Malaysia faces several environmental issues. Malaysia's environment possesses megadiverse biological diversity, with globally significant endemism and biodiversity, but is threatened by several issues. Deforestation is a major issue in the country that has led to many species becoming threatened with extinction. As a major economic sector, palm oil production has had a substantial environmental impact. Air pollution is also a major issue, with the country one of the most affected countries by seasonal Southeast Asian haze. The country is also affected by climate change.

Issues

Climate change

Endangered species

Borneo pygmy elephant Sumatran rhinoceros Malayan tiger Orangutan Oriental darter Storm's stork Milky stork

Deforestation

The following are notable projects contributing to deforestation: Hulu Terengganu Hydroelectric Project Kelau Dam Bukit Cherakah Pulai River Sungai Mas

Malaysia had a 2018 Forest Landscape Integrity Index mean score of 5.01/10, ranking it 111th globally out of 172 countries.

Pollution Air pollution in Malaysia is a major issue, with the country one of the most affected by seasonal Southeast Asian haze. 1982 Bukit Merah radioactive pollution 2019 Kim Kim River toxic pollution

Reclamation

Coastal reclamation is damaging mangroves and turtle nesting sights.

Recycling and waste management

The country has numerous waste and recycling policies and initiatives but overall low rate of recycling and problems with violations and enforcement of such laws and policies.

Water

Controversial projects and policies

Project/Area affected Activity State Began Notes Ref. Bakun Dam Dams Sarawak 2008 Forest loss. Kuala Lumpur Outer Ring Road (KLORR) Highways Selangor 2008 Forest fragmentation in the Selangor State Park. Forest Plantation Development Plantation Selangor 2008- Clearance of natural forest for timber plantations. Empire Residence Development Housing Selangor 2008- Hillslope clearance. Pan Borneo HighwayHighwaySarawak/Sabah2016Forest loss, Brunei sections and the Temburong Bridge project and its implications to Limbang

Environmental organisations Malaysian Nature Society Global Environment Centre Klima Action Malaysia

See also

Environment of Malaysia Deforestation in Malaysia Climate change in Malaysia List of environmental issues

References

External links