Contents
Preface
Issue 1
iii
What are the problems facing our
P.2
environment and ecology?
Key point a
Human destruction of the environment
P.3
Key point b
The carrying capacity of the ecosystem
P.45
Key point c
Towards sustainability
P.61
What are the values and considerations for
P.86
Issue 2
Environmental protection
Key point a
Technological and social development
P.87
Alongside environmental protection
Key point b
Protecting human interests and ecosystems
P.97
Key point c
Values of the environment and ecology
P.105
of humankind
Issue 3
Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the
P.140
confusions and contradictions in the practice
of environmental protection?
Key point a
Green life
P.141
Key point b
The roles of government and non-governmental P.157
organizations (NGOs)
Key point c
International collaboration
i
P.187
ii
Preface
Among its recent proposals for education reform in Hong Kong, the Education
Commission recommends the provision of ‘a broad senior secondary curriculum to
enable students to acquire experiences in various key learning areas, construct a broad
knowledge base and enhance their ability to analyze problems’ (Education Commission,
September 2000). The Integrated Humanities (IH) (S4-5), designed primarily for students
not taking any subjects in the Personal, Social and Humanities Education Key Learning
Area (PSHE KLA), represents a response to this proposal. It seeks to provide students,
particularly those of the science and technology-oriented streams, with learning
experience in the PSHE KLA which seeks to build a broad knowledge base and a rich
repertoire of skills and abilities.
The Learning Resource Pack on Integrated Humanities (S4-5): Optional Module
II – Human-Environment Relationship is part of a series of learning and teaching
materials being developed by the Education and Manpower Bureau (EMB) for the
implementation of the new subject.
The General Education Centre (GEC) of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University
(HKPolyU) has been commissioned by EMB to prepare this booklet.
The PSHE Section of the Curriculum Development Institute, EMB has taken up the
responsibility to edit and polish the content of this booklet to make them better suit the
contexts of local secondary schools.
Schools are encouraged to adapt the materials for educational use according to their
iii
contexts. NO part of the documents shall be duplicated for commercial purposes.
We welcome feedback and suggestions from teachers. Please send them to:
Chief Curriculum Development Officer (Personal, Social and Humanities
Education)
Curriculum Development Institute
Education and Manpower Bureau
13/F Wu Chung House
213 Queen’s Road East
Wan Chai
Hong Kong
or by e-mail to pshe@emb.gov.hk, or by fax on 2573 5299 / 2575 4318.
For further enquiries, please contact the PSHE Section, Curriculum Development
Institute (CDI) on 2892 5735 or 2892 5859.
iv
Optional Module II
Human-Environment Relationship
1
Issue 1
What are the problems facing
our environment and ecology?
2
Key Point a
Human destruction of the environment
3
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Notes to Teachers
The materials of this module is categorized into three different levels, namely
"Elementary", "Intermediate" and "Advanced" according to the degree of difficulties.
Teachers are welcome to select materials according to the ability and progress of the
students.
As the issues in this module are inter-related, the applicability of the materials to
different issues is specified for easy reference.
Suggested questions for enquiry
Is the harm on the environment done by the humankind severe? Should we create an
artificial environment that will suit human needs, or should we restore the damaged
environment?
4
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 1：Air Pollution (Elementary)
Air pollution is a serious problem in many major cities, especially metropolis such as Los
Angeles, Tokyo, Mexico City, Beijing, and Hong Kong. One of the most easily perceived
problems of air pollution is visibility degradation. Other major concerns include
greenhouse effects, acid rain, and ozone layer depletion.
In Hong Kong, the main sources of air pollution are the fine particles and gases produced
by the combustion of fuel in vehicles, power plants and factories.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/introduction_e.html [Download date: 21/4/2005]
Other references
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/problems_e.html
http://itzalist.com/sci/greenhouse-effect-pics.html
Discussion
1. What factors account for serious air pollution in these cities?
2.
3.
4.
Where do the pollutants come from?
Suggest some ways to reduce air pollution.
In order to reduce air pollution, substitutes of fossil fuel is used. Apart from fossil
fuel, can you think of other ways to produce electricity?
5
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
5.
List the human induced sources of various air pollutants in the following table:
(Hints: http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/problems_e.html)
Major air pollutants
Chemical
Composition
Human induced sources
(Answers)
Oxides of Carbon
CO & CO2
(Combustion, incineration,
steel-making, vehicle emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
NO2, NO
(Fossil-fuel combustion, vehicle
emissions)
Sulfur dioxide
SO2
(Acid manufacturing, smelting,
fossil-fuel combustion, vehicle
emissions)
Particulate
P
(Incineration, combustion, vehicle
emissions)
Hydrocarbons and
Volatile Organic
Compounds
HCs and VOCs
(Combustion, petroleum refining,
vehicle emissions)
Ozone
O3
---
6
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 2: Air Pollution Brings Acid Rain (Elementary)
Rain is acidic if its pH falls below 5.6. The decrease in pH is due to dissolution of nitric
acid or sulfuric acid in rainwater. Nitric acid and sulfuric acid are secondary pollutants
which are formed from nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide respectively through a series of
chemical reactions in the atmosphere. Nitrogen oxides are released from cars and
factories during combustion while sulfur dioxide mainly comes from power plants. Acid
rain causes multiple effects on both the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. It damages
materials and is harmful to human. Major effects on the terrestrial ecosystems include
damage to leaves and branches, nutrient loss, reduced resistance to pathogens and heavy
metal accumulation. Effects on the soil include soil acidification, calcium removal,
aluminum and manganese solubilization, and elimination of useful soil microorganisms.
Soil microbiological processes such as nitrogen fixation and nitrification will also be
affected. Acid rain is irritating to respiratory system of animals and human. Since it is
acidic in nature, it corrodes materials such as buildings, metals, paints, and statues.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/problems_e.html [Download date: 21/4/2005]
Discussion
1. How does acid rain affect human beings and the ecosystem?
2. Is the formation of acid rain human-induced or natural?
3. How can we prevent the formation of human-induced acid rain?
7
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 3: Acid Rain in Guangdong (Intermediate, also applicable to Issue 3b)
A.
Nine times out of ten does acid rain fall north of Hong Kong
Because of the serious acid rain problem, the Pearl River Delta Region has been
designated as the South China Acid Rain Centre for acid rain control. Among the cities in
the Region, the problem in Shenzhen is particularly serious. The pH value of rainwater
there is 3.44 which is the lowest in Guangdong Province. Guangzhou, being the central
city of the Pearl River Delta, experiences acid rain (that is, pH value below 5.6) nine
times out of ten occasions.
The main source of pollutants for the serious acid rain in the Pearl River Delta Region is
sulphate pollution from a large number of coal- and fuel-powered stations. More than ten
large thermal power stations have been built all the way from Shenzhen to Zhuhai, and it
is estimated that the amount of sulphur dioxide emitted by the power stations in the
region is about five hundred thousand tons every year.
However, Dr. Ho Kin-chung, Head of the Ecology Department of the Open University of
Hong Kong said that the problem of acid rain in Hong Kong was not very serious. Yet the
large power stations in Hong Kong, together with an increase of 100,000 vehicles over
the past ten years, could well cause acid rain. He believed that the only way to prevent
acid rain was to have better control of environmental pollution.
