ESG

A team of scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore has unveiled an innovative new solution to reduce heat in buildings without consuming energy. Their groundbreaking creation, called “fungi tiles,” combines the root network of fungi with organic waste to create an eco-friendly material that could revolutionise building insulation. These mycelium-based tiles are designed with a textured surface that mimics the heat-regulating properties of an elephant’s skin. Elephants, which lack sweat glands, have wrinkled skin that helps them cool down by trapping air and increasing surface area for evaporative cooling. The NTU team, in collaboration with local biomimicry design firm bioSEA, has replicated this natural design, enhancing the mycelium tiles’ cooling properties. A Game-Changer for Sustainable Building Materials Research has already shown that mycelium-bound composites outperform conventional insulation materials in terms of energy efficiency. The NTU team’s latest tests reveal that their elephant skin-inspired tiles are 25% more effective at cooling than flat mycelium tiles. Additionally, the cooling effect improves by a further 70% under simulated rain conditions, making the tiles particularly well-suited to tropical climates. “The construction industry accounts for nearly 40% of global energy-related emissions, and finding sustainable insulation materials is crucial,” said Associate Professor Hortense Le Ferrand, who led the study. “Mycelium-based composites offer a biodegradable, porous material that rivals synthetic alternatives in thermal conductivity while helping to reduce environmental impact.” A Natural Cooling Solution for Hot, Humid Climates To test the tiles’ effectiveness, the team used a hot plate to heat the tiles and measured their temperature changes using infrared cameras. The elephant skin-inspired texture helped the tiles absorb heat more slowly, improving their thermal performance by 25%. When exposed to humid conditions, the tiles showed an even more dramatic cooling effect, offering a 70% improvement in efficiency when misted with water. “This design is inspired by how elephants regulate their body temperature in hot and humid climates without sweating,” explained Dr. Anuj Jain, Founding Director of bioSEA. “By incorporating this natural cooling mechanism, we’ve created a material that mimics nature’s strategies for heat regulation.” The Path Ahead While the mycelium tiles show great promise, scaling up their production poses challenges. The growth process for these tiles takes three to four weeks, and there may be resistance to adopting them due to the entrenched infrastructure of synthetic building materials. Nonetheless, the team is working to improve the tiles’ mechanical stability and durability, as well as exploring different mycelium strains. “Through these tiles, we’re not just creating a more sustainable product but rethinking the way we approach thermal management in buildings,” concluded Assoc Prof Le Ferrand. “This innovation opens up the possibility for more nature-inspired designs and solutions in the construction industry.”

Sulzer has unveiled the Sulzer Energy Optimisation Service, an innovative energy efficiency and carbon reduction initiative aimed at setting a new benchmark for centrifugal pump performance across their lifecycle. Targeting energy-intensive industries such as power generation, oil and gas, chemicals, and water desalination, the service promises significant operational, environmental, and financial improvements. Launched in response to the increasing demand for industrial energy efficiency, the solution integrates digital analysis, machine learning, and continuous monitoring with Sulzer’s extensive engineering expertise. By optimising pump performance, the service aims to reduce carbon emissions, enhance reliability, and lower energy costs. A mere 1% increase in global pump efficiency could save approximately 59TWh of electricity—equivalent to New Zealand’s annual power consumption—while some pumps could see efficiency gains of up to 20-30%. Driving Efficiency and Cost Savings Announcing the new service, Ravin Pillay-Ramsamy, Services Division President at Sulzer, stated: “Inefficient and unreliable pumps cost industrial operators millions in unnecessary downtime, energy expenses, and carbon emissions every year. The Sulzer Energy Optimisation Service provides a comprehensive solution to tackle this inefficiency—from identification to implementation and ongoing monitoring.” A pilot project in Spain has already demonstrated the impact of the service, enabling a customer to save €1 million annually in energy costs while cutting over 2,300 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. By rerating five pumps, energy efficiency improved from 72% to 83%, delivering annual electricity savings of 5,000MWh. A Four-Step Approach to Energy Optimisation The Sulzer Energy Optimisation Service follows a structured four-step process: Pump Energy Audit – Using Sulzer’s proprietary PumpWise calculator, an initial audit identifies inefficiencies and outlines potential energy, carbon, and cost savings. Customised Retrofit Proposal – Sulzer’s expert team provides a tailored proposal detailing various retrofit options to restore the pump’s best efficiency point. These may include hydraulic re-rates, specialised coatings, and optimised wear clearances. Each option is assessed for operational cost, investment, downtime, payback period, and efficiency guarantees. Implementation and Upgrades – Sulzer’s dedicated retrofit team, which has delivered over 4,000 projects worldwide since 2010, executes the upgrades with support from Sulzer’s extensive global service network of over 120 locations. Performance Monitoring and Maintenance – Post-retrofit, Sulzer offers a performance agreement to sustain reliability and efficiency. This includes access to Blue Box™, Sulzer’s proprietary machine learning technology, which converts pump performance data into actionable insights. Futureproofing Industrial Operations Pillay-Ramsamy added: “For operators facing constant pressure to do more with less, improving energy efficiency is a win-win. With pumps accounting for 20% of the world’s electricity demand, we are offering a streamlined, future-proofed solution that enhances efficiency across all pump brands.” “By combining our engineering expertise with cutting-edge digital innovations in a collaborative and customer-focused approach, we are establishing a new industry benchmark for pump operation, helping businesses remain competitive and sustainable in the evolving energy landscape.”

KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysians observe the Holy Month of Ramadan, Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Petaling Jaya, DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort, and DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside are reinforcing their commitment to sustainability, expanding the Hilton “Green Ramadan” initiative and leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to combat food waste. This initiative addresses the critical issue of food waste, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, while catering to the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences. According to research by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a significant one-third of the world’s food goes to waste, contributing to 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the food industry accounts for approximately 30% of global carbon emissions. Currently, Malaysia ranks fourth in the region for food waste after Laos, Thailand and Cambodia, with a rate of 81 kg of food waste generated per person per year, according to the latest report from the UNEP in 2024. In line with Hilton’s Travel With Purpose 2030 goals, the Green Ramadan initiative combines Hilton’s strategy to create positive environmental and social impact across its operations, supply chain and communities, UNEP’s ‘Recipe of Change’ Sustainable Ramadan campaign, and Winnow’s AI technology in food waste tracking. Building on the success of last year’s Green Ramadan initiative at Hilton Kuala Lumpur and DoubleTree by Hilton Shah Alam i-City, which achieved a significant reduction of 64% in food waste, this year’s program includes Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Petaling Jaya, DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort and DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside. “At Hilton, sustainability is more than a commitment, it is a responsibility, and Ramadan presents an important opportunity to take meaningful action,” said Jamie Mead, senior director of operations of South East Asia at Hilton. “By expanding the Hilton Green Ramadan initiative across Malaysia and leveraging AI-driven food waste reduction, we aim to drive change through minimizing waste, lowering our carbon footprint, and paving the way to more sustainable hospitality. Through these efforts, we hope to inspire both our guests and the industry to embrace more sustainable dining practices, ensuring that our celebrations are not only abundant but also mindful of the planet.” Embracing the UNEP Recipe of Change 2025 slogan, “Half the Food Waste, Double the Blessings,” these hotels have implemented a comprehensive suite of operational innovations and guest-facing initiatives to drive meaningful food waste reduction. During Iftar buffets, which traditionally feature abundant food offerings, Winnow’s AI-powered food waste tracking system provides real-time insights into food waste, allowing kitchen teams to make precise adjustments to food preparation and production. This system effectively tracks both pre-consumer (spoilage, prep waste, overproduction) and post-consumer (plate) waste. The kitchen teams at these participating hotels leverage Winnow’s detailed reports to optimize operations. These reports highlight most wasted ingredients, waste patterns, financial impact, and ingredient usage trends. By analyzing guest demographics, the teams can also adjust menus to better align with preferences, ensuring both guest satisfaction and environmental responsibility. Other strategies include smaller portion sizes, live cooking stations, and artfully reduced food displays, all aimed at raising awareness about food waste. The introduction of carbon emission labelling at buffet stations empowers diners to make climate-friendly food choices. Additionally, each participating hotel is championing a ‘Green Ramadan’ by implementing innovative sustainability practices tailored to their individual operations. As part of this collective effort: Hilton Kuala Lumpur has partnered with Vision Waste Disposal Sdn Bhd to transform biodegradable waste into biogas which in turn generates renewable energy. Hilton Petaling Jaya is offering Iftar and Sahur menus that feature wholesome vegetarian options and incorporate low-waste practices to minimize food waste without compromising quality. DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort utilizes an on-site composting machine to transform all food waste into natural fertilizer, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem for its lush gardens. DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is committed to comprehensive sustainability practices and minimizing waste by repurposing kitchen scraps. Trimmings and excess ingredients like vegetable and fruit peel are turned into pickle, fritter batter, condiments, dry rub and more.   Hilton’s Green Ramadan initiative, which was launched in 2023 across several key markets in the Middle East, has demonstrated remarkable success with a 61% reduction in food waste within 30 days. In 2024, the program expanded to 32 hotels across seven countries, resulting in a further 21% reduction against the 2023 baseline. By collaborating with suppliers and partners, Hilton promotes responsible conduct throughout its supply chain. The company utilizes tools like the award-winning, industry-leading LightStay system to track and report on its progress, ensuring it remains on track to achieve its 2030 goals.

