Going Green
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
special
GOING GREEN Preserving the planet
EVERY so often, the topics of global warming, green initiatives and rising greenhouse gases take centre stage in the media, highlighting opinions from individuals to politicians and non-profit organisations. In 2006, An Inconvenient Truth, a documentary on American politician Al Gore’s efforts to raise public awareness of the dangers of global warming and the destructive effects on the environment, gained international success and attracted worldwide attention. However, these were the efforts of a single man. Is it possible for the larger community to embrace the message and make lifestyle changes for a greener world? In light of the negative effects of climate change and to ensure a sustainable future, the Malaysian Government and its affiliated agencies have taken numerous steps to reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. These include building a waste-to-energy power plant that generates electricity from solid waste, implementing a waste separation programme for households, improving public transportation networks, increasing passenger capacity in the KTM Komuter and KL Monorail services, installation of a floating photovoltaic system in Sepang, and introducing the Bus Rapid Transit system in Subang and Sunway. Each of us needs to do our part to contribute to the cause for positive change. We need to make a more conscious, serious and prolonged effort to reduce our energy and water usage, take advantage of public transportation
Local direction
and pay heed to the consequences of our actions.
On the global front As of today, government officials from around the world have been in serious discussions for about a week, strategising on crucial precautionary measures in the fight against a common threat – climate change. Held from Nov 30 to Dec 11, the United Nations Climate Change Conference gathers world leaders to cooperatively consider the efforts that are able to limit average global temperature increases and to cope with the current or future effects of global warming. The event is one of the world’s
biggest international summits as it is attended by 196 parties (195 states and the European Union). Organised by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), the conference aims to create strategies to stabilise atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases at a level that will prevent dangerous interference with the climate system. The main topic of discussion throughout the duration of the conference is 2°C, where green initiatives will be introduced so that the world does not increase in temperature by more than 2°C in the coming years. This is because a rise greater
than 2°C in global temperature can cause serious consequences such as more frequent extreme climate events. The 2009 edition of the conference saw countries affirming this goal of limiting global warming compared to the pre-industrial era in the mid-1850s. The goal of this year’s event will be to reach a new international agreement that is applicable to all countries as well as to mobilise US$100bil (RM422bil) a year by 2020 to help developing countries cope with climate change. This sum may be obtained from bilateral or multilateral, public or private sources.
To ensure countries are committed to a positive change, every party to the UNFCC is invited to submit its intended nationally determined contribution (INDC) report before the conference takes place, detailing the steps it will take to reduce greenhouse emissions by 2025 or 2030. Malaysia has submitted its INDC report declaring its intention of reducing the country’s greenhouse gas emissions intensity of gross domestic product (GDP) by 45% by 2030. This is based on the emissions intensity of GDP in 2005. With a time frame for implementation set from 2021 to 2030, the proposal will cover initiatives to limit carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide gases generated from the sectors of energy, industrial processes, waste, agriculture, and land use, land-use change and forestry. Malaysia’s INDC was created based on projected outcomes from the 11th Malaysia Development Plan and existing Malaysian policies, including the National Petroleum Policy, National Energy Policy, National Strategic Plan for Solid Waste Management, National Green Technology Policy, and Low Carbon Cities Framework. These implementations along with initiatives by other nations contribute to a sustainable future and noticeable change. However, the true question remains if our efforts will actually heal the world and reverse the negative effects of the countless years of ignorance or are we merely delaying the inevitable?
