Discussion in sustainablity between Singapore and Malaysia

Shall we discuss about the Sustainability Valuation Framework for Natural Capital in the cities like Singapore and Malaysia?

To correct the systemic undervaluation of ecosystems, we propose a natural capital ledger that integrates health, intergenerational equity, and economic resilience. The framework assigns financial values to air, water, and forests based on use value, intrinsic value, and stewardship obligation. Each natural asset is assessed through its human health impact, which is rated at 30%, next generation inheritability, which is rated at 40%, tourism or economic contribution, which is rated at 20%, and climate stabilization law, which is rated at 10%.

Global ranking of Singapore's air quality data showed that it was 98 out of 138 countries in 2024, whereas for Malaysia, it was 48 out of 135 countries in 2024.

Compared to Malaysia, there are several key factors likely to contribute to Singapore's lower air quality ranking. The first factor is geographical and meteorological differences. Singapore's smaller size and urban density may accelerate the concentration of pollution, while Malaysia has more rural and forested areas that can dilute pollutants. The second factor is trans-border haze. Both countries suffer from haze caused by forest fires in Indonesia, but wind patterns and seasonal variations can sometimes cause Singapore to experience worse air quality. 

The third factor is industrial and vehicle emissions. Singapore's urban environment has a high density of vehicles and industries, but it also has stringent vehicle emission standards and controls. However, increased traffic congestion may still contribute negatively compared to Malaysia’s mix of urgent and rural areas. Fourth one is air quality policies and enforcement. Although Singapore has strong regulation and monitoring, period pollution spikes from haze can impact ranking more severely in Singapore due to its limited natural air buffer areas. Fifth, urban planning and green spaces. Malaysia has more extensive forests and agricultural lands which help improve air quality, whereas Singapore's urban landscape has less natural filtration despite efforts to increase green spaces.

Banting in Selangor, according to 120 AQI in 2024, reflected that it was the most polluted city in Malaysia.

Industrial emissions in Banting, being an area with various industrial activities, may have significant emissions from factories and manufacturing plants, releasing pollutants such as particular metals, PM2.5, and PM10, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. The second issue is vehicle pollution. An increased number of vehicles on the roads can lead to high emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and particulate matter, especially during peak traffic hours. Traffic congestion can exacerbate this problem. The third factor is open burning and agricultural activities. Open burning of agricultural waste or clearing land by fire can produce smoke and particulate matter, worsening local air quality.

The fourth factor is construction activities. Dust and particulates from ongoing construction projects can contribute to suspended particulate levels. Fifth one is geographical and meteorological factors. Local weather conditions such as low wind speed, temperature inversions, and terrain can trap pollutants near ground, increasing pollution concentration. The sixth one is urbanization. Increased urban development and population growth usually lead to more energy consumption and pollution sources in Banting.

To improve air quality in Banting, Selangor, the government can enforce open burning bans. Banting experiences air pollution exacerbated by open burning, especially during the dry season and haze events. Strict petrol, drone surveillance, and ground monitoring to detect and quickly stop illegal open burning in peatlands, agricultural, and residential land can significantly reduce PM2.5 and other pollutants. Second, stricter industrial emission standards are necessary as industrial activities contribute to Banting's air pollution. Implementing tighter emission limits for industries, along with regular monitoring and ensuring compliance with national air quality standards, can lower pollutants. The third measure is vehicle emission control. The mechanism to reduce emission for vehicle while better fuel quality Mandatory emissions inspection and promotion of cleaner transport modes can reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate emissions. Fourth one is haze mitigation action plans. With the current haze plans, including cross-border cooperation, hotspot monitoring and public advisories during haste episodes help minimize health impacts and pollution exposure. The fifth one is establish health advisories and alert systems. The sixth one is encouraging wider green spaces and urban planning. Integrating more vegetation and green corridors in urban and semi-urban planting can aid in natural air filtration. Through this is a longer- term measure.