Corporate News

Trust-sponsored forum sparks fresh dialogue on air pollution and public health issues

10 January 2009

 

Organised by Civic Exchange and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, a public forum entitled "The Air We Breathe: A Public Health Dialogue", was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre today (10 January).  The forum, which attracted an encouraging attendance nearly 500 people, provided a platform for environmental experts, academics, policy-makers and the general public to discuss and share their views on air pollution in Hong Kong.

In his opening remarks, the Club's Executive Director, Charities, William Y Yiu, explained that scientific evidence showed human activities had likely been the major cause of global warming and climate change.  "Everyone's action, however big or small, can and does make a difference, if we are willing to change our lifestyles, behaviour and attitudes," he said. "With this in mind the Club, as the largest community benefactor in Hong Kong, has earmarked HK$350 million through its Charities Trust to initiate a multi-year city-wide Environment Project.  Today's public forum is the first of a series of symposia and seminars we are planning for the project."

During the forum, local and overseas experts explained the current air quality situation in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, various measures taken to improve it, and different policies implemented overseas from which Hong Kong might be able to learn.  Participants were also given an opportunity to join small group discussions with experts to focus on possible solutions for Hong Kong's air pollution.

With global warming and climate change becoming more serious, the Trust's HK$350 million Environment Project aims at mitigating the effects of climate change on Hong Kong and minimising the impact on health through informing and engaging the public.  In addition to international symposia and public forums, a series of public awareness programmes and school educational initiatives will be organised.  Furthermore, a component of the Environment Project included the introduction of solar-powered boats with hybrid engines on the ferry services between the Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course and Sai Kung pier, ready in late 2009. This will help save fuel, cut emission and reduce marine pollution.


Photo 1:
The Hong Kong Jockey Club's Executive Director, Charities, William Y Yiu, says that everyone's action, however big or small, can make a difference in mitigating air pollution.



Photo 2:
Experts and the public engage in constructive discussions to try to create solutions for Hong Kong's air pollution.


 

 

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