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
2 going green
Eco-friendly, designed for luxury HOUSING company PanaHome Malaysia Sdn Bhd, under PanaHome Corporation Japan (subsidiary of the Panasonic Group) that provides comprehensive home-building solutions and total township development implementations, has announced its joint venture with Sanctuary Gasing Group to push ahead with one of Kuala Lumpur’s premier luxury property developments at Sanctuary Ridge. This joint venture is underway and will culminate in an 8,000sq ft (743.2sq m) showhouse with revolutionary architectural and constructional approaches showcasing eco and smart elements of home ideas for SouthEast Asian homes, reflecting the two companies’ commitment to environmental sustainability. PanaHome is one of the world’s leading green innovation companies in the housing industry with its impressive eco-friendly building solutions as it demonstrates sustainable living without compromising on aesthetics. With the planned design and features, owners can expect to enjoy greater energy savings with less emission and possibly earn a small income if the owner chooses
Using solar energy in the home reduces carbon dioxide emissions and energy wastage.
to apply for the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) programme. Introduced by the Malaysian Government in 2010, the programme compensates consumers of renewable energy who produce a surplus of electricity that can be used by the national grid. The KiraTech tiles, which will be featured on the building’s exterior, helps to decompose pollutant gases (decomposition of NOx). A 200sq m area of KiraTech tiles has been shown to be equivalent to the air-cleaning capability of
approximately 14 poplar trees. Aside from its air-purifying function, the KiraTech tiles also have self-cleaning capabilities for longer-lasting and cleaner tiles, which translate into long-term maintenance cost savings. The construction of the showhouse at Sanctuary Ridge can be completed within six months through PanaHome’s building methodologies and design approaches. Construction methods using prefabrication technology (with steelframe structures) ensure a
consistent and high-quality building while accomplishing shorter construction time relative to conventional methods. Also incorporated is a heatinsulation technology to minimise heat transmission from the outside – the unique PanaHome AirExchange System (a structured embedded ventilation system), which supplies effective circulation of natural cool air to keep the internal living space naturally cool and clean, thus reducing energy consumption. The Air-Exchange System eliminates contaminated indoor air without the need to open windows, which will help minimise the entry of pests into your home and enhance security.
About PanaHome Malaysia PanaHome Malaysia Sdn Bhd is the housing company under PanaHome Corporation Japan, a subsidiary under the Panasonic Group. It provides comprehensive home-building solutions and total township development implementations involving designing, planning, constructing, engineering, interior fittings,
installations, landscaping, infrastructure and maintenance. For more information, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.panahome.com.my
About Gasing Meridian Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd is a member of the Sanctuary Gasing Group (SGG) with property developments in Malaysia, Australia (Sanctuary Lakes), China (Sanctuary Xianhai), the United States (Murray Ranch, San Francisco) and Albania (Albania Hotel Complex). SGG is a property developer that works extensively with private investors and offers major joint venture and collaborative experience with state and municipal governments worldwide. Sanctuary Gasing Group (SGG) has brought to Malaysian communities several notable projects, including Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur, Kesuma Lakes, Kasuma-At-Santubong, Kasuma Resort, and Gasing Heights.
n For more information, call 03-2161 6688 or e-mail sales@ sanctuarygasing.com or visit www.sanctuaryridge.com.my
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
going green 3
Sleep soundly MOST people do not realise that their choice of mattress directly impacts their health and safety. They tend to focus on the benefits of a good mattress but overlook the side effects of a bad mattress. Electromagnetic field (EMF) pollution affects sleep negatively and long periods of exposure can be dangerous to your health as it threatens the immune system, causing health problems such as headaches, stress, sleep disorders, fatigue and even cancer. In a modern era of a wireless radiation society, where the use of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and electronic devices are common sights in the average household, EMF exposure is ample. During sleep, your body goes through a biological regeneration process, which can be interrupted by the continuous and invasive EMF radiation that limits human DNA regeneration capacity. This interruption affects the quality of your sleep, which affects your health. So how can you take preventative measures with your mattress? Getha’s latest innovation, the Getha Compass Biocare Mattress, features the Biocare Sleep System and is the first in
Malaysia to provide a solution to the EMF problem. Not only is the Getha Compass Biocare an EMF-free mattress, the Biocare technology features nanotechnological yarn fabric that acts as a magnetic barrier against EMF radiation, preventing any electromagnetic energy flow passing through the mattress and into your body. Biocare technology protects your sleeping environment by blocking non-ionised radiation that attacks and weakens your body cells, giving you a healthier night’s sleep. Biocare has been tested as a magnetic barrier and blocks the contact of EMF waves with the body during sleep by 98.5%. The Getha Compass Biocare Mattress reduces static electricity in the body, which helps regulate your body’s bio-rhythm and promotes excellent quality of sleep. The face layer of Biocare also consists of antibacterial features to prevent disease and odour caused by bacteria. Getha believes that EMF-free latex mattresses provide the healthiest choice of quality sleep.
