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Sustainable You

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This publication and its contents belong to LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form, or by any means - electronic or physical - without written permission from the publisher. No party is allowed to use this publication for commercial gain or in furtherance of a commercial enterprise without written permission from LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. Any revision, amendment or changes to the contents of this publication requires prior written approval from LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. Any reproduction or redistribution of the whole or any part of this publication requires the prior written consent of LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd., which may be requested by transmitting an email to enquiry@leapedservices.com. LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. retains the right to deny the reproduction and/or redistribution of the entirety or parts of this material. You are not allowed to replicate, reproduce, plagiarise, transfer or sell this publication to anyone else. It shall be returned to LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. when the party is possession of the publication is no longer involved in, or associated with, company-related work or programmes. LeapEd Services Sdn. Bhd. has the right to demand the return of this publication at any time from any party in possession of this publication without due permission. If you obtained this publication from anyone other than LeapEd Services Sdn Bhd representatives, you have received an unauthorised copy. Please notify us of the situation via enquiry@ leapedservices.com.Published by: Daikin Malaysia Sdn BhdTaman Perindustrian, Lot 60334, PERSIARAN D.E 3, Bukit Rahman Putra, 47000 Sungai Buloh, SelangorPublished for/ On behalf of:LeapEd Services Sdn Bhd, Common Ground Damansara Heights, Wisma UOA Damansara II, Penthouse 16-1 Level 16, No 6, Changkat Semantan, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur Written by Aizuddin Ghazali, Ann Jones, Dr. Jayanti Sothinathan, Hayley Trenchard, Michelle Koh Moh Cheng, & Nina Adlan Disney, Illustrated by Shuhufan Shukardi, Additional Graphics by Deric Ee & Loqman Nur Hakim Zainal, Layout Design by Deric Ee. This booklet is provided for informational purposes only and isnotforsale.

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1Climate change is a global issue that knows no borders. Hence, it is important now more than ever to be more environmentally conscious of the Earth that we live on in order to mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts.From an environmental aspect, Daikin has taken various actions to reduce the CO2 emissions at our facilities to strive towards our commitment of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 as set in our “Environmental Vision 2050.” Moving beyond Daikin’s borders, it brings us great pride and joy to be able to work hand in hand with the Ozone Unit of the Department of Environment (DoE) Malaysia in order to increase the awareness of Malaysians through the co-creation of this environmental booklet.This information booklet hopes to be able to convey environmental issues and spark environmental consciousness in the daily lives of Malaysians. It was created with the intention of helping citizens understand how the climate is changing and to explore and take proactive actions to combat climate change, mainly through educational knowledge and action-oriented learning. Educational knowledge intends to raise the reader’s awareness about environmental problems in the hope that they will do something as a response in their daily lives. Action-oriented learning, on the other hand, occurs when the readers are able to act on a particular environmental problem and try out solutions with the aim of achieving a better environment for all.By engaging in such initiatives, Daikin Malaysia hopes to be able to impart the intended knowledge in a fun and wholesome way while ensuring that the contents are closely aligned to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).It may take several years for fundamental changes to be felt,Prefacebut with rising global temperatures and the effects of climate change becoming increasingly alarming, this requires ambitious initiatives, which are crucial. As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu says, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”Our aspiration is that this endeavour serves as the initial milestone towards collaborating closely with both the government and the community, with the shared objective of guaranteeing the Earth’s sustainability for generations to come.Hence, let’s take this exciting and necessary journey together as one nation as we help to sow the seeds for a future environment that is healthier and more sustainable. Toshiharu TsurumaruCOO, Daikin Malaysia Group

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2At the Daikin factories, R&D, sales, or even the corporate office, everyone is passionate about innovation, continuous improvement, and value creation. Our employees collaborate throughout the production process, from the design and manufacturing of parts to the planning, development, production, and supply of finished products. The end goal: high-quality yet technologically advanced products that consumers desire, created from available in-house production for parts and systems, best-in-class health and safety practices, and eco-sustainable products that are future-ready. Today, we are helping customers across the globe find the best air solutions that meet their needs. Staying close to the market has enabled us to deliver what matters to consumers while maximizing technological advancements and minimizing our ecological footprint.About DAIKINAt Daikin, we’ve grown by leaps and bounds to provide new value to the world through innovation in air and environmental solutions. Air surrounds us 24 hours a day and at Daikin, the future of the world’s air is our greatest concern. Therefore, we use our expertise about air, our passion for innovation, and our mastery of technology to improve the air we breathe. Daikin Malaysia is recognized as an air conditioning manufacturer with the widest range of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment in Malaysia, from residential air-conditioners, commercial heat pumps, to water-cooled chillers. Besides, air conditioners, Daikin Malaysia also manufactures advanced air-quality solutions such as air purifiers. With efforts to achieve a decarbonized society being rolled out widely around the world, it is our top priority to further speed up our initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the entire lifecycle. Therefore, we have set our target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 as the world accelerates towards carbon neutrality. We have factories dotted around Selangor to manufacture various We have many salesaround Malaysia to cater to the needs of We also have our state of the art R&D centre, where For more information, please visit www.daikinmalaysia.com.

