HSBC Bank Volunteers Join Forces with EcoKnights to Combat Pollution in the Guardian Against Garbage program at Sungai Kayu Ara
- EcoKnights
- July 6, 2023
- 6:39 pm
Written by: Muhammad Affiq , Edited by: Nabila Shohimi
Over 300 Kilograms of Waste Collected, Marking a Significant Step Towards a Cleaner Environment
[Kuala Lumpur, 17th of June 2023] A remarkable river cleanup event was held at one of the riverbanks of Sungai Kayu Ara near Jalan Penchala Hilir 6 with volunteers from HSBC Bank, assisted by EcoKnights and contractors from Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL) to address the critical issue of river pollution. Nestled between the residential areas of Kampung Penchala and Taman Tun Dr Ismail, lies Sungai Kayu Ara, a river that has its source from Bukit Lanjan that flows downstream through Kampung Sg Penchala, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (TTDI) and Ara Damansara before discharging into the Damansara River, serving as a water body with important biodiversity and ecosystem services such as water filtration, flood mitigation, and erosion control. The main river of this basin originates from the reserved highland area of Penchala and Segambut. Sungai Kayu Ara river basin is considered a tropical catchment, which is subjected to the Northeast Monsoon from December to March and the Southwest Monsoon from June to September.
The composition of the waste collected was staggeringly high, which amounted to 304.5 kg of waste.
100% Plastic = 6.2 kg
Metal + Aluminium = 14.8 kg
Tetra pack + Food Packaging = 49.6 kg
Textile = 142.1 kg
Others (eg: Glass, Rubber, Styrofoam or any unidentified waste that does not fit into the specified categories.) = 91.6 kg
Total = 304.5 kg
The data collected reveal the alarming presence of various types of waste, underscoring the necessity for collective action to combat pollution. 100% plastic, which accounted for 6.2 kg, remains a persistent problem for any body of water inland. Metal and aluminium waste weighing 14.8 kilograms indicate the improper disposal of these materials, leading to environmental degradation. Additionally, the substantial quantity of tetra pack and food packaging waste, totalling 49.6 kilograms, highlights the need for better waste management systems.
The most significant contributor to the collected waste was textiles, weighing in at a staggering 142.1 kilograms. This finding indicates a pressing concern regarding textile waste, which often ends up in landfills or rivers, contributing to pollution and environmental damage. The large amount of waste categorized as “Others” (91.6 kg) serves as a reminder of the diverse sources of pollution that must be addressed comprehensively.
In addition to the waste collection, the program also provided a platform for education and awareness during the segregation of waste after the river cleanup. Volunteers were educated about the importance of responsible waste management, recycling, and the adverse effects of pollution on our environment by various types of different waste. By actively participating in the cleanup and waste segregation, they witnessed firsthand the consequences of neglecting proper waste disposal practices.
The successful collaboration between EcoKnights and HSBC Bank showcased the power of corporate involvement and the impact that can be achieved through collective efforts. The volunteers displayed commendable dedication and commitment, tirelessly working towards a common goal of a cleaner environment.
EcoKnights and HSBC Bank are committed to continuing their efforts in addressing environmental challenges, promoting sustainability, and organizing future cleanup initiatives. The collaborative approach displayed during the event showcases the potential for meaningful change when organizations and individuals come together for a common cause. As the community reflects on the accomplishments of the river cleanup at Sungai Kayu Ara, it is hoped that the event will serve as a catalyst for long-term change, inspiring others to take proactive steps in protecting our natural resources. The commitment and determination exhibited by EcoKnights, HSBC Bank, and all participants involved exemplify the collective responsibility we have to safeguard the environment for future generations.
If you are interested in joining our river conservation initiatives or organizing sustainable workshops for your area, school, or company, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@ecoknights.org.my. We would be thrilled to offer additional details and explore potential partnerships with you.
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