Environmental Group Criticises S Gor For Skipping Zero Waste Day

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The Rawang Tolak Incinerator Network (RTI) pressure group criticised the Selangor government for promoting billion-ringgit incinerator projects instead of implementing International Zero Waste Day.
RTI said observing Zero Waste Day would not have been a mere symbolic gesture but would reflect the government’s commitment to resolving waste management issues.
“Observing International Zero Waste Day is not just symbolic - it reflects a commitment to real solutions. 
“By failing to act, the state government continues to prioritise polluting projects over sustainable waste management for the people,” RTI said.
According to the United Nations’ website, International Day of Zero Waste was adopted by the UN General Assembly on Dec 14, 2022.
Under this campaign, all member states are invited to take part in raising awareness of zero-waste initiatives towards sustainable development.
It is part of the UN’s goals for its 2030 agenda for sustainable development.
“These goals address all forms of waste, including food loss and waste, natural resource extraction, and electronic waste,” the UN site said.
Still no details on Rawang incinerator
RTI said that Selangor generates the most waste in the country at 10,000 tonnes per day.
“Rather than investing in real, sustainable zero-waste initiatives, the government remains fixated on incineration-based solutions that pose long-term environmental risks while ignoring public concerns and protests,” it said.
It pointed to the proposed Batu Arang incinerator project in Rawang as an example of the government’s lack of transparency.
A protest against the Batu Arang incinerator project in Rawang in October 2024Despite the project being announced more than two years ago, RTI said the public still has no details of the project, including its potential risks and impacts.
“Instead of addressing legitimate concerns raised by communities and experts, the state government continues to push forward without meaningful engagement or accountability,” it added.
RTI urged the Selangor government to shift towards zero-waste approaches instead of focusing on incinerators.
It called on the state government to implement a dedicated budget to support local councils organising zero-waste programmes, enforce waste segregation at sources, and stop prioritising waste-to-energy projects.
It added that Selangor must invest in waste prevention, recycling, and composting programmes as well. - Mkini

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