Annual Review 2018 | Page 43

MONASH UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA − SUNWAY GROUP OF COMPANIES GRANT SCHEME A grant scheme was established with Sunway Group to foster research collaborations between our organisations. While Sunway City has grown tremendously in the past 30 years, Sunway Group continues to improve the sustainability of its township by engaging the help of Monash University Malaysia researchers. Feasibility assessment of solar energy for BRT Sunway Sustainable permeable geopolymer pavement system This research will determine if solar energy is technically viable and economically feasible to power the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) Sunway transport system. The study will contribute new knowledge of the clean energy source, with the aim of reducing the carbon footprint and pollution in Sunway City and its surrounding communities. The findings can also be applied to other transportation sectors in Malaysia and the world. Monash researchers are developing a sustainable permeable geopolymer pavement system using fine industrial waste, which will be an environmentally and economically viable alternative to conventional porous pavements. The gains are multidimensional; it is expected that the new pavement system will enhance public safety against flooding, improve the current traffic system, and make a positive environmental impact through waste recycling and carbon footprint reduction. Researchers: Dr Arshad Salema and Dr Varghese Swamy Researchers: Dr Ahmad Mousa, Dr Daniel Kong and Dr Arash Behnia Campus garden increases population of butterflies and bees The butterfly garden was established as a joint venture between Dr Zoe Yek from the School of Science and Dr Cyren Wong from the Monash Directorate. It has since functioned as a practical learning space for students and a conservation site for native pollinators. At least 12 species of butterflies, six species of moths, and four species of bees have been recorded at the garden since its inception, with efforts to attract more underway. Moving forward, the Garden aims to encourage greater participation of the Monash community by hosting the first campus-wide science project on urban biodiversity. 42