PETALING JAYA: Simple lifestyle changes such as carpooling, reducing energy use and adopting digital practices at work can significantly reduce carbon emissions when practised consistently.
Operations director Mohd Shazilie Md Zain, 43, said he bought an electric vehicle (EV) two months ago and now carpools during lunch breaks at least three times a week.
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“Carpooling is one of the easiest and most practical ways to reduce carbon emissions from private vehicle use,” he said when met here yesterday.
He said Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) should be seen as a broader behavioural shift rather than a narrow corporate initiative.
“ESG is not just about transportation. It is about building a culture where we use resources more responsibly every day.
“At the office, we can reduce paper usage by going digital, hold online meetings to avoid unnecessary travel, and improve energy efficiency by switching off unused lights, air-conditioners and equipment,” he said.
Mohd Shazilie also highlighted the importance of sustainable habits at home.
“Even small actions at home make a difference – using energy-efficient appliances, reducing food waste, recycling and managing water consumption properly.
“If everyone does it consistently, the impact is huge.
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“ESG is not a one-off project. It is about daily habits repeated by many people over time,” he added.
Business development manager Azizi Ramdan, 41, said he practises carpooling and has a simple arrangement with colleagues who give him rides in an EV.
“I usually treat them to meals as a thank-you gesture. It becomes a barter system that encourages shared transport and helps me save on petrol costs,” he said.
He said he has also adopted energy-saving habits at home.
“I use 5-star energy-rated appliances and keep air-conditioning between 24ºC and 26ºC, using fans as support.
“I also switched to LED lights, which use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs,” he said.
Business development executive Mahirah Mohd Arshad, 38, said water conservation is often overlooked.
“Saving water also saves energy because treatment and distribution require electricity,” she said.
Business development manager Zulfadli Daud, 43, said workplaces should accelerate digitalisation.
“We should move towards paperless systems using digital documents and e-signatures. After working hours, switching off computers and equipment should be standard practice,” he said.