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3The Department of Environment Malaysia is a prominent governmental agency entrusted with the vital task of safeguarding and enhancing the nation’s environment. Our unwavering commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection aims to strike a harmonious balance between economic progress and the preservation of Malaysia’s abundant natural heritage. Initially established as the Environment Division under the Ministry of Local Government and Environment on April 15, 1975, the department underwent a series of transformations. In March 1976, it was placed under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment, recognizing the growing significance of environmental conservation. Subsequently, on September 1, 1983, the department was upgraded to a fully-fledged entity and became known as the Department of Environment Malaysia. In March 2004, the DOE was transferred under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, solidifying its role in environmental governance. This establishment was primarily driven by the enactment of the Environmental Quality Act, 1974, which was officially gazetted in March 1974 and came into effect on April 15, 1975. About DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT MALAYSIAThe DOE’s primary function is to prevent, eliminate, and control pollution while enhancing the overall environment in accordance with the Environmental Quality Act of 1974 and its associated regulations. Additionally, the department responsibility for implementing resolutions derived from international environmental conventions such as the Vienna Convention, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the Basel Convention on the Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Waste and their Disposal 1989, and other Multilateral Environment Agreement (MEA) programs. The core services of the department are carried out by divisions at the Headquarters, as well as the state and branch offices of the DOE. Our Vision: Environmental conservation for the welfare of the people Our Mission: To ensure sustainable development inside the process of advancing the country. As the Department of Environment Malaysia, we remain dedicated to upholding our responsibilities as environmental stewards, ensuring that our actions contribute to a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future.About usPrefaceIn an era marked by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and technological advancements, protecting and preserving our environment have become increasingly vital. Malaysia, blessed with rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems, recognizes the need for sustainable development and balancing economic growth with environmental health, as the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—highlights the urgency of adopting sustainable practices for a viable future for both the environment and its people.We strive to protect air quality, safeguard water resources, conserve biodiversity, and mitigate climate change by conducting comprehensive environmental assessments and formulating and implementing robust policies and regulations. Our commitment goes beyond national boundaries as we actively engage in international collaborations, sharing knowledge and expertise to address global environmental challenges.As you embark on this journey through the pages of this activity book, I invite you to embrace the spirit of environmental responsibility and join us in creating a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future. Together, let us forge a path of harmonious coexistence with nature, ensuring that Malaysia's natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.Dato' Wan Abdul Latiff bin Wan JaffarKetua Pengarah Jabatan Alam Sekitar

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LeapEd Services Sdn Bhd (LeapEd) is Malaysia’s first homegrown education service provider and trusted social enterprise. LeapEd aims to develop holistic students with 21st-century competencies and schools that embed sustainable education practices. With the belief that every child deserves a great future, LeapEd works closely with its strategic partners, Yayasan AMIR and the Ministry of Education Malaysia, in a public-private partnership (PPP) that focuses on whole-schools transformation and student-centred learning, to realise the individual potential of every learner. Since our establishment in 2010, we have designed and implemented various education models such as the District Transformation Programme-AMAN (DTP-AMAN), Islamic School Enhancement Programme (ISEP), Ground-up School Transformation (GUSTO) programme, Program Sekolah Transformasi (PreSTasi), Supporting Remedial English Students in Primary Schools (ESRI), CyberWira, as well as the nation’s Trust Schools Programme (TSP). Since its inception, these programmes have benefited over 239,681 students, 11,235 teachers, and 1290 schools across 15 states nationwide. For more information, please visitwww.leapedservices.comABOUT LEAPED SERVICES 4

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1 Preface2About DAIKIN3 The Department of Environment Malaysia4About LeapEd Services7it is not my problem13nature’s doing it, not us18footprints for the future 23the haze and air pollution in malaysia 29small steps, big impact35ReferencesContents

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Meet Johan, he is a caring guy concerned about climate change’s impact on his home country. But, he wonders, as an individual, how he can make a Join Johan on a journey to grasp climate change and air pollution insights and activities to help personally. Our goal is for you to gain ideas and take action towards a more sustainable Malaysia. Happy reading! 6

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What are the climate risks for Malaysia and how can we combat them?

