BY TEOH TZE PING (Managing Director, KONE Malaysia)
OVER the past years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability in Malaysia’s construction industry. Industry players are pledging their commitment and forming partnerships to drive the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies.
However, a deeper look into the data reveals that more action is needed. A global report by the United Nations indicates that buildings and construction account for 37 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
In Malaysia, the construction sector generates approximately eight million tonnes of waste annually, according to 2021 research on Environmental Management Practices. These alarming figures necessitate an immediate shift towards sustainable building practices.
With readily available solutions and innovative technology, the construction sector can minimise environmental impact without compromising construction timelines.
Challenges in sustainable construction practices
One of the primary barriers to adopting sustainable practices is cost. Initial expenses for sustainable materials, technologies, and design strategies may be higher, although they often lead to long-term savings through reduced energy consumption and operational costs.
According to a report by Smart CRE, green buildings can save between 25 to 50 per cent of energy and reduce maintenance costs by about 12 per cent. By minimising energy consumption, construction companies can simultaneously reduce the environmental impact for their customers.
There are supportive government initiatives to encourage investment in green building and stimulate demand, aimed at promoting sustainable development. These include the Green Technology Financing Scheme, which provides financial assistance to businesses and individuals looking to implement sustainable initiatives.
The government remains committed to fostering the growth of environmentally sustainable businesses through the reintroduction of GTFS 4.0, with a funding allocation of up to RM1.0 billion until December 31, 2025, supporting several key sectors, including building.
Driving energy efficiency in construction practices
There are many strategies to drive efficiency and reduce waste in construction practices. However, we believe that by collaborating with stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and regulatory agencies, we can identify readily available solutions.
This collaboration could involve more efficient handling of materials at construction sites. For example, the KONE JumpLift, a vertical transportation solution, streamlines material handling on construction sites, allowing for more efficient movement of materials to higher floors.
This can reduce the need for traditional material hoisting methods, such as cranes or external elevators, which consume more energy and may have a larger environmental footprint. The KONE JumpLift is much more energy-efficient than exterior hoists, saving thousands of kilowatt-hours.
Similarly, choosing energy-efficient construction equipment, such as low-emission generators, electric or hybrid vehicles, and energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems for temporary facilities, can all support in minimising energy consumption, reducing waste, and optimising resource utilisation throughout the construction process.
Kickstarting the green revolution in Malaysia’s construction
Malaysia has the opportunity to lead the way in fostering a green revolution within its construction industry, setting a precedent for sustainable development and contributing significantly to global efforts to combat climate change.
It starts with a pledge of commitment to sustainability and setting sustainability goals. Among the specific sustainability objectives for construction projects are reducing energy consumption, minimising waste generation, and enhancing indoor air quality.
By establishing clear goals, it provides direction and ensures that sustainability remains a priority throughout the project life cycle.
Another approach to incorporating sustainability considerations into project planning and design stages involves conducting feasibility studies, environmental assessments, and life-cycle analyses. This identifies opportunities for incorporating green building practices and technologies from the outset.
Hence, collaborating with green-certified players who are advancing sustainability in the construction industry is essential. For instance, the global leading elevator and escalator company, KONE, received a Green Label certification in 2023 from MyHIJAU, a Malaysian official green recognition endorsed by the government. This certification consolidates certified green products and services meeting local and international environmental standards under one mark.
This signifies the company’s commitment to being a leader in sustainability, reflecting its vision of surpassing industry standards. Through initiatives like this, KONE demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the ultimate People Flow experience and helping the development of smarter, more sustainable cities.
Construction players can also pursue green building certification from organisations such as the US Green Building Council (USGBC). For example, Merdeka 118 is the country’s first mega-tall building to achieve LEED Platinum certification, overseen by the Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI), acknowledging its compliance with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria.
For KONE, the company is proud to contribute to the building’s sustainability goals with our solutions and expertise. The elevators and escalators installed in Merdeka 118 are highly efficient, with the potential for increased energy efficiency through digital enhancements.
A greener construction sector in Malaysia
As we chart our course towards the future, it becomes increasingly evident that sustainable construction practices play a pivotal role in shaping the world we inhabit. Beyond erecting structures, our construction choices profoundly impact our environment, economy, and societal wellbeing.
By prioritising sustainability, we can create cities and communities that thrive in harmony with nature, rather than depleting its resources. These sustainable urban environments offer numerous benefits, from cleaner air and water to enhanced public health and wellbeing.
Sustainable construction is also an economic opportunity. Investing in green technologies, renewable energy, and energy-efficient building practices can spur innovation, create jobs, and drive economic growth. It fosters a vibrant ecosystem of green businesses and industries, positioning countries like Malaysia at the forefront of the global green economy.
As we forge ahead, there is boundless potential for a brighter and greener future, not only for Malaysia but for the entire world. By embracing sustainable construction practices, we can build a legacy of stewardship, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come.
