SUPP Public Complains Bureau (PCB) is urging the general public to be a responsible citizen and considerate neighbor by giving up open burning of wastes, even though it is carried out within the compound of their private properties.
“Even though we have been spared from severe cross-border haze problem this year, it does not mean it is alright for us to do so. Open burning of wastes is both environmental and people unfriendly and should be stopped immediately.”
PCB Chief Wilfred Yap pointed out, that open burning is hazardous both to our environment and people’s health, not only do the smoke and ashes will pollute the air, they can cause severe allergic reaction and respiratory diseases, especially to elderly people, small children and babies whose immune system is weak.
Therefor, Yap is advising the general public to be considerate neighbor as well as responsible citizen by ditching open burning of wastes and opt for more environmental friendly approach.
“One may defend himself by saying that he burned the household wastes in his own backyard, but bare in mind that the smoke knows no boundaries, it will travel anywhere the wind carries it. What you do, out of your own convenience, will definitely affect your neighbors and people who live nearby, so please be courteous and considerate in this sense.”
“We should no longer resort to the old ways of burning, there are many environmental friendly methods which we can and should go for. Although it may require more work, but it is the safer and greener way”, added Yap.
In this regard, Yap said, PCB wishes to express its full support to Assistant Minister of Local Government Datu Penguang Manggil’s call to all local councils earlier on, to be firm in curbing backyard burning throughout the state.
“Strict enforcement exercises need to be carried out and heavy punishments must be put in place. But at the same time, local councils need to find out why some people are doing that and they need to provide effective solutions through better communication.”
“Some people resort to burning when they have no more place to discard their household wastes, probably because the trashcan was already filled up. Therefore, ensuring on time trash collection is very important in this regard.”
