Green Infrastructure: A Trend Taking Root In Malaysia
When we think of infrastructure, we often imagine concrete, steel, and asphalt - the building blocks of our cities and communities. But in Malaysia, a new trend is taking shape, one that incorporates nature and the environment into the built world. Green infrastructure is a buzzword that has been gaining traction in recent years, especially as our world faces the pressing issues of climate change and environmental degradation. What exactly is green infrastructure, and why is it becoming a trend that is taking root in our nation?
Gamuda Gardens Central Park
“Show me a healthy community with a healthy economy and I will show you a community that has its green infrastructure in order and understands the relationship between ten built and the unbuilt environment.”
Green infrastructure refers to the integration of green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and natural areas, into urban environments. It is a holistic approach to urban planning and development that aims to improve the sustainability, resilience, and liveability of our cities. In Malaysia, this could mean anything from urban parks and gardens to wetlands and green roofs. The goal of green infrastructure is to provide a range of benefits, from improving air quality and reducing the urban heat island effect, to mitigating stormwater runoff and protecting against the impacts of climate change.
One of the biggest benefits of green infrastructure is the way it can enhance the quality of life for local residents. A park for people to relax and exercise in, or a green roof that helps to reduce noise and air pollution – green infrastructure provides a range of benefits that improve the daily experience of those who live and work in cities. Despite the many benefits of green infrastructure, it is still a relatively new concept in Malaysia, and there are challenges to its implementation. There may be a lack of awareness about the benefits of green infrastructure, or concerns about the costs associated with its development. However, as more cities and communities embrace the idea of sustainable infrastructure, we are seeing an increased focus on green infrastructure in Malaysia.
Wetlands boardwalk at Gamuda Gardens Central Park
Taking Root in the Grassroots
At its core, green infrastructure is about empowering communities to take action and make a positive impact on the environment. From a group of neighbours planting a community garden to a local government creating a park or greenway, green infrastructure is a grassroots movement that is driven by the people who live and work in our cities. As more and more people become aware of the importance of green infrastructure, it is no surprise that it is becoming a trend that is taking root in our grassroots. Whether it is through community-driven initiatives, government policies, or private investments, green infrastructure is changing the face of our cities and creating a greener and more sustainable future for all.
Grassroots initiatives in green infrastructure also bring people together and foster a sense of community and belonging. Grassroots efforts often start with individuals in the community who are passionate about making their neighbourhoods more sustainable and environmentally friendly. They engage with their community members and advocate for green infrastructure projects. By volunteering and working on projects together, people can develop new relationships, share ideas and knowledge, and create a stronger, more united community. Additionally, grassroots initiatives can help to raise awareness about the benefits of green infrastructure and inspire others to create change in their own communities.
Investing in green infrastructure is not only an investment in the environment, but also is a game-changer when it comes to creating healthy and liveable communities for future generations. With continued collaboration between the government and community, they can help to ensure that Malaysia remains at the forefront of green infrastructure development, creating a brighter and more sustainable future for all. The government must provide the necessary funding and support for green infrastructure projects, as well as create policies and regulations that encourage its development. Meanwhile, the community must be engaged and informed about the benefits of green infrastructure and play an active role in its implementation and maintenance.
This article is shared with permission from the IFLA Asia Pacific Region secretariat.