Green group Friends of the Earth is urging Chief Executive John Lee to implement environmentally-friendly measures in the upcoming policy address. The call for action comes after Hong Kong experienced its hottest Mid-Autumn Festival this year, as well as record-breaking rainfall last September.
Jeffrey Hung, the group’s CEO, emphasized the importance of prioritizing environmental concerns in order for the city to progress sustainably amidst upcoming developments. He stressed the need for the government to include climate change assessments in environmental impact evaluations, citing it as a critical issue not only for Hong Kong but for the global economy as a whole.
Pointing to the devastating floods caused by super typhoons Hato and Mangkhut in recent years, Hung highlighted the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather events due to its coastal location. He called for a comprehensive review of coastal infrastructure and increased resources for flood prevention measures to better prepare for future challenges.
While acknowledging the efforts of various government departments in addressing climate change, Hung proposed the establishment of a dedicated department to streamline and enhance coordination on environmental issues.
Despite the postponement of the “pay-as-you-throw” waste disposal scheme earlier this year, Hung emphasized the importance of public education on proper waste management. He underscored the need for behavioral changes within the community to reduce the city’s high per capita waste generation rate, which has remained constant over the past decade.
Looking ahead, Hung advised the public to be proactive and informed about the potential reintroduction of the waste charging scheme in the future.
In addition to waste management, Friends of the Earth suggested increased collaboration between Hong Kong and mainland China on recycling initiatives, as well as expanding the electricity market to accommodate renewable energy providers. They also advocated for the promotion of green finance programs to support environmentally-friendly projects and investments.
By urging the government to prioritize environmental sustainability and resilience in its policy decisions, Friends of the Earth hopes to create a more eco-conscious and resilient Hong Kong for future generations.