n For more information, visit getha.com.my
Setting high standards TALK to any modern builder or architect these days and you will likely hear the term “sustainable living” in the conversation. Solar-heated water, dual-flushing toilets, rainwater tanks and energy-saving appliances are examples of the things that people can have to be environmentally responsible as well as essential tools to reduce costs associated with running a household. Another facet of sustainable living is cooling the home down naturally without the use of expensive air conditioners. Louvre windows are a modern alternative to electrical air conditioners that not only allow airflow through the house using natural breeze, but exude an ultra chic and modern look too. Houses are generally designed based on the philosphy of passive design. This includes close attention to shading, adjusting the building’s orientation and maximising natural ventilation so that the building is naturally comfortable. A worldwide market leader for more than 50 years, Breezway designs and manufactures high-quality and highperforming Altair Louvre Windows.
The modern and innovative design of the Altair Louvre opens wide to provide wonderful breezeways and cross ventilation. When closed, they seal tight to provide protection from wind and rain in even the most extreme weather conditions. The incorporation of Breezway louvre windows into sustainable buildings helps reduce the running cost of a home, making it as comfortable and as healthy as possible to live in, therefore reducing the demand for energy for heating and cooling. Automation is also available with the new Apptivate Control Unit, which allows Altair Powerlouvres to be operated by a touchsensitive wall switch, remotely via a Powerlouvre App, in response to changing temperatures or a timer to maintain a comfortable indoor environment for the whole family to enjoy. A house that is economically, environmentally and socially sustainable enables people with a diverse range of needs to live comfortably and visitors to enjoy their visit.
n For more information, call 03-3291 4885 or visit www.breezway.com.my
Louvre windows sustainably enhance air ventilation at home.
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
4 going green
Ionised water The chart explains the working principle of ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer.
ARIRANGION Multi-Ionizer is a worldpatented device that produces ionised water through a shower head or sink head. This product transforms ordinary tap water into ionised water and requires no maintenance. It can perform most cleaning with little or no detergent. It has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, EMSL and NAMSA reports from the United States, and has received patents from the US, Japan, China and more. Unlike other existing water dispensers, ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer does not require any filter change. This device produces water that is rich in minerals and passes the FDA’s beverage safety standard. Besides drinking, ionised water is recommended for laundry use as it kills most bacteria with little or no detergent. It also enhances the colour of fabrics. The small molecular size of ionised water allows it to be used to clean or remove any
dirt on surfaces such as ceramic without scrubbing or using disinfectant. It helps to reduce mould and odour in bathrooms too. When used for cleaning in the kitchen, it cleans all dishes with little or no detergent, removes odour from seafood and meat as well as removes insecticide and pesticide residue from fruits and vegetables. In the shower, ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer produces ionised water that is effective in treating skin inflammations, especially for individuals allergic to detergent or soap. The shower head and sink head can be easily fixed onto most household showers or kitchen sinks without a plumber’s help. Your household can enjoy the benefits of ionised water for life. This device retails at US$250 (RM1,054.44) per unit.
