Sustainable production, consumption the way forward

Originally published on Malaysiakini by WWF-Malaysia Published: Jun 5, 2023

World Environment Day celebrated on June 5 annually, is an occasion that reminds us of the urgent need to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices.

One crucial aspect of sustainability is promoting sustainable production and consumption patterns to mitigate human activities' negative environmental impacts and pave the way for a greener future.

Sustainable production focuses on minimising the ecological footprint throughout the entire product lifecycle.

This approach aims to reduce waste generation, energy consumption, and the use of natural resources while promoting ethical practices in the entire value chain.

It encourages the implementation of sustainable practices and efficient manufacturing processes.

Embracing sustainable production can help reduce carbon footprint, conserve resources like water, energy and raw materials, and preserve ecosystems by minimising deforestation, responsible land use and protecting habitats.

The government and businesses are also crucial in driving sustainable production practices.

The government should enact and enforce policies that encourage sustainable production, such as tax incentives for eco-friendly initiatives, strict emission standards, and regulations on waste management.

On the other hand, businesses should also integrate sustainability into their core values and practices.

Conducting life cycle assessments and adopting sustainable supply chains are ways to foster sustainable production and consumption.

Sustainable consumption importance

On the other hand, sustainable consumption complements sustainable production by encouraging individuals to make mindful choices in their daily lives.

As consumers, we have the power to drive change through our purchasing decisions, for example, through:

1. Conscious purchasing by choosing products made from recycled materials with minimal packaging and from companies with a demonstrated commitment to sustainability.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and adopt a mindset of reducing waste by reusing and recycling items. Opt for products with longer lifespans, repair instead of replacing when possible, and actively participate in recycling programs.

3. Transition to renewable energy sources, like solar, for household consumption. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps combat climate change.

4. Seek out businesses that prioritise sustainability in their operations. Support fair trade and organic products, which promote ethical production practices and protect the environment.

Plastic pollution challenge

As we know, plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

In line with this year’s World Environment Day theme of #BeatPlasticPollution, we should adopt sustainable production and consumption of plastic products as one of the crucial steps to mitigate this crisis.

To combat plastic pollution through sustainable production, industries must embrace sustainable alternatives and make conscious choices in their production methods.

This involves employing recyclable or biodegradable materials, optimising packaging designs, and adopting innovative manufacturing technologies that reduce plastic usage.

By producing goods in a more sustainable manner, industries can significantly contribute to reducing plastic pollution and preserving the environment.

Effective waste management systems and robust recycling infrastructure are also imperative to tackle the plastic waste crisis.

Recycling

Encouraging the use of recycled plastics in manufacturing processes helps create a market for recycled materials, driving the demand for a more sustainable supply chain.

To achieve sustainable production for plastics, the government should enact comprehensive regulations and policies that encourage the plastic industry to adopt sustainable practices.

This includes implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, implementing plastic bag bans, and incentivising sustainable alternatives.

Promoting sustainable consumption habits plays a crucial role in reducing plastic waste.

Raising awareness among consumers about the environmental impact of plastics and providing information on alternatives can drive behaviour change.

In addition, proper teaching and learning experiences (curriculum and co-curriculum) should also be created for teachers, lecturers, students, parents and communities to understand the sustainable consumption of plastic products better.

On this World Environment Day, let us recognise the critical role of sustainable production and consumption in combating plastic pollution and, more importantly, preserving our environment.

By embracing sustainable alternatives, promoting responsible consumption, and advocating for supportive policies, we can collectively contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet.

Let us pledge to #BeatPlasticPollution and work towards a future where plastic waste is no longer a threat.

We need to encourage the use of reusable products to help reduce single-use plastic consumption.

By opting for products with minimal or no plastic packaging, choosing reusable alternatives, and supporting companies that prioritise sustainability, consumers can actively contribute to reducing plastic waste.

Together, we can make a difference for our environment and future generations.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.