Reference:
"Nine times out of ten does acid rain fall north of Hong Kong" (香港北鄰十雨九酸), Ming Pao, A11,
1999-05-17
8
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
B. Acid rain covers 63% of Guangdong Pollutant composition increasingly
complex
Guangdong's Environment Protection Bureau has stated that sulphur dioxide was the
main source of pollutant for Guangdong's acid rain in the past. However, the increased
emission of nitrogen oxides has been replacing sulphur dioxides to become the main
source. The acid rain area covers 63% of the total area of Guangdong Province. As from
1 July 2004, both the coal- and fuel-powered plants will have to pay sewage charge for
the large amount of nitrogen oxides they emit.
According to analysis by experts, about 6.2 kilogram sulphur oxides and 2.1 kilogram
nitrogen oxides will be released for each 1000-watt of electricity produced by a power
plant.
With the growing demand for electricity, many electricity generators have been
introduced and some obsolete small power plants are re-commissioned. This has further
speeded up the emission of nitrogen oxides beyond acceptable levels.
Reference:
"Acid rain covers 63% of Guangdong. Pollutant composition increasingly complex" (廣東酸雨覆蓋達 63%
污染物成份趨複雜), Ming Pao, A26, 2004-06-08
Discussion
1. With the opening of China, more and more factories are being built in the Mainland
leading to increasing pollution. Can you suggest some ways to alleviate this
problem?
2. How would you deal with the dilemma between economic benefits and
environmental protection? Why? (Try to consider this problem from the perspectives
of a factory owner and an environmentalist.)
9
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 4: Global Warming - How about Hong Kong? (Elementary)
Research conducted by the Hong Kong Observatory indicates Hong Kong is getting
warmer in line with the trend of global warming.
In recent years, global warming and the associated climate change have become the focus
of scientific research. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was
established in 1988 to provide governments and the international community with
authoritative scientific assessments on climate change, its potential impact and possible
response strategies.
According to the IPCC's latest assessment report, global average surface temperature rose
by approximately 0.6°C in the 20th century due to increase concentration of greenhouse
gases in the atmosphere.
In Hong Kong, the annual mean temperature rose from 22°C in the late 19th century to a
mean of 23.5°C in the recent decade. The warming has become significantly faster in the
past 10 years (1989-2002) or so, reaching 6°C per 100 years.
The 1990s was the warmest decade since records at the Hong Kong Observatory began in
1885; and 1998 was the warmest year with a mean temperature of 24°C. Among the
seven hottest recorded years, six occurred after 1990.
Various computer climate models forecast a continuing rise in the global average
temperature of 1.4 to 5.8°C from 1990 to 2100. This would result in further changes in
the global climate system.
Reference:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200308/01/0801179.htm [Download date: 21/4/2005]
"Hong Kong getting hotter as a result of global warming", Hong Kong Government Press Release (1
August 2003)
Other references
http://www.hko.gov.hk/wxinfo/climat/greenhs/e_grnhse.htm
http://www.civic-exchange.org/enviro/n_env_local/n_env_globe_warm/n_env_whatis.htm
"Greenhouse Effect" (《溫室效應》), 新聞透視 29/9/1999
10
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Discussion
1. Do you think the HKSAR government is responsible for global warming? Why?
2. What can we do to slow down the trend of global warming?
11
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 5: Global Warming - How about Hong Kong? (Elementary)
A. Causes of Greenhouse Effect
The air pollutants which contribute to greenhouse effect are called greenhouse gases.
Examples of greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O).
They mainly come from fuel combustion in cars and factories. When there is high
concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, a heat-trapping layer is formed.
Sunlight reaches the earth's surface in the form of high-energy ultraviolet (UV) light.
Objects on the earth absorb UV light and emit low-energy infra-red radiation (heat)
which is then trapped by the layer, resulting in increase of atmospheric temperature. This
is known as the greenhouse effect. It is estimated that the present carbon dioxide
concentration of 0.033% will go up to 0.045% in the year 2050 and the average global
temperature will be increased by 3°C to 4°C.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/problems_e.html
B.
[Download date: 21/4/2005]
Impact of Greenhouse Effect
Greenhouse effect causes ecological impact including changes in freshwater and marine
fish populations, or even species extinction. It raises the temperature of the atmosphere
which causes the ice in polar regions to melt and the sea-level to rise. This causes
flooding of the lowland and damages coastal wetlands. In addition, it affects agricultural
productivity. For example, it changes the length of the growing season of plants and alters
rainfall patterns. Its impact on human health includes increase in morbidity and mortality,
especially for the elderly during hot summer periods.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/air_pollution/problems_e.html
12
[Download date: 21/4/2005]
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Other references
http://www.geocities.com/jasonzacker/Metorology/new_page_6.htm
http://hk.geocities.com/greenhouse_effect2003/
http://itzalist.com/sci/greenhouse-effect-pics.html
Discussion
1. Describe the impact of greenhouse effect in Hong Kong.
2. What can be done to reduce the increase in greenhouse gases?
13
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 6: Global Warming (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b, 1c and 3a)
Atmospheric composition such as water vapour, clouds, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous
oxide and chlorofluorocarbons trap heat (called radiation) near the Earth's surface,
causing greenhouse effect. The increasing use of fossil fuels, and of domesticated
animals, the expansion of agriculture, and increasing deforestation have caused a 25 per
cent increase in carbon dioxide and 100 per cent increase in methane over the past 150
years.
Many have suggested that if we continue to pollute the atmosphere with greenhouse
gases, additional global warming of at least 1°C and possibly as much as 5°C can be
expected in the 21st century.
Reference:
Stephen Schneider, “Climate at Risk" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley Limited:
London, 1991, p.96-101.
Other references
The Day After Tomorrow (film), 2004
http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Laboratory/PlanetEarthScience/GlobalWarming/
http://itzalist.com/sci/greenhouse-effect-pics.html
http://www.fi.edu/guide/otoole/index.html
http://thinkquest.org/library/cat_show.html?cat_id=26
Discussion
1.
What are the effects of global warming?
2.
3.
4.
Using Hong Kong as an example, can you identify our role in global warming?
How can we cut the emission of greenhouse gases?
What is meant by "sustainable development"? Is sustainable development possible?
14
Can we prevent it?
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 7: Power Plants and Air Pollution (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1c
and 3b)
A.
Generating electricity by fossil fuels
Hong Kong's two power companies use fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas, to generate
electricity. These resources are becoming depleted and the extraction of fossil fuels is
dangerous and harmful to the environment. The burning of fossil fuels releases
greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide etc. The
emission of these gases is one of the reasons for global warming. We are changing the
climate which has led to disastrous results, such as droughts and floods, disruption of
water supplies, melting Polar ice, rising sea levels, spread of disease and loss of coral
reefs.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/news_archive_item.adp?campaign_id=32&id=691
[Download date: 14/2/2005]
B.