n For more information, call Sunny Tan at 012-201 6091 or 03-787 56081 or e-mail [email protected]
Innovating for a better future STARTING with a focus on agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) understood the intricate relationship between the environment, economy and society – the three components of sustainable development. Expanding its focus into other areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, engineering and other green technologies, UPM embarked on many new studies and research to revolutionise novel ways to protect the country’s resources for current and future generations. Recognising the potential of bamboo as a green material, Prof Dr Edi Suhaimi Bakar of the Faculty of Forestry invented the V-Grooving Bamboo Flattening Machine that can flatten bamboo for use as boards, flooring and as substitutes in the woodbased industry. This machinery can be used by the local community where bamboo can be obtained easily to support the need for wooden furniture in schools, houses or public areas. With the use of the machine, bamboo flattening is easier and less time consuming. In the area of wastewater discharge management, Prof Dr Azni Idris introduced a method for treating domestic and industrial sludge as well as waste biomass, of which treated sludge are then converted into biochar. Wastewater must be treated before being discharged into surface waters. This technique can lessen the operating and maintenance cost of a small city as well as decrease environmental problems caused by
The V-Grooving Bamboo Flattening Machine eases the flattening process of bamboo, which is widely used in Malaysia.
the wastewater discharge process. The Environment Toxicant Detector was developed by Prof Madya Mohd Yunus Abd Shukor to detect foreign chemical substance within an organism (xenobiotics) . Detection of xenobiotics is carried out based on the inhibition of the luminescence of Photobacterium in the aqueous medium. The advantages of the bioassay compared to other bioassays available in the market are its rapidity, simple and easy method, cost-effectiveness and stability in severe conditions such as extreme pH or temperatures. Exploring the exciting potential of nanotechnology, Prof Dr Mahiran Basri developed environmentally friendly nanoemulsion herbicide. The nano-emulsion particles increase penetration and uptake of glyphosate isopropylamine, which leads to this nanoemulsion system enhancing the bioactivity and bioavailability of the herbicide. This formulation is better than the commercial formulation available in the market and is more effective in controlling weeds.
n For more information, visit www.sciencepark.upm.edu.my
special
GOING GREEN Preserving the planet
EVERY so often, the topics of global warming, green initiatives and rising greenhouse gases take centre stage in the media, highlighting opinions from individuals to politicians and non-profit organisations. In 2006, An Inconvenient Truth, a documentary on American politician Al Gore’s efforts to raise public awareness of the dangers of global warming and the destructive effects on the environment, gained international success and attracted worldwide attention. However, these were the efforts of a single man. Is it possible for the larger community to embrace the message and make lifestyle changes for a greener world? In light of the negative effects of climate change and to ensure a sustainable future, the Malaysian Government and its affiliated agencies have taken numerous steps to reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. These include building a waste-to-energy power plant that generates electricity from solid waste, implementing a waste separation programme for households, improving public transportation networks, increasing passenger capacity in the KTM Komuter and KL Monorail services, installation of a floating photovoltaic system in Sepang, and introducing the Bus Rapid Transit system in Subang and Sunway. Each of us needs to do our part to contribute to the cause for positive change. We need to make a more conscious, serious and prolonged effort to reduce our energy and water usage, take advantage of public transportation
Local direction
and pay heed to the consequences of our actions.
On the global front As of today, government officials from around the world have been in serious discussions for about a week, strategising on crucial precautionary measures in the fight against a common threat – climate change. Held from Nov 30 to Dec 11, the United Nations Climate Change Conference gathers world leaders to cooperatively consider the efforts that are able to limit average global temperature increases and to cope with the current or future effects of global warming. The event is one of the world’s
biggest international summits as it is attended by 196 parties (195 states and the European Union). Organised by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), the conference aims to create strategies to stabilise atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases at a level that will prevent dangerous interference with the climate system. The main topic of discussion throughout the duration of the conference is 2°C, where green initiatives will be introduced so that the world does not increase in temperature by more than 2°C in the coming years. This is because a rise greater
than 2°C in global temperature can cause serious consequences such as more frequent extreme climate events. The 2009 edition of the conference saw countries affirming this goal of limiting global warming compared to the pre-industrial era in the mid-1850s. The goal of this year’s event will be to reach a new international agreement that is applicable to all countries as well as to mobilise US$100bil (RM422bil) a year by 2020 to help developing countries cope with climate change. This sum may be obtained from bilateral or multilateral, public or private sources.
