INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
Figure 2 : The role of engineers in ESG .
reduction to efficient resource utilisation and management of residuals , whether in the air , water , or land . The overarching goal is clear : our current actions must not jeopardise the Earth ’ s future ecological balance .
Social : This pillar is humanity ’ s advocate . It underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights , health , and well-being of all stakeholders , whether it is the conditions for factory workers , the impact on residents near major infrastructural projects , or the end-users of a particular innovation . The emphasis is on fostering vibrant communities culminating in universal value creation .
Governance : A silent but steadfast pillar , governance focuses on the ethical frameworks guiding organisational decisionmaking . It champions transparency , ethics , and accountability , ensuring that operations are equitable and mutually beneficial .
Engineering and ESG : An Inextricable Bond
Why , one might ask , should engineers , traditionally associated with design efficiency , structural integrity , and safety , pivot towards
ESG ? The answer lies in the engineers ’ vital role as the architects of tomorrow ’ s development on a scale ranging from nano-size to the obvious , influencing everything from micro-electronic components to expansive infrastructure projects , including those helmed by Malaysian giants like Petronas , Sime Darby , and TNB , to name a few . The choices engineers make in design , material selection , methodologies , and technologies cast long shadows on the environment , society , and the ethical fabric of all projects . One should also include the impacts of projects that involve the service sector , such as handling of gaseous emissions , wastewater , and solid wastes .
For engineers , especially those influencing decisions in large entities , integrating ESG is no longer a mere option — it is an imperative . It is not just about constructing the next skyscraper or designing the next tech innovation ; it is about ensuring that these creations resonate with sustainability , inclusivity , and ethical considerations ( refer to Figure 2 ).
While ESG might seem like a modern catchphrase for now , it actually symbolises timeless concerns : holistic , sustainable , and ethical considerations . For engineers in Malaysia and within the larger ASEAN canvas , this means an evolution in thought , a widening of horizons , and
10 VOL 97 JANUARY - MARCH 2024