Event: PAAPP Dog Show @ Han Chiang Penang

Article: Hawksbill turtles returning to nest in Malacca, study finds

Friday October 9, 2009

By CHEN PELF YEEN

ALOR GAJAH: A study to track hawksbill turtles in waters off the west coast of the peninsula has revealed that the critically-endangered species is returning to Malacca to nest.

The findings emerged from an ongoing research involving eight turtles that were tagged with transmitters and released after nesting in Pulau Upeh and Padang Kemunting.

For research purposes: A hawksbill turtle making its way back to the sea after being tagged.

The research was initiated by WWF Malaysia and the State Fisheries Department three years ago.

WWF's Conservation of Hawksbill Turtles officer Lau Min Min said the turtles were tracked as far as the Riau Archipelago in Indonesia and Singapore.

The turtles would swim to the Riau islands and Singapore to feed but they would return to Pulau Upeh and Padang Kemunting to nest between April and September, she said in an interview.

Lau said the research was also to determine the feeding habits of the turtles along the Malacca coastline and their migration patterns in the Straits of Malacca.

"The study will also enable scientists and planners to better understand the habitat use in the coastal waters off Malacca which is crucial due to future mega coastal development," she said.

Lau said the wildlife authorities together with the Malacca state government should take steps to preserve and protect the nesting sites on Pulau Upeh and Padang Kemunting.

On Aug 29, 2006, a hawksbill nesting on Pulau Upeh and named Puteri Pulau Upeh, became the first such turtle in the Straits of Malacca to be fitted with the satellite transmitter.

Seven more turtles were subsequently tagged over the last three years.

Six of the turtles were tracked to the Riau Archipelago while two others were last located in waters south of Singapore.

Last year, 189 hawksbill nesting sites with a total of 23,619 eggs were recorded on Pulau Upeh and Padang Kemunting, representing almost 40% of the estimated 450 turtles nesting sites found in Peninsular Malaysia.

In July this year, the Malacca state government deferred plans to allow a private developer to revive an abandoned resort on Pulau Upeh pending the outcome of environmental and fisheries impact assessment reports.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 9 October 2009

Article: Plastic bags to be eased out

Friday October 9, 2009

By MAZWIN NIK ANIS

PUTRAJAYA: Plastic bags, especially for packing food, are on their way out at the Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry, which is going "green" to minimise harm to the environment.

Its minister Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui said plans were afoot to kick off the campaign to create an ecologically friendly environment.

"We also plan to rope in other ministries for this good cause. It is important for the public to be aware of the harm plastic can do to the environment," he told reporters after the ministry's monthly gathering yesterday.

"It is time that we do our part for nature, and it is good if we can minimise – even stop – the use of plastic bags. Kicking off the campaign in my ministry is a positive start, and I hope to see the employees bring containers to the cafeteria if they want to pack food.

"This is a good habit that I want to see the staff members promote to their children, friends, family and neighbours. It may be a small thing, but it will certainly have an impact on efforts to protect and preserve the environment."

Chin said his ministry was in the midst of discussing the project with other ministries to have a better and "more powerful impact."

If successful, the "do not use plastic bags" campaign would be extended to shops and retail outlets within Putrajaya and later, nationwide.

At the function, the minister launched a handbook providing information on fiscal incentives provided by the Government to encourage the generation of renewable energy.

Incentives would be given to those who adopt energy efficiency, and parties which make efforts to improve power quality. Among the incentives were investment tax allowance and exemption of import duty and sales tax.

Chin added that the ministry was also involved in ensuring the success of one of the six national key results areas outlined by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"We are providing support to the Rural and Regional Development Ministry in ensuring that 90% of people in Sabah and Sarawak, and 98% of the population in the peninsula, have access to clean water by 2012," he said.

"As for power, the target is to see that 95% of the East Malaysian population have electricity supply to their homes, while 7,000 orang asli in the peninsula enjoy uninterrupted power supply in three years' time.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 9 October 2009

Image: Cactus pot

Date : Friday, 9-October-2009

by Norhaslin Salehuddin

Now I know why many motorcyclists don't use their helmets while riding their motorbikes.

This image was taken from: The Star Online: Thumbnails 9 October 2009

Image: Seeing double

Date : Friday, 9-October-2009 

by Kong Ee Mun

Eat conjoined cucumbers if you want to have twins, so says the old wives' tale.

This image was taken from: The Star Online: Thumbnails 9 October 2009

Article: Council’s greening bid

Thursday October 8, 2009

By DERRICK VINESH

IN an effort to promote a greener municipality, the Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP) in Penang is offering potted plants at a nominal RM1 per pot to schools, government departments and agencies as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The council's senior assistant agriculture officer Lawrence Cheong said the small decorative plants usually cost around RM3 per pot.

"These establishments can write to us, with endorsement from any municipal councillor, to buy the plants at the subsidised price.

"A nominal fee is charged simply to ensure the recipients value the plants," he said during a recent visit to MPSP's nursery in Permatang Tengah, Bagan Ajam, Butterworth.

Cheong said the council presently had about 5,000 tree saplings as well as 40,000 potted plants which included 10,000 leafy shrubs.

There are 60 plant species in its nursery.

He said among the common shrubs available in the nursery were the cordyline, alamanda, bougainvillea, cassia, biflora, duranta, heliconia, hibiscus and ixora.

The few rare ones, he said, were the coleus (daun hati-hati), cycas, licuala (fan palm) and fucrea.

"Our nursery workers usually prepare about 120 pots of mixed soil a day under a potting shade within the nursery.

"They also do active replanting — they cut stems from adult plant branches and re-grow them in new pots," Cheong said.

He said the freshly replanted plants would take two weeks to root, adding that they would be placed on benches under the shade for another two weeks before they were ready to be sent out.

He said the nursery also had its own composting site where cut grass was mixed with cow dung and soil, and left to assimilate for three months before it could be used as fertiliser for the plants.

Municipal councillor Soon Lip Chee said the nursery staff should actively repaint and replace the dilapidated concrete floral pots that they had earlier placed in strategic locations within Seberang Prai.

"It is pointless to just keep these plants within the nursery when many of the council's potted plants in the streets are in bad condition.

"Now that maintenance of the council's potted plants is under its Town Planning and Beautification Department, there should be a team to inspect them regularly," he said.

Soon said before 2007, the council used to engage a private company to maintain 52,000 potted plants within the municipality at the cost of RM8.8mil over 36 months.

"The council now supplies and maintain potted plants in Seberang Prai," he added.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Metro: North, 8 October 2009

Article: giant ring around saturn

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: World W44, 8 October 2009

Article: largest dinosaur footprints found

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: World W35, 8 October 2009

Image: six-legged calf

This image was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Nation: Star Foto Folder N33, 8 October 2009

Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better: Announcement - Please forward

Announcement

MALAYSIAN DOGS DESERVE BETTER ADOPTION DRIVE

15 ADULT DOGS AND 12 PUPPIES UP FOR ADOPTION

VENUE: THE SUMMIT SUBANG JAYA, LOBBY AREA NEAR STARBUCKS

TIME: 11.00AM TO 7.00PM

Details visit: www.malaysiandogsdeservebetter.blogspot.com or write to malaysiandogsdeservebetter@gmail.com or call 019-3576477, 012-3739007.

Article: Persistence pays

Thursday October 8, 2009

By S. INDRAMALAR

Thanuja Ananthan's second shot at the Miss World/Malaysia title pays off.

THANUJA Ananthan has become an instant sensation. Walking by the poolside (and later through the lobby) at the Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the 24-year-old was stopped many times by hotel guests – both local and foreign – who wanted to be photographed with her.

