6 Southeast Asian countries making an impact for a greener future

As a collective of nations that are rich in natural resources, Southeast Asia is not only prioritising its developmental goals; sustainability remains a key priority. Here are some innovative and impactful green initiatives by ASEAN countries.

Singapore

Singapore embraces central cooling solutions that reduce emissions significantly

By centralising the cooling plants, the electricity required to power traditional air-conditioners can be reduced by 40% which is the same as removing 10,000 cars from the roads. So far, the project has been implemented across a number of establishments in the Marina Bay district and will be implemented into the futuristic new town called Tengah.

Malaysia

Malaysia Airlines offices to be powered by the sun in 2021

As a collaborative green effort, GSPARX Sdn Bhd (A subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Bhd) will be installing solar panels on four Malaysia Airlines Bhd buildings. The green energy generated from the project is expected to offset about 2,022 tonnes of carbon dioxide for the first year which is equivalent to 12,197 cars taken off the road or 933,520 trees grown, according to Tenaga Nasional.

Indonesia

Indonesia has committed to mass producing battery-based electric motorised vehicles by 2025

Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is aiming to produce at least 19,000 units of 4-wheeled vehicles and 750,000 2-wheeled vehicles by 2025. This has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 283,000 tonnes CO2-e (Carbon dioxide equivalent).

Vietnam

Over 45,000 household and organisations in Vietnam have installed rooftop solar panels

As one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia, demand for power is on the rise. The Vietnamese government has been encouraging renewable energy solutions such as solar energy. Rooftop solar installation prices have dropped by half in the last three years, further accelerating the popularity of solar energy.

Philippines

Filipino invents a Green Eco-Toilet Systems which reduces water wastage significantly

Daniel Camacho’s invention is installed in toilets to utilise waste water coming from showers, which is considered clean enough for flushing, saving up to 100,000 litres of water per household annually.

Thailand

Thailand banned plastic bags at major stores

Thailand continues on its 20-year action plan to significantly reduce plastic pollution. So far, 75 shopping malls and convenience stores with over 24,500 branches have stopped providing free plastic bags.

While progress remains a key priority among ASEAN nations, it is good to see that preserving nature and sustainability remain a big part of growth. You can be assured that we’ll be doing our part, what are your green plans stepping into 2021?