RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION IN MALAYSIA

      Responsible Consumption and Production (Goal 12) is known throughout the world and people around the world practices the act of doing so. Responsible Consumption and Production is mostly about using natural resources efficiently, reducing food losses and waste generation, manage the wastage of chemicals.

    Malaysia is still lagging in sustainable waste management practices, particularly in recycling. In 2015, Malaysia’s recycling rate is still 10.5% compared to other developed countries who have reached to a rate of more than 40%. The authorities stated that even though the citizens are aware of the importance, but their response has still not reached the expected level. Malaysians produce approximately 30,000 tonnes of waste every day but only 5% are recycled. The government has set a target for the Malaysia’s recycling rate of 20% by 2020.

    From January 1, 2016, the Malaysian government has set a maximum fine of RM 1,000 imposing on the people who do not separate solid waste according to the types of plastic bags. “On July 1, we will begin distributing pamphlets on the matter and by September 1, reminders will be issued to households which still do not comply with the regulation,” according to the Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister, Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique.

This is the waste composition of Malaysians in 2015.

Leftover waste must be placed in proper containers of garbage bags then be put into garbage bins. Recyclable waste must be separated according to the type, like paper waste going into the blue garbage bag; plastic waste into the white garbage bag and other recyclable waste like glass; electronic items and aluminium tins into the green garbage bag. All these wastes usually end up in landfills after being collected. The wastes are taking out valuable space for infrastructure, property, and agriculture development.

    Recycling is processing used materials such as wastes into new products, preventing waste of potentially useful material and reducing the consumption of fresh raw materials. Recycling can also prevent air and water pollution by reducing the need for water disposal, lowering the greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling is a magnificent way of saving energy and conserving the environment.

This is the example of recycle bins.