Greencents group with the Sri Sabah 3A public housing resident association members during the Oil2Cash Revolution Programme, collaborating to promote sustainable oil recycling.
The Oil2Cash (O2C) Revolution, an innovative sustainability initiative, is transforming waste management by turning used cooking oil into an economic opportunity for B40 communities while fostering environmental responsibility.
This initiative aims to educate and empower households on the importance of recycling used cooking oil into biodiesel and other sustainable products.
In Malaysia, an estimated 200,000 tonnes of used cooking oil are collected annually, but a significant portion is still improperly discarded, contributing to clogged sewage systems and environmental pollution, according to data from the official website of the Health Ministry.
Studies further reveal that 77% of Malaysians do not recycle their used cooking oil and dispose of it incorrectly. On a global scale, the used cooking oil market was valued at US$7.09bil in 2023 and is projected to nearly double to US$13.96bil by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 8%, as reported by Fortune Business Insights.
Recognising these challenges, Greencents, a group of final-year Master’s students from UKM-Graduate School of Business (UKM-GSB) launched the O2C Revolution – a project that raises awareness about used cooking oil recycling and provides financial benefits to communities in need.
"This two-day event at the Sri Sabah 3A public housing and Block 3 Pudu Ulu, Cheras people housing project (PPR) is more than just a recycling initiative,” said Greencents project lead Kavita Kaur. “It’s about financial empowerment, environmental conservation and driving change through community engagement.”
Residents were encouraged to collect and exchange their used cooking oil for cash, turning everyday waste into an additional income source. Through this programme, used cooking oil recycling helps reduce carbon emissions, prevent water pollution and support sustainable energy solutions.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. In just two days, the O2C Revolution successfully collected one tonne of used cooking oil from approximately 120 participants, proving that collective action can drive meaningful change. This milestone underscores the urgent need for a structured used cooking oil recycling programme while highlighting the community's willingness to embrace sustainable practices when provided with the right incentives.
The O2C Revolution was made possible through the collaboration of the Association of Used Cooking Oil Development Malaysia (AUCO), and the residence associations at Sri Sabah 3A and the Pudu Ulu Blok 3.
It was supported by WCT Holdings Bhd, AUCO and Capital Oil and Fats Sdn Bhd. This initiative underscores the power of collective action in turning waste into economic opportunity while championing sustainability.
The O2C Revolution embodies a commitment towards sustainability and financial resilience, empowering underserved communities through innovative waste management. By encouraging recycling used cooking oil, the initiative helps prevent waste, encourages green energy solutions and creates new economic opportunities.
This initiative is a testament to the dedication and vision of UKM-GSB Master’s students, who spearheaded this project as part of their mission to drive real-world impact. Together, we can turn waste into wealth and create a cleaner, more sustainable future.
A programme participant contributed 53kg of recycled cooking oil, collected over the past year, demonstrating the power of consistent effort in sustainability.