As the world grapples with the ever-evolving challenges of climate change, Malaysia remains resolute in its commitment to the Paris Agreement even as key global players have chosen to step back from this critical accord. For Malaysia, climate action transcends politics—it is a moral imperative for our people and planet. As a nation, we will continue to honour the principles of the Paris Agreement, setting an example of steadfastness in the global climate dialogue. Despite contributing just 0.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Malaysia has consistently sought to lead by example and push the envelope. At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) reaffirmed Malaysia’s leadership role by actively engaging in negotiations, fostering collaborations, and showcasing our determination to push forward bold climate action. These efforts highlight not only our sense of responsibility but our aspiration to inspire and unite the global community towards a sustainable future. COP29 saw the establishment of a new global climate finance target of USD300 billion annually until 2035—a landmark decision that Malaysia strongly supports and welcomes. The operationalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund was another critical milestone, ensuring much-needed assistance for vulnerable nations. Malaysia’s negotiators were instrumental in advocating for equitable resource distribution, underscoring the need for developed nations to honour their commitments. Malaysia also leveraged COP29 as an opportunity to enhance regional partnerships, particularly within ASEAN, whose Chairmanship we hold this year. The nation played a crucial role in advancing the ASEAN Common Carbon Framework, which seeks to promote sustainable energy and low-carbon economies across Southeast Asia. This initiative highlights our commitment to proactively strengthen regional collaboration while establishing ASEAN as a cohesive voice in global climate discussions. Malaysia is likewise finalising its National Climate Change Bill and preparing the third revision of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) with more ambitious targets, reinforcing its commitment to the Paris Agreement’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Malaysia’s National Adaptation Plan (MyNAP), supported by the Green Climate Fund – an operating entity under the Financial Mechanism of the UNFCCC, will further enhance our capacity to address climate vulnerabilities, including flooding and coastal erosion. These initiatives embody the Madani government’s commitment to safeguarding both people and ecosystems. Further cementing Malaysia’s climate strategy, the government is developing the National Carbon Market Policy, which will provide strategic direction for carbon trading initiatives. By operationalising Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, Malaysia seeks to become a leader in compliance-based carbon markets, aligning economic growth with emissions reductions. As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia aims to amplify the region’s collective voice on climate action, emphasising inclusivity and sustainability. At COP30 in Belem, Brazil, we will present the ASEAN Joint Statement on Climate Change, advocating for regional solidarity, sustainable development, and financial support. Malaysia will also advance the development of the Southeast Asia Alliance negotiation bloc (Group SEA) to strengthen ASEAN’s influence in global climate negotiations. Our nation is committed to operationalising the ASEAN Carbon Framework to guide member states toward carbon neutrality while ensuring no one is left behind. Malaysia continues to uphold its responsibility as a leader in global climate action, guided by the principles of justice, sustainability, and regional solidarity, in line with Malaysia’s Madani framework for shared prosperity. In short, we remain committed to regional solidarity, shaping global climate policies, and achieving the net-zero target together. Looking ahead to COP30, Malaysia is resolutely focused on advancing ambitious climate goals, strengthening global partnerships, and highlighting the intrinsic link between climate action and biodiversity conservation. As one of the world’s most biodiverse nations, Malaysia recognises that protecting our natural ecosystems is integral to our climate strategy. The upcoming global conference provides a pivotal opportunity to consolidate our achievements, reinforce our commitment to safeguarding biodiversity, and outline the next steps in our sustainability journey. Malaysia’s journey underscores the importance of collective action in combating climate change. While we have made significant strides, developed nations must step up to provide the necessary resources, technology, and capacity-building support. Only through equitable collaboration can we achieve a just transition that leaves no one behind. Climate change is a challenge we cannot ignore, regardless of geopolitical rivalries or political partisanship. As such, the world must continue to unite and act if there is to be any hope for the human race at all. As we prepare for COP30, Malaysia remains steadfast in its mission to lead with purpose and integrity. Although others may waver, our commitment to the Paris Agreement is sacrosanct, and our vision for a sustainable future remains clear. Still, if all nations can unite, we can hope to create a world that honours the principles of equity, resilience, and hope for generations to come.