Those without their cameras had to be content with giving Thanuja their appreciative sidelong glances. The very conspicuous crown she had on and the black velvet sash with the words "Winner" emblazoned across probably had something to do with all the attention.

Dream come true: After finishing as a finalist in last year's pageant, Thanuja Ananthan was determined to win the Miss World/Malaysia title this year. – YAP CHEE HONG / The Star

But then, the newly crowned Miss World/Malaysia would have drawn admiring glances even without her beauty queen trappings.

At 178cm, Thanuja is at least a couple of heads above most people. Her curly black mane falls easily over her shoulders, framing her angular face and slender neck. Her wide toothy smile (she's almost always smiling) is an indication of her friendly personality.

Winning the Miss World/ Malaysia title is a dream come true for the Kuala Lumpur lass who, as a child, used to dress up in fancy clothes and pretend to be a Miss World finalist.

"My mum used to dress me and my twin sister up in pretty dresses, and we'd walk down the stairs pretending we were one of the beauty pageant finalists. I was Miss Venezuela," recalls Thanuja. Victory is doubly sweet for the law student as this year marks her second attempt at the title.

"I was a finalist last year but didn't win. I wanted to try again this year as I truly felt I had more to give. I really gave it my best this year. I wanted to come back and 'advance, command and conquer' ... I read about Julius Caesar and how he led the Roman armies against enemies abroad, especially in Gaul, to fight for political control at home. I wanted to conquer the competition in the immortal spirit of Julius Caesar.

"I told myself that if I didn't win this time, that would be it. There would be no point trying again because I really gave it my all this time.

"And I won! I can't believe it. It still hasn't really sunk in," she shares.

Thanuja beat 18 other hopefuls to become the 42nd Miss World/ Malaysia. She will compete in the international pageant in Johannesburg, South Africa, this December.

Being a finalist for the second time around had its advantages, she acknowledges. But there are also disadvantages.

"I was definitely a lot calmer this time around, and more aware of my surroundings and of everything that was going on.

"When you are participating for the first time, you are overwhelmed by everything. This time, I was more composed and receptive ... I think that helped a lot.

"However, being back for a second time also meant the pressure (to do well) is really high. People think you have an edge and so they expect more. I really had to stay focused on being true to myself."

Winning the pageant, she says, will allow her to further her personal agenda – being an advocate for animal and human rights.

"I am animal lover and have always had dogs when I was growing up. I have two dogs now – a 14-year-old Alsatian-Spitz mix and a four-year-old Rottweiler-Mongrel. I also have many cats and some fish. I hope someday to work for PETA and I hope that winning this title will help me achieve my aim.

Thanuja, after winning the Miss World/Malaysia 2009 title, is flanked by first runner-up Stefanie Chua (right) and second runner-up Christy Yeoh.

"Mahatma Gandhi said that the greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated and I believe this is so true. I want to start with working with the SPCA and Paws, saving mongrels from the streets and then go on from there," she says vehemently.

Though she has volunteered her services at the SPCA, Thanuja admits that she had to give that up to concentrate on her studies.

For the moment though, Thanuja is focused on representing the country as best as she can at the international pageant.

"I will do my best and hopefully do Malaysia proud. I think if I am genuine and give it my best, I will be okay," she says.

What will she tell the world about Malaysia in view of recent political and social events, many of which have made world news?

"Some people are starting to believe that Malaysians are suffering from an identity crisis. I think the '1Malaysia' concept is a positive step towards achieving racial harmony and also the freedom of race, religion and speech. There are some racial tensions but I think overall we are dealing with it well and Malaysia is by and large a peaceful nation," she says.

Describing herself as a "private person", Thanuja shares that she is very close to her family, particularly Anuja, her identical twin (born five minutes after her) who, except for her different hairstyle, looks just like her.

"We are and have always been very close. When I was in the pageant last year, she was in Britain. I missed her terribly and actually broke down on one occasion. So this year, some of them (pageant organisers) remembered and asked me about her. I assured them she was around and that I was okay," she laughs.

"Anuja is my biggest cheerleader and also my biggest critic. She's harder on me than I am on myself." The twins have an older brother and sister.

Her family – her father is a pro­perty consultant and her mother, a retired administrator – was very supportive about her decision to enter the Miss World/Malaysia pageant.

"My dad is my biggest supporter. They (parents) are behind me all the way, and want me to achieve my dreams as long as I don't com­­promise my beliefs and principles. There is nothing worth chasing if it means going down the wrong path," Thanuja says, full of conviction.

The negative perception many have of beauty pageants and those who take part in pageants is something Thanuja hopes to change.

"It really bugs me that people think beauty queens are ignorant and shallow. This is not at all true. We are all strong, empowered women who know what we want. We are all educated ... among the girls in this year's pageant were a financial analyst, chartered accountant, medical undergraduate, law students ... We're not make-up dolls or dumb brunettes!" she adds indignantly.

Debunking the stereotype fur­ther, she assures: "I am not into make-up at all. In fact I usually don't wear make-up except for some eyeliner.

"And I eat everything. I have a sweet tooth and I have to have my chocolate. And, I am a true Asian – I must eat rice at least once a day! " she says glancing at her sister Anuja (who spent the night with her after the finals) for confirmation. Anuja backed up the story: "She really does eat everything."

Being in a pageant, adds Thanuja, is tough as the contestants had to work really hard in the weeks leading up to the finals.

"We had to perfect our walks, choreography and so on. It's not easy," she says, debunking another pageant myth.

Not much of an athlete, Thanuja stays in shape by practising yoga, which she has been doing since she was a child.

The rest of her time is spent with her dogs – being away from them, she claims, was the hardest part about being in the pageant – as well as with family and friends, whom she says are the pillars in her life.

With a good head on her shoulders – and a pretty one at that – Thanuja is determined to make her mark at the international pageant.

"I know that I will be representing not just myself but my country. I will be carrying my nation on my shoulders and it's a huge responsibility. And I am ready for it," she concludes.

Miss World/Malaysia 2009

Name: Thanuja Ananthan

Age: 24

Height: 178cm

Education: Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in law from Northumbria University in Newcastle, Britain via distance learning.

Music: Loves Raggae, R & B, Jazz, and Soca.

Interests: An animal lover, Thanuja also loves yoga and swimming.

Preferred drinks: This ultra healthy girl like water and green tea and she doesn't drink alcohol.

Favourite Food: Indian food ... anything that's spicy and sweet.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 8 October 2009

Article: ‘Dead mermaid’ tale

Thursday October 8, 2009

KOTA KINABALU: A "dead mermaid" has reportedly been found on the beach of an island off Sabah's northern Kudat district, causing a lot of excitement in the state.

A clip has also surfaced on YouTube of the "mermaid" lying dead on the shores of the island.

The clip has been on YouTube under the heading "Dead Mermaid in Kudat" since Oct 3, but tales of the mysterious find had begun much earlier.

Police, have, however brushed off any talk of a dead mermaid.

"It is a hoax, someone is playing the fool," said Kudat police chief Deputy Supt Dawi Ossen yesterday.

He said they too had got wind of such talk spreading around Kudat town earlier this week, and had checked with the villagers of Pulau Balambangan where the "mermaid" was found.

"There was no such thing; neither had any body been washed ashore," he said, explaining that the video clip did not show the island's surroundings as claimed.

DSP Dawi added that a resort operator there had told police nothing unusual had been found on the island in recent weeks.

"I hope people don't get taken in by the video clip, it is totally baseless. Most likely, it's someone playing a trick," he added.

Initially when the rumours spread, police assumed that a human body had been found on the island.

