Latest news with #OurWorld
The Advertiser
05-08-2025
- General
- The Advertiser
Final push for global plastics treaty begins in Geneva
Representatives from more than 160 countries have begun a final attempt to create a legally binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. The UN talks in Geneva aim to secure a deal that regulates plastic production, design and waste management. According to estimates from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), around 500 million tonnes of plastic were produced globally in 2024, nearly 400 million of which ended up as waste. Without an agreement, UNEP warns that waste volume could triple by 2060. "Every hour counts," said the chairman of the conference, Ecuadorian Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso. "We are setting the foundations for a global tool that could change the future of environmental history," he added. The negotiations are scheduled to run until August 14. The UN Environment Assembly agreed in March 2022 to negotiate a treaty to combat plastic pollution. No agreement was reached at the last round of negotiations held in South Korea in late 2024. The treaty is to cover the production, design and disposal of plastic. Less plastic is to be produced, products are to be reused and recycled as many times as possible, and what remains is to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. How this is to be achieved is controversial. "It's time for courage, not compromise,' says Florian Titze from WWF. "An agreement based on the lowest common denominator will not solve the plastic crisis." The WWF environmental foundation notes that "plastic waste destroys habitats, endangers animals and humans and poisons ecosystems." According to estimates by the UNEP, people around the world used 500 million tonnes of plastic last year, almost twice as much as 25 years previously. According to UNEP, 400 million tonnes of this is likely to quickly end up as waste. Our World in Data says a quarter of the plastic waste in rivers and oceans comes from plastic bags and bottles. China, the country with the largest plastic production, has already planned national production restrictions. Most plastics are made from oil, which is why the oil states in particular are preventing an ambitious treaty, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf states and Russia. They only want to talk about waste and recycling. The US government under Donald Trump is currently abolishing regulations of all kinds. "This has not exactly simplified the situation in the negotiations, conference sources said. Representatives from more than 160 countries have begun a final attempt to create a legally binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. The UN talks in Geneva aim to secure a deal that regulates plastic production, design and waste management. According to estimates from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), around 500 million tonnes of plastic were produced globally in 2024, nearly 400 million of which ended up as waste. Without an agreement, UNEP warns that waste volume could triple by 2060. "Every hour counts," said the chairman of the conference, Ecuadorian Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso. "We are setting the foundations for a global tool that could change the future of environmental history," he added. The negotiations are scheduled to run until August 14. The UN Environment Assembly agreed in March 2022 to negotiate a treaty to combat plastic pollution. No agreement was reached at the last round of negotiations held in South Korea in late 2024. The treaty is to cover the production, design and disposal of plastic. Less plastic is to be produced, products are to be reused and recycled as many times as possible, and what remains is to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. How this is to be achieved is controversial. "It's time for courage, not compromise,' says Florian Titze from WWF. "An agreement based on the lowest common denominator will not solve the plastic crisis." The WWF environmental foundation notes that "plastic waste destroys habitats, endangers animals and humans and poisons ecosystems." According to estimates by the UNEP, people around the world used 500 million tonnes of plastic last year, almost twice as much as 25 years previously. According to UNEP, 400 million tonnes of this is likely to quickly end up as waste. Our World in Data says a quarter of the plastic waste in rivers and oceans comes from plastic bags and bottles. China, the country with the largest plastic production, has already planned national production restrictions. Most plastics are made from oil, which is why the oil states in particular are preventing an ambitious treaty, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf states and Russia. They only want to talk about waste and recycling. The US government under Donald Trump is currently abolishing regulations of all kinds. "This has not exactly simplified the situation in the negotiations, conference sources said. Representatives from more than 160 countries have begun a final attempt to create a legally binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. The UN talks in Geneva aim to secure a deal that regulates plastic production, design and waste management. According to estimates from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), around 500 million tonnes of plastic were produced globally in 2024, nearly 