Lang
As global sustainability concerns escalate, industries worldwide are intensifying efforts to measure and reduce carbon emissions. Malaysia, a leading player in the palm oil sector, is actively pursuing ambitious environmental targets, aiming to cut carbon emissions intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
In a significant move to bolster these national decarbonisation goals, the Institute of Climate Change at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has been awarded a research grant of RM500,000 by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). This funding is designated for the development of a comprehensive carbon footprint inventory specifically for Malaysia's extensive palm oil sector.
Falling under the strategic 13th Malaysia Plan, this research initiative is poised to generate highly accurate scientific data. This data is critical for informed policymaking, ensuring compliance with evolving international market requirements, and enhancing the overall transparency and credibility of the Malaysian palm oil industry. The project will establish a robust database on greenhouse gas emissions throughout the entire fresh fruit bunch production chain. This foundational data will then serve as the basis for detailed carbon footprint and life cycle assessments of the sector, conducted in strict adherence to international standards, as UKM stated in a recent press release.
Professor Datuk Dr Sufian Jusoh, Vice-Chancellor of UKM, highlighted that the grant would empower a research team, under the leadership of Professor Dr Marlia Mohd Hanafiah, to undertake this pivotal study. He explained, 'This research is specifically designed to strengthen the global competitiveness of Malaysia's palm oil industry while simultaneously supporting the nation's broader decarbonisation agenda.' Professor Sufian further added, 'This commitment not only demonstrates our readiness to address the challenges of climate change and the transition to a low-carbon economy but also reflects UKM's capability to produce world-class researchers in sustainability and climate science, while strengthening the country's climate governance and sustainability ecosystem.' He voiced his optimism that this national initiative would yield substantial benefits for both the country and the wider community.
Datuk Dr Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir, Director-General of MPOB, an agency operating under the Plantation and Commodities Ministry, reaffirmed the board's steadfast commitment. He asserted that MPOB is dedicated to ensuring the Malaysian palm oil industry remains sustainable, relevant, and globally competitive, particularly in the face of increasingly stringent environmental standards. Dr Ahmad Parveez also noted the versatility of the gathered data, stating it would not only be 'crucial for assessing the life cycle and carbon footprint of fresh fruit bunch production' but could also be extended to evaluate other energy sources, such as used cooking oil and empty fruit bunches, thereby strengthening Malaysia's sustainable energy research capabilities.
Source: The Star