To ensure countries are committed to a positive change, every party to the UNFCC is invited to submit its intended nationally determined contribution (INDC) report before the conference takes place, detailing the steps it will take to reduce greenhouse emissions by 2025 or 2030. Malaysia has submitted its INDC report declaring its intention of reducing the country’s greenhouse gas emissions intensity of gross domestic product (GDP) by 45% by 2030. This is based on the emissions intensity of GDP in 2005. With a time frame for implementation set from 2021 to 2030, the proposal will cover initiatives to limit carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide gases generated from the sectors of energy, industrial processes, waste, agriculture, and land use, land-use change and forestry. Malaysia’s INDC was created based on projected outcomes from the 11th Malaysia Development Plan and existing Malaysian policies, including the National Petroleum Policy, National Energy Policy, National Strategic Plan for Solid Waste Management, National Green Technology Policy, and Low Carbon Cities Framework. These implementations along with initiatives by other nations contribute to a sustainable future and noticeable change. However, the true question remains if our efforts will actually heal the world and reverse the negative effects of the countless years of ignorance or are we merely delaying the inevitable?
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
2 going green
Eco-friendly, designed for luxury HOUSING company PanaHome Malaysia Sdn Bhd, under PanaHome Corporation Japan (subsidiary of the Panasonic Group) that provides comprehensive home-building solutions and total township development implementations, has announced its joint venture with Sanctuary Gasing Group to push ahead with one of Kuala Lumpur’s premier luxury property developments at Sanctuary Ridge. This joint venture is underway and will culminate in an 8,000sq ft (743.2sq m) showhouse with revolutionary architectural and constructional approaches showcasing eco and smart elements of home ideas for SouthEast Asian homes, reflecting the two companies’ commitment to environmental sustainability. PanaHome is one of the world’s leading green innovation companies in the housing industry with its impressive eco-friendly building solutions as it demonstrates sustainable living without compromising on aesthetics. With the planned design and features, owners can expect to enjoy greater energy savings with less emission and possibly earn a small income if the owner chooses
Using solar energy in the home reduces carbon dioxide emissions and energy wastage.
to apply for the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) programme. Introduced by the Malaysian Government in 2010, the programme compensates consumers of renewable energy who produce a surplus of electricity that can be used by the national grid. The KiraTech tiles, which will be featured on the building’s exterior, helps to decompose pollutant gases (decomposition of NOx). A 200sq m area of KiraTech tiles has been shown to be equivalent to the air-cleaning capability of
approximately 14 poplar trees. Aside from its air-purifying function, the KiraTech tiles also have self-cleaning capabilities for longer-lasting and cleaner tiles, which translate into long-term maintenance cost savings. The construction of the showhouse at Sanctuary Ridge can be completed within six months through PanaHome’s building methodologies and design approaches. Construction methods using prefabrication technology (with steelframe structures) ensure a
consistent and high-quality building while accomplishing shorter construction time relative to conventional methods. Also incorporated is a heatinsulation technology to minimise heat transmission from the outside – the unique PanaHome AirExchange System (a structured embedded ventilation system), which supplies effective circulation of natural cool air to keep the internal living space naturally cool and clean, thus reducing energy consumption. The Air-Exchange System eliminates contaminated indoor air without the need to open windows, which will help minimise the entry of pests into your home and enhance security.
