BEWARE OF GREEN TECHNOLOGY ADVOCATES - FOMCA

KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Bernama) -- The government must exercise caution so
as not to see 'red' in the green technology recommended by glib-tongued foreign
promoters.

The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (FOMCA) feels that such
promoters could inflict more harm than good to the country.

Its environment desk programme manager, S. Piarapakaran, said most foreign
promoters were nothing more than smooth-talking salesman out to sell outdated
innovations to countries which were beginning to show interest in the green
revolution.

He said as Malaysia was now placing much emphasis on green technology, the
country could attract such 'salesman' and it should therefore, be wary of them
because the innovation they sell might not be suitable to our needs.

Piarapakaran said the setting up of a new ministry of energy, green
technology and water was a very positive step as the world was moving towards
protecting environment and conserving energy.

He said Malaysian universities, research institutions and non-governmental
organisations should now be encouraged by the new ministry to conduct more
research to suit local needs.

He pointed out that currently, there were significant growing market
opportunities for a green movement in the country as consumers were now seeking
more environment-friendly products.

Even schoolchildren were taught about recycling and encouraged to recycle
used products like newspapers, bottles, cans and boxes, he said.

Communities were also advocating and encouraging the use of electrical
gadgets in homes that used less energy, added Piarapakaran.

He said FOMCA would continue to provide education and guidance to consumers
to embrace the green revolution.
-- BERNAMA