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Various factors impact this temperature, such as the presence of trees, which provide cooling. However, when trees are removed, the exposed soil heats up. How hot is the earth getting?1.5°C? But that doesn’t sound like a lot. The temperature rise may seem insignificant, but its impact is substantial. Gradual changes go unnoticed in our daily lives, contributing to the problem. This phenomenon is akin to the boiling frog analogy, where we adapt rather than address deteriorating conditions. Even a slight increase in the Earth’s temperature has far-reaching consequencesfor the sea, land, animals, and people.To determine the Earth’s temperature, measurements of both land and sea are needed. Surprisingly, water covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface. Since we started using factories and industry, the average land and sea temperature has increased by 0.85°C between 1880 and 2012. Malaysia pledged to uphold the 2015Paris climate agreement, striving to prevent global average temperatures from surpassing 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Beyond this threshold, concerns arise about increasingly catastrophic and irreversible effects. What does this mean?Did you know, between 1970 and 2013, Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak witnessed a 0.14°C to 0.25°C temperature increase per decade?Johan was at the library when he bumped into Jaya, his planet-loving, fact-However, she looked very uncomfortable and had startling facts to share...Imagine Earth as a human body. Just like a person’s skin temperature rises when they feel hot, the surface temperature of the Earth represents its “skin.” 8

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This sounds quite bad. Hmm…… So what? With rising temperatures, significant changes occur. High temperatures become more frequent, leading to an increase in heat waves. Additionally, there is a rise in heavy and unpredictable rainfall patterns. Why does the earth getting hotter make us have more rain? Surely the rain will cool the earth down? Remember I said 70% of the earth is covered in water? Well, when it gets hot, more water evaporates from the oceans and seas, leading to more rain. That’s a big problem for many Malaysians. Just think about all the increased rainfall and terrible floods we’ve had recently. If temperatures keep going up, it’s only going to get worse. They also predict more tropical storms and heat waves. It’s a real concern. It gets worse! Deforestation has hit Malaysia hard in recent years, especially in Sabah, Sarawak, and Pahang. Trees on land play a crucial role in dealing with climate change. They cool the land and absorb rainwater, preventing floods. What? My rice bowl!?!Johan, brace yourself. Climate change will affect every Malaysian’s staple. But here’s the kicker: rising temperatures don’t just mean more rain. They also make the land dry out faster. Some places will end up drowning, while others will desperately need more water! AND during heat waves, the UV radiation levels will skyrocket. Worse than that, Rice farmers better brace themselves. They predict a whopping 60% drop in rice yields.9

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Climate Change: Long-term changes in temperatures and weather patterns on Earth. Pre-industrial Levels: Scientists compare today’s temperature to a time before factories, fossil fuels and machines. They believe human activity caused the Earth’s temperature to rise. Global Average Temperature: The average temperature of the air and sea surface on Earth. Heat Wave: Extremely hot weather lasting for 3 days or more. In Malaysia, it’s when the temperature exceeds 37°C for more than three days. Boiling Frog: A metaphor showing people often ignore slow, gradual threats rather than reacting to sudden ones.KeywordsJabatan Alam Sekitar, or the Department of the Environment (DOE), is the Malaysian government agency tasked with all issues related to the environment including the enforcement of activities. The main function of the DOE is to prevent, control, remove any pollution, and improve the environment.Malaysia acknowledges climate change as a big issue, and the DOE is taking action to combat its effects. They are working in collaboration with the world to achieve sustainable development goals and ensure that Malaysia is playing a role in stopping the rise of global average temperature.10

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LowModerateHighVery HighExtreme<23 - 56 - 78 - 1011+How can we measure the effect of sunlight?When the sun shines, we’re all exposed to UV radiation. It’s good in moderation for vitamin D, but excessive exposure can harm our health.UV affects everyone, weakening the immune system, causing eye problems, cataracts, premature aging, and even skin cancer, which may be detected later in darker-skinned individuals. Check the UVI The Solar UV Index (UVI) measures solar UV radiation on Earth’s surface. MetMalaysia provides hourly UVI reports from 11:00am to 4:00pm daily. UVI levels range from zero and increase, indicating higher risks to the skin and eyes, with variations throughout the day. The UV situationUV Index UVI RangeActionYou can safely enjoy being outside! Seek shade!Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat! Avoid being outside! Make sure you seek shade!Shirt, sunscreen and hat are a must! The rise in temperature is a concern, especially in sunny Malaysia. Heat waves are increasing globally, implying more scorching days ahead. During a heat wave, the level of UV increases significantly. With more heat waves, we are likely to have more issues from UV exposure! The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends taking actionto protect yourself whenever the UV level is about 3. Check the UVI reading for today here!11

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As you journey through the chapters of this book, prepare to tap into your inner environmental superhero and feel empowered to explore any other creative avenues that come to mind! Slow LorisSteady Horse Check UV levels daily, educate yourself on UV exposure, and protect your health. Share this information with friends and family to keep them safe from extreme weather. Incredible AntSupport companies and products that work to prevent climate change. Research where you spend your money, and choose environmentally-responsible options.Leisurely Turtle Be responsible with your rubbish—don’t throw it in drains or on the ground. This helps prevent flooding and keeps our environment clean. Based on what you’ve picked up from this chapter, try to define yourself using the given scale!Share your activities on your social media platforms like this: Johan, Slow Loris, #myDaikinCSR. Remember, it doesn’t matter what scale you’re at as we’re all just embarking on this journey!12Take Action!Take small steps forward by delving into the articles we've linked within this book, and continue your exploration alongside Johan and his friends in the pages to come!

