Phan (last row, third from left) in a group photo with the children who attended the launch of the Eco Galleria Recycling Station in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
ECO World Development Group Bhd (EcoWorld Malaysia) has adopted 12 out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the company’s effort to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly projects.
EcoWorld Malaysia (southern division) divisional general manager Phan Yan Chan said the adoption aligned with the company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and share awareness with members of the public.
“We wanted the EcoWorld name to reflect what we do, especially in incorporating eco-friendly development into all of our projects.
“The latest SDG we adopted is ‘life below water’, where we will play our part to sustainably use our marine resources and reduce marine pollution as part of sustainable development,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters at the Eco Botanic World Environment Day and the launch ceremony of the Eco Galleria Recycling Station in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Some of the other SDGs are zero hunger; clean water and sanitation; affordable and clean energy; reduced inequalities; and no poverty.
“We will continue to adopt as much as we can and implement these initiatives with the close cooperation and support of the public,” he added.
Meanwhile, Phan said the company had organised a Meatless Food Fest that featured 100 meatless street food vendors.
“This includes the Meatless Meal Challenge, where 2,000 people will commit to shifting to plant-based meals for three days.
“By doing this, we could reduce about 2.4 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, equivalent to 13,800km of driving distance,” he said.
He noted that there had been a significant increase in the adoption of a vegetarian diet in Johor, and the programme was aimed at providing a one-stop centre for all vegetarians to get to know their local products.
“We wanted to share how these types of diets can affect the environment and how they can help us reduce our carbon footprint not only in the state but also globally,” he added.
As for the Eco Galleria Recycling Station, the collection centre is located on the ground floor carpark and is easily accessible to the public to drive through and drop off recyclable items, said Phan.
“Items that can be recycled include plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, textile and ewaste.
“To encourage children to learn about the importance of recycling, Eco Galleria introduced an exciting perk where for every 15 recycled items brought to the station during the event, they will get a complimentary ticket to experience a 6,000sq ft inflatable playground at the Atrium,” he added.
By doing this, Phan said the company hoped to instil a sense of responsibility in the younger generation and that everyone can play a small part in making the future a little greener.
The three-day recent event was visited by more than 30,000 people.
