Executive Summary

This project was initiated to tackle the severe solid waste management issues, particularly food waste, faced by the residents of Block P20, Taman Bukit Angkasa. With 1,200 residents and limited space, improper waste disposal was causing an unhygienic environment and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions (Methane).

The core objective was to introduce an integrated food waste management system to the community, focusing on separating solid waste at the source and composting food scraps. Residents were provided with three bins for recyclables and nine composting containers. The outcomes demonstrated significant success in both environmental impact and community engagement, promoting a circular economy.

Key Achievements (October 2018 – September 2019)

Impact and Sustainability

The project successfully replicated the UM Zero Waste Campaign concept, developing a systematic food waste management plan that offers long-term environmental, economic, and social benefits.

• Environmental: Avoided landfilling, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and developed over $\text{2,000 kg}$ of organic compost.
• Economic: Saved the community approximately $\text{RM 1,378}$ in waste disposal costs and created potential income through the sale of compost and recyclables.
• Social/Policy: Inculcated good recycling habits and awareness among P20 residents. The research has also been mentioned in the parliament hall as a sustainability effort for the Lembah Pantai community, leading to replication requests for three local schools.

Project Team & Collaborators

The success of the program was enabled by strong collaboration and committed volunteers.

• Project Leader: Prof. Dr. Sumiani Yusoff (Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences, UM)
• Government Partner: Parliament Lembah Pantai (The Member of Parliament, YB. Fahmi, launched the project and requested replication).
• Community: Block P20 residents and restaurant owners.
• Volunteers: 5 UM Academic Staff, 2 Non-Academic Staff, and 15 University students.