They were prompted to check the rumours because of concern that people might not have reported finding a dead person.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 8 October 2009

Image: Big Egg

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Star Foto Folder: World W34, 7 October 2009

Article: third civet cat death in a week

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Nation N16, 7 October 2009

Article: Clean-up of island seabeds

Wednesday October 7, 2009

KOTA KINABALU: A massive clean-up and planting of corals will be undertaken at the Tunku Abdul Rahman island park here to create public awareness on the need to keep the sea clean.

On Oct 17, both professional and amateurs will be scouring the seabeds of Pulau Sapi, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Manukan to clear them of garbage so as to protect the corals and sea creatures.

Borneo Divers Training Institute managing director Clement Lee said the clean-up, dubbed Project Aware, was to awaken all citizens to the importance of keeping the seas free of garbage in view of the current concerns over climate change.

"We cannot continue to pollute the sea and eventually choke and suffocate the coral reefs," he said.

The baby corals will be planted on special cement bases and transferred to to an underwater nursery where their growth could be monitored.

"After a few months, they will be moved to a different site," he said.

Lee urged the public to join in the clean-up.

Those interested can register with Borneo Divers in Menara Jubili here. For more details call 088-222226.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 7 October 2009

Article: 8yr-old girl in coma from hornet attack dies

Published: Wednesday October 7, 2009 MYT 10:37:00 AM
Updated: Wednesday October 7, 2009 MYT 10:47:24 AM

By JACK WONG

jackwong@thestar.com.my

KUCHING: The death toll from Saturday's hornet attack at Sungai Moyan climbed to three after eight-year-old Chen Sze Ting died Tuesday night at the Sarawak General Hospital here.

Sze Ting, who fell into a coma after being severely stung by the hornets, died at about 8pm.

Her younger sister Sze Ying, six, and brother Chun Jie, three, died hours after they were admitted to the hospital.

Their funerals have yet to be held as family members wish their mother Tan Wan Chew, 29, who has also been hospitalised, will be able to bid farewell to her children.

Wan Chew's condition was reported to have worsened and she is being treated at the hospital's intensive care unit.

Wan Chew's younger brother Lan Chia, who was one of the five attacked by the hornets, has recovered and been discharged from the hospital.

The five were swarmed and stung by the hornets while on a stroll on a hill near their home at the Sungai Moyang flats in Batu Kawa.

Meanwhile, the pest control expert engaged by the Padawan Municipal Council has destroyed the remaining hornet hives found behind the rocks near the flats where some 600 families live.

Two other hives were destroyed by the Civil Defence Department Rescue 991 personnel on Sunday night.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Nation 7 October 2009

Article: Good Lord! It’s a leopard!

Wednesday October 7, 2009

A SCIENTIST who recently studied an animal fossil found in Gua Naga Mas near Gopeng, believes it could be that of a leopard.

Since its discovery by Malaysian Nature Society members in 1992, many have put forward the view that the fossil could be of a tiger or serow.

Lord Cranbrook (blue shirt and yellow hat) taking down notes on the fossil after inspecting it.

The latest opinion that the fossil is a leopard came from Dr Gathorne Gathorne-Hardy, the 5th Earl of Cranbrook.

Lord Cranbrook, as he is popularly known, was invited by Universiti Malaya (UM) senior lecturer in Geology Dr Ros Fatihah Muhammad to inspect the fossil on Sept 29.

He said the fossil was that of a carnivore but too small to be a tiger.

Prehistoric animal: The ancient fossil in the cave

Lord Cranbrook was a senior lecturer in zoology between 1961 and 1970 at UM and the author of several books on wildlife in South East Asia.

On why the fossil was found about 30m above the ground, Dr Ros Fatihah said studies in areas in the Kinta Valley had shown that the ground level was much higher in the past.

Dr Ros Fatihah said sediment collected would be sent to a researcher in Australia to determine the age of the cave and fossil.

It has been reported earlier that experts believed that the animal could have lived during the Pleistocene age which started 2.5 million years ago and ended 10,000 years ago.

The Museum and Antiquities Department has gazetted Gua Naga Mas as a historical site.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Metro: North 7 October 2009

Image: Loyal Bird

Date : Wednesday, 7-October-2009

Loyal bird

by Jerry Liew

Like a sentinel, this feathered one perches proudly and shows its patriotism next to a flying state flag.

This image was taken from: The Star Online: Thumbnails 7 October 2009

Article: seasonal controls

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T14, 6 October 2009

Article: earth is living - and changing

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T14, 6 October 2009

Article: empty hives

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T12, 6 October 2009

Article: toxic industry

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T12, 6 October 2009

Article: dying out

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T10, 6 October 2009

Article: low-carbon flights

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T10, 6 October 2009

Article: lights out for old bulbs

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T10, 6 October 2009

Article: thinning ice

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T10, 6 October 2009

Article: fuel from food

This article was taken from: The Star Newspaper: Startwo T9, 6 October 2009

Article: Damage control

Tuesday October 6, 2009

WITH concerns about global warming escalating worldwide, MySolar stands fast behind its principle of being eco-friendly and environmentally safe.

Together with the World Wildlife Fund, MySolar has launched a campaign to reinforce this belief.

"By choosing to use renewable energy sources like solar energy, the use of electricity and the burning of fossil fuels are reduced, thus helping to mitigate climate change," said MySolar director, Gary Khor.

This is the vision of MySolar: To always guarantee products of the highest quality coupled with dedicated and professional services.

"There is no such thing as a one-off transaction. We not only give you what you want, we make sure that every customer is satisfied with the products and we stay in touch," added Khor.

With over 10 years in the business of studying and producing hot water systems, Khor believes that the environment cannot be saved and restored in a day.

Yet, by using products that are environmentally friendly and do not cause further damage to what we already have, we can in a way, prolong our depleting natural resources.

"Everyone talks about being environmentally friendly but are their products really so? Even so, do they promise to deliver a product that serves you if not for life, then for at least a decade?" Khor asked.

MySolar's Solar Hot Water System is only installed and offered to customers after passing rigorous quality control tests of the highest levels.

Using only the best quality materials, MySolar's Solar Hot Water System is reliable and most importantly, long lasting.

The system is 100% rust-proof and guaranteed. Each product also comes with a 10-year warranty with the first three years guaranteed to be technically faultless.

"You need a hot water system that not only provides you adequate hot water, it must also give you peace of mind and soul," added Khor.

Imagine indeed, coming home from a long day of work to revel in a long warm bath. With MySolar's Solar Hot Water System, you know that what you use does not in any way contribute to the destruction of the environment.

For more details on MySolar's Solar Hot Water System, call 03-7785 8082.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Living 6 October 2009

Article: The Mottainai concept

Tuesday October 6, 2009

PANASONIC continues to lead the way with eco ideas by showing the public how to save energy, money and the environment for greener living at the brand's eco ideas exhibition, themed Power Of Innovation, at the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur from Oct 2 to 4.

Visitors were presented with various interactive and engaging eco activities, Panasonic's eco-friendly products and innovations, product demonstrations, a cooking demonstration by celebrity chef Amy Beh, beauty tips and more.

To establish Panasonic as an eco brand, its eco ideas this year incorporates the Mottainai concept, an initiative aimed at teaching and guiding the public to use resources properly through 3R – reduce, reuse and recycle.

Mottainai, Japanese for "what a waste" or "do not waste", also refers to a situation when something of value is wasted or used without careful consideration. There is a sense of regret when an object or resource is not properly utilised.

"We use Mottainai, which is also a word to denote eco-friendliness, to create better understanding and concern for our resources and the environment. This concept shows the basic approach of 3R which we can apply in our everyday lives," said Panasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd managing director, Tony Endoh.

Hear, hear: Preschoolers and teachers of Beacon House Subang Jaya surrounding Mottainai Grandma at the Panasonic Mottainai session held at their school recently.

