Over the past decade, Malaysia has introduced environmental certification and labelling in a bid to shift consumption patterns to favour eco-friendly products.
Eco-labelling refers to a type of demand-side management (DSM) through which the labels induce a shift in consumption patterns.
Yet, eco-consumerism is far from being brought into the mainstream. Fragmented labelling systems have confused consumers and disincentivised manufacturers from adopting the labels. Hence the eco-consumerism market has shrunk due to a lack of consumer-friendly labelling.
There are at least seven eco-labelling systems under different agencies, with more being mooted, such as sustainable packaging, organic farming, and RE100 certification.
The MyHijau Mark by GreenTech attempted to unify the multiple labels. However, GreenTech did not possess the statutory recognition like Sirim (Sirim Bhd).
Manufacturers are not incentivised to produce eco-friendly products as they yield no substantial economic benefits. Moreover, attaining multiple eco-labelling is costly and time-consuming. They have to coordinate with multiple entities to acquire the labelling. Some appliances, such as washing machines, require energy efficiency, water efficiency and carbon footprint certifications.
The unification of eco-labels is necessary and Sirim should be given the mandate. The unified eco-label under the Sirim label should replace all other eco-friendly labels.
Sirim is the best entity, as manufacturers are already engaging with it and consumers are aware of the Sirim logo. Single eco-labelling would simplify public awareness campaigns and promote Malaysian eco-friendly consumerism.
Sharan Raj
Central Committee member, (Environmental Bureau), Parti Sosialis Malaysia