By Ling Hui and Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 15: Sarawak will harness the power of the bioeconomy model in its Carbon Plan for Sarawak and economic development by incorporating carbon offsets mechanisms or programmes, which can potentially provide a source of revenue for Sarawak and local communities while contributing to climate change mitigation for a more sustainable future.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the bioeconomy sector in Asia had an estimated market value of more than USD1.5 trillion in 2020 and was expected to continue growing in the coming years.
“The bioeconomy model is an innovative approach to economic development that seeks to leverage the biological resources of a given region or country in a sustainable and equitable way.
“One way to link bioeconomy to carbon offsets is through sustainable forestry management practices that promote the use of renewable resources in the production of bio-based products while sequestering carbon in forests,” he said when delivering his keynote speech at the Asia Carbon Conference (ACC) 2023 at a hotel here today.
Furthermore, Abang Johari mentioned that Sarawak is exploring the potential of developing bioenergy projects that generate renewable energy from biomass resources, such as oil palm residues, and wood waste.
“These projects could be eligible for carbon offsets under the VCS (verified carbon standard), which provide credits for the displacement of fossil fuel-based energy sources,” he pointed out.
With the bioeconomy model placing strong emphasis on sustainability and ensuring that biological resources are managed in a way that preserves them for future generations, Abang Johari added that it can help to promote social inclusion and economic equity.
“This is particularly important in Sarawak following the PCDS (Post-Covid Development Strategy) 2030 initiatives and can help to address some of the key environmental challenges facing our planet, such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
“While the carbon market can still play a role in incentivising emissions reductions and promoting the transition to a low-carbon economy, a bioeconomy model offers a more holistic approach that addresses the root causes of carbon emissions and promotes sustainable development,” he said.
Abang Johari reiterated Sarawak’s firmness in achieving net-zero emissions target by 2050, especially by prioritising renewable energy, particularly hydropower, to reduce carbon footprints along with its vast potential in solar and biomass energy.
“We will explore new technologies such as carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). We will promote sustainable forest management practices, electrify our transportation systems, and implement energy-efficient practices in our buildings and industries.”
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Julaihi Narawi, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin as well as State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki were among those present. — DayakDaily