Wind energy pilot projects
The Policy Address 2004 states that government will encourage power companies in
Hong Kong to undertake pilot projects for production-scale wind energy for public
demonstration and evaluation purposes. It will also continue to promote the wider
application of renewable energy.
Reference:
http://www.policyaddress.gov.hk/pa04/eng/pdf/agenda5.pdf [Download date: 14/2/2005]
Other reference
"CLP builds electricity-generating windmills" (中電建發電風車), Sing Tao Daily, A09,
2004-07-06
Discussion
1. What is the cost of 1 kilowatt (kWh) of electricity as indicated in the electricity bill?
What other price do we have to pay in the long run?
2. Do you consider it feasible and effective to generate power through wind mills?
Why?
15
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 8: Air Pollution Index (API) (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 2a (Q2)
and 3b)
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) compiles the API and makes air quality
forecasts. In Hong Kong, the API converts air pollution data from several types of
pollutants into a value ranging from 0 to 500. The reports from general stations and
roadside stations are announced hourly. The API forecast serves as an alert to the public
before the onset of serious air pollution episodes. It helps the general public, especially
susceptible groups such as those with heart or respiratory illnesses, to consider taking
precautionary measures when necessary.
Air Quality Status
Air
Air
Pollution Pollution
Level
Index
Air quality
Severe
significantly worse
than both short-term
and long-term AQOs.
Health Implications*
201-500 People with heart or respiratory illnesses
may experience significant aggravation of
their symptoms and there will also be
widespread symptoms in the healthy
population. These include eye irritation,
wheezing, coughing, phlegm and sore
throat.
Air quality worse than Very high 101-200 People with heart or respiratory illnesses
both short-term and
may notice mild aggravation of their health
long-term AQOs.
conditions. Generally healthy individuals
may also notice some discomfort.
Air quality within the High
short-term AQOs but
worse than the
long-term.
51-100
Very few people, if any, may notice
immediate health effects. Long-term effects
may, however, be observed if you are
exposed to such levels for a long time.
Air quality within all Medium 25-50
AQOs.
None expected for the general population.
Air quality well
within all AQOs.
None expected.
*
Low
0-25
The health implications set out above serve as a broad guide only as a gradual increasing risk of
effects is expected as pollutant concentrations rise.
16
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/air_quality/whatapi_tell.html
[Download
date:
14/2/2005]
Other references
"How bad is our air now?":
http://www.civicexchange.org/enviro/n_env_impact/n_env_air/n_env_air_howbad.html
Air Pollution Index:
http://www.cleartheair.org.hk/api.html
Environmental Protection Department:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/air_quality/air_quality.html
Activities
1. Visit one of the roadside air quality monitoring stations. Observe how the EPD collect
air samples and later give a short presentation in class; OR
2. Visit the EPD website and find information on air quality monitoring facilities and
methods of collecting air samples.
Discussion
1. How many air quality monitoring stations are there in Hong Kong? Where are they?
2. Do you consider the existing air quality monitoring stations adequate and their
findings representative? Why? Should there be new stations? Where would you put
them?
3. What is the average API of Hong Kong? Do you think this level is acceptable?
4. Compare the API of different districts in different months of the year. Analyze the
differences.
5. What can we do in our daily life to improve the air quality in Hong Kong? Give
examples.
17
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 9: Water Pollution and Livestock Waste (Elementary, also applicable to
Issue 3b)
A.
Pollution of Shenzhen River
Hong Kong people had thought that the rapid increase of population and domestic waste
in Shenzhen in the 1980s was the cause of pollutants for the Shenzhen River. However, it
was found by both Guangdong and Hong Kong later on that the major source of
pollutants was livestock waste from the New Territories.
Reference:
"Guangdong and Hong Kong join hands against pollution" (粵港攜手對抗污染), Ming Pao, 1999-05-17
B.
Impact of illegal livestock waste disposal (I)
Recently, residents of many housing estates in Tin Shui Wai are again complaining
against the awful smell of pig waste released illegally by nearby pig farms.
The Residents' Association of Tin Shui Wai and the Legislative Council criticized the
government for not being able to solve the problem. They worried that the continuous
downstream flow of polluted water could lead to the breeding of bacteria and mosquitoes,
which could bring about dengue fever endangering the lives of 100,000 residents.
Reference:
"Pig waste disturbing 100,000 people in Tin Shui Wai" (豬糞惡臭擾天水圍 10 萬人), Sing Tao Daily,
2002-10-17
18
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
C. Impact of illegal livestock waste disposal (II)
Although the Waste Disposal (Livestock Waste) Regulation Ordinance has been imposed
for 10 years, the problem of illegal disposal of pig waste into the rivers in the New
Territories has not yet been solved. The Secretary for the Environment, Transport and
Works, Dr. Sarah Liao has revealed that some pig farmers had tied up Environmental
Protection Department inspectors and let out the dogs to chase them at night. The pig
waste problem in Hong Kong also affects Shenzhen via Shenzhen River so much that the
mayor of Shenzhen had made complaints to Dr. Liao.
Reference:
"Shenzhen complained of strong smell of pig waste from Hong Kong EPD staff tied to trees" (港豬糞亂排
河深圳投訴臭氣 環保署執法人員遭綁樹), Ming Pao, 2003-12-14
Other references
"60000 victims in Tin Shui Wai assaulted by pig waste in open drainage" (天水圍六萬居
民啞忍惡臭 豬農明渠排污 糞味隨風掩至), Sing Pao, 2003-11-25
"Neighbours of pig farms tormented. Disposal of pig waste sub-standard
No cover
for septic tanks" (豬場為鄰 糞臭薰民 豬糞排放超標逾 10 倍 開放式化糞池無遮攔),
Wenweipo, 2004-02-23
Discussion
1. Some pig farmers are illegally disposing livestock waste, causing serious pollution
problems to rivers in New Territories. How can the government deal with the
problem?
2. Act as pig farmers, government officials, consumers, etc. in a role play, discuss who
should bear the greatest responsibility in the livestock waste disposal.
19
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 10: Types of water pollutants and their impact (Elementary)
Types of water pollutants include: (a) pathogens, (b) organic wastes, (c) inorganic wastes,
(d) heavy metals, (e) thermal pollution, and (f) oil.
Pathogens
Pathogens are microorganisms which can cause diseases. The consumption of polluted
drinking water can result in gastrointestinal diseases such as cholera and typhoid. It is
difficult to detect every single pathogen in the water. E.coli is the recognized indicator
species in the monitoring of the level of fecal contamination.
Organic wastes
Sewage discharged from households and livestock farms contains large amount of
organic wastes. These wastes act as nutrients for bacteria in water. Bacteria multiply and
consume lots of dissolved oxygen. Oxygen depletion may occur and many aquatic
organisms will die due to suffocation. Some synthetic organic compounds, such as
detergents and pesticides, may be accidentally or intentionally discharged. Some may be
toxic and can cause acute or chronic damage to both human and the aquatic ecosystem.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/water_pollution/types_e.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. Identify the sources and impacts of different types of water pollutants.
2. Apart from the spread of diseases, how does water pollution affect our daily life and the
ecosystem?