The Mottainai web portal was launched on Sept 15. The Mottainai CSR pilot project was conducted for 40 pre-school children aged five and six from Beacon House Subang Jaya on Sept 8. The Mottainai advertising campaign started on Oct 1 and will go on for one month.

Endoh said: "This is the second year we are hosting an eco ideas exhibition on our eco initiatives but this time, we are leveraging it further through the Mottainai concept."

"Panasonic will offer creative solutions and demonstrate how its stylish and environmentally-friendly designed products allow consumers to enjoy their daily lives while being mindful of the environment," he added.

At the exhibition, eight new products were introduced, namely Big Capacity Inverter Refrigerator, Top Load Inverter Washing Machine, Bidet, Evolta Battery, Spiral Light Capsule, Alkaline Ionizer, Dish Dryer and Air Purifiers.

The exhibition was stylishly designed and interactive. Visitors experienced a fascinating journey through six dedicated areas, namely Mottainai World, Eco Ideas Experience Exhibit, Home Appliances Exhibit, Audio Visual Exhibits, Digital Imaging and Business Systems Solutions Exhibits.

At Mottainai World, for example, the public learnt how to conserve the Earth's resources and the meaning of Mottainai with Mottainai Grandma through interesting games.

Eco Ideas Experience, on the other hand, invited visitors to feel, think, know and do by making them aware, understand and take action on current environmental issues. It also shared Panasonic's efforts in protecting planet Earth globally. Other highlights were a showcase of Panasonic's eco-friendly products.

This eco ideas exhibition is part of Panasonic's eco relay activity, a group-wide ecology campaign that will be conducted by 342 Panasonic companies in 39 countries globally. This year it started in Singapore and was followed by Malaysia.

As a company that bases its management philosophy on contribution to society and with a corporate vision of coexistence with the global environment, Panasonic is globally promoting its environmental sustainability management through Green Plan 2010.

This was announced by Panasonic Corporation president Fumio Ohtsubo in view of the accelerating anti-global warming initiatives by international communities and societies.

For details on the Panasonic brand and products, go to www.panasonic.com.my or call the Customer Care Centre at ☎ 03-5543 7600.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Living 6 October 2009

Article: Chemical-free skincare

Tuesday October 6, 2009

MANY of us today understand the importance of healthy eating, and gravitate naturally towards products that are certified organic, pesticide- and chemical-free.

The next step would be to extend this attitude towards cosmetic products.

While cosmetics are only for topical application, we need to be even more careful with these products.

Consumers are at the mercy of manufacturers who use cheap and harmful ingredients, many of which are commonly found in shampoos, deodorants and moisturisers.

Some examples are sodium lauryl sulfate, a foaming agent, and propylene glycol, which is used as a humectant, to preserve moisture.

In such a situation, the best thing would be to choose a line of skincare that is certified organic, natural, environment-friendly, and completely dedicated to your health.

Lafe's Organic Deodorants and Lafe's Organic Baby were created to allow consumers to have a safe and healthy alternative for both themselves and their children.

Lafe's motto is: "If it's not natural, it's not in their products."

Lafe Larson, the founder, believes that if you can't pronounce it or it's unidentifiable, then it shouldn't be on your skin.

Most deodorants stop perspiration altogether by blocking up pores and not allowing the skin to breathe.

This is bad since sweating is how your body controls its temperature. Lafe's organic deodorants target the root cause of body odour.

By combining the powerful germ-killing attributes of minerals salts and essential oils, the deodorants keep you feeling fresh and confident all day, without the risk of interfering with your body's natural physiological processes.

Products in Lafe's Organic Baby line are up to 95% certified organic.

Made of selected pure botanicals and saponified herbal oils, the line is safe for infants, is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.

Both Lafe's Organic Deodorants and Organic Baby line are USDA certified for the organic ingredient source, content and manufacturing process. They do not contain any synthetic chemicals.

Remember that what goes on your body, goes into your body. Opt for certified organic and all-natural – you deserve only the best.

Lafe's Organic Deodorants and Lafe's Organic Baby line can be found at Caring, Vitacare, Planete Enfants, Mamours and Fabulous Mom.

For more information on Lafe's, call % 03-2287 2522 or go to www.beautyimpress.com.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Living 6 October 2009

Article: Kind on hands, tough on stains

Tuesday October 6, 2009

EVEN an ordinary household chore like washing the dishes can cause needless harm to the environment, because of the ingredients in washing liquids. Bio-home Dishwash Liquid, an innovative product by Lam Soon Edible Oils Sdn Bhd, contains natural ingredients, is not animal-tested, biodegradable and eco-friendly to boot.

Lam Soon marketing manager (household & personal care) Carmen Foo said that more and more households are looking for cleaning products that are not harmful to the environment.

"We take great pride in knowing our customers are not trading off effectiveness, costs or other product attributes to lead a healthier lifestyle when they use Bio-home Dishwash Liquid," said Foo.

The product uses biodegradable plant-based ingredients that are gentle on the environment.

It does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate or animal-based ingredients. The solution has no artificial colouring and is also phosphate-free. Its signature fragrance is lemongrass and green tea.

Environmentally conscious consumers will appreciate the concentrated, low foam and easy rinse formula of the liquid that reduces water usage. Although the Bio-home Dishwash Liquid is made from nature-based ingredients that are kind to the ecosystem, there is nothing mild or gentle about the way it fulfils its cleansing duties! It cleans and degreases effectively using the powers of nature.

In addition, it contains mild plant-based ingredients that have been dermatologically tested to ensure that it is gentle on your hands.

Bio-home Dishwash Liquid comes in recyclable packaged material with a convenient pump.

This product has been endorsed by the Singapore Environmental Council under the Singapore Green Label Scheme (SGLS), an indication that it is certified internationally on its eco-friendliness.

Bio-home Dishwash Liquid retails at RM6.50 per 500ml bottle and is available at selected retail outlets.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Living 6 October 2009

Article: Tireless campaigner

Tuesday October 6, 2009

By TAN CHENG LI

Dr Martin Abraham may help shape global green policies and initiatives, but his heart lies in improving the lives of the community through his work in environmental activism.

HIS might not be a household name but for the past 30 years, Dr Martin Abraham has tirelessly championed consumer rights and environmental protection, both locally and globally.

Through his work in numerous non-governmental organisations and United Nations bodies, he has had a hand in shaping global green initiatives and policies.

His quiet, unassuming ways belie years of experience which have placed him as a respected figure in environmental circles.

His deep knowledge of all things concerning the planet has seen him playing advisory roles in various think-tanks and conservation groups, and involved in writing up global treaties and policy documents.

Eco-champion: Dr Martin Abraham's green credentials include one of the most esteemed environmental awards, the UNEP Global 500 Roll Of Honour For Environmental Achievement.

He has worked on a diverse range of topics, from chemical safety to hazardous wastes, sustainability, traditional knowledge, persistent organic pollutants, trade, endocrine disrupting chemicals, tobacco, biotechnology, genetically modified organisms, consumption patterns, energy and climate change.

For the past 10 years, Abraham has been instrumental in helping community groups obtain Global Environment Facility (GEF) funds to carry out sustainable development projects.

As national co-ordinator of the GEF Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP), he has helped these groups shape their project concepts and prepare documents to support their applications for funding.

The funds have helped the single mothers of Wanita Inovatif Jaya Diri (Wijadi) in Kelantan to grow and market medicinal herbs, communities in Selangor to set up the Kota Damansara urban park, and Sarawak fishermen to stop overfishing of the endangered ikan terubok.

