Rawang Tolak Incinerator Network (RTI) has expressed deep dismay over a response provided by the Selangor government in the state assembly regarding an allocation for observing International Zero-Waste Day this year.
It said that the written reply in the state assembly given to Rawang assemblyperson Chua Wei Kiat indicated that only five resource-rich local councils - Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Ampang Jaya, Hulu Selangor - received some funding which amounted to RM172,000.
“Even these were not specifically designated for observing the International Zero-Waste Day, but for ‘the segregation of waste at source’,” said RTI in a statement today.
“RTI is profoundly troubled by the revelation that the Selangor government has allocated zero budget for any local councils to specifically observe International Zero-Waste Day, which falls on March 30 every year.
“Despite the pressing need for sustainable waste management initiatives, the allocation for promoting waste segregation at the source in Selangor reflects a lack of long-term planning and commitment from the state government,” said the group.
It said that the sum was grossly insufficient when considering the magnitude of challenges faced in waste management within the region.
On Dec 14, 2022, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/77/161, aiming to promote zero-waste initiatives to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and proclaim the International Zero-Waste Day.
Plenty of money for incinerators
According to the UN, zero waste entails reducing waste generation and following the lifecycle approach.
To foster sound waste management and minimise waste generation, prevention, reduction, reuse, repurposing, and recycling are identified as critical elements of this endeavor.
“Despite the global emphasis on the importance of this day, it is disheartening to see that Selangor, despite being one of the most developed but waste-troubled states, chose to disregard its significance.
“Ironically, while the Selangor government refuses to allocate any funds towards promoting zero-waste initiatives, it readily commits to launching billion-ringgit waste-to-energy or incinerator projects in Batu Arang, Jeram, and Tanjung Dua Belas.
“This stance contradicts sustainable environmental practices and undermines efforts towards achieving zero waste goals,” said RTI.
RTI is a grassroots organisation dedicated to advocating for sustainable waste management solutions and opposing the construction of incinerators in Rawang and surrounding areas.
The pressure group called upon the Selangor government to adhere to the guidelines outlined in the UN resolution by observing International Zero-Waste Day.
“Additionally, we urge the state government to enact legislation enforcing waste segregation at the source in Selangor, thus minimising waste generation.
“It is imperative for the government to prioritise sustainable waste management initiatives and demonstrate a sincere dedication to environmental conservation and public health,” it said. - Mkini
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