@Green January/February 2024 | Page 2

02 • Contents @ green | January-February . 2024

02 • Contents @ green | January-February . 2024

@ green says ...

Pity the straw

The irony of society ’ s environmental concerns
IN recent years , there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of single-use straws , leading to a commendable movement to phase them out . The irony is that while society champions this small victory , we are still drowning in a sea of plastic waste generated by other single-use products .
The war against single-use straws has become a symbol of our collective commitment to sustainability . Restaurants proudly boast about their straw-free policies , and consumers feel a sense of accomplishment as they sip from their reusable alternatives .
Yet , amid this celebration , we seem to be missing the forest for the trees - or , in this case , the plastic cups and wrappings .
Take a moment to reflect on your daily routine , and you ’ ll likely notice the omnipresence of single-use plastics . Your takeaway coffee comes in a plastic-lined cup with a plastic lid .
08-09
The convenience of grab-and-go snacks is offset by the plastic wrapping that engulfs them . As we pat ourselves on the back for eliminating straws , our love affair with singleuse plastic cups and wrappings continues unabated .
This paradoxical situation reflects a broader issue : the insidious nature of overconsumption . Society has fixated on a singular problem , perhaps the low-hanging fruit of environmental issues , while the bigger picture remains obscured by the shadow of convenience .
We are quick to condemn the straw but slow to reevaluate our relationship with other disposable plastics .
As we navigate this eco-conscious landscape , it ’ s crucial to remember that true sustainability requires a comprehensive approach . Phasing out single-use straws is undoubtedly a step in the right direction , but it ’ s only a drop in the ocean of our plastic problem .
Until we address the root of our disposable culture , the impact of our efforts will be limited .
And so , we find ourselves at a poignant crossroads : aware of the irony , yet trapped in the cycle of over-consumption .
This is the last straw .
04 05
P04 Beginning of the end
Agreement signals fossil fuel era may be at tailend .
P05 Challenge launched
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for climate action in developing countries .
P06 Royal boost for Petros
Tengku Hassnal is briefed on the State petroleum company ’ s carbon capture initiatives .
P07
Trimble launches Connected Climate Exchange
It ’ s expected to streamline carbon trading in agriculture .
P08-13 – COVER STORY
Pressing onwards
COP 28 showcases the essential stratagems that countries the world over must take to combat climate change .
Giving voice to the youth
Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah believes young leaders play critical roles in addressing the climate crisis .
Pahang ’ s net-zero aspirations
Tengku Hassanal unveils ambitious plan for Pahang ’ s sustainable future at COP 28 .
14-15
P14-15 ESG gains momentum
A closer look at green tax incentives and carbon initiatives in Malaysia .
P16 Protecting farmers ’ yields
FMC joins forces with Advansia and Hesbio to distribute insecticides under the SIPP .
P17 Global Green Showcase
Eco Expo Asia ’ s 18th edition paves the way for carbon neutrality .
P18
GBA enterprises embrace ESG practices
About 70 per cent of enterprises are considering using more Hong Kong green solutions in the next two years .