KAJANG, June 5 – Plastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges globally, with millions of tons of plastic waste infiltrating oceans and landfills each year. This pollution significantly harms wildlife and human health. Recognizing the need to educate the younger generation about this critical issue, the Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ION2) of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) recently organized the "Knowledge Transfer Program: Plastics and Recycling Methods among School Students" at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Kajang Utama.

This initiative, part of the activities under the Knowledge Transfer Grant Scheme (KTGS@ION2), was spearheaded by Prof. Associate ChM. Dr. Norizah Abdul Rahman, an NPTL Associate Researcher and lecturer at UPM's Faculty of Science. Key contributors included Prof. Assoc. Ir. Ts. Dr. Siti Hajar Othman, Head of the NPTL Laboratory, Dr. Umer Rashid, ION2 Research Fellow, Dr. Mohd Rashidi Abdull Manap, Faculty of Science lecturer, alongside other dedicated ION2 staff. The program at SMK Kajang Utama was coordinated by Teacher Marziana Mohamad Aris.

The primary goal of this program is to enhance students' awareness and understanding of plastic usage and the severe pollution resulting from improper plastic waste management. The program also aims to promote recycling practices among students. Interactive sessions like "Know Plastics," "Finding Microplastics," and the "Sort Your Waste" game were among the highlights, emphasizing the principles of Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle (3R).

During the opening ceremony, ION2 introduced the "Education Module for Series 1 School Students," a specially developed activity guide containing crucial information about plastics. This module also serves as a diary for participants to document their daily efforts to reuse plastic, reduce single-use plastic, and properly dispose of plastic waste at recycling centers. Additionally, ION2 donated three educational posters for display in a dedicated area at the school.

The collaboration between ION2 and SMK Kajang Utama has been warmly welcomed by the school community. This initiative not only raises awareness about plastic pollution but also encourages students to adopt sustainable practices and become change agents within their communities. By promoting the 3R methods, the program aims to combat plastic pollution and support long-term environmental sustainability.

Special thanks are extended to SMK Kajang Utama for their enthusiastic support, which has been instrumental in the success of this important educational effort.

Written by,
Dr. Siti Zulaika Razali
Research Officer, NPTL

Date of Input: 28/06/2024 | Updated: 02/01/2025 | roslina_ar