Striving towards Zero Single-Use Plastics Roadmap

Borneo Post

2 days ago

This regular op-ed column features WWF-Malaysia's perspectives on pressing environmental issues and events unfolding in Sabah. As an environmental conservation NGO, we also use this space to share our views on potential policy shifts that Sabah's leaders can implement to foster a greener and more sustainable future for the state.
Plastic pollution poses an undeniable threat to Sabah's vibrant ecosystems. From the lush rainforests of Danum Valley to the coral-rich waters of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, discarded plastics threaten to suffocate wildlife, contaminate food chains, and mar the very beauty that draws tourists from across the globe.
Recent studies show alarming rates of plastic leakage into marine environments, with Malaysia being a significant contributor to mismanaged plastic waste globally. Kota Kinabalu City Hall's (DBKK) own data indicates plastic waste constitutes the highest percentage (38.5%) of waste found in the city's rivers and beaches.
Discarded single-use plastic has become a threat to Sabah's beautiful underwater world.
Pillars of progress in achieving 'no plastic in nature'
To realistically achieve the goal of 'no plastic in nature', a comprehensive ban on problematic single-use plastics like straws, stirrers, cutlery, and polystyrene is paramount. Imperatively, the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, holding manufacturers accountable for their products' lifecycle, will incentivise eco-design and bolster recycling efforts.
Tax breaks and incentives for businesses embracing sustainable alternatives will also further accelerate this transition.
In addition, the backbone of zero plastic in nature lies in robust waste management. This means expanding and enhancing waste collection and segregation at source, particularly in rural and coastal areas often overlooked. A significant investment is needed in modern recycling facilities equipped with advanced sorting technologies to process a wider range of plastics.
Discarded single-use plastic items a threat and an eyesore.
Diverting organic waste through widespread composting programs will reduce landfill burden and prevent contamination of recyclables. While waste-to-energy solutions may be considered for residual waste, they must be implemented with the strictest environmental safeguards.
Most importantly, true change begins with the people. Sustained, engaging public education campaigns are vital to instill a deep understanding of plastic pollution's impact and empower individuals to adopt the 4R principles of waste management: reuse, reduce, recycle and recover.
Community-based initiatives, like those supported by WWF-Malaysia in Semporna, where local coastal communities are trained in waste management, demonstrate the power of grassroots action. Promoting refill stations, deposit-return schemes for bottles, and integrating environmental education into school curricula will foster sustainable habits from a young age.
Embracing innovation in circular economy and strong partnerships
To truly be an eco-sustainable state, Sabah needs to foster a vibrant ecosystem of innovation.
This includes investing in research and development for sustainable plastic alternatives and advanced recycling technologies.
Encouraging eco-design, where products are made to be durable, reusable, and easily recyclable, is crucial. Furthermore, supporting businesses that adopt circular economy models – such as product-as-a-service or upcycling initiatives – will create new economic opportunities while reducing waste.
Achieving this ambitious goal also necessitates unprecedented collaboration. Strong leadership from the Sabah state government, particularly the Ministry of Local Government and Housing and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, is essential for policy coordination and enforcement. Active engagement from the private sector, including tourism and F&B industries, to reduce plastic packaging and invest in sustainable practices is vital.
While Kota Kinabalu City has pioneered the 'Bawa Beg Bah' (Bring Your Own Bag) campaign and has initiated a campaign to reduce the use of polystyrene and plastic straws effective October 2025, the initiative to reduce single-use plastic must cascade statewide. Especially on the east coast of Sabah that boasts stunning islands and a wealth of underwater life.
Semporna is renowned for its breathtaking underwater seascapes and is a world-famous scuba diving destination.
Protecting Semporna's Marine Heritage — the 'No Plastic in Nature' Initiative
Sabah's Semporna district is renowned for its breathtaking marine biodiversity, attracting visitors from all over the world to witness its coral reefs, vibrant fish populations, and the unique culture of its island communities. Yet behind this beauty lies an escalating crisis: plastic pollution.
From plastic bottles and packaging littering beaches to ghost nets entangling marine life, the threat has never been more urgent. WWF-Malaysia's 'No Plastic in Nature' initiative is tackling this problem head-on through community-based waste management, microplastic research, and active cleanup operations.
At the heart of this initiative is the development of community-led waste management plans on key islands including Omadal, Larapan, and Mabul. These plans are co-created with residents to ensure they reflect local needs, customs, and capacities.
Households are equipped with waste bins to segregate plastic, organic, and residual waste, while appointed coordinators and part-time collectors manage monthly pickups. The collected materials are transported to the mainland for recycling or safe disposal.
To strengthen these efforts, new recycling centres are being constructed to serve as hubs for sorting and storing waste before it leaves the islands. This community ownership model has already led to the collection of thousands of kilograms of plastic waste that would otherwise end up in the sea.
Another cornerstone of 'No Plastic in Nature' is microplastic research in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah. Microplastics — tiny fragments of degraded plastic — are now ubiquitous in marine environments, entering the food chain and potentially harming human health.
Field teams have conducted sampling in sediments, water, and locally caught seafood to better understand the scale of the problem in Semporna's waters. Preliminary findings have revealed concerning levels of microplastic contamination in fish and shellfish, underscoring the need for upstream solutions to prevent further pollution.
Awareness sessions held with local communities have educated residents about the hidden dangers of microplastics and inspired them to reduce reliance on single-use plastic.
On top of land-based efforts, underwater cleanups are an essential part of protecting Semporna's reefs. Working alongside dive operators, local youth, and community groups, WWF-Malaysia organises regular cleanups to remove discarded fishing gear, nets, and plastic debris that smother coral and entangle marine animals.
In Larapan and Mabul, these operations have collected dozens of kilograms of waste in just a single dive, demonstrating the power of collective action. Beyond waste removal, these activities create opportunities for hands-on learning, bringing home the impact of marine debris in a tangible way.
The 'No Plastic in Nature' initiative is more than a conservation project — it is a testament to what communities, government agencies, and partners can achieve together. By combining waste management, scientific research, and direct cleanup activities, this integrated approach is setting up a model for other coastal regions facing similar challenges.
As Semporna's communities gain the skills, infrastructure, and confidence to lead these efforts, they are showing that a plastic-free future is not just possible, but within reach. Together, we can ensure that Semporna's — and Sabah's — natural heritage remains a source of pride and sustenance for generations to come.