20
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 11: Industrial waste and pollution (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1b
and 1c)
Dyeing, bleaching and electroplating factories often discharge toxic chemicals such as
heavy metals into the streams. Heavy metals are non-biodegradable. Once being ingested,
they will accumulate along the food chain and cause severe damage in our nervous
system and kidney. One notable example is mercury poisoning in the Minamata Bay in
Japan in 1969. The effluent discharge containing mercury had caused impaired vision,
weakened muscles, mental retardation and paralysis, and 68 people were killed.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/water_pollution/types_e.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. Do you think the seafood you consume contains pollutants like pesticide and heavy
metals? How do you know?
2. How does the Hong Kong government monitor the water quality?
3.
4.
Do you consider the imposition of sewage fee an effective means to alleviate
environmental problems? Why?
What can you do to help alleviate the water pollution problem?
21
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 12: Water Pollution (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1b, 3a and 3b)
A.
Red tides
Algal blooms are a special biological phenomenon. Its presence is closely related to
polluted water. Under specific conditions, microscopic algae multiply or gather in a
"blooming" manner within a short time, making the water red and thus forming red tides.
Toxins secreted by such microbes may contaminate seafood and cause harmful effects on
humans such as food poisoning with paralysis of the nervous system.
Reference:
"Microbes in red tides can secrete toxins" (紅潮生物可分泌毒素), Apple Daily, 2003-07-31
B. Toxic sludge and seafood pollution
Ocean dumping of dredged materials can seriously harm animal and plant life and
contaminate our dwindling marine food supply. In the beginning of the last decade, about
80-90% of the waste deliberately dumped at sea was sediment that had been dredged
from harbours; other pollution sources were industrial waste, sewage sludge, radioactive
wastes and fallout from incineration at sea. 10% of dredged material was severely
contaminated by heavy metals that entered the water through land run-off and discharges
from vessels and industrial and municipal sources. Disposal of uncontaminated materials
has the potential to adversely harm the marine ecosystem.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/ocean_main.adp [Download date: 22/4/2005]
22
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
C. Pollution in Shing Mun River
Despite great improvement in reducing smell in the Shing Mun River in Shatin in recent
years, red tide occurrences have been increasing. For example, there were 6 red tides
from January to November 2003, which exceeds the total figure in 2002 by 4 times. Last
month, a rare type of toxic alga which can cause fish to die of suffocation was found.
Although no explosion of fish deaths is witnessed, experts worried that the improvement
works might 'expel the smell but bring in the red tides'. Unless the water pollution
problem in Tolo Harbour is solved, Shing Mun River might return to its former state.
Reference:
"Smell improves but red tides increase in Shing Mun River" (城門河臭味改善紅潮趨增), Ming Pao,
2003-11-24
Other references:
"Coastal pollution and resources conservation" (近海的污染和資源保育), Ming Pao,
2004-02-14
"Serious coastal pollution" (近岸海琙污染嚴重), Ming Pao, 2004-02-01
"Conservation groups: dredging damages the ecosystem" (環團開腔轟挖泥毀生態),
Ming Pao, A06, 2003-10-08
"No fish to eat for Hong Kong people due to serious seafood pollution" (海產污染嚴重
港人歎無魚食), Hong Kong Daily News, 2003-11-14
"Toxic sludge endangers marine ecosystem" (污染海洋毒淤泥危害生態), Hong Kong
Economic Times, 2004-05-20"
"Rare red tide in Silverstrand threatens Po Toi O" (銀線灣罕見紅潮恐襲布袋澳), Hong
Kong Economic Times , 2004-02-28
Anti-Ciguatoxin tips when eating fish" (吃魚防「雪卡毒」有貼士), Apple Daily,
2003-11-13
"China lost 8 billion Yuan in marine disasters
Escalating typhoons increase red tides,
affecting 20 million victims Coastal pollution still serious" (海洋災害肆虐 中國去年
損失 80 億 風暴加劇紅潮增多受災人口兩千多萬 近岸海域污染依然嚴重), Ta Kung
Pao, 2004-02-01
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/chi/document/LCpaper.pdf [Download date: 22/4/2005]
23
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Discussion
1. How do red tides affect daily life and the ecosystem?
2. List the marine products and quantity you had eaten last week.
Marine Products
Frequency of Intake
Quantity
Fish
Shellfish
Shrimp and crab
Others:
3. Why do certain fish contain excessive heavy metals? Elaborate with examples.
4. What desirable means of processing the toxic materials are there?
5. Why are red tides increasing in Shing Mun River despite smell improvement?
24
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 13: Oil spilling (Intermediate, also applicable to Issue 1b)
On the 24 March 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil tanker ran aground in the Prince William
Sound off Alaska, spilling over 53 million gallons of oil. The oil spread over the
2,100km-coastline of Alaska speedily, killing at least 250,000 marine birds, 2,800 sea
otters, 300 sea dogs, 250 bald eagles and 22 killer whales instantly. The government
employed 10,000 people, 1,000 boats, and 100 aeroplanes and helicopters to clear up, but
could only retract 14% of the spilt oil. The whole operation costs nearly USD2.1
billion.
The scale of the incident prompted the development of the Valdez Principles which have
now been gradually adopted by the industries. The Principles highlight the high costs of
an oil spill - Exxon spent some USD2.1 billion to clean up the spill, and a further 4.5
billion as compensation for fishermen and other affected individuals. With interest, the
compensation amounted to nearly USD7 billion.
Reference:
"1989 major oil spill still tormenting US now", (89 年美最嚴重油污遺害至今), Ming Pao, 2002-11-22
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/chi/news_archive_item.adp ？ campaign_id=32&id=746 [Download date:
22/4/2005]
http://club.amteam.org/statics/7397.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. Why did Exxon have to spend 2.1 billion dollars cleaning up the spill? What would
be the consequences of not clearing up?
2. How can we prevent oil spills from causing extensive impact on our environment?
25
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 14:
Illegal refuse dumps (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 3b)
According to information collected in 1998, there were 47 illegal refuse dumps in
north-western New Territories. 32 of them, each accumulating 2800 cubic meters of
refuse, were cleaned up by a special task force. However, the remaining 15 dumps, such
as the one in Sheung Pak Nai in Yuen Long with the size of a football field, have taken in
a total of 40 thousands cubic meters refuse, including asbestos waste.
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) would employ a waste control
company in October to clean up all the refuse within 6 months. The refuse involved
contains 60 thousands cubic meters of construction and demolition materials, 10 thousand
waste tires, 40 vehicle component parts and 100 tons of chemical waste.
Reference:
"EPD spends $15 Million for 15 Refuse Dumps" (環署 1500 萬清理 15 垃圾黑點), Ming Pao, 27-8-1998
Other references
"Animal corpses filled up refuse depots
Fear of epidemic in Pat Heung" (動物屍體
迫爆收集站 八鄉恐散播傳染病), Ming Pao, 2004-04-10
"Dead pigs piled up
Kam Tin residents fear the spread of viruses" (死豬堆積 錦田
村民恐播毒), Oriental Daily, 2004-01-27
"No supervision on farmland-turned-landfill" (農地變堆泥區無法監管), Oriental Daily,
2004-06-04
Discussion
1. Why is illegal refuse dumping so common in Hong Kong? Is the lack of refuse
depots or the lack of government supervision the major cause?