400 million of which ended up as waste. Without an agreement, UNEP warns that waste volume could triple by 2060. "Every hour counts," said the chairman of the conference, Ecuadorian Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso. "We are setting the foundations for a global tool that could change the future of environmental history," he added. The negotiations are scheduled to run until August 14. The UN Environment Assembly agreed in March 2022 to negotiate a treaty to combat plastic pollution. No agreement was reached at the last round of negotiations held in South Korea in late 2024. The treaty is to cover the production, design and disposal of plastic. Less plastic is to be produced, products are to be reused and recycled as many times as possible, and what remains is to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. How this is to be achieved is controversial. "It's time for courage, not compromise,' says Florian Titze from WWF. "An agreement based on the lowest common denominator will not solve the plastic crisis." The WWF environmental foundation notes that "plastic waste destroys habitats, endangers animals and humans and poisons ecosystems." According to estimates by the UNEP, people around the world used 500 million tonnes of plastic last year, almost twice as much as 25 years previously. According to UNEP, 400 million tonnes of this is likely to quickly end up as waste. Our World in Data says a quarter of the plastic waste in rivers and oceans comes from plastic bags and bottles. China, the country with the largest plastic production, has already planned national production restrictions. Most plastics are made from oil, which is why the oil states in particular are preventing an ambitious treaty, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf states and Russia. They only want to talk about waste and recycling. The US government under Donald Trump is currently abolishing regulations of all kinds. "This has not exactly simplified the situation in the negotiations, conference sources said. Representatives from more than 160 countries have begun a final attempt to create a legally binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. The UN talks in Geneva aim to secure a deal that regulates plastic production, design and waste management. According to estimates from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), around 500 million tonnes of plastic were produced globally in 2024, nearly 400 million of which ended up as waste. Without an agreement, UNEP warns that waste volume could triple by 2060. "Every hour counts," said the chairman of the conference, Ecuadorian Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso. "We are setting the foundations for a global tool that could change the future of environmental history," he added. The negotiations are scheduled to run until August 14. The UN Environment Assembly agreed in March 2022 to negotiate a treaty to combat plastic pollution. No agreement was reached at the last round of negotiations held in South Korea in late 2024. The treaty is to cover the production, design and disposal of plastic. Less plastic is to be produced, products are to be reused and recycled as many times as possible, and what remains is to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. How this is to be achieved is controversial. "It's time for courage, not compromise,' says Florian Titze from WWF. "An agreement based on the lowest common denominator will not solve the plastic crisis." The WWF environmental foundation notes that "plastic waste destroys habitats, endangers animals and humans and poisons ecosystems." According to estimates by the UNEP, people around the world used 500 million tonnes of plastic last year, almost twice as much as 25 years previously. According to UNEP, 400 million tonnes of this is likely to quickly end up as waste. Our World in Data says a quarter of the plastic waste in rivers and oceans comes from plastic bags and bottles. China, the country with the largest plastic production, has already planned national production restrictions. Most plastics are made from oil, which is why the oil states in particular are preventing an ambitious treaty, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf states and Russia. They only want to talk about waste and recycling. The US government under Donald Trump is currently abolishing regulations of all kinds. "This has not exactly simplified the situation in the negotiations, conference sources said.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Kelington collaborates with Petronas CCS Solutions to explore carbon capture technologies
KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated engineering solutions provider, Kelington Group Berhad, via its subsidiary, Ace Gases Marketing Sdn Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Petronas CCS Solutions Sdn Bhd (PCCSS). The collaboration will explore joint value propositions through a feasibility study leveraging Ace Gases' expertise in carbon dioxide (CO₂) logistics and facility operations. This MoU will be valid for one year, with an option to extend for an additional year, subject to mutual agreement. The collaboration will focus on identifying potential synergies and opportunities in managing carbon emissions. The study will encompass the evaluation of technologies, facilities, feasibility, commercial aspects, funding opportunities, and relevant industries. Upon completion, it is anticipated that the study will provide a comprehensive assessment of the commercial and technical viability of developing joint value propositions in relation to the transport of carbon emissions. The findings may pave the way for potential future projects and collaborations between both parties, contributing to sustainable and innovative solutions for carbon management. The collaboration comes at a time when Malaysia's annual CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel and industrial activities reached 288.82 million tonnes in 2023 (Source: Our World In Data). This feasibility study marks a critical step toward developing a national carbon capture scheme. If successfully implemented, it will provide CO₂ emitters with viable pathways to sequester carbon emissions, directly supporting Malaysia's Paris Agreement commitment to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Carbon sequestration is increasingly recognised as a solution for mitigating CO₂ emissions, particularly in hard-to-abate industries such as power generation, cement production, and oil and gas refining. The feasibility study will assess both the technical and commercial viability of deploying these solutions at scale. Kelington, through Ace Gases, is already actively involved in carbon capture, as it currently owns and operates two CO₂ manufacturing plants. These facilities receive CO₂ from Petronas' gas processing plants in Kerteh, Terengganu, which is then purified and liquefied for reuse across various industries, with a particular focus on the food and beverage sector. In parallel, Ace Gases is also exploring further utilisation pathways for the captured carbon, including the conversion of CO₂ into sustainable fuels such as green methanol, ammonia, and sustainable aviation fuel. These initiatives will further advance Malaysia's low-carbon transition and support the development of a circular carbon economy. Kelington Group Berhad CEO Raymond Gan said, 'We believe that the shift towards a low-carbon economy presents not only a responsibility but an opportunity for innovation and growth. As we confront the urgent challenges posed by climate change, technologies like carbon capture and storage have emerged as a vital solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.' 'By leveraging Kelington's established capabilities in industrial gas processing and engineering services with Petronas CCS Solutions industry-leading insights and resources, we are well positioned to develop effective and scalable carbon capture solutions. These solutions can significantly mitigate emissions and offer transformative potential across industries.' The collaboration aligns with Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap, which outlines ambitious goals for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. 'We are optimistic about the potential for collaboration on future projects with an industry leader like Petronas CCS Solutions. In line with the rising demand for low-carbon technologies, this collaboration will open new business opportunities, allow us to tap into diverse customer segments, and broaden our service offerings, paving the way for fresh revenue streams.' With the Malaysian government's planned introduction of a carbon tax by 2026, targeting the iron, steel, and energy sectors, Kelington is well-positioned to help industries lower their carbon emissions, hence reducing their carbon tax obligations. By providing effective carbon management solutions, the Group will enable businesses to navigate future tax structures while actively supporting Malaysia's broader goals for decarbonization on a global scale. At this juncture, this collaboration is not expected to have any financial impact on Kelington's earnings and net assets. Nonetheless, the Group views this collaboration as a strategic step in advancing its capabilities and positioning for long-term growth in the evolving carbon management sector.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Kelington, Petronas to explore carbon capture technologies
KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated engineering solutions provider, Kelington Group Berhad, via its subsidiary, Ace Gases Marketing Sdn Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Petronas CCS Solutions Sdn Bhd (PCCSS). The collaboration will explore joint value propositions through a feasibility study leveraging Ace Gases' expertise in carbon dioxide (CO₂) logistics and facility operations. This MoU will be valid for one year, with an option to extend for an additional year, subject to mutual agreement. The collaboration will focus on identifying potential synergies and opportunities in managing carbon emissions. The study will encompass the evaluation of technologies, facilities, feasibility, commercial aspects, funding opportunities, and relevant industries. Upon completion, it is anticipated that the study will provide a comprehensive assessment of the commercial and technical viability of developing joint value propositions in relation to the transport of carbon emissions. The findings may pave the way for potential future projects and collaborations between both parties, contributing to sustainable and innovative solutions for carbon management. The collaboration comes at a time when Malaysia's annual CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel and industrial activities reached 288.82 million tonnes in 2023 (Source: Our World In Data). This