STRATEGIES TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS TO SUPPORT CLIMATE RESILIENT ECONOMY IN KUALA LUMPUR
Nurul Hidayah Zawawi
DOI:
Keywords:
Climate Change Strategy, Climate Resilient Economy, GHG Emission, Gross Domestic Product, Neutral Carbon
Abstract
Climate change, caused by increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, is currently the most significant threat to the environment, economy, and public health in urban areas. Cities generate 70% of global GHG emissions and play an important role in accelerating the transition to carbon neutrality by 2050, essential to limiting global temperature rise below 1.5°C. As a result of climate change, cities now face new challenges that require a reconsideration of development strategies to effectively reduce emissions. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is a key economic hub located near the country's primary economic sector. With a population of 1.9 million in 2023, the city offers opportunities in finance, education, culture, healthcare, and services. However, it also faces sustainability challenges, particularly related to environmental impacts of rapid urbanisation. Climate change has made it increasingly difficult for Kuala Lumpur to balance reducing GHG emissions, achieving carbon neutrality, and sustaining its rapid economic growth. This is especially crucial as Malaysia aims to reduce its GHG emissions intensity by 45% by 2030. In line with the national goal, Kuala Lumpur targets a 70% reduction in its GHG emissions intensity by 2030, as outlined in the Kuala Lumpur Low Carbon Society Blueprint 2030 by implementing 245 low-carbon programmes. To accelerate progress, the city has established the Kuala Lumpur Climate Action Plan 2050, which integrates 15 low-carbon initiatives alongside mitigation and adaptation measures, with the ultimate aim of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To meet these objectives, a strategic approach is critical. This includes optimising financial resources, building human capital, adopting innovative green technologies, and expediting implementation that directly benefits the economy, environment, and community. This strategy provides a vital foundation for the integration and consolidation of low-carbon activities in Kuala Lumpur. It offers clear strategic directions to coordinate policies and programmes, reduce wasteful overlaps, and enhance the effectiveness and impact of GHG reduction measures. As part of the initiative, comprehensive policies have been incorporated into Kuala Lumpur's development plan to support this agenda. These efforts aim to transform Kuala Lumpur into a "City for All" over the next two decades, ensuring sustainable growth while addressing climate change.
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