2. How can such illegal behaviours be stopped?
3. Can we rely only on education?
If not, what are your suggestions?
26
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 15: Construction waste – a problem of the probable demolition of Hunghom
Peninsula (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1c and 3b)
The developers of Hunghom Peninsula have announced in early December 2004 their
plan to demolish the brand new buildings and put in luxurious residential flats instead.
This is being criticized strongly by society.
The developers claim that they would use environmental-friendly ways to tear down the
buildings, which can reduce the estimated construction and demolition waste from
200,000 tonnes to 6,000 tonnes, and that 95% of the overall waste would be reused and
recycled. However, the general public have insisted that the demolition of the
brand-new "King of Home Ownership Scheme" with 2,500 flats would be a big waste.
Apart from producing a large amount of construction waste which will burden the already
overflowing landfills, it violates the principle of sustainable development and sets a bad
precedent.
According to an April 2004 opinion poll conducted by Greenpeace, 83.4% of respondents
thought that the demolition is a wasteful act, and 86.6% agreed that the developers should
accept their social responsibility – and should not waste huge resources for the sake of
maximizing profit.
Other references
"Developers said 97% of the construction waste could be reused" (鄭家純稱拆紅灣合法
理情 首用新法拆卸 廢料九成七循環再用) Wenweipo, A04, 2004-12-01
"No requirement to conduct environmental evaluation, according to existing legislation"
(拆卸紅灣毋須環境評估 廖秀冬﹕現行法例無規定) Sing Pao, A13, 2004-12-03
"83% Citizens: Don't tear down Hunghom Peninsula" (83%市民：不應拆紅灣半島),
Sing Pao, 2004-04-27
"To reduce waste Hunghom Peninsula may combine flats" (減拆紅灣建築廢料 或打
通相連單位), Ming Pao, 2004-04-27
"Landfills full: Dr. Sarah Liao against demolition of Hunghom Peninsula" (堆填區難容
廖秀冬反對拆紅灣) Hong Kong Economic Times, 2004-03-30
27
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Discussion
1. Outline the background of this case.
2. What are the reasons for the demolition of Hunghom Peninsula? Does the action
contradict environmental protection principles? Why?
3. Which solutions are the most ideal and appropriate for the Hong Kong government
and the developer?
4. Can you suggest some solutions from the perspective of protecting the environment?
28
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 16: Hong Kong people – world's top plastic bag abusers (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 3a)
Hong Kong people have become the world's top plastic bag abusers. A study from a
conservation group has shown that on average each Hong Kong person uses about 1,300
plastic bags per year, which is 40 % more than a Taiwanese and three times more than an
Australian. Everyday, 828 tons of plastic bags are disposed at the landfills in Hong Kong,
costing HK$40 million every year.
Amount of plastic bags used
Country/
Region
Yearly
consumption (bags)
Population
Average yearly
consumption per person (bags)
Hong Kong
8.8 billion
6.8 million
1,294
Taiwan
20 billion
22 million
909
Australia
6 billion
20 million
300
Ireland
1 billion
3.9 million
256
Reference
"Hong Kong people – world's top plastic bag abusers" (港人濫用膠袋世界之最), Apple Daily, 2004-05-30
Green Student Council http://www.gsc.org.hk/ [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. How does the abuse use of plastic harm the environment?
2. Why is the problem particularly serious in Hong Kong?
3. What effective means are available to reduce the abuse of plastic bags?
29
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 17: Electronic Waste (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a and 3b)
In August 2003, Greenpeace released a research report on the e-waste trade in Hong
Kong. The findings showed that Hong Kong people disposed more than 2 million items
of e-waste per year, with used computers accounting for almost a quarter of the total. The
report found that between 10 to 20% of the computer waste ends up in landfills or is sent
to charitable organizations for reuse. The remaining 80 to 90% is recycled and exported
to Mainland China, South East Asia and even Africa. The main dumping grounds in
China are in Guangdong province. Greenpeace researchers found that the e-waste
disposal industry has already caused environmental pollution and health problems in
these dumping grounds.
Greenpeace urges the government to stop the trade in e-waste immediately. The
government should introduce legislation to ensure that corporations bear the
responsibility for environmental and human health protection.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/news_archive_item.adp?campaign_id=39&id=622
[Download
22/4/2005]
Other reference
Greenpeace urges HK to stop exporting electronic waste
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=story_25-8-2003_pg6_5
Discussion
1. Which are the most common types of electronic waste?
2. What problems are brought about by electronic waste?
3. Can we reduce the production of electronic waste? Suggest some feasible ways.
30
date:
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 18: Air, water and noise pollution in Guangdong (Elementary)
Industrialization has improved the living standard of many people. However, fresh air
and clean water supply is becoming a luxury.
There are three main pollution problems in Guangdong Province:
1.
Water Pollution - about 80% of the water flowing through the cities is polluted.
2.
Air Pollution - including the emission of nitrogen oxides from motor vehicles, and
sulphur dioxide and dust from power stations, etc.
3.
Noise pollution - the majority of citizens has to live with noise pollution in the
city. They also live with 6,300 tons of industrial waste and 7 million tons of
household waste. It is estimated that the economic loss caused by pollution is not
less than 10 billion every year.
Named as Guangdong's cancer 'special', nasopharyngeal cancer is no longer as
exceptional as in the past. The number of lung and liver cancer cases soar; they being
closely related to water and air pollution.
Reference:
"Air, water and noise pollution" (濁氣污水噪音為禍), Ming Pao, 1999-05-17
Other reference
"Officials of Mainland's environmental protection warn that coastal pollution is serious."
(內地環保官員警告近岸海域環境污染仍然嚴重[兩岸]), ATV online news, 2004-06-03
http://www.hkatvnews.com/index_oldnews.html
Discussion
1. What are the common causes of air and water pollution?
2.
3.
Can we solve the pollution problem in the foreseeable future?
Apart from the negative effects on human beings, how does pollution damage the
environment?
31
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 19: Endangered animals (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 3a)
The first international report on the shark trade has revealed that Hong Kong is the most
important shark fins trading center in the world. The total imported amount has doubled
within 15 years, totaling more than 6 million kilograms. Given the lack of international
supervision on the shark hunting industry and the growing demand in shark products, the
report says that sharks are now in danger.
The report, named 'A Report on Global Sharks Trading', estimates that 30 to 70 million
sharks are hunted every year all over the world. Hong Kong and Taiwan account for
one-third of the total consumption of shark fins.
Reference:
"Hong Kong Becomes Shark Fins Trading Centre 6 Million kg imported in 15 years, Sharks are in danger"
(港成魚翅貿易中心 15 年進口 600 萬公斤、鯊魚處境危), Sing Tao Daily, 1996-12-6
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
Why is there such a great demand for shark fins among Chinese people?
What are the fundamental differences between eating shark fins and eating fish?
If sharks were not an endangered species, would the eating of shark fins still cause
environmental problems?
