More needs to be done towards transformation of KL into eco-city

KUALA LUMPUR: More needs to be done to transform Kuala Lumpur into an ecological city, although initiatives towards this are already in place, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail said on Tuesday, Sept 20.

However, it is impossible for Kuala Lumpur City Hall, to undertake this process on its own and needs the community to be engaged in it, he said.

Increasing the city's bio-diversity is one way towards an ecological city and cited the "River of Life" project as an example in his opening speech at the Third International Conference on World Class Sustainable Cities 2011 here on Tuesday.

His speech was delivered by Kuala Lumpur City Hall Deputy Director (Planning) Zulkifli Ibrahim.

Ahmad Fuad said for a very long time, the focus has been on developing cities to overcome and address immediate needs and issues.

"(Hence) we are now faced with greater complexities in our urban future, and thus, have to continuously improve in making our cities livable for future generations," he added.

He said among the strategies towards an ecological city is integrated water resources management, energy management, waste minimisation and integrated solid waste management, as well as a different approach to sanitation.

Others includes, integrated transport policies, a policy dealing with pollution issues, anticipation of climate change, a sound green housing policy and promoting an equal distribution of benefits, he added. — Bernama