ELMINA RAINFOREST KNOWLEDGE CENTRE: The Tropical Rainforest Conservation and Research Centre (TRCRC) and the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT (Alliance), in partnership with the UK Mission to ASEAN, officially launched the Seed to Tree project on 11 March 2025. This initiative aims to enhance seed supply for large-scale forest restoration through a comprehensive restoration toolkit, ensuring the right species and seeds are selected for the right sites in both present and future climate conditions. The launch event was officiated by Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo A/L Kim, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, who delivered the opening speech. Distinguished guests included Hon. Catherine West MP, Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and His Excellency David Wallace, Acting High Commissioner (Chargé d’Affaires) at the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. The event brought together key stakeholders, including state and non-state restoration actors, representatives from the British High Commission and FCDO, and members of the Orang Asli community, who play a crucial role in strengthening seed value chains. In his address, Dr. Ching emphasized the importance of the Seed to Tree project in supporting Malaysia’s conservation efforts. He highlighted that the project is not just about planting trees but about planting a future—one that strengthens biodiversity and builds climate resilience for generations to come. He also underscored Malaysia’s commitment to nature-based climate solutions, referencing the successful early completion of the National 100 Million Tree Planting Campaign, amendments to the Forestry Act, and the upcoming Climate Bill, all of which align with ASEAN’s regional conservation goals. Minister West emphasized the project’s impact as a model of UK-Malaysia collaboration, particularly in integrating Indigenous communities into climate action. She noted that climate responses must include Indigenous peoples and local communities for them to be truly effective. Ignoring their wisdom, she warned, would be a grave mistake. She expressed particular satisfaction that the project supports Orang Asli livelihoods and recognizes their heritage as custodians of the forests, including the crucial role of women. Closing her remarks, she referenced an old saying that the best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago, and the second-best time is today. She stressed that this is exactly what the project seeks to do—planting seeds today for the trees of tomorrow. Following Minister West’s speech, guests enjoyed a traditional nose flute performance by Encik Raman Bah Tuin, a member of the Semai tribe. Dr. Riina Jalonen, Project Lead for Seed to Tree, highlighted the challenges in Malaysia’s forest restoration seed supply systems, comparing them to other ASEAN nations. She pointed out that the lack of high-quality tree seeds for restoration is a global issue, affecting Malaysia as well. Citing international studies, she noted that nearly 50% of restoration practitioners report difficulty accessing the right species, forcing them to use fewer or alternative species than originally planned. Strengthening seed supply networks, she emphasized, will be crucial for large-scale forest restoration. The Seed to Tree project seeks to address this by improving market access, fostering research-driven innovations, and developing a comprehensive restoration toolkit that ensures the selection of climate-resilient tree species. The project also focuses on enhancing monitoring, reporting, and verification tools to track restoration value chains from seed collection to planting. Strengthening seed supply chains will improve predictability and support ground-level restoration efforts. A key component is fostering partnerships with Indigenous communities and forest-dependent groups to increase the availability of high-quality native seeds while also creating jobs and generating income for these communities. Dr. Dzaeman Dzulkifli, Executive Director of TRCRC, emphasized the need for a holistic approach to reforestation beyond focusing solely on a few ‘champion species.’ While some species receive significant attention, he explained, the entire ecosystem and its biodiversity must be protected. He also highlighted the role of technology in restoration efforts, noting that local partners must have access to the best available tools, such as Diversity for Restoration and MyFarmTrees (MFT). Making this data accessible, he stressed, is key to effective restoration. Concluding the event, Dr. Dzaeman issued a call for collaboration, inviting stakeholders to join the upcoming multi-stakeholder platform for Seed to Tree. He underscored that forest restoration cannot happen in silos, emphasizing the need for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and long-term commitment. He welcomed all interested parties to join in shaping the future of forest restoration in Malaysia and ASEAN. Since its inception, Seed to Tree has engaged 21 non-state actors, 60 Indigenous representatives, and 11 government agencies. A key milestone has been the identification of 364 native tree species, sourced through databases and direct consultations with Jahai, Temiar, and other Indigenous communities. This ensures that restoration efforts integrate both scientific research and Indigenous ecological knowledge, strengthening Malaysia’s forest resilience.