SIBU: The implementation of the Environmental Ordinance (Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction), 2023 is the foundation of a strategy by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the ordinance came into effect on March 1, this year.
“It mandates stringent carbon emissions reporting, threshold setting, and verification of greenhouse gas emissions while supporting the transition to low-carbon technologies.
“To date, 19 business entities have registered with the NREB, and the submission of emission reports is ongoing,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Stakeholder Engagement Programme at a renowned hotel here yesterday (Sept 5).
The Kuala Rajang assemblyman said Sarawak is at the forefront of the energy transition, with initiatives such as hydropower, solar projects, and pioneering hydrogen development.
“We have also set ambitious goals to achieve a 10-gigawatt renewable energy mix by 2030, and our unwavering commitment has received global recognition, with international praise for our sustainability initiatives,” he added.
Meanwhile, on the Sarawak government’s green energy initiatives, he said that, to support the initiative it is crucial that all activities designated and mandated under the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (NREO) undergo a strict Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted by registered environmental consultants on behalf of project proponents.
“The role of environmental consultants is crucial in conducting comprehensive EIAs, providing detailed reports, and recommending effective mitigation measures to prevent and reduce environmental impacts,” he said.
He stressed that developing a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and ensuring strict compliance with the terms and conditions of the EIA are essential to achieving Sarawak’s sustainability goals.
Also present was Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak Jack Liam.
