How to escape the smog

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YP readers. Compiled by John Kang
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Hong Kong's air pollution has been especially bad recently, even out in the New Territories. We asked our readers what they'd do to improve things. Here are their top 10 solutions ...

YP readers. Compiled by John Kang |
Published: 
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1. Sow the seeds

We should plant more trees. Not only do trees absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, they will also make our city more beautiful!

Ng Lok-yan, 18

2. Pure and simple

If there's an air purifier for a house, why can't there be such a device for the whole city? After all, Hong Kong is just a dot on the map of China, so purifying the air shouldn't be such a big challenge, right?

Ruby Leung, 16

3. True as steel

You've heard of public transport, right? Well, use it! Do you really need a petrol-guzzling, over-priced piece of steel all for yourself?

Cassandra Lee, 20

4. Wind down pollution

Using renewable energy is one solution. Solar panels and wind turbines can be placed on top of buildings to create energy. This will reduce the burning of fossil fuels, and pollution will be gone like the wind!

Odessa Fung, 13

5. A blowout!

We should set up gigantic, solar-powered fans to blow all the smog and pollution towards a mega-greenhouse, located in an urban area, with millions of trees. Such a plan would help eliminate pollution.

Liam Fung, 11

6. A free ride

Like the Dutch city of Amsterdam, we should also promote cycling as one of our main modes of transport. Cycling doesn't give off toxic gases, takes up a lot less space, and is great for your health - much better than sitting on a dirty seat in a bus while idly watching commercials!

Winnie Lee Wing-yee, 18

7. Smoke signals

Although smoking isn't as bad as driving a huge truck, as far as toxic fumes are concerned, I'm pretty sure it doesn't help our air quality either. Not only that, it's very bad for your health!

Jasmine Lo, 12

8. Time to chill out

It's always winter in Hong Kong's shopping malls because of the constant air-conditioning. It uses up a lot of electricity and gives off greenhouse gases, too. Instead of turning on the air-conditioner 24/7, why not turn it off when we don't need it ... like now!

Kira Lai, 15

9. A healthy payoff

The government should subsidise Hongkongers so they can use public transport, such as the MTR and buses, for free. People wouldn't use private cars then, and that means less air pollution.

Giselle Chan Cheuk-ying

10. Driving desire

All Hong Kong residents should co-operate with the government to reduce air pollution. Every little thing helps. For example, engines of idling vehicles should be switched off, and higher fines imposed on offenders. This would encourage people to abide by the rules, leading to much cleaner air.

Kelsi Lo, 13

Next week:

We're only half way through November, but the Christmas decorations are already up! Yes, really. Besides the overused Santa Clauses, reindeers and snowmen, for our next Top 10, tell us what other Christmas decorations you want to see. Send your answer, together with your name, age and school, to [email protected] with "Top 10: Christmas decorations" in the subject field


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