About PanaHome Malaysia PanaHome Malaysia Sdn Bhd is the housing company under PanaHome Corporation Japan, a subsidiary under the Panasonic Group. It provides comprehensive home-building solutions and total township development implementations involving designing, planning, constructing, engineering, interior fittings,
installations, landscaping, infrastructure and maintenance. For more information, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.panahome.com.my
About Gasing Meridian Gasing Meridian Sdn Bhd is a member of the Sanctuary Gasing Group (SGG) with property developments in Malaysia, Australia (Sanctuary Lakes), China (Sanctuary Xianhai), the United States (Murray Ranch, San Francisco) and Albania (Albania Hotel Complex). SGG is a property developer that works extensively with private investors and offers major joint venture and collaborative experience with state and municipal governments worldwide. Sanctuary Gasing Group (SGG) has brought to Malaysian communities several notable projects, including Sanctuary Ridge Kuala Lumpur, Kesuma Lakes, Kasuma-At-Santubong, Kasuma Resort, and Gasing Heights.
n For more information, call 03-2161 6688 or e-mail sales@ sanctuarygasing.com or visit www.sanctuaryridge.com.my
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
going green 3
Sleep soundly MOST people do not realise that their choice of mattress directly impacts their health and safety. They tend to focus on the benefits of a good mattress but overlook the side effects of a bad mattress. Electromagnetic field (EMF) pollution affects sleep negatively and long periods of exposure can be dangerous to your health as it threatens the immune system, causing health problems such as headaches, stress, sleep disorders, fatigue and even cancer. In a modern era of a wireless radiation society, where the use of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and electronic devices are common sights in the average household, EMF exposure is ample. During sleep, your body goes through a biological regeneration process, which can be interrupted by the continuous and invasive EMF radiation that limits human DNA regeneration capacity. This interruption affects the quality of your sleep, which affects your health. So how can you take preventative measures with your mattress? Getha’s latest innovation, the Getha Compass Biocare Mattress, features the Biocare Sleep System and is the first in
Malaysia to provide a solution to the EMF problem. Not only is the Getha Compass Biocare an EMF-free mattress, the Biocare technology features nanotechnological yarn fabric that acts as a magnetic barrier against EMF radiation, preventing any electromagnetic energy flow passing through the mattress and into your body. Biocare technology protects your sleeping environment by blocking non-ionised radiation that attacks and weakens your body cells, giving you a healthier night’s sleep. Biocare has been tested as a magnetic barrier and blocks the contact of EMF waves with the body during sleep by 98.5%. The Getha Compass Biocare Mattress reduces static electricity in the body, which helps regulate your body’s bio-rhythm and promotes excellent quality of sleep. The face layer of Biocare also consists of antibacterial features to prevent disease and odour caused by bacteria. Getha believes that EMF-free latex mattresses provide the healthiest choice of quality sleep.
n For more information, visit getha.com.my
Setting high standards TALK to any modern builder or architect these days and you will likely hear the term “sustainable living” in the conversation. Solar-heated water, dual-flushing toilets, rainwater tanks and energy-saving appliances are examples of the things that people can have to be environmentally responsible as well as essential tools to reduce costs associated with running a household. Another facet of sustainable living is cooling the home down naturally without the use of expensive air conditioners. Louvre windows are a modern alternative to electrical air conditioners that not only allow airflow through the house using natural breeze, but exude an ultra chic and modern look too. Houses are generally designed based on the philosphy of passive design. This includes close attention to shading, adjusting the building’s orientation and maximising natural ventilation so that the building is naturally comfortable. A worldwide market leader for more than 50 years, Breezway designs and manufactures high-quality and highperforming Altair Louvre Windows.
The modern and innovative design of the Altair Louvre opens wide to provide wonderful breezeways and cross ventilation. When closed, they seal tight to provide protection from wind and rain in even the most extreme weather conditions. The incorporation of Breezway louvre windows into sustainable buildings helps reduce the running cost of a home, making it as comfortable and as healthy as possible to live in, therefore reducing the demand for energy for heating and cooling. Automation is also available with the new Apptivate Control Unit, which allows Altair Powerlouvres to be operated by a touchsensitive wall switch, remotely via a Powerlouvre App, in response to changing temperatures or a timer to maintain a comfortable indoor environment for the whole family to enjoy. A house that is economically, environmentally and socially sustainable enables people with a diverse range of needs to live comfortably and visitors to enjoy their visit.
n For more information, call 03-3291 4885 or visit www.breezway.com.my
Louvre windows sustainably enhance air ventilation at home.