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Who’s responsible for climate change?

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Some people insist that climate change is just part of a natural cycle.I question what I read. Remember the ozone layer depletion? It was a nonhuman-related environmental issue.Well, it’s true the earth has natural climate cycles, but the current rate of change is unparalleled. We are making it worse. Scientists call this Anthropogenic Climate Change, which is from the Greek word meaning ‘born of man’.Johan and Jaya’s discussion made them both hungry, so they headed to the neighbourhood mamak.Raymond, who also had some fascinating revelations about the planet... No, just walked from the library… it is so hot these days!Ya I know, but we have to be careful, our activities can really affect the earth’s temperature. That is why I like the air-conditioned section, and taking the car! I don’t think what I do can make a Oh, no my friend! Climate change is primarily linked to human actions.Hmm, not exactly. That was a big issue, but it’s an example of how human activities can impact the environment. There were some natural factors, but it was mostly caused by human-made substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), used in aerosol sprays, plastic foams and refrigerants in freezers.Using petrol, for instance, releases greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. You look hot! Been to the gym? 14

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But if CFCs are so bad, why isn’t anyone doing anything about it? The world united to sign a crucial international agreement, The Montreal Protocol. This helped to phase out 99% of CFCs, restoring the ozone layeragain!Is Malaysia involved?Malaysia signed the agreements, demonstrating commitment to environmental protection, including the ozone layer. That’s where, the Department of Environment (DoE) are the driving force towards promoting lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)and the introduction of technologies to improve energy efficiency. Atmosphere: The protective air surrounding Earth, providing the air we breathe and shielding us from the sun’s rays. Greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat and control Earth’s temperature. Too many cause problems like climate change and extreme weather. Ozone Layer Depletion: Chemicals released by humans weaken the atmosphere’s ozone layer, which shields us from harmful UV rays. Natural Climate Cycles: Earth’s natural warming and cooling patterns due to factors like the sun’s heat and Earth’s movements. Anthropogenic Climate Change: Changes caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and agricultural activities.Keywords15So if CFCs are phased out, what is used in, say, refrigerants now? Or we don’t have refrigerants? That’s where another vital international agreement that comes into play, The Kigali Amendment. This aims to gradually reduce the consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) in cooling systems. By adhering to these agreements, we can mitigate climate change and protect our environment. Together, we have the power to both harm and help. Lets strive for the latter!

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We can further reduce our environmental impact if we use AC more efficiently! As the heat rises, we grow more reliant on AC units to cool our bodies down. AC nowadays are manufactured to a high standard to be energy-efficient and to reduce our impact on the environment. How does Daikin make its AC more environment-friendly? • Inverter technology maintainsconsistent room temperature,reducing energy waste.• Quiet operation reduces noisepollution.• High energy efficiency ratings,with around 50% of Daikin’s ACmodels achieving a 5-star rating,maximising energy savings.• Self-cleaning function minimisesmaintenance requirements.• Daikin uses the R32 refrigerant,which has zero ozone layerdepletion potential, contributingto environmental preservation.Cool and ConsciousMaximizing Your Home's Air Conditioning (AC) Efficiency Using Environmentally Friendly RefrigerantSet your AC temperature to around 24-26°C. Use ventilation units alongside AC to enhance air circulation. Close curtains and blinds to block sunlight and prevent heat buildup.Monitor your energy consumption through the GO DAIKIN app.Seal gaps and cracks to maintain airtightness. Ensure unobstructed airflow by clearing AC vents. Close doors to unused rooms to retain cool air. Replace existing AC to energy efficient technology such as inverter.16

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Take Action!Johan has the option of walking or taking the train home to reduce harmful gas emissions from a car. But what else can we do to reduce the human impact on climate change? Slow LorisContinue learning throughout this book and follow DOE Malaysia on Facebook and UN Environment Programme on Instagram for more information. Steady Horse Choose sustainable transportation like walking, cycling, or using public transport. Carpool with others to reduce emissions. Incredible AntSupport renewable energy by installing solar panels at home. Create awareness of renewable energy and energy efficiency. Leisurely Turtle Reduce energy consumption by turning off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use. Unplug chargers and power adapters when not in use. 17Based on what you’ve picked up from this chapter, try to define yourself using the given scale!Share your activities on your social media platforms like this: Johan, Slow Loris, #myDaikinCSR. Remember, it doesn’t matter what scale you’re at as we’re all just embarking on this journey!

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What's carbon footprint?

