sector.

The exhibition features the best possible range of new and proven products on process, drinking and waste water.

Renewable Energy Asia 2015 June 10-13 2015 @ Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Bangkok, Thailand.

The show highlights Renewable Energy sources and the latest technology in this area. Wind & Solar Power are among the many systems & programs featured along with Thermal and Waste-to-energy, Hydo-powered programs, Bio-mass and other green technology also covered. Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Clinics staffed by experts are conducted at the show.

Green Building & Retrofits Expo Asia 2015 16-18 Sept 2015 @ IMPACT Exhibtion Centre, Hall 6, Bangkok, Thailand.

Green Building & Retrofits Expo Asia 2015 is the 5th international Exhibition & Conference on Green Building & Retrofits held in Thailand for the Asia Market. There will be showing case of new technology of products, services and solution for green building and retrofits.

Smart Energy Japan (ENEX) 2015 28-30 January 2015 @ Tokyo Big Sight (East Exhibition Centre Japan) Tokyo, Japan.

ENEX 2015 is an exhibition that brings together the latest information and tecnologies relating to smart energies all under one roof.

Delegates at the 2014 International Symposium on Green Chemistry

3rd International Symposium on Green Chemistry 3-7 May 2015 @ La Rochelle, France.

Organic Green Food Industry Expo 2015 - 18th Shibowei China (Beijing) 16-18 April @ China International Exhibition Centre, Beijing China.

China International Organic Green Food Expo is also the largest organic food industry Expo in Asia, which had

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ISGC-2015 will cover nine general topics related to 1. biomass conversion, 2. clean hydrogen production, 3. alternative solvents, 4. waste, 5. polymers and materials, 6. atom-economy synthesis, 7. eco-technology, 8. predictive methods and 9. environmental and ethical assessments. Each topic will be introduced by a plenary lecture delivered by an eminent scientist of the field.