KUALA LUMPUR – The Selangor government has approved new operation policies for factories and premises that process recycled plastic waste in the state, following rampant pollution issues and grievances over improper waste management.
Among the new measures include banning the factories from importing recycled plastic for the purpose of recovery or final disposal. Reviews must also be made every five years for the application of their new business licence.
While new business licences for such factories will not be considered nor approved by either state or local authorities, existing factories that have a valid business licence may continue to operate under terms set by the environmental impact assessment technical committee.
Selangor tourism and environment exco Hee Loy Sian said in a statement the government had also decided to reject the temporary licence application and request for extended electrical supply from Jingye Manufacturing, a plastic recycling company in Sepang.
“The implementation of these restrictions is due to frequent pollution issues and complaints of plastic waste pile-ups that are caused by uncontrolled and improper waste management.
“With such policies in place, enforcement operations by local authorities, departments and agencies will be carried out more strictly, including prohibiting the issuance of import permits for waste materials to factories in Selangor,” he said.
The Kajang assemblyman added that the authorities are looking into the aspects of public waste management to ensure that the matter is thoroughly handled in a manner that minimises harm to public health and the environment.
He also said that despite import activities by plastic waste businesses contributing potential revenue to the state, economic development must be balanced with environmental protection to produce a sustainable community as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.
“The Selangor government is also planning on addressing the issue through a national approach and perspective before moving on to more environmentally friendly methods and concepts.
“This will ensure that the industry continues to evolve by adapting to the concept of green technology while simultaneously preserving the environment.”
Recently, Environment and Water Minister Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man announced that all state governments have agreed to implement a pollution charge on plastic bags with a minimum value of 20 sen each through the “No Plastic Bag Campaign.”
The initiative has already been carried out in Penang, Selangor, and Johor. – The Vibes, May 19, 2022
