Land and Survey Dept entrusted with locating suitable areas for replanting fast-growing trees

KUCHING: With carbon trading being another economic opportunity in combating global climate change, the Land and Survey Department (JTS) has important roles to play.
 
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said carbon capture and storage (CCS) is another promising source of revenue for Sarawak, thus there is a need to plant more trees.
 
He said JTS has the task of identifying areas in the state for replanting and planting trees that can grow big and fast within a short period of time.
 
“This is one of the ways for us to reduce our carbon footprint. Sarawak has a vast landmass; this is our strength, which is why we are going for a green economy.
 
“For CCS to utilise former oil and gas mining areas in the seabed, JTS will need to investigate how we are going to inject carbon in these areas,” he said.
 
He made these remarks when officiating at the Land and Survey Department’s Innovation and Integrity Day closing ceremony at the Pullman Hotel here last night (August 11).
 
At the same time, Abang Johari urged the department to share their layers of data, which include land management, land quality, land measurements, and how to effectively utilise land, with relevant agencies like the Public Works Department (PWD).
 
He said this can become a resource to add value and create new products out of existing and available resources in Sarawak.
 
“The state government recognises that the available data in Sarawak encompasses not only the land but the state’s conditions, its geographical location within the region, and the resources that can serve as the driving force for our development. That’s why data is crucial for us.
 
“Based on these data, it will help the state face climate change and enable Sarawak to conduct CCS as well as carbon trading. This will further contribute to the state’s revenue in the future,” he said.