Updated on Mar 12, 2008 – SCMP
The Secretary for the Environment, Edward Yau Tang-wah has declared that a giant incinerator has to be built as the overflowing landfills are filling up (“HK waste crisis going Italy’s way”, March 8).
The waste-burning plant may be situated at Tap Shek Kok in Tuen Mun. Of course, nearby residents object to the plan, saying it will cause air pollution. They fear that burning refuse will lead to the release of toxic gas. They argue it will decrease visibility and contribute to global warming.
I do not think building this incinerator is the best way for us to deal with our solid waste. Hong Kong people produce about 3,000 tonnes of solid waste every day. It’s too much for this small place. The government should not build an incinerator but should instead reduce the amount of waste produced in a number of ways, including collecting a waste levy and promoting recycling.
Hong Kong citizens should work hard to protect our worsening environment and produce less waste.
Rita Leung, Sau Mau Ping