"By building the capability of NGOs and local communities in implementing activities that promote sustainable livelihoods and at the same time conserve natural resources and ecosystems, my work in SGP has brought about positive changes in the lives of people," says Abraham, 54.

He left the GEF-SGP programme in July, however, following policy changes at the headquarters and now works as an independent environmental consultant.

His wife, Rajeswari Kanniah, is the dean of law at Taylor's University College and they have a daughter, Gowri Chitra, 17.

Tracing back his green roots, Abraham can count himself as one among the small group of people who were witness to the rise of the budding Malaysian environmental movement during the 1980s.

Armed with a doctorate in marine microbiology, he had joined a local university in 1983 as a research co-ordinator but ethical conflict saw him quitting soon after.

"Seabed oil exploration was just taking off then and I was involved in a project to look for oil-eating bacteria in Malaysian waters, which can prevent oil spills from destroying mangroves and coastlines. When I found no such bacteria, I was instructed to doctor the data. It was against my ethics, so I left."

The loss of a capable scientist in the research community, however, was a gain in the fledging environmental movement, for Abraham then joined Sahabat Alam Malaysia.

As a research officer, he used his science background to eject science-based principles into work related to water pollution and pesticides.

His next positon was with the International Organisation of Consumers Unions (now renamed Consumers International) in Penang, where he campaigned against harmful chemicals and tobacco trade, among other things.

In the aftermath of the 1984 Bhopal industrial disaster where a leak in the Union Carbide pesticide plant in the Indian town exposed 500,000 people to the toxic methyl isocyanate gas, Abraham was among those who lobbied for better management of chemicals.

His books on this subject cover hazardous technologies, unsafe pesticide manufacturing in the Third World and the denial of justice for the Bhopal victims.

In 1989, his environmental activism work was acknowledged – he was elected into the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global 500 Roll Of Honour, the second Malaysian to receive that accolade. (The first was former IOCU president Datuk Dr Anwar Fazal).

Abraham recalls that the years leading up to the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were a whirlwind of non-stop jetsetting for him as he travelled the globe as an NGO representative for talks on environmental concerns.

By then, his scope of work had widened from toxics and chemicals to include indigenous rights, transnational corporations, trade-environment issues, biotechnology, consumption patterns and climate change.

"I was travelling eight months of the year and accumulated so many days of leave that my boss ordered me to go on a year's leave. It so happened that at the same time, Dr Mostafa Tolba (then UNEP executive director) invited me to be one of his consultants and advisor."

During that year-long tenure in Nairobi, Kenya, Abraham joined negotiations running up to the Earth Summit and helped draft UN documents – everything from Agenda 21 (the blueprint for sustainable development endorsed at the Summit) to the UNEP annual environment report and even Tolba's speeches.

Upon his return to Kuala Lumpur in 1993, he took up a new position at WWF International, heading its new division on "wasteful consumption and pollution".

Four years into the programme, it emerged that corporations found to be toxics emitters were also major funders of the conservation group.

A decision was made to close that division. Abraham was then asked to work on WWF's core area of wildlife conservation but he declined.

"I'm not into cuddly animals. I've always been more interested in toxics as that affect people and will lead to extinction," he says of his decision to quit WWF.

Brief stints in the private sector ensued – brief because his ethical convictions again saw him quitting both companies.

In one, an environmental consultancy, Abraham witnessed how Environmental Impact Assessment reports were produced, "sometimes four reports a day from someone sitting at his desk".

"There were conflicts of interests and being a consultancy, the bottomline is profits."

His next position at an environmental monitoring consultancy was short-lived too because of differences in directions, in particular his stand that Air Pollution Index (API) figures should be made public.

When he joined the GEF Small Grants Programme in 1999, he finally found gratification because he could work with communities, especially marginalised groups. "People have always been the focus of my work. The orang asli, for instance, have been a major beneficiary of the Small Grants Programme," says Abraham.

Indeed, the SGP has funded numerous indigenous people projects, such as the rafflesia ecotourism by the Semai of Ulu Geroh, Perak, and the conservation of rice biodiversity in Tanjung Purun, Sarawak.

Having witnessed the growth of the Malaysian environmental movement, Abraham is heartened by the rise in green awareness, action and advocacy but is frustrated that policy changes have remained dismal.

"There is space for improving environmental conservation in Malaysia. We need more strategic approaches such as abiding by the 'precautionary principle'. Now, we tend to be reactive and not proactive, and have a tendency to focus on the symptoms rather than the root causes of environmental problems."

He also sees a need to shift from individual, site-specific EIAs to more comprehensive and cumulative studies, especially in ecosystems of ecological significance.

And he still advocates the principle that had guided him when he first joined the NGO movement – the community's "right to know". "Now, people get to know about a coal plant only after it has been approved. We should not only be guided by the 3Ps … people, profit and plant. They must be underpinned by justice and equity, too."

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Perc problems

Tuesday October 6, 2009

THE most commonly used dry-cleaning solvent, perchloroethylene (perc), is associated with a host of health and environmental concerns.

While responsible handling of the chemical minimises these risks, they are not eliminated altogether.

Some of the major concerns:

Health

> Perc enters the body when breathed in, or through contaminated food or water.

> According to the US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, short-term exposure to perc can affect the nervous system, causing dizziness, fatigue, headaches, sweating, inco-ordination and unconsciousness, while long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage.

> It is classified as a possible human carcinogen

> A Danish study showed that pregnant dry-cleaning workers are twice as likely to have a miscarriage in comparison to pregnant women in other jobs.

> A study by University of California at Berkeley discovered that male dry-cleaning employees have more sperm abnormalities and a significantly lower sperm count.

Environment

> Perc is classified as a chlorocarbon. While not as potent as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), evaporated perc can still react with ozone in the upper stratosphere and cause a depletion of the ozone layer.

> It can evaporate into the atmosphere during the dry-cleaning process.

> If not disposed properly, perc can contaminate groundwater and soil.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Coming clean

Tuesday October 6, 2009

By SHARMILLA GANESAN

Healthier and eco-friendly ways to dry-clean clothes can be found here.

AS consumers become more savvy about the products and services they pay for, it is only natural that they also start becoming more discerning.

The story Dirt From Dry-cleaning (StarTwo, May 12) on the possible environmental and health impacts of dry-cleaning solvent perchloroethylene (perc) prompted questions on what alternatives Malaysian consumers have if they choose to avoid perc-based dry-cleaning.

The majority of local laundries still use perc, even though the highly volatile solvent has been identified as being harmful to health and the environment.

In fact, the state of California in the United States is phasing out the use of perc all together.

Jeeves Malaysia CEO Jeffrey G. Walmsley says the Green Earth dry-cleaning machine uses the same process as traditional drycleaning, but eliminates the environmental and health concerns associated with the use of perc.

The use of perc can be safe if dry cleaners take the necessary precautions, like keeping machines in pristine condition so that minimal perc residue is left in clothing.

There is, however, no way to completely eliminate this. Operators should also store, transfer and dispose of perc responsibly in order to minimise its release into the environment.

There is, however, a sore lack of enforcing these practices in Malaysia.

While used perc is a scheduled waste that comes under the Department of Environment, laundries and dry cleaners fall under local authorities.

The usage of perc itself, however, does not seem to be monitored as such. Bigger laundry operators seem to self-regulate, while the smaller outfits simply do so on an ad hoc basis.

Green and clean

So what options do consumers have to clean "dry-clean only" clothes, while also protecting themselves and the environment? One lesser known but effective process is wet-cleaning. Admittedly, the idea of putting clothes labelled specifically for dry-cleaning through a wet process might turn off many customers. Wet-cleaning, however, is actually a viable alternative for most types of garments.

