By Amin Ridzuan Ishak
SHAH ALAM, May 9 — Some 90kg of recyclable items were collected during a solid waste management campaign organised by Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) in Taman Idaman Murni, Sepang.
Project director Sazlinda Kamaruzaman said the campaign, which began in March, has been well-received by residents who disposed of paper, glass, plastic and aluminium cans in the six special bins provided.
The UPM Science Faculty Chemistry Department lecturer said the bins were placed throughout the 10 months of the project, so as to foster awareness and encourage the separation of solid waste from homes.
“The waste will be taken to a recycling centre managed by KDEBWM,” she said when contacted.
Sazlinda added her research indicated the absence of special bins caused many residents to be unable to separate solid waste properly and carry out recycling.
This was not only wasteful in terms of commodities that can potentially contribute to the national economy but also increases the cost of waste management and the risk of environmental pollution.
“To this, UPM provided support by preparing the necessary space, and we hope Taman Idaman Murni residents will be able to share recycling management knowledge with other housing communities in the future,” she said.
Meanwhile, Taman Idaman Murni Association chairman Mohd Amri Abdullah expressed appreciation for UPM and KDEBWM’s efforts in organising the initiative, so as to keep the environment clean.
“Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene can reduce disease risks to residents,” he said.
