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Natural Resource Use, Institutions, and Green Ergonomics

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Ergonomics and Human Factors for a Sustainable Future

Abstract

Human interactions with natural resource systems, although essential to produce food, fibre, and other material requirements, generate water pollutants, such as heavy metals, that affect river water quality, fishery resources, and public health. This study investigates water pollution in Malaysia from the emerging green ergonomics perspective. We demonstrate that water pollution is linked to natural resource use and public health issues in Malaysia and an integrated polycentric model, based on complex interconnections between stakeholders at local, regional, and national levels, institutions, and policies, can address the river water pollution problem and its green ergonomic impacts. We suggest that stakeholders with interlinked activities share responsibilities and accountabilities to resolve the green ergonomic problems and enhance the sustainable relationship between human well-being and natural resource systems.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    The second-order collective action is an important issue.

  2. 2.

    The Salak Tinggi water treatment plant draws its supply from Sungai Labu and has a design capacity of 10.8 MLD.

  3. 3.

    Along the LRB, we began upstream (Hulu Langat District), followed by midstream (Sepang District), and finally downstream (Kuala Langat District).

  4. 4.

    Along the KRB, we began upstream [from Kg. Sungai Machang, Tmn Melawati to Ampang Waterfront], followed by midstream [from Kg. Seri Andalas, Jln Sultan Hishamudin, Medan Pasar Besar, Leboh Pasar Besar, Jln Tun Sambanthan to Puchong, and Subang Jaya], and finally downstream [from Kg. Kebun Bunga to Lebuh Sultan Abdul Samad].

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Economics, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia

    Ashutosh Sarker, Wai-Ching Poon & Gamini Herath

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  1. Ashutosh Sarker
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  1. Psychology Department, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa

    Andrew Thatcher

  2. School of Business, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia

    Paul H.P. Yeow

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Sarker, A., Poon, WC., Herath, G. (2018). Natural Resource Use, Institutions, and Green Ergonomics. In: Thatcher, A., Yeow, P. (eds) Ergonomics and Human Factors for a Sustainable Future. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-8072-2_11

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