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Look, Pak Johan! You can’t see my footprint because I am stepping on yours!Look at our footprints over there. The waves are washing them away. Wow, Tini. Such serious thoughts! What do you know about carbon footprint? Ok Tini and Dil! 5 more minutes of walking by the beach and then we have to go back.If only it could be that easy to get rid of our carbon footprint!Johan needed a break from his friends and the cloud of bad news they seem to be under... So he takes his niece and nephew, Tini and Fadil, to Port Dickson for a beach stroll!Suprisingly, even the kids seem to have grown up...Carbon dioxide is vital for life on Earth, but we’re making too much. CO2 traps heat, leading to climate change. I wonder how big mine is! Let me explain! A carbon footprint is like a special tool that shows how much carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases we produce.2To calculate our carbon footprint, we add up all the CO from our daily activities. It helps us understand our impact to the climate change. Then we can find ways to reduce it. My teacher told us about something called a “carbon footprint.” Well, your carbon footprint must be like You travel by as big as a dinosaurs.car all the time!I know carbon! I learned about carbon dioxide too. We make it by breathing out… It’s also called CO2. But if CO2natural, then what is the problem?19

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That’s true, but it is not just cars. For example, your TV, consoles and computers at home. Think of the hours you spend playing video games and how much electricity you are consuming. That requires lots of power which usually comes from burning fossil fuels, which results in carbon emissions.Unless you make use of new technology like inverters, your carbon footprint couldn’t be Luckily, I don’t play games and I don’t drive a car! Well, you can think about your other everyday choices. How often do you buy new toys or clothes? How was it made and packaged? Where was it made? How did you get it? All these steps add to our carbon footprint. Less buying can help! You can also reuse, share or buy second- hand ones too.Deforestation: Cutting down or removing many trees in an area, harming animals and the environment. Carbon Footprint: Your carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, released into the atmosphere as a result of your activities, such as using energy or transportation.KeywordsNet Zero Emissions Country: Achieving a balance between carbon emitted into the atmosphere and carbon removed.Mitigate: Lessening or reducing pollution or problems to make them better.20

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Curious to know how large your carbon footprint is? You can use this calculator from Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) to help you.But first, you need to estimate your household consumption. It can take some time to work out your carbon footprint, but you will be more informed and can take action towards a more sustainable environment!Estimate Your Carbon FootprintHow much petroldo you use?Every car uses a different amount of fuel for a journey, but you can make an approximate guess.As an estimate, 1 litre of petrol in Malaysia costs around RM2.05 for RON95. Think about how much you spend on petrol per month, and divide it by this number. This will tell you approximately how many litres of petrol you are using. Times it by 12, and it will give you an annual figure. petrol1 litre of petrol in Malaysia costs around RM2.05electricityRunning an AC unit for 24 hours will use anywhere from 11.5 kWh to 20.6 kWhwaste10kg of waste fills a typical black bagHow much electricitydoes your household use?When we look at our electricity bill, we usually just check how much we have spent. But it can also tell us how many kilowatt-used.You can check your monthly KwH usage on your TNB bill too!For your approximate annual usage, times this by 12.How much wastedoes your household generate?A large black bag will hold approximately 10kg of waste before it breaks. Consider how many black bags you fill per week and estimate your monthly waste. Remember, this does not include waste that you send for recycling. weekly estimatemonthly estimateyearly estimateconsumptionFill in your estimates using the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) Carbon Footprint calculator and see if you are above or below the average Malaysian Carbon Footprint. 21

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Take Action!After his trip to the beach, Johan found himself thinking about making sustainable lifestyle choices. But how far are you willing to go towards a greener future?Slow LorisCongratulations on making it halfway through this book! Keep reading and making changes in your daily life.Steady Horse Support companies using green technologies like solar panels. Learn about eco-friendly organisations like Daikin and others!Incredible AntPut your learning into action with a Carbon Footprint Reduction Plan.Leisurely Turtle Set up a recycling bin at home and buy consciously by researching and making a shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.22Based on what you’ve picked up from this chapter, try to define yourself using the given scale!Share your activities on your social media platforms like this: Johan, Slow Loris, #myDaikinCSR. Remember, it doesn’t matter what scale you’re at as we’re all just embarking on this journey!

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How do we stay safe when it’s all around us?

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So, it’s burning that causes the haze? Hence reducing visibility and causing the smoky smell. The fires release enormous amounts of smoke and harmful pollutants into the air. This combination causes haze. Johan was feeling good about himself when he learned how to reduce his carbon footprint.So much so he carpooled with his friend to visit his sister, Yanti.Air pollution. Haze. Ruins the view! Open burning causes air pollution and hazy days like today. They might be using the slash and burn technique.But why is it so bad today? Eh? It is a farming method where trees and plants are cut down, then burned to make room for crops. Many like it because it is quick and the ash left behind can provide nutrients for the soil.But, it harms the environment by causing deforestation, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and air pollution such as haze! More than just that. It has impacted various aspects of our society: our health, biodiversity, air transport, agriculture, farming and even tourism. Excess CO2 worsens global warming.Eugh I can barely see the next building! mix of concern and determination was etched on his face...24

