Green Gold

From plastic junk to green gold

These humble recyclables are making its relevance apparent in a technology-savvy island such as Taiwan. In the New Straits Times dated September 13, we are told that there is great potential attached to this little thing named - plastic bottle.

In 2009, 180,000 tonnes of used plastics were recycled into raw materials worth RM434 million in Taiwan! The recycled plastics were transformed into garments, flower pots, wigs and zippers and the island took pride in the manufacturing of her 'eco-fabric' jerseys for the recent Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

So, is it any wonder that these are sold at dirt cheap price? They may be recycled from plastic bottles...

Taiwan has looked into building houses with recycled bottles that are processed into bricks which can actually resist earthquakes, wind and fire and at the same time providing natural lighting to cut electricity costs. These 'polli-bricks' are less expensive than the conventional ones and will lower constructions costs.

So one day when you walk into a posh hotel on the island, you may actually be finding shed and rest under the coverage of 'plastic bottles'!

Don't underestimate that bottle which you more often than not throw away without a second thought or glance in schools - it's green gold !

No wonder the general workers are picking green gold with much delight around the school compound and I have heard of an incident when the worker would even stop to wait for someone to finish that drink in the bottle and then to gleefully receive the empty bottle without it being thrown down the thrash bin.

You wonder what's her main occupation - general cleaning or collecting recyclables ! But it's okay ! It's the 2 in 1 concept just like cafe 21.

From plastic bottles to green gold - a commendable transformation.