In wet-cleaning, computer-controlled washers and dryers are used to simulate the motion of a very gentle hand wash (to compare, a washing machine would rotate clothes a few dozen times a minute, while wet cleaning machines can spin as slowly as six times per minute). These machines can also be programmed for variables such as time, temperature, and mechanical action, allowing the wash to be tailored to the type of fabric. The cleaning agents used are simply detergents and softeners, similar to the ones we use at home.

The pre-washing process forms an important part of wet-cleaning. Here, spotting agents are used to remove stains from the garments. This removes the need for a strong wash. The clothes might then go through finishing (pressing or stretching) in order to retain the original shape and fit. Through these methods, wet-cleaning is able to tackle almost any type of clothing that should supposedly only be dry-cleaned, including leather, suede, woollens, silk and rayon.

Many people are not aware that wet-cleaning is actually available in Malaysia. Peggy Liew, whose company Kraft Trading brought in the Seitz wet-cleaning technology, shares that they have outfitted 124 laundries nationwide with the system.

"The chemicals used in the wet-cleaning process are completely biodegradable. Even our detergents are fruit acid-based," Liew says, adding that the used detergent can go down the drain. She further explains that unlike when handling perc, laundry workers don't need any protective gear while wet-cleaning.

She further claims that wet-cleaning is considered more hygienic in comparison to perc, which is distilled and reused. For garments used for prayers, for example, wet-cleaning might be preferable for this reason.

Zarina Ismail, who owns the Drop & Wash laundry chain, says wet-cleaning is the safest alternative to dry-cleaning, as it is a water-based cleaning process that does not generate hazardous waste nor pollute the surrounding environment. Utilising the Lagoon technology that incorporates washing, drying and finishing processes in one machine, Zarina currently operates five outlets in the Klang Valley and is offering their licensee package nationwide.

Providing options

For those who still prefer dry-cleaning, perhaps the alternative would be to use a perc-free service. Jeeves Malaysia does dry-cleaning using GreenEarth, an inert and non-toxic solvent made from silicone.

Chief executive officer Jeffrey G. Walmsley believes that while wet cleaning is effective, it is best to have more than one tool in the toolkit. He says certain garments may require proper dry-cleaning, such as those which aren't colourfast, those that might lose their shape or finish (such as sunray skirts with many pleats), and certain fabrics like chiffon that are prone to shrinking in water.

The GreenEarth dry-cleaning process is similar to that using perc, except that the solvent itself poses no discernable threat to either the environment or health. Made from pure liquid silicone, or as Walmsley describes it, "liquefied sand", GreenEarth breaks down into sand and trace amounts of water and carbon dioxide. Liquid silicone is also the base ingredient in many shampoos, conditioners and lotions, which makes GreenEarth safe to come in contact with the human body.

Consumers who think they may have to fork out exorbitant amounts for wet-cleaning are in for a surprise: it actually costs the same to wet-clean and dry-clean.

Walmsley, on the other hand, acknowledges that cleaning with GreenEarth is slightly more expensive. "The solvent is much more expensive than perc, and it is also more complicated to use, requiring more people and expertise. However, we believe that the benefits to our customers and their clothes are worth it. But the more consumers know about the cleaning processes, the better equipped they are to choose what's best for their clothes, their health and the environment," he says.

Liew agrees, saying consumers should ask more questions and be open to suggestions when dropping their clothes off for cleaning.

"Some operators say they are dry-cleaning when they are actually using wet-cleaning, simply because customers refuse to understand what wet-cleaning is. They assume that the only thing that will work is (perc-based) dry-cleaning, without realising how harmful it can be," she says

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Clever wallets

Tuesday October 6, 2009

By TAN CHENG LI

WHO would have thought empty milk and juice cartons can actually be transformed into something useful like wallets.

With a few folds, adhesive and Velcro, the US company Milkmuny has turned these discards into clever origami-esque wallets and at the same time, spread the word on recycling and generate funds for schools and the environment.

In the five months that the company has been running, it has sold hundreds of these snazzy-looking wallets over the Internet (milkmuny.com).

"Our wallets are used everyday and are amazing conversation starters, being so unique, fashionable and useful.

" It's a great way to spread awareness and excitement for sustainability, and a daily reminder every time you pull it out, of the effect that your comsumerism has on the environment," says Milkmuny public relations officer Summy To in an e-mail interview.

New usage: Made from old juice cartons, these wallets are surprisingly hardy.

Industrial designer John Schreiber founded Milkmuny in a reaction over the problem of discarded drink cartons.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that only 0.05% of the 510,000 tonnes of milk and juice cartons tossed out by Americans each year gets recycled.

These cartons are recyclable but it is a messy and energy-intensive process because of their wax linings.

Schreiber hopes his product will get people thinking about the real costs of their consumption, even when it's green.

"There is considerable talk these days about 'green' design but the vast majority of designs, both graphic and industrial, is still about promoting consumption.

"It's ironic that we continue to dispose of existing products and materials like computers or radios in order to purchase 'greener' ones.

"I wanted to challenge traditional design thinking and create a mass-produced product that didn't expend more energy to create or require more resources to produce, but was aesthetically pleasing and uncompromisingly functional."

The 7.5cm by 10cm wallets have four accordion pockets and Velcro closures. Tape-reinforced folds make them wear-proof.

They are made by a proprietary hand-powered rotary die cut that was designed and engineered by Schreiber.

Milkmuny does not see turning cartons into wallets as merely delaying their journey to the landfill.

"With our wallets, we are encouraging recycling and hopefully, diverting people from buying other types of wallets that use new materials and are not as environmentally conscious in their production. One of the main goals of Milkmuny is to create awareness and encourage people to become involved in their communities to get more of these recycled," says To.

But the million-dollar question is: how long do the wallets last? And can they still be sent for recycling after that?

"To date, we are still using wallets we produced over a year ago," says To.

"We like to say that Milkmuny wallets wear in but they don't wear out. To make sure they get recycled, we buy them back through a discount on the next wallet purchased and make sure they are recycled properly for those people who don't live in areas where paper cartons are recycled."

The venture also benefits schools and non-profits as Milkmuny pays them for collected cartons.

It has also joined the One Percent For The Planet movement, and has pledged 1% of all sales to the preservation and restoration of the natural environment.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: From trash to treasure

Tuesday October 6, 2009

By S. INDRAMALAR

With some thought and creativity, trash can be turned into 'trashion'.

MAY Oh has a huge appetite for rubbish, particularly pull tabs from discarded soda cans. She collects them in the thousands and spends hours every day driving to coffee shops around her neighbourhood (and sometimes quite a distance away) to buy the pull tabs – by the kilogrammes.

Make no mistake. Oh is not a pack rat or a magpie. Nor is she a scavenging hobo. She's a 49-year-old mother of two with a penchant for craft and a talent for transforming "rubbish" into handbags.

The idea of making bags using pull tabs was purely accidental, she recounts.

"I was at my aunt's house when I saw this container filled with pull tabs. It struck me that I could use them to make bags. So I experimented. The first few bags I made weren't very good but through trial and error, the bags became better.

Unique bags: Though the demand for her pull-tab bags are substantial, May Oh has no intention of starting a business. Craft is her passion and she wants to keep it as her hobby, not her job

"My daughter carried one of the bags to college and many of her friends and even her lecturers were fascinated by it.

"I've been interested in craft since I was in Year Five or Six. At the time, I'd make bags and baskets out of raffia, which were popular at the time. Also, in those days, we could not ask our parents to buy any bag we liked. So, I made my own," explains Oh who is from Seberang Prai, Penang.

Making the bags – coming up with new designs and improving on her technique – was all for fun. Oh never intended to sell her bags or start a business.

She made them simply because she enjoyed it and the bags were for herself, her daughter and close friends.

