15th August 2014 Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

From Trash to Treasure

The British High Commission had an exhibition stand at the National Environment Conference on 13 August organised by Asia Inc Forum. The theme of our stand was from global to national to local action.

BHC Green Expo booth

Explaining our booth to the Minister of Development, Pehin Dato Haji Suyoi
Speaking with the Minister of Development, Pehin Dato Haji Suyoi, about our booth

To highlight the negative impact that unchecked climate change will have on the world, we displayed the Human Dynamics of Climate Change map launched in London last month. Developed by the UK Met Office, with British governmental support, the map presents the latest scientific projections of how climate change could impact people around the world. This is the first mapping tool that draws all this information together. Towards the end of this century, the map shows temperatures on the warmest days of the year rising by six degrees or more in some regions, an increase in the risk of flooding across 70% of Asia (with millions of people affected due to sea level rises), as well as a worldwide increase in the number of days of drought. You can click on the fascinating suite of maps and supporting information at www.metoffice.gov.uk/human-dynamics.

Our stand also illustrated various UK actions to support the development of smart cities, a main theme of this year’s conference. We highlighted UK Trade & Investment initiatives to showcase British companies using their expertise around the world to help countries transition to a low carbon economy.

Group photo at booth
With my colleagues at our Green Expo booth

Finally, our stand highlighted actions by the British High Commission to promote green initiatives within our offices. One important action is recycling. We were therefore pleased to take part in the conference’s “Trash to Treasure” competition. We were delighted to win first prize in the institutional category, a tribute to the enthusiasm of all my colleagues to ensure we recycled waste to the maximum.

Receiving the Trash to Treasure award
Receiving the Trash to Treasure first prize award

We will be including our prize of an eco-friendly air conditioner in our fundraising efforts later this month to help Pusat Ehsan, a local charity supporting people with special needs.

For more photos from the British High Commission’s participation at the Green Expo visit the UKinBrunei Flickr.