High availability of biomass to pave way for Malaysia's green circular economy - Dr Adham

PUTRAJAYA: The high availability of biomass and relatively mature biotechnology sectors to generate bioenergy will pave the way for Malaysia's plan to make its green circular economy fundamental to socio-economic growth, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.

Speaking at the 16th Asian Biohydrogen and Biorefinery Symposium and Sustainability Challenge (ABBS-SC 2021) which was held online today, he said the production of hydrogen from waste such as wastewater and biomass as an alternative for fossil fuel would be in high demand in the future due to many applications of hydrogen.

Dr Adham said numerous works had been done in local universities and research institutes on the fundamental research of hydrogen production from waste, not only from palm oil industries but also other agro-industries.

"Malaysia should and must focus on green technology, renewable energy as well as adaptation and mitigation of climate change. This is key for Malaysia to be a highly developed nation by 2030," he said, adding that Malaysia could boost economic growth through the efficient use of biomass.

He said it was estimated that Malaysia produced 168 million tonnes of biomass annually and these include paddy husks, timber, coconut oil and palm waste.

"These sustainable resources could be converted into new bio-based products including bioenergy, bio fertiliser and biomaterials," he said and called on industry players to transition from renewable resources to bioproducts to decrease carbon footprint and emissions.

The symposium, organised by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Research Centre for Sustainable Process Technology, brings together leading experts to discuss issues and challenges related to circular economy and sustainability in Malaysia and across the globe.

-- BERNAMA