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Oh, so it must be happening nearby? Yes and no. Due to wind patterns, the smoke can travel far, across borders and affect surrounding countries. They call this transboundary air pollution.Hmmm…so what can we do? We can start by protecting ourselves. Wear masks. You can also use air purifiers in enclosed areas like a room. If the haze can travel across country borders, it can definitely permeate into your homes too!The industry is unfortunately notorious for its deforestation through slash and burn. As the world’s second largest producer of palm oil, we need to carry this out responsibly. We have been practising zero-burning techniques and a ban on open burning. Luckily across the world there is less and less deforestation becauseof policies like this. Why? What about on a bigger scale? Malaysia has taken actions, focusing on our palm oil plantations. That’s encouraging. ASEAN countries are working together to tackle the problem and they signed the ASEAN Agreement of Transboundary Haze pollution (AATHP) in 2002. In 2002! And we are still facing the same problem! I’m sure there is something we can do before the situation gets worse. We really need to beat the clock! 25Does it mean I have to wear mask at home?I think wearing a mask the whole time would not be the most ideal solution, dont you think? Can you imagine wearing a mask to sleep?Did you know? The Department of Environment (DOE) in Malaysia is leading the way in improving our air quality. They play a crucial role in environmental initiatives and activities aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including organizing awareness programs across the country (SDG 4), making energy clean and cheap (SDG 7), encouraging the responsible use of resources (SDG 12), and taking action on climate change (SDG 13). They do things like regulate industry to ensure action, enforce laws like prohibiting burning activities, and run awareness programmes to mitigate the risks of climate change.

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Soil erosion: When the top layer of soil washes or blows away, losing its protective layer of treesand plants. Biodiversity: The variety of living things, like plants, animals, and insects. Zero-burning technique: Farming without using fire to clear plants, letting them decompose naturally. Open burning: Setting fire to things like rubbish, in an open area.KeywordsAir pollution is bad for our health. It has tiny particles and harmful gases that make it hard to breathe, causing coughing, tiredness, and even heart problems. Children are more affected since their lungs are still growing and developing.Did you know that using air purifiers, like those made by Daikin, in your home can help reduce the effects of air pollution? They can: • decompose hazardous chemical and airbornesubstances like polluted air, virus and bacteria• catch dust and fine particles effectively• absorb odourHow can I protect myself better while living in Malaysia?In the haze, N95 masks offer 95% protection against particles between 0.1-0.3 microns. You can also use an Air Purifier with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter in a closed room during haze conditions.26Image: Size comparisons for PM particles (US EPA).

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Now, let’s explore the air quality around the world! This page shows you the air quality in countries across the globe!• Which country do youthink has the worst airquality?• Can you find whereMalaysia stands in theworld ranking?• Is our air quality betteror worse compared toother countries?Let’s check the Air Quality Index for Malaysia today! eht uoy swohs egap sihTair quality in Malaysia over the past few days and the forecast for the next few days. • What can you tell aboutour air quality?• Is it good or not sogood?• Look for the numberson the AQI scale tounderstand if it’s in thehealthy range.What is PM2.5 and why is it so harmful?27PM2.5 is an important measure of air pollution. It refers to tiny particles that are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter. They are so small that they can easily get into our lungs and bloodstream, which can harm our health. In Kuala Lumpur,the PM2.5 concentration on a specific day was found to be 5.2 times higher than the air quality guideline value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). It’s important to keep an eye on the AQI and take steps to improve air quality! The Air Quality Index (AQI)presence of major air pollutants such as carbon dioxide and PM2.5.AQI was developed by the Environmental Protection Agency and is used to communicate levels ofair pollution around us. It reflects the

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Take Action!Johan returns home and plonks himself on the sofa. He switches on his AC unit. The cool, fresh air makes him think…Why can’t the world be as cool as Daikin!Slow LorisLearn about air quality measures and minimise outdoor exposure on days with poor air quality. Steady Horse Keep your home clean from dust and allergens. Use natural cleaning products to avoid harmful chemicals. Incredible AntResearch how other countries keep their air clean and find ideas to help Malaysia in this regard. Leisurely Turtle Wear masks when air quality is poor to reduce breathing in polluted air. 28Based on what you’ve picked up from this chapter, try to define yourself using the given scale!Share your activities on your social media platforms like this: Johan, Slow Loris, #myDaikinCSR. Remember, it doesn’t matter what scale you’re at as we’re all just embarking on this journey!

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It’s up to all of us to make a difference!

