Johor initiative empowers eco-warriors of the future
A grassroots initiative championing recycling and low-carbon living has engaged more than 500,000 Johor students since its inception 12 years ago.
Iskandar Malaysia Ecolife Challenge (IMELC), launched in 2013 by Iskandar Regional Development Authority (Irda) and Johor Education Department (JPNJ), fosters hands-on sustainability education, covering recycling, energy audits and water conservation.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) senior lecturer in innovative science and mathematics education Dr Nina Diana Nawi said a dedicated recycling module has been a core element of IMELC's low-carbon education since 2015.
'This module promotes the 3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycle), while integrating practical mathematics and science learning, such as weighing recyclable materials and calculating decimal values,' she told StarMetro.
This approach, she said, connected textbook knowledge with real-world environmental practices, boosting both awareness and analytical skills in young students.
'Since its rollout, primary schools across Johor have embraced the module.
'Many have set up internal recycling systems, not only fostering daily sustainable habits but also generating income through the sale of recyclables.
'With support from parent-teacher associations, teachers and local communities, some schools have managed to run structured and consistent recycling initiatives.'
Even used cooking oil was now collected, she said, with some alumni entrepreneurs donating to their former schools.
Between 2015 and 2024, IMELC recorded over 2.7 million units of recycled items including paper, plastic bottles, aluminium and textiles, contributed by students, their families and local communities.
Nina recounted the example of one student who, upon noticing a discarded aluminium can at a restaurant, had sought permission to take it to school for recycling.
'This demonstrates how values instilled at school are carried into daily life.
'These children become sustainability ambassadors who can explain waste management, recycling categories and environmental responsibility to the public.
'Rising urban waste, climate concerns and critically full landfills prompted development of the recycling module because we need impactful education at grassroots level to drive behavioural change.'
The module also aligns with Johor Sustainability Education Action Plan 2025 and supports global frameworks like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Iskandar Malaysia Climate Action Plan 2030.
IMELC efforts are bolstered by industry support, notably from SWM Environment, which conducts school outreach on proper waste segregation.
Most collected items include paper, cardboard, plastics and used cooking oil, with SJKC Foon Yew 2, SJKC Kuo Kuang 2, SJKC Masai and SK Simpang Rengam among the top performers.
'IMELC has also rolled out complementary modules such as 'Say No to Single-Use Plastics' campaign in 2023, which includes awareness booklets, webinars and policies in selected schools to reduce plastic straw and packaging usage,' she said.
Another key initiative, she added, was the composting module teaching students to convert food waste into organic fertiliser, which had led to community gardens in several schools.
'This year, we have upgraded our online platform with updated educational resources and interactive tools, while selected teachers can also visit recycling facilities for first-hand exposure to waste industry operations.
'IMELC is not just about teaching recycling, it is about empowering a generation to act for our planet's future,' Nina said.
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