32
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 20: Tropical Rainforest (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b, 1c and 2c)
Tropical rain forests are found in Asia, Africa, South America, Central America and on
many of the Pacific Islands. The largest tropical rain forest is in Brazil. Tropical rain
forests receive at least 2,000mm of rain each year and have more species of plants and
animals than any other biome. The thick vegetation absorbs moisture, which then
evaporates and falls as rain.
The height of trees in the tropical rainforest varies and it can be broadly classified into
four layers. The first layer is the "Emergent Trees" which are the highest one with height
reaching 60 meters. The second is the "Canopy Layer" with trees of about 20 to 30 meters
height; mainly grows horizontally to increase the chance of absorbing sunlight. The third
is the "Shrub Layer", which consists mainly of young trees and bushes less than 10
meters. The fourth layer is the "Ground Layer" occupied by shade plants.
The tropical rainforest is being burned and bulldozed at the rate of 160,000 square
kilometers (63,000 square miles) each year. There are 79 hydroelectric dams planned for
Amazonia over the next 20 years, threatening over 150,000 square kilometers (58,000
square miles) of primitive rainforest with flooding.
Before the 16th century, the Caribbean islands were almost completely covered with
rainforest. Nearly all of them were cleared to make way for sugar plantations. Only about
40 per cent of the original extent of rainforests of Central America remains and Belize
retains as much as 60 per cent.
Other references
Text from Theresa Greenaway, Eyewitness Jungle, Copyright 2003, Dorling Kindersley
Limited, London, Penguin Group, p.22 [Reproduced by permission of Dorling Kindersley
Ltd]
Beth Rowen (ed.) Time for Kids Almanac 2004, Time Inc: New York, 2004. p. 81.
Norman Myers, "The Disappearing Forests" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p.50-51.
http://www.fed.cuhk.edu.hk/geo/AL/core/biotic/biome.html
http://www.kepu.ac.cn/big5/lives/banna/tropic/tro402.html
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/deforestation/introduction_c.html
33
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Discussion
1. Are there any tropical rainforests in Asia? Where are they?
2. What kinds of animals and plants can you find in Asia's tropical rainforests?
3. Is the tropical rainforest disappearing? What are the causes?
4. Some Western countries have cleared up the tropical rainforests in Central and South
America for cattle ranching. What would be the long-term effects on the
environment?
34
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 21: Deforestation (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b, 1c, 2c and 3a)
Since 1950, one fifth of the world's forest cover has been removed. At least 55% of the
world's 30 to 40 million hectares of rare but productive rainforests have been destroyed.
Current rates of loss of rainforests and other ecosystems are over 20 million hectares a
year, or 40 hectares a minute. According to reports from the World Resource Institute and
Rainforest Alliance, tropical forests account for 80% of that loss. An area almost the size
of Washington State is destroyed each year. Should the current rate remain, tropical
forests will be reduced by almost half in the next 45 years.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/deforestation/situation_e.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. Why do human beings engage in massive deforestation?
2. How many pieces of furniture or decoration items are made of wood at your home?
Can we use other materials as replacement?
3. Why do we need to protect the forests?
35
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 22: Hong Kong helps to destroy rainforest (Elementary, also applicable to
Issues 1b, 1c and 2c)
Greenpeace is urging the Hong Kong government and business not to buy products from
rainforest destruction in Canada. In recent years, Hong Kong and China have become
significant trading partners with Canada. There is a growing demand for pulp, paper,
newsprint and lumber. Hong Kong and China together are Canada's third largest trading
partner with bilateral trade exceeding HK$65 billion in 1998. Hong Kong and China's
demand for Canadian wood products also ranked third in 1999, totaling HK$3.5 billion.
According to the figures of Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Hong Kong's
demand for newsprint from Canada increased by nearly 70 per cent from 1999 to 2000,
amounting to some HK$540 million.
Reference:
Greenpeace Demands Hong Kong and China to Stop Buying Rainforest Destruction, 16 February 2001
http://archive.greenpeace.org/pressreleases/forests/2001feb16.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
http://forests.org/archive/canada/stcanold.htm
[Download date: 22/4/2005]
Other reference
Greenpeace urges a Hong Kong firm to stop
http://forests.org/articles/reader.asp？linkid=10820
illegal
timber from
PNG
Discussion
1. Can you find out the total amount of timber used by Hong Kong and Mainland
China each year?
2. Which industries demand the greatest amount of timber in Hong Kong?
3. Why do Hong Kong people use large amounts of white paper?
4. How can we reduce the usage?
5.
Construction companies seldom recycle or re-use wooden floor tiles. Why?
36
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 23: Rose Garden (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b, 1c and 2a)
From the 1960s to 1997, Hong Kong's economy grew rapidly.
In 1992, Hong Kong
launched ten core projects and the Rose Garden Plan, which included large-scale
infrastructures such as the Chek Lap Kok Airport, housing development, and urban
redevelopment. All these led to the production of extremely large amounts of
construction waste.
Reference:
"The causes of Hong Kong's environmental problems" (香港環境問題的成因), Ming Pao, 2004-05-15
Discussion
1. What is the Rose Garden Plan? What are the ten core projects?
2. Among the ten core projects, which do you think are necessary? Which are of lower
priority?
3. How do we strike a balance between economic development and environmental
protection?
37
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 24: The consequences of deforestation (Advanced, also applicable to Issues
1c and 2c)
Rainforest is a big pharmacy where tribal people can find medicines for all their illnesses.
However, most of these medicinal plants have not been tested scientifically. Since these
plants possess valuable substances, it is important to verify and consult the experienced
tribes before these plants become extinct.
Deforestation may lead to:
a. Loss of valuable pharmaceutical plants:
1. Red cinchona bark (South America)
The quinine extracted from the bark and root of the red cinchona tree can be used for
treating malaria, although synthetic drugs are also available today.
2. Indian Yam
Yams are a good source of diosgenin, a compound used
for oral contraceptives. It is also used for treatments of
rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatic fever.
© DK Images
3. Rosy periwinkle (Africa)
Two alkaloids taken from its leaves – vincristine and
vinblastine – are now used particularly in the treatment
of Hodgkin's disease and childhood leukemia.
38
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
4. Calabar beans (Africa)
Extracts from the seeds of calabar bean are now
used to treat glaucoma (a form of blindness)
and high blood pressure.
© DK Images
5. Ouabain was once used by African tribes as an arrow poison. Today,
strophanthidin and sarmentogenin are extracted from the seeds of this plant.
Strophanthidin is used to treat heart conditions. Sarmentogenin is the chemical
starting-point for the manufacture of treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.
6. Moreton Bay Chestnut
Research in the 1980s showed that this alkaloid
has significant effects on some viruses,
including the HIV that can cause AIDS.
© DK Images
39
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
b. Endangering jungle animals:
1. Javan silver gibbon, living in the rainforest of western and central Java in
South-East Asia, are critically endangered. There are only 2000 in the wild and
300,000 in native habitat. The causes are: loss of habitat through deforestation for
farming, logging, and mining.
2. Sumatran Tiger lives in the Sumatran forest. There are only 400 left in the
wild. Causes for extinction: loss of habitat, poaching, and illegal trade in tiger parts
for use in traditional Chinese medicine.