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has learned about climate change and carbon footprint from the people in his life.Iqbal, his best friend and teacher-in-charge of his school’s Nature Club, has a Thanks man! We can enjoy Earth for a long time if we take care of it. Yes it is! I’ve also started separating my wastes more seriously. My neighbour and I even alert each other when the recycling trucks are nearby! Yes, we need to do our part. I’ve started using more public transport and choosing more local fruits and veggies rather than imported ones.The more I hear about the scarier it becomes.Iqbal, listen to this.“We do not inherit theEarth; we borrow it fromour children.” Nice one, you can include in your Nature Club materials. ?????30That’s great. I wonder what actions the government and corporate companies are taking too..Well, in Malaysia, the government is taking action on sustainable energyMalaysia promotes solar power through programmes like Net Energy Metering.It's incredible how much waste we create.Absolutely. My neighbor upgraded their air conditioning units last week and had a licensed technician dispose of the old ones. We should always be responsible with our old stuff, including e-waste like batteries and phones, even when getting new stuff.Check out Daikin's latest eco-friendly initiatives to help conserve the environment today!For illustration purposes only

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Hmmm…This sounds complicated. My friend recently installed solar panels on his roof. He generates his own electricity and sells the excess back to the grid.It’s environmentally friendly and helps him save on electricity bills. On your way to work? That must be Daikin! This is an example of how a corporate company takes action.They use renewable energy from their solar panels to offset the CO2 generated by their factories to achieve carbon neutrality.Oh! I see factories doing the same too. They have solar panels on their roofs. Waste Separation: Sorting paper, plastic, and cans into separate bins for recycling. Sustainable Energy: Power sources that don’t run out and don’t harm the planet, like sunlight, wind, and water. The Grid: Invisible lines carrying electricity to homes and buildings. Extra power from solar panels can be shared, helping others and saving money.Carbon neutrality:Balancing the amount of CO2 emitted with an equivalent amount removed or offset.KeywordsCool! Every big and small action counts. We are not too to preserve the environment for our children. 31Broken, non-working, or old/obsolete electric electronic appliance such as TV, PC, air conditioner, washing machine, and refrigerator.E Waste

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Throughout our journey, you have met a number of characters who have shared parts of a bigger story. Climate change is warming the Earth, causing problems for nature and people. During hot times like heat waves, we should protect ourselves from the Sun’s strong rays by using sunscreen and staying in the shade. - Jaya from Chapter 1!We can make a difference too! Simple acts like buying less and being smart in our food choices help reduce our “carbon footprint,” which is the CO2 we produce from our daily activities. - Fadil, also from Chapter 3!Air pollution and haze are harmful. They make the air dirty and can make people sick. Protect ourselves by wearing the right mask and if possible, use an air purifier in enclosed areas. - Yanti from Chapter 4!Countries worldwide are working together to solve this problem. Malaysia has signed various multilateral environmentalagreements and promoting renewable energy to make the Earth better. - Tini from Chapter 3!People are causing climate change by driving cars and releasing green house gases that trap heat in the air. Some gases can also harm the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful UVs from the sky. - Raymond from Chapter 2!Pollution in the air can spread to different countries and cause problems for everyone. We need to work together with other countries to stop open burning. and keep our air clean. - Iqbal from Chapter 5!We can do even more! Taking care of our waste, saving water, and using energy wisely contributes to environmental conservation. Let’s make smart everyday choices for a more sustainable living. - Johan, who brought us along this journey!32

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Congratulations on reaching the end of the Activity Book! Now it’s time to put your knowledge and ideas into action.In this activity, you will create your own Sustainable Action Plan to make positive changes in your lifestyle and contribute to a more sustainable world. Follow the instructions below and think about how you can make small but meaningful changes in various aspects of your life. Creating Your Sustainable Action Plan 1. Take a momentto reflect on yourcurrent lifestyleand habits. Use thetemplate providedas a guide.2. Set realistic goalsto achieve.3. List down specificactions that areachievable. Startsmall and graduallyincorporate moresustainable practicesInstructionsRemember, every small action you take can make a difference! Keep learning, exploring, and inspiring others to join you on this exciting journey towards a sustainable future! energy useAssess your energy consumption at home. Consider how you use electricity and ways to reduce your usage and wastage. transportationExamine your transportation habits. Think about how you can reduce your carbon footprint by opting for greener alternatives.waste managementEvaluate your waste generation and disposal habits. Explore ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. my goalmy actionsmy progresscategoriesself protectionCheck the UV Index and assess the air quality. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.products & food choicesReflect on what you buy, your food consumption, and its impact on the environment. Consider ways to make more sustainable choices.into your life. You can refer to the Scale of Efforts in every chapter for ideas. 4. Track yourachievementsprogressively.5. Keep youraction plan in avisible place as areminder of yourcommitment.dailyweeklymonthlydailyweeklymonthlydailyweeklymonthlydailyweeklymonthlydailyweeklymonthly33

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Take Action!Aware of how his day-to-day habits can affect the planet, Johan is now equipped to make positive changes!Slow LorisShare this book with a friend to spread awareness and empower more people to make a change! Steady Horse Reduce single-use plastic consumption by switching to reusable alternatives like stainless steel or glass containers, cloth bags, and metal straws. Incredible AntAdvocate for renewable energy in your community. You can check out Daikin’s Environmental Vision 2050 to help inspire you and your community! Leisurely Turtle When buying gifts for loved ones, think about sustainability! Select items that are eco-friendly like the Magic Plantable Seed Pencil attached to this book.34Based on what you’ve picked up from this chapter, try to define yourself using the given scale!Share your activities on your social media platforms like this: Johan, Slow Loris, #myDaikinCSR. Remember, it doesn’t matter what scale you’re at as we’re all just embarking on this journey!

