“No Styrofoam & No Plastic Straw” Campaign Promotes Sustainable Lifestyle
MIRI: The Miri City Council (MBM) has stepped up efforts towards environmental sustainability with the launch of the Sustainable Lifestyle Initiative via the “No Styrofoam & No Plastic Straw” Campaign, held at the Main Stage, Boulevard Shopping Mall, here on Wednesday.
The ceremony was officiated by Miri Mayor and Pujut Assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang, alongside MBM Secretary Abdul Rahman Taupek, strategic partners from the SDG network and representatives of the local community.
In his officiating speech, Adam Yii said the campaign reflects MBM’s ongoing commitment together with stakeholders to reduce single-use plastics and promote a green lifestyle.
He said the increased use of disposable packaging during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a rise in solid waste and thus the post-pandemic recovery phase must emphasise sustainable development in line with economic growth.
He also noted that the initiative is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13 on Climate Action.
He further called upon all stakeholders including local authorities, the private sector, and the community to cooperate in implementing the initiative, ensuring that Miri continues to be a clean, green and sustainable city.
Earlier, Abdul Rahman highlighted that the initiative is part of MBM’s proactive measures to manage the rise in single-use waste, particularly styrofoam packaging and plastic straws which are challenging to recycle and take a long time to break down.
He said the use of such materials negatively affects landfill capacity, drainage systems and the overall cleanliness of the city.
He added that the campaign aims to encourage behavioural changes among the public and food operators to shift towards more eco-friendly alternatives such as reusable containers and biodegradable packaging while raising awareness on responsible consumption practices.
The ceremony was complemented by a variety of engaging programmes including SDG exhibitions and carnival activities, colouring competitions, awareness talks, entertainment performances, and sessions for quizzes and lucky draws. -UKASnews