However, their uniqueness drew a lot of attention and she was invited to showcase her bags and conduct a workshop on making them at a recycling event in Petaling Jaya two years ago.

The process of making the pull-tab bags can be painstaking as there are many steps involved, says Oh who has been making them for close to three years.

Trendy: Oh uses pull tabs that are crocheted together with double-stranded wool to create sturdy bags.

First, she has to buy the pull tabs. She uses about 250 pieces for a handphone pouch and 2,000 pieces for a medium- to large-sized tote. Next comes the sorting (there are various kinds of tabs – square and round – and also, not every tab can be used), cleaning and drying.

"Sometimes from a 10kg bag, I can only use about 200 tabs. They have to be flattened piece by piece with a hammer and then washed with a light detergent. I have to make sure there is no trace of sugar on them before I dry them under the hot sun. Only then can I start crocheting them into a bag," says Oh.

She uses double-stranded wool – a must if the bag is to last at least a couple of years. Next, she sews on the bag lining, handles and clasps.

It takes, on average, a week to complete one bag. If she has a deadline, Oh can make 10 bags in a week – working at breakneck pace, that is.

Because of the work and materials involved, the bags can cost quite a bit: RM70 for a pouch and RM130 to RM380 for the purses and totes.

"People assume that the bags will be cheap because they're made from pull tabs. They ask why the bags cost so much when they're not branded. They don't realise that I have to buy all the materials which can come up to RM100 or more for one bag."

Although the bags aren't cheap and she only sells them at environmental events she partcipates in from time to time, Oh is not short on customers – one is Tunku Datin Paduka Khadijah (daughter of the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj).

Oh has no intention of taking this pursuit further although she is contemplating writing a book about making bags from recyclable material.

"I don't want to open a shop or start a business. It's just my passion, my hobby. I do give lessons. I am not afraid of competition because with handicraft, everyone has their own style. Sometimes, my students have better ideas than me and I learn too," she says.

Apart from pull tabs, Oh has also made bags from pre-paid phone cards, and has her eye on other recyclable material which she can re-use, such as CDs.

"I'm also thinking about recycling the pull-tab bags. For example, if a customer wants to turn a bag she bought from me a couple of years ago into something new, she can," says Oh.

She has also picked up environment-friendly habits after embarking on her craft project.

"It has definitely enriched my life. Not only am I able to work at home, doing what I really enjoy, I have learnt that rubbish – or what people regard as rubbish – can be used as a resource. And I get to teach my children about it, too," says Oh, who has adopted other eco-friendly practices at home, such as using garbage enzymes to clean.

Check out May Oh's creations at the Eco Film Fest 2009 that is currently on every Sunday this month, from 3pm to 6pm at Palate Palette, an arts space-cum-restaurant at 21, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur. You can also see her bags at www.meetanhandicraft.blogspot.com.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Making a difference

Tuesday October 6, 2009

FIGHT over-packaging – and the garbage glut – with these steps:

> Precycle. Choose the product with the least (or most environmentally friendly) packaging. If it is over-packaged, don't buy it.

> Avoid food wrapped in individual serving sizes such as cheese slices, biscuits, juices, chocolates, non-dairy creamer and three-in-one drink sachets.

> Tell companies what you think. Write to the Customer Services Department and explain why you're not buying that product. Feedback from customers can facilitate change.

> Buy in larger sizes. A 1-litre carton of juice will give you the same amount as five 200ml cartons, but less packaging waste.

> Shop at the pasar – armed with your reusable tote and containers, of course. Produce sold at the market are not cling-wrapped or packed in polystyrene.

> Buy products with reusable or recycled packaging.

> Recycle your packaging. There will always be packaging. So make sure you drop the stuff into your recycling bin.

Related Stories:
Buried under the layers
Taking responsibility

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Taking responsibility

Tuesday October 6, 2009

A look at what manufacturers and households in other countries are doing to cut down on packaging.

THEY made it. So they should take care of it. That's the approach that guides packaging laws the world over.

They draw upon the principle of "extended producer responsibility" (EPR) which makes manufacturers deal with proper disposal of their packaging and product at their end of useful live.

The first such legislation is the 1991 German Ordinance on the Avoidance of Packaging Waste.

For the first time, the law shifts the responsibility and cost of collecting, sorting and recycling packaging waste, from municipal governments to industry.

The impact was immediate. German companies, wanting to save on recycling costs, quickly re-examined their packaging processes.

They lightened their packages, eliminated unnecessary packaging (like boxes within boxes) and made products (such as detergent) in more concentrated forms.

Hard-to-recycle packaging materials, such as plastics, were used less while the usage of traditional materials, such as paper and glass, which have a well-tested recycling chain, grew.

Households did their part, too. They dutifully threw packaging waste into a second bin. During its first four years, the programme cut packaging consumption in Germany by one million tonne.

The German approach soon spread to the rest of Europe and the world. In general, manufacturers do not themselves collect the waste from municipalities. They pay a fee to a government-appointed organisation to do the job.

Here are the practices of some countries:

> In Europe, 25 countries have such "takeback" rules or tax manufacturers to ensure recovery of used packaging. The European Union's Packaging Directive requires manufacturers to recover at least 60% of their packaging and to recycle at least 55% of that. It also spells out specific recycling targets: glass (60%), paper and board (60%), metals (50%), plastics (22.5%), and wood.

> In Britain, packaging regulations have these requirements: minimal volume and weight; minimal noxious or hazardous substances in emissions, ash or leachate from incineration or landfill; and can be reused and recovered.

> Singapore uses a voluntary and self-regulatory approach to eliminate unnecessary packaging and encourage use of recyclable packaging material. Under the 2007 Packaging Agreement, the industry adheres to a code of practice to ensure environment-friendly packaging. The agreement now covers only the food and beverage sector but might be extended to include products such as toiletries and detergents in future. The industry can tap into the Innovation for Environmental Sustainability Fund to develop new eco-friendly packaging.

> South Korea's "excessive packaging" law dates back to 1999. It rules that processed foods can have not more than 15% of empty space in their package, beverages 10%, cosmetics 10% and over-the-counter drugs, 20%. It also limits the layers of packaging for certain consumer goods – two for most goods, one for shirts and underwear. Companies must also recycle a certain percentage of their plastic packaging. PVC shrink wraps and laminated PVC for packaging have been banned since 2001, and electronics manufacturers must reduce use of plastic packaging.

> In Japan, the Containers and Packaging Recycling Act 1995 places the recycling of packaging on manufacturers, retailers and importers. A government-designated organisation, the Japan Containers and Packaging Recycling Association, operates the recycling scheme for the business entities, which pay "recycling fees".

Related Stories:
Buried under the layers
Making a difference

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

Article: Buried under the layers

Tuesday October 6, 2009

By TAN CHENG LI

Malaysians are still enamoured with pretty presentations – and that spells trouble for the environment.

THE tiny present wrapped inside a box which is put into a bigger box, and a yet bigger box and so on, may be a good joke for a birthday or Christmas.

In reality, unfortunately, many goods are actually packed like that.

Supermarket shelves brim over with such examples of over-packaging.

Take, for instance, that popular brand of chocolates with the tongue-twister of a name. Each piece is wrapped in foil, sits on a paper cup, which sits on a plastic tray which sits inside a plastic box which is wrapped in shrink wrap. That's five layers of packaging!

And nothing says "excessive packaging" more than the boxes of mooncakes sold recently for the mid-autumn festival.

Loads of waste: A heap of packaging waste, and all for only 12 pieces of pastries. Each piece is encased in a plastic cup, inside a plastic wrapper. Some have an additional paper label.