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ReferencesChapter One 1. Mazrura, S., et al (2022). Impacts of climatechange and environmental degradationon children in Malaysia. Frontiers in PublicHealth, 10: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.909779/full2. Department of Environment (DOE)Malaysia. Official Website. https://www.doe.gov.my/3. The Galen Centre for Health and SocialPolicy. Climate Change in Malaysia. https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2022/07/12/climate-change-in-malaysia/.4. United Nations. 2020 Status Report OnDisaster Risk Reduction In Malaysia.5. World Bank and Asian Development Bank.Climate Risk Country Profile – Malaysia.6. World Health Organization (WHO).Ultraviolet Radiation Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ultraviolet-radiation7. World Health Organization (WHO).Questions and Answers about Ultraviolet(UV) Index. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-the-ultraviolet-(uv)-index8. Malaysian Meteorological Department.Indeks Ultra Ungu (UV Index). https://www.met.gov.my/en/pendidikan/indeks-ultra-ungu/Chapter Two 1. Department of Environment (DOE) Malaysia.Malaysia Committed To The Protection OfThe Ozone Layer And The Earth’s ClimateThrough The Ratification Of The KigaliAmendment Under The Montreal Protocol.https://www.doe.gov.my/en/2021/10/26/malaysia-committed-to-the-protection-of-the-ozone-layer-and-the-earths-climate-through-the-ratification-of-the-kigali-amendment-under-the-montreal-protocol/2. United Nations. Ozone layer recovery is on track,due to success of Montreal Protocol. https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/01/1132277.3. United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP). About the Montreal Protocol. https://www.unep.org/ozonaction/who-we-are/about-montreal-protocol4. United Nations EnvironmentProgramme (UNEP). How the MontrealProtocol Protects Health. https://ah/maertstib/iulmx/gro.penu.scodewndle/20.500.11822/27027/7714MPPrHealth_EN.pdfChapter Three 1. Energy Victoria. Energy saving tips. https://www.energy.vic.gov.au/for-households/save-energy-and-money/top-10-energy-saving-tips2. Malaysian Green Technology Corporation(MGTC). Malaysia’s initiatives for aGreen Economy. https://www.mgtc.gov.my/2019/09/malaysia-continues-efforts-to-reduce-carbon-footprint/.3. The Nature Conservancy. What is a CarbonFootprint? https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/carbon-footprint-calculator/.4. United Nations. What is renewable energy?https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-renewable-energy5. United Nations Climate Change. Race toZero. https://racetozero.unfccc.int/join-the-race/whos-in6. Bank Negara Malaysia. Annual Report 2022:Measuring the Journey towards a LowCarbon Economy. https://www.bnm.gov.my/documents/20124/10150308/ar2022_en_box4.pdf.35

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Chapter Four 1. ASEAN. ASEAN HAZE. https://asean.org/our-communities/asean-socio-cultural-community/haze-2/2. Department of Environment (DOE) Malaysia.Clean Air Action Plan. https://www.kasa.gov.my/resources/alam-sekitar/Clean-Air-Action-Plan.pdf3. Bernama. El Nino expected to worsenhaze situation in Malaysia, May 30,2023. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/05/914736/el-nino-expected-worsen-haze-situation-malaysia4. Jones, D. S. (2006). ASEAN and transboundaryhaze pollution in Southeast Asia. Asia EuropeJournal, 4(3), 431-446.5. The Star. Good start for door-to-door recyclingproject in Klang. https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2022/07/28/good-start-for-door-to-door-recycling-project-in-klang6. Van, D. A., et al (2022). A Review ofCharacteristics, Causes, and FormationMechanisms of Haze in Southeast Asia.Current Pollution Reports, 8(2), 201-220.Chapter Five 1. Climate Real Talk. https://climaterealtalk.org/2. Colombo Plan Staff College. Government ofMalaysia’s initiative for Green Economy andthe TVET response. https://www.cpsctech.org/2014/07/government-of-malaysias-initiative-for.html3. The Star. On climate change, Malaysia hasthree stories to tell. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/focus/2022/11/13/on-climate-change-malaysia-has-three-stories-to-tell4. Friends of the Earth. Climate ChangeLocal Solutions to a global crisis. https://friendsoftheearth.uk/climate-change5. The Star. Good start for door-to-door recyclingproject in Klang. https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2022/07/28/good-start-for-door-to-door-recycling-project-in-klang6. Klang Municipal Council (MPK). Door-to-door Recycling and Collection Programme.https://www.mpklang.gov.my/sites/default/files/program_kitar_semula_kaedah_pintu_ke_pintu_2022.pdf36

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