3. Sumatran orang-utan lives in the rainforests of Sumatra in South-East Asia.
There are only 15,000 to 20,000 left. The causes for extinction are: poaching and
loss of habitat; some animals are also captured for the illegal pet trade.
4. Aye Aye lives in the rainforest on the African Island of Madagascar. There
are only 2,500 left. Loss of habitat through logging and conversion of land for
agricultural purposes are the causes.
5.
Philippine eagle lives in the rainforests in Indonesia and Philippines. Only 250
mature birds are left. The causes for extinction are: loss of habitat through logging
and clearing land for agriculture.
6. Bonobo lives in the remote rainforests of central Zaire in Africa. There are
only 10,000-15,000 left. Hunting for its meat and the sale of young Bonobo as pets
are the main causes for extinction.
7.
Gorillas are found mainly in Central Africa.
There are around 40,000 left.
8.
Sumatran rhinoceros live in the lowland rainforests of South-East Asia. Only
300 are left in the forest of Indonesia and Malaysia. The Javan rhinoceros in
the lowland rainforests of Ujung Kulon National Park on Java, Indonesia, and
Cat Tien National Park in Vietnam is also critically endangered with only 60
left. The causes for extinction are due to deforestation, and poaching for its
high-priced horn, which is thought to have medical properties.
Reference:
Text from Theresa Greenaway, Eyewitness Jungle, Copyright 2003, Dorling Kindersley Limited,
London, Penguin Group, p.42-43, 66-67 [Reproduced by permission of Dorling Kindersley Ltd]
40
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Discussion
1. What are some of the valuable resources in the rainforest?
2. Have you ever used natural medicine or taken herbal medicine?
3. Identify five daily products which come from the rainforest.
4. Browse through the Internet and find the most endangered animals in the rainforest.
5. How does their extinction affect us?
41
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 25: The Ewenki - last guardian of the forest (Advanced, also applicable to
Issues 1b and 1c)
The Ewenki used to live in the forest between Inner Mongol and Russia. They are
nomadic herders and lead a simple and primitive life. However, because of deforestation,
the killing of wild animals and the moving out of new generations of Ewenki, this
primitive race and its culture is going to disappear from human history.
Millions of people live in the forests and depend on them materially and spiritually.
In
Brazil, 87 civilizations have already come to an end because of deforestation. In April
2002, the United Nations' Ancient Forest Summit met in The Hague to discuss ways to
preserve forests and the people who live there.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace-china.org.hk/chi/forest_one_article.adp？article_id=295
[Download date: 22/4/2005]
" The last guardian of the forest", Chinese Hearts 《
( 森林最後的守護者》中國人中國心), 13/6/1999 (Hong
Kong: RTHK, 1999)
Discussion
1. How does the destruction of forests and its ecosystem affect the lives of the Ewenki?
2. Does the Chinese government have the responsibility to protect this forest? What
has it done? Do you think it is enough?
3. What influences does the disappearance of primitive tribes have on their culture and
history?
4. Does the Chinese government have the responsibility to preserve the Ewenki tribe?
5. Even if a government has tried its best to preserve the lifestyle and culture of a tribe,
the power of economic development over the tribes people can be greater. Given
6.
7.
8.
such an irreversible situation, what can governments do to preserve endangered
civilizations?
What can we gain from ancient forests? What is the role of the forests in the
ecosystem?
In which regions of the world are forests rapidly decreasing? Why?
Do governments from other regions have any responsibility for such a situation?
42
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 26: A growing world (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1c and 2a)
The world's population is growing at an incredible rate. Today, it has reached more than
six billion, and is expected to continue to rise at a rate of about one billion every 12 years.
It will reach 11.5 billion in the year 2150. With medical advancement, improved living
conditions, and a healthier diet, we will live longer and enjoy a better quality of life. But
if the Earth is going to sustain such a large population, we need to conserve our natural
resources. Nations have to work together to reduce pollution, protect the forests, control
the use of pesticides, and find alternative sources of energy.
Pressure on Food Supply
Overpopulation puts a strain on resources. In many countries, natural disasters such as
flooding or crop failure have led to famine. The lack of clean drinking water or
inadequate food supply hinder the development of the whole community.
Pressure on Cities
The world's population is now concentrated in urban areas. It is very common to find
cities with a million or more inhabitants. Metropolitan city such as Tokyo in Japan has a
population of over 29 million. Today, 37 per cent of the population in developing
countries lives in cities, and the number is rising. This increases the pressure on
housing, jobs, and public services.
Reference:
Michael Tambini, Eyewitness Future, Dorling Kindersley: London, p. 16.
Jonathon Porritt, "Crunching Numbers" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p.117-121.
Jorge Hardoy and David Satterthwaite, "Empowering People" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p.125.
Discussion
1. In table form, list 10 countries with the largest population in the world.
2. What is the "one-child policy" in China? Would you consider it a success? Why?
3. Find out the work of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF).
4. Why is it so difficult to stop population growth? Why is this particularly so in
developing countries?
43
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key point a: Human Destruction of the Environment
Source 27: Urbanization (Advanced, also applicable to Issues 1c and 2a)
Population explosion has already happened in many cities in developing countries such as
Sao Paulo, La Paz, Mexico City, Calcutta, Bangkok, Manila and Jakarta. The
environmental effects from urbanization has worsen, creating ever widening circles of
deforestation and soil erosion around each urban centre, and serious problems of air and
water pollution. Many urban communities also face the problem of poverty and illnesses.
Reference:
Jorge Hardoy and David Satterthwaite, "Empowering People" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p.125.
Discussion
1. What kind of economic activities can you find in the cities in developing countries?
2. Compare the infrastructures of cities in developing countries with Hong Kong?
What are the major differences?
3. Does urbanization create extra stress on the environment? What are these extra
4.
stress?
Are there different levels of environmental damages in different stages of
development?
44
Key Point b
The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
45
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Suggested Question for enquiry
Can a damaged ecology recuperate? If the natural environment undergoes transitions
on its own, for better or for worse, are environmental problems solely the
responsibility of humans?
46
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 1: Revival of the Arabian oryx (Elementary)
After years of being hunted in the wild, the Arabian oryx was in danger of extinction.
Now a captive breeding programme has gradually built up a large enough gene pool
to allow the oryx to be reintroduced, and strictly protected, in its original habitat.
阿拉伯大羚羊 (Arabian oryx)
Reference:
Peter Raven and Ghillean Prance, "The Richness of Life" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p.72
Discussion
1. Develop information on the Arabian oryx.
2. Besides the Arabian oryx, what are some other endangered animals in the region?
3. Find out information about the panda protection programme in China.
47
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 2: Return of the Large Blue (Intermediate)
In 1979, the large blue butterfly was declared extinct in Britain. But after the
discovery of a relationship of complex interdependence between it and a kind of red
ant, it has been re-introduced.
The large blue butterfly (Maculinea arion) lays eggs on wild thyme bushes. When the
newborn caterpillar falls onto the ground, it is picked up by one particular species of
red ant (Myrmica sabuleti), which believes the caterpillar is one of its own tiny
worms. Safe in the ants' nest, the caterpillar stays there for ten months, before
emerging as a butterfly. It is now known that this ant can survive only on warm,
heavily grazed slopes. Therefore, the successful reintroduction of the large blue
butterfly depends on the provision of good grasslands.
