Latest news with #MalaysiaPlasticsSustainabilityRoadmap
The Sun
08-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia leads sustainability with launch of Atlas Ecopod, world's thinnest reverse vending machine
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has officially entered the record books with the unveiling of the Atlas Ecopod, now certified as the world's thinnest reverse vending machine. The Atlas Ecopod is specifically designed to collect and recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and aluminum cans. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said its development aligns with the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021-2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking at the launch and Guinness World Records certificate presentation today, Nik Nazmi highlighted the machine's role in advancing the country's environmental targets, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Ecopod, a locally designed and built innovation, was developed by Atlas Vending, a subsidiary of the Etika Group of Companies. 'Malaysia still generates over one million tonnes of plastic waste annually. This presents a major challenge not only in urban areas but also in rural communities, affecting both public health and economic stability,' he said. Emphasising the need for more efficient recycling infrastructure, Nik Nazmi added that the Ecopod showcases how plastic waste can be compacted and processed effectively—reducing dependence on manual labour and lowering operational costs. He also said while steps have been taken to reduce single-use plastics, Malaysia still lacks clear regulations for dealing with plastics that can't be avoided. 'Last week in Geneva, I joined talks on the Global Plastic Treaty. We're pushing for a fair and forward-looking deal,' he said. 'But at home, we need stronger laws to support recycling of unavoidable plastic waste.' As part of a nationwide sustainability initiative, the Ecopad will see its first 100 units installed in high-traffic areas across Malaysia, encouraging the public to recycle used Etika beverage containers. The Ecopod is designed for scalability and easy use in urban areas. Its compact size allows it to be installed in tight spaces such as public transport stations, building lobbies, and schools—making recycling more accessible for all Malaysians. Each machine is equipped with a barcode scanner that verifies brands and rewards users for recycling Etika bottles and cans. Etika Group chief executive officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram said the machine is a 100% Malaysian-made solution that blends sustainability with innovative technology. 'This milestone demonstrates Malaysia's capability to lead in the global green economy,' he said. 'It transforms recycling into an engaging experience, with AI-enabled systems and a rewarding mechanism that encourages eco-conscious behaviour among everyday users,' he added.
The Sun
08-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia unveils Atlas Ecopod, world's thinnest recycling machine
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has officially entered the record books with the unveiling of the Atlas Ecopod, now certified as the world's thinnest reverse vending machine. The Atlas Ecopod is specifically designed to collect and recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and aluminum cans. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said its development aligns with the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021-2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking at the launch and Guinness World Records certificate presentation today, Nik Nazmi highlighted the machine's role in advancing the country's environmental targets, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Ecopod, a locally designed and built innovation, was developed by Atlas Vending, a subsidiary of the Etika Group of Companies. 'Malaysia still generates over one million tonnes of plastic waste annually. This presents a major challenge not only in urban areas but also in rural communities, affecting both public health and economic stability,' he said. Emphasising the need for more efficient recycling infrastructure, Nik Nazmi added that the Ecopod showcases how plastic waste can be compacted and processed effectively—reducing dependence on manual labour and lowering operational costs. He also said while steps have been taken to reduce single-use plastics, Malaysia still lacks clear regulations for dealing with plastics that can't be avoided. 'Last week in Geneva, I joined talks on the Global Plastic Treaty. We're pushing for a fair and forward-looking deal,' he said. 'But at home, we need stronger laws to support recycling of unavoidable plastic waste.' As part of a nationwide sustainability initiative, the Ecopad will see its first 100 units installed in high-traffic areas across Malaysia, encouraging the public to recycle used Etika beverage containers. The Ecopod is designed for scalability and easy use in urban areas. Its compact size allows it to be installed in tight spaces such as public transport stations, building lobbies, and schools—making recycling more accessible for all Malaysians. Each machine is equipped with a barcode scanner that verifies brands and rewards users for recycling Etika bottles and cans. Etika Group chief executive officer Santharuban Thurai Sundaram said the machine is a 100% Malaysian-made solution that blends sustainability with innovative technology. 'This milestone demonstrates Malaysia's capability to lead in the global green economy,' he said. 'It transforms recycling into an engaging experience, with AI-enabled systems and a rewarding mechanism that encourages eco-conscious behaviour among everyday users,' he added.
The Star
30-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
Hawkers, markets next in plastic phase-out plan
Coming prepared: Shoppers using their reusable bag to carry their groceries at a supermarket in George Town, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star GEORGE TOWN: Penang aims to phase out plastic foodware such as straws, cutlery and packaging at wet markets and hawker centres. Penang Green Council (PGC) general manager Josephine Tan said the state government is exploring sustainable packaging alternatives, particularly for hawkers and wet market traders, to support the transition. She said it was vital to adopt a '3A concept' – accessible, affordable and available – when introducing biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging solutions to the businesses. For now, the 'No Plastic Bag 2.0 campaign' does not apply to hawkers, wet market traders or stand-alone businesses. Tan also highlighted the need to educate consumers to bring their own bags or containers while grocery shopping or for takeaways. 'With the support of the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, we're optimistic that these collective efforts will help shift public mindset and significantly reduce reliance on single-use plastics. 'If everyone adopts this habit, plastic bag usage will gradually decline. Ultimately, it comes down to demand and supply,' she said. Tan added that a series of awareness campaigns are being planned, including targeted outreach to hawkers and wet market traders. 'One positive example is the Medan Renong Food Court, a pilot project by the Penang Island City Council, which has successfully achieved zero plastic usage. 'While there are challenges, the transition can be implemented in phases with the support of business owners and the public.' Based on recent data and surveys, Tan said the No Plastic Bag 2.0 campaign has led to encouraging progress, with more consumers opting for reusable bags and businesses increasingly offering greener alternatives. She also noted a steady rise in environmental awareness. 'Consumer demand for plastic bags dropped by 78% from 2020 to 2021, followed by a further 28% reduction from 2021 to 2022.' Tan said small incentives, such as discounts for customers who bring their own reusable bags, could further motivate the public to adopt sustainable habits. 'We aim to focus on communication, education and public awareness, particularly among the younger generation, because lasting change begins when good habits are formed early,' she said. Tan also stressed the importance of consistent outreach efforts to maintain momentum. 'Continuous awareness is key, which is why PGC organises a series of eco-talks and community programmes throughout the year. 'We are also organising zero-waste events, involving schools in sustainability efforts, and introducing simple reward systems to encourage plastic-free practices.' Penang introduced a daily no-plastic-bag campaign starting March 1, compelling consumers to use only reusable bags for their purchases. The campaign, known as 'No Plastic Bag 2.0,' involves supermarkets, department and convenience stores, hypermarkets, fast food restaurants, petrol station convenience stores, retail chains, pharmacies, as well as other business premises.
