MPOC: Carbon Reduction Capitalising On Academic-Industrial Research Collaboration
19/11/2024 (Business Today) - The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) today announced the release of a pivotal palm oil report co-authored by Swinburne University of Technology that identifies innovative pathways for the Malaysian palm oil industry’s journey toward carbon neutrality and net zero emissions, according to a press statement circulated by MPOB.
The study, conducted in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus), has been summarised into the report titled ‘Review of current State, Gaps and Opportunities for Technologies in the Malaysian Oil Palm Estates and Palm Oil Mills towards Net-zero Emissions”.
Pro Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus) Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho said, “Through partnering with MPOC, we have outlined a practical roadmap for sustainable practices that demonstrates Swinburne’s commitment to applying academic rigour to global challenges. It is incredibly rewarding to see our expertise driving positive change for Malaysia and the broader global community, and we are eager to continue this journey towards a sustainable future.”
“The Malaysian palm oil industry plays a significant role in global edible oil production, with Malaysia being the second highest producer and exporter. Decarbonisation of palm oil industry will aid in meeting the nation’s net-zero targets by 2050. This study focuses on analysing decarbonisation pathways for the upstream and midstream segments of the palm oil industry, encompassing oil palm plantations and palm oil mills,” summarises the report.
The percentage contribution of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission sources are distributed as follows: Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) degradation (38.6%), Palm biomass degradation (32.3%), Energy consumption for mill operation (20.8%), Fertilisers and agrochemicals (5.3%) and lastly Fuel consumption for plantation operation (3%).
To achieve net-zero emissions, the Malaysian palm oil industry can leverage both proven and innovative biomass conversion technologies.
Current practices, including Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems and biogas capture from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME), have achieved a 68.8% reduction in emissions by replacing fossil fuels and mitigating methane emissions.
To close the remaining gap, emerging solutions like processing empty fruit bunches (EFB) into briquettes or pellets can achieve or even surpass net-zero emissions by generating energy and minimising waste. Complementary measures, such as biochar production, also enhance carbon storage in soil, contributing to long-term environmental stability.
However, achieving industry-wide adoption requires addressing barriers like high capital costs, reliance on imported technology, and logistical challenges.
In addition, strategic investment in R&D and infrastructure is also essential in fully realising net-zero goals that lead to sustainable palm oil production.