SUNDAY STAR, 6 DECEMBER 2015
4 going green
Ionised water The chart explains the working principle of ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer.
ARIRANGION Multi-Ionizer is a worldpatented device that produces ionised water through a shower head or sink head. This product transforms ordinary tap water into ionised water and requires no maintenance. It can perform most cleaning with little or no detergent. It has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, EMSL and NAMSA reports from the United States, and has received patents from the US, Japan, China and more. Unlike other existing water dispensers, ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer does not require any filter change. This device produces water that is rich in minerals and passes the FDA’s beverage safety standard. Besides drinking, ionised water is recommended for laundry use as it kills most bacteria with little or no detergent. It also enhances the colour of fabrics. The small molecular size of ionised water allows it to be used to clean or remove any
dirt on surfaces such as ceramic without scrubbing or using disinfectant. It helps to reduce mould and odour in bathrooms too. When used for cleaning in the kitchen, it cleans all dishes with little or no detergent, removes odour from seafood and meat as well as removes insecticide and pesticide residue from fruits and vegetables. In the shower, ArirangIon Multi-Ionizer produces ionised water that is effective in treating skin inflammations, especially for individuals allergic to detergent or soap. The shower head and sink head can be easily fixed onto most household showers or kitchen sinks without a plumber’s help. Your household can enjoy the benefits of ionised water for life. This device retails at US$250 (RM1,054.44) per unit.
n For more information, call Sunny Tan at 012-201 6091 or 03-787 56081 or e-mail [email protected]
Innovating for a better future STARTING with a focus on agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) understood the intricate relationship between the environment, economy and society – the three components of sustainable development. Expanding its focus into other areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, engineering and other green technologies, UPM embarked on many new studies and research to revolutionise novel ways to protect the country’s resources for current and future generations. Recognising the potential of bamboo as a green material, Prof Dr Edi Suhaimi Bakar of the Faculty of Forestry invented the V-Grooving Bamboo Flattening Machine that can flatten bamboo for use as boards, flooring and as substitutes in the woodbased industry. This machinery can be used by the local community where bamboo can be obtained easily to support the need for wooden furniture in schools, houses or public areas. With the use of the machine, bamboo flattening is easier and less time consuming. In the area of wastewater discharge management, Prof Dr Azni Idris introduced a method for treating domestic and industrial sludge as well as waste biomass, of which treated sludge are then converted into biochar. Wastewater must be treated before being discharged into surface waters. This technique can lessen the operating and maintenance cost of a small city as well as decrease environmental problems caused by
The V-Grooving Bamboo Flattening Machine eases the flattening process of bamboo, which is widely used in Malaysia.
the wastewater discharge process. The Environment Toxicant Detector was developed by Prof Madya Mohd Yunus Abd Shukor to detect foreign chemical substance within an organism (xenobiotics) . Detection of xenobiotics is carried out based on the inhibition of the luminescence of Photobacterium in the aqueous medium. The advantages of the bioassay compared to other bioassays available in the market are its rapidity, simple and easy method, cost-effectiveness and stability in severe conditions such as extreme pH or temperatures. Exploring the exciting potential of nanotechnology, Prof Dr Mahiran Basri developed environmentally friendly nanoemulsion herbicide. The nano-emulsion particles increase penetration and uptake of glyphosate isopropylamine, which leads to this nanoemulsion system enhancing the bioactivity and bioavailability of the herbicide. This formulation is better than the commercial formulation available in the market and is more effective in controlling weeds.
n For more information, visit www.sciencepark.upm.edu.my