feasibility study marks a critical step toward developing a national carbon capture scheme. If successfully implemented, it will provide CO₂ emitters with viable pathways to sequester carbon emissions, directly supporting Malaysia's Paris Agreement commitment to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Carbon sequestration is increasingly recognised as a solution for mitigating CO₂ emissions, particularly in hard-to-abate industries such as power generation, cement production, and oil and gas refining. The feasibility study will assess both the technical and commercial viability of deploying these solutions at scale. Kelington, through Ace Gases, is already actively involved in carbon capture, as it currently owns and operates two CO₂ manufacturing plants. These facilities receive CO₂ from Petronas' gas processing plants in Kerteh, Terengganu, which is then purified and liquefied for reuse across various industries, with a particular focus on the food and beverage sector. In parallel, Ace Gases is also exploring further utilisation pathways for the captured carbon, including the conversion of CO₂ into sustainable fuels such as green methanol, ammonia, and sustainable aviation fuel. These initiatives will further advance Malaysia's low-carbon transition and support the development of a circular carbon economy. Kelington Group Berhad CEO Raymond Gan said, 'We believe that the shift towards a low-carbon economy presents not only a responsibility but an opportunity for innovation and growth. As we confront the urgent challenges posed by climate change, technologies like carbon capture and storage have emerged as a vital solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.' 'By leveraging Kelington's established capabilities in industrial gas processing and engineering services with Petronas CCS Solutions industry-leading insights and resources, we are well positioned to develop effective and scalable carbon capture solutions. These solutions can significantly mitigate emissions and offer transformative potential across industries.' The collaboration aligns with Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap, which outlines ambitious goals for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. 'We are optimistic about the potential for collaboration on future projects with an industry leader like Petronas CCS Solutions. In line with the rising demand for low-carbon technologies, this collaboration will open new business opportunities, allow us to tap into diverse customer segments, and broaden our service offerings, paving the way for fresh revenue streams.' With the Malaysian government's planned introduction of a carbon tax by 2026, targeting the iron, steel, and energy sectors, Kelington is well-positioned to help industries lower their carbon emissions, hence reducing their carbon tax obligations. By providing effective carbon management solutions, the Group will enable businesses to navigate future tax structures while actively supporting Malaysia's broader goals for decarbonization on a global scale. At this juncture, this collaboration is not expected to have any financial impact on Kelington's earnings and net assets. Nonetheless, the Group views this collaboration as a strategic step in advancing its capabilities and positioning for long-term growth in the evolving carbon management sector.
South China Morning Post
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South China Morning Post
Quarterly dusts off rare short stories from 007 creator Ian Fleming and Graham Greene
James Bond creator Ian Fleming did not need to write about Cold War intrigue to consider the ways people scheme against each other. The Shameful Dream, a rare Fleming work published this week, is a short story about a Londoner named Bone, Caffery Bone. Fleming's protagonist is the literary editor of Our World, a periodical 'designed to bring power and social advancement to Lord Ower', its owner. Bone has been summoned to spend Saturday evening with Lord and Lady Ower, taken there in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. Bone suspects, with a feeling of 'inevitable doom', that he is to meet the same fate of so many employed by Lord Ower – removed from his job and soon forgotten. 'For Lord Ower sacked everyone sooner or later, harshly if they belonged to no union or with a fat check if they did and were in a position to hit back,' Fleming writes. 'If one worked for Lord Ower one was expendable and one just spent oneself until one had gone over the cliff edge and disappeared beneath the waves with a fat splash.'
Washington Post
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Washington Post
Rare Ian Fleming story features a Londoner named Bone, Caffery Bone
NEW YORK — 'James Bond' creator Ian Fleming didn't need to write about Cold War intrigue to consider the ways people scheme against each other. 'The Shameful Dream,' a rare Fleming work published this week, is a short story about a Londoner named Bone, Caffery Bone. Fleming's protagonist is the literary editor of Our World, a periodical 'designed to bring power and social advancement to Lord Ower,' its owner. Bone has been summoned to spend Saturday evening with Lord and Lady Ower, transported to them in a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. Bone suspects, with a feeling of 'inevitable doom,' that he is to meet the same fate of so many employed by Lord Ower — removed from his job and soon forgotten.
