Your Voice: Hong Kong must prepare for the waste-charging scheme; downsides of technology (short letters)
- There is an urgent need to protect the environment, hence the city’s waste reduction plan is of utmost importance, one student writes
- Another reader says that technological advancements have their benefits, but there are several drawbacks as well
Authorities need to clear public confusion surrounding the waste-charging scheme before implementing it, one student writes. Photo: Eugene LeeHave something to say? Send us a letter using this Google form.
Waste-charging scheme fine print
Ellie Szeto Heung-laam, Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary School
Public concerns regarding the waste-charging scheme’s details indicate a lack of preparedness for its implementation.
However, waste reduction is paramount, as people want to avoid landfills or incinerators near their homes.
The government has not effectively differentiated recyclables from regular waste. Moreover, there is a lack of recycling centres in the city.
To ensure the success of the scheme, the government should provide detailed information, particularly concerning furniture disposal. Assistance should be provided to “three-nil buildings” in adhering to the scheme. Explicit advertisements with waste classification instructions are necessary.
There is a need for better communication with recycling commissioners and extending operating hours at recycling centres. Easy-to-access recycling bins and mobile spots should be established to encourage changes in recycling habits. Incentives such as reverse vending machines and financial rewards can motivate recycling. Policies should also minimise unnecessary packaging and promote the use of biodegradable alternatives.
To ensure the success of the scheme, the government should provide detailed information, particularly concerning furniture disposal. Assistance should be provided to “three-nil buildings” in adhering to the scheme, and clear advertisements with waste classification instructions are necessary. Improving supporting facilities is vital, including better communication with recycling commissioners and extending operating hours at recycling centres. Easy-to-access recycling bins and mobile spots should be established to encourage changes in recycling habits. Incentives such as reverse vending machines and financial rewards can serve as motivators for recycling. Policies should also target packaging waste reduction by minimising unnecessary packaging and promoting the use of biodegradable alternatives.
Although developing new habits can be challenging, it is essential to save our planet and create a better world for future generations. By following the waste charging scheme and actively reducing waste, we contribute to environmental sustainability.
Hong Kong government must rethink waste charging scheme
The perils of modernisation
Edison Ng Chun-lun, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College
It is important to recognise the negative impact technology can have on human connections. Back in the 80s, parents only took their kids to theme parks or for a meal at McDonald’s. The simplicity and joy of those experiences created lasting memories. In today’s digital age, many teenagers and even adults find themselves drowning in social media.
Online platforms have replaced the desire for real-life experiences. Meaningful face-to-face interactions have faded out of our lives. With the prevalence of smartphones and constant connectivity, people often find themselves immersed in a virtual world, detached from the present moment. This distraction from real-life interactions can hinder our social skills.
Technology has undoubtedly brought convenience to our lives, but it also has a detrimental effect on human connections.
It is important to find a balance between embracing technology and nurturing meaningful human connections to ensure we don’t lose the essence of what it means to be truly connected.
Although technology has undoubtedly brought convenience and efficiency to our lives, it has also had a detrimental effect on human connections. The shift towards virtual interactions and the decrease in real-life experiences have impacted the quality and depth of our relationships. finding a balance between embracing technology and nurturing meaningful human connections should now be done to ensure we don’t lose the essence of what it means to be truly connected in this digital age.
Global warming is real
Wu Wan-ying, SKH Tsang Shui Tim Secondary School
Hong Kong’s weather is getting warmer every year.
The reason for this change is global warming, which refers to the long-term increase in the Earth’s temperature.
Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and livestock farming are the main causes of global warming because they release a lot of greenhouse gases.
Our daily habits also contribute to this problem. During summer, we rely heavily on air conditioners and refrigerators; in winter, we need heaters to stay warm. All of these activities release greenhouse gases.
Additionally, there are many vehicles on the roads, most of which burn diesel or petrol. Nowadays, people often use ride-hailing apps to call private cars instead of using public transport, which worsens the situation.
Taking immediate action to combat global warming is crucial. Even as adolescents, we can make a difference. First, we can help the environment by eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Plant-based foods produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and require less energy, land, and water. Second, we should prioritise using public transport or consider walking or cycling instead of driving cars.
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Youth unemployment a concern
Valerie Chiu Wing-yee, St Mary’s Canossian College
The youth jobless rate in China reached a devastating 21.3 per cent in June 2023. This posed a significant risk to China’s future growth and social stability. This figure, excluding students in schools who may have failed to find a job, exacerbates the challenges faced by China.
High unemployment rates can lead to reduced consumer spending, dampen economic growth, and contribute to social unrest through protests and demonstrations.
Examining the severe jobless rate is urgently needed. Factors contributing to this include increased competition among fresh graduates and the impact of Covid-19, making it challenging to create new jobs.
However, technology offers opportunities to create jobs, especially with the rise of AI. Developing new technology-driven roles can enhance job stability.
What’s happening with China’s youth unemployment numbers?
Additionally, measures proposed by China’s education ministry, such as exploring job possibilities in underdeveloped regions and utilising the internet for job information, can help improve employment prospects. China must address the unemployment rate to safeguard its well-being and competitiveness.
High unemployment rates can lead to reduced consumer spending and dampen economic growth, while also contributing to social unrest through protests and demonstrations. Examining the severe jobless rate is urgently needed. Factors contributing to this include increased competition among fresh graduates and the impact of COVID-19, making it difficult to create new jobs. However, technology offers opportunities to create jobs, especially with the rise of AI.
Developing new technology-driven roles can enhance job stability and boost the economy. Additionally, measures proposed by China’s education ministry, such as exploring job possibilities in underdeveloped regions and utilising the internet for job information, can help improve employment prospects. It is crucial for China to address the unemployment rate to safeguard its well-being and competitiveness.