Updated on Mar 11, 2008 – SCMP
I am writing to express my concern over the present environmental policy regarding waste treatment.
Waste and the disposal of waste is a long-term problem in Hong Kong, especially since our landfills are nearly saturated.
The possibility of having an incinerator has been discussed again.
Yet, is it the best solution to tackle the waste disposal problem, or will it actually be regressive?
Some argue that an incinerator will solve the problem caused by saturation of landfills. However, incineration causes serious air pollution as burning rubbish generates carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide as well as sulfur dioxide, which is carcinogenic.
I do not think an incinerator will solve our waste disposal problems. It will only create new headaches.
To ease the pressure on our landfills, the government should consider practical ways to ensure less waste is produced, rather than turn to incineration.
The government should raise a heavy levy on all waste, either domestic or industrial.
Such an idea has been touted for some time and it is time for the government to go ahead with it.
Once the government has implemented the higher waste charges, less waste will be produced and the pressure on our landfills will be reduced.
We need to come up with effective policies to reduce waste in Hong Kong and abandon plans to have an incinerator.
Tracy Lai, Kwun Tong