In the old days, mooncakes came in only two layers of wrapping, a greaseproof paper and a red paper label. These days, the pastries are packed lavishly in layer after layer of packaging.

Sure, the prettily designed box can easily find a new life as storage container but certainly not the plastic trays and wrappings.

Greasy and small-sized, these are unlikely to be tossed into the recycling bin – although they should be. And don't you wonder how much of the price goes towards the fancy wrapping?

Then there are those six-tub packs of yoghurt and jelly, all held together in a plastic tray and then shrink-wrapped. Electronic gadgets are notoriously over-packaged. A small electronic part can arrive wrapped in more plastic than the device itself.

Empty packaging: The net weight of these prawn chips is only 70g, but they come in a plastic wrapper inside a big canister. It would be difficult to recycle the canister as it is made of different materials – paper canister, plastic rim and cover, metal bottom and plastic-laminated paper label.

What a waste. No wonder our landfills are bursting at the seams.

Of course, there is no denying that packaging serves a purpose and cannot be done away with totally.

It protects goods, reduces spoilage, provides information on products and enables their handling, storage and transportation. Under-packaging, on the other hand, can be harmful and wasteful, as when goods are damaged and when food goes bad.

In recent years, mindful manufacturers have minimised their use of packaging – after all, it cuts costs.

Margarine and yoghurt plastic tubs, for instance, now have thinner walls, just like in aluminium cans.

Manufacturers have also made products in higher concentration (such as detergent), offer refill packs and display product information on the container instead of on an extra label or box.

Over-packaging: The huge paper box, when opened, contains a mere 10 cookies inside a plastic bag.

Making packaging smaller and lighter have other ramifications: shipping trucks and containers can carry more, thus saving transportation costs, and greenhouse gas emissions.

But many manufacturers still sheathe their goods in layer after layer of fancy, unnecessary coverings just to lend them a sophisticated presentation and to add perceived value.

Hidden costs

Almost a third of what we toss out are actually containers and wrappings. In Japan, which is known for its elaborate packaging culture, such waste reaches 60%.

Over-packaging not only wastes materials but raises shipping costs and eventually, adds to our already overburdened landfills.

Simply manufacturing those foils, wrappers and containers uses up energy and creates pollutants, as will recycling them.

And consumers are paying for all that over-the-top packaging.

In the United States, the Institute of Packaging Professionals says packaging on average constitutes 7% of the price of a product.

A 2001 survey by the Consumer Association of Penang, however, showed the figure to be between 22% and 55% for some common consumer items such as soft drinks, toothpaste, bottled water, Tetrapak drinks, chilli sauce and yoghurt.

It found spices sold in bottles could be up to 19 times more expensive than those sold in loose form.

This practice of fancy wrappings also cultivates an unhealthy and wasteful consuming mentality – like when we buy a perfume just because the bottle is so pretty!

Aside from over-packaging, the proportion of packing material that can be recycled is also a concern.

Those tiny bits and pieces, in general, are difficult to recycle – the plastic holder tray for yoghurt tubs, thin plastic wrappers (such as the one wrapping drinking straws), aluminium-lined plastic, shrink wraps and foil coverings.

Packaging consisting of a mix of materials (for instance, the chips canister that is made of paper, a tin bottom, plastic rim and cover, and plastic-laminated paper label) is a recycling nightmare.

What will it take to get manufacturers to rethink the packaging of their goods?

Laws that ban excessive packaging and make manufacturers responsible for disposing of the stuff, it would seem.

Such "producer pays" laws will compel them to design packaging for the environment, not the dump. Some 30 countries already have such rules and these have helped shrink packaging waste heaps.

Malaysia, however, still lacks such legislations. In the 1990s, there were talks of the Department of Environment coming out with rules on recycled content for packaging, but nothing came out of it.

Outcry over packaging

Meanwhile, public wrath over wasteful wrappings has provoked an anti-over-packaging movement in cyberspace. Photo-sharing website Flickr has plenty of postings of such items.

The website overpackaging.com shames the perpetrators of excessive packaging. It carries photographs of grossly over-packaged goods, sent in by the public, then writes to the retailers and manufacturers to explain themselves.

Green-minded American giant retailer Wal-Mart has heeded such cut-back calls.

It aims to curtail packaging waste by 5% by 2013. It will choose suppliers who rank highly in their packaging scorecards.

These scorecards are rated on greenhouse gas emissions per tonne of packaging, the raw material used, packaging size, recycled and recyclable content, energy use, transportation impact and innovation.

The Sustainable Packaging Coalition, meanwhile, has released a software program called Comparative Packaging Assessment (or Compass) that helps designers and companies weigh the environmental impact of their packaging.

These green steps, however, are few and far in between. Overall, superfluous wrappings remain commonplace.

It has to do with the psychology of marketing – products with flashy-looking wrapping attract more buyers. But with mounds of trash piling up in our midst, marketing gurus should rethink this strategy of pushing products.

And consumers, on their part, should look beyond pretty packages.

Related Stories:
Taking responsibility
Making a difference

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Lifestyle: Focus 6 October 2009

View: Look deeper into ‘eco-tourism’

Tuesday October 6, 2009

I REFER to the letter "Eco-tourism can be top draw" (The Star, Oct 3) and I wish to shed some light on the term eco-tourism.

First, I am a delighted that someone has highlighted Malaysian spots for nature appreciation. However, the examples given were not a true reflection of eco-tourism per se.

The International Ecotourism Society defines eco-tourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people".

What we see in Taman Negara or the Port Dickson beach belt, as mentioned by the writer, is anything but.

It is sad that the local tourism industry and the general public believe that any romp involving the countryside or national park is eco-friendly. This notion is making our country a laughing stock among foreign eco-tourists and eco-tour agents.

Taman Negara receives thousands of visitors every year. Yet, local orang asli are still living in poverty. They are treated as exhibits, not partners.

Has anyone seen a proper sewage treatment plant in Kuala Tahan? Where do you think human waste is flushed to?

Taman Negara is in fact taking a beating from mass tourism. That's why ikan kelah (Malaysian mahseer) is nearly extinct and has to be conserved upstream of Lubok Tenor.

In November 2008, wildlife department rangers found over 500 snares in one operation. Touristy trails had opened up more areas for intrusion.

Lake Chini was developed under the pretext of eco-tourism in mid 1990s. In 2004, it was widely known that Semelai natives living around the lake developed skin rashes and suffered from diarrhoea.

Studies showed this was due to untreated sewage dumped into the waterways by lake-side resorts and budget motels. Also, dams were built to maintain a high water level for boating pleasure. This has choked the natural flow, degraded the habitat and wiped out the lotus population. Today's Chini wetland is lifeless and tired.

Let's call a spade a spade. Call it bird watching, boat safari or nature tour, but never use the word eco-tourism if it's not doing any good for the ecology or local communities. Distorting eco-tourism for mass appeal is a disservice to the environment. Eco-tourism is never about elephant rides, Disney-fied forest parks or building multi-million ringgit ornamental eyesores.

If good examples are needed, look at Sipadan and Mt Kinabalu, Sabah. Daily visitors are limited to 120 and 146 respectively to avoid hospitality fatigue. Small-scale community-based eco-tourism in the Bario highlands, Sarawak, brings income directly to village households.

Ulu Geroh, Perak, is now famous for its orang asli-operated jungle trips. Visitors are guided to see wild Rafflesia Cantleyi blooms for a small fee, without any middlemen mark-ups or touristy fanfare.

Done correctly, eco-tourism is all about seeing life at its purest responsibly. Its spirit enriches lives and the ecology. So, don't jump in just because a brochure screams "eco-tourism". If you truly love nature, it pays to look deeper.

CASEY NG,

Ipoh.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Opinion 6 October 2009