大藍蝶 (Maculinea arion)
Reference:
David Hall and Jonathan Scurlock, "Defending the Open Range" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the
Earth, Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p.60.
Discussion
1. From libraries and the Internet, find out information about the large blue butterfly.
2. What is the value of programmes which reintroduce endangered species? Do
you think it is worthwhile? Why?
3. Is it better to have more varieties of living things on earth? Why?
4. If there are only blue and white butterflies, how would you feel?
48
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 3: Pollution of Shing Mun River (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues
1a, 2a and 3b)
In the past, the Shing Mun River had been seriously polluted by the release of
livestock, industrial and household waste. In 1980s, the equivalent of waste produced
by 160,000 people were dumped into the Shing Mun River. Organisms living there
could hardly survive.
Since 1987, the government has implemented various pollution control measures to
solve the problem. Besides banning livestock keeping in the urban areas of Shatin,
industrial and commercial sewage directed to public sewage mains. After years of
efforts, it is encouraging that the water quality in the Shing Mun River has now
significantly improved.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/textonly/tc_chi/news_events/current_issue/shingmunriver.html
[Download date: 22/4/2005]
http://www.hkedcity.net/iclub_files/a/1/119/webpage/report/text/Chi/IntroFrames.htm
[Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. What are the causes of pollution in the Shing Mun River?
2. What are some of the solutions?
3. To deal with different environmental problems, what attitudes should we adopt?
How should we prioritize? Why?
4. When dealing with environmental problems, should we treat them as separate
problems? Why?
5. What is/are the fundamental solution(s) to environmental problems?
49
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 4: Wilful damages to natural resources (Elementary, also applicable to
Issue 3b(Q1))
A.
Illigera wilfully cut down in Fung Yuen
Fung Yuen in Taipo was listed as "spot of special scientific values" in 1980. It is one
of twelve ecological spots with the highest conservation values. It has an area of 42.7
hectares, 3.4 of which is private land. In May 2004, it was discovered that 15 bushes
of illigera vine had been wilfully cut down. The illigera died in a few days and the
rare Fabricius butterflies which live on them became endangered. Conservation
groups suspect that some people are trying to damage Fung Yuen to enhance
development potential of the private site. Illegera is about 6 meters tall and it probably
takes 8 to 10 years to regain its full stature.
Though the cutting down of about 10 bushes will not cause immediate ecological
damage, during this butterfly breeding season, the eggs lain on the illegera can be
affected. If the situation continues, the Fabricius is seriously threatened.
Reference:
"Food of rare butterfly, Illigera in Fung Yuen Wilfully cut down" (珍稀燕鳳蝶主要食糧 鳳園青藤遭
惡意割死) Ming Pao, A11, 2004-05-09
Other references
Hong Kong Tree (樹木谷) www.hktree.com
50
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
B.
Electrical fishing in Sha Lo Tung damages ecology
Sha Lo Tung in Taipo is a paradise for dragonflies. It is one of the few places in the
world that hosts most dragonfly species. This 21-hectare legally protected site has
been repeatedly damaged. Apart from the burning of an 8-hectare area previously,
recently some people used electrical devices to fish in the river and the land was also
damaged by vehicles.
According to the Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Cap. 171), electrical fishing is
illegal in Hong Kong, with a maximum penalty of HKD200,000 and 6-month
imprisonment.
Reference:
"Electrical fishing in Sha Lo Tung damages habitat" (沙螺洞惡客電魚器 捕魚毀生態), Apple Daily,
A13, 2004-05-31
"Fish killers in Sha Lo Tung" (電魚殺手沙羅洞逞兇), Ming Pao, A15, 2004-05-31
C.
Theft of Buddhist pines
The rare Buddhist pine, which makes good feng-shui, has great commercial value.
Five illegal immigrants sneaked into Hong Kong just before the Chinese New Year in
2004 and stole 9 40-year-old Buddhist pines, totalling 360 years of tree life and worth
about HKD 60,000. They were caught but only 2 of the 9 trees survived. The loss
affects the appearance of the land, it also leads to soil loosening, making it difficult
for Buddhist pines and other plants to grow again. In view of increasing thefts of
Buddhist pines and the damage to the habitat, the thieves were given an additional
35% sentence, amounting to 32- to 62-month imprisonment.
Reference:
"Buddhist pines theft
Sentence raised 35% for five" (偷羅漢松猖獗 5 蛇匪加刑 35%), Ming Pao,
A08, 2004-07-23
Other references
"Feng-shui tree: 4 years to bud, 10 years to become a tree" (慢生風水樹 4 年萌芽 10
年成樹), Ming Pao, A08, 2004-07-23
Hong Kong Tree (樹木谷) www.hktree.com
51
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Activities
1. To prevent tree theft, design a TV advertisement or poster in groups to educate
the public of the importance of protecting our natural environment.
2. Share with other students the rationale of your design. Pick the best
advertisement and poster and discuss why it is good.
Discussion
1. What do you think are the most effective means of stopping people from
2.
destroying the natural environment?
Is a heavy penalty effective? Why?
52
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 5: Rehabilitation of Tung Chung Stream (Elementary)
The Tung Chung Stream in Lantau is about 3 kilometres long. A section (of about 330
metres) was found damaged by unauthorized works in late 2003. A road about 5 to 15
metres in width had been formed alongside the damaged section of the stream, and
boulders and pebbles on the streambed were removed. There were also signs of
filling activities and several temporary dams had been built. The ecology and river
side habitats were disturbed.
Rehabilitation works were completed in mid April 2004. The stream is recovering
from the disturbance. Fishes have returned and other aquatic lives (e.g. mayfly and
damselfly larvae) are visible. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
will monitor the progress of ecological restoration for at least two years and determine
if further enhancement works would be required.
Photographs showing the rehabilitation works
‧ At the upstream end of the affected portion
Before rehabilitation
53
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
After rehabilitation
‧ Looking downstream from upstream
Before rehabilitation
54
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
After rehabilitation
Reference:
http://www.etwb.gov.hk/FileManager/EN/whats_new/tung_chung_stream_inciden/Tung%20Chung%2
0Stream%202804_e.pdf [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Information notes on the rehabilitation of the Tung Chung Stream, Environment, Transport and Works
Bureau, 28 April 2004
Other references
"Rare Beijiang thick-lipped Barb reappear in revived Tung Chung Stream" (東涌河重
生 罕見光唇魚復現), Sing Tao, 2004-07-10
"Beijiang thick-lipped Barb reappear in reinstated Tung Chung Stream" (東涌河修復
北江光唇魚重現), Ming Pao, 2004-06-16
Discussion
1. Do you think the damage made to the ecosystem of the Tung Chung Stream
serious? Discuss.
2. Is it easy to revive the damaged ecology of the Tung Chung Stream? Which
parties are involved in the rehabilitation work?
3. Do you think it is easy to revive a damaged ecology? What factors influence
the decision to revive a damaged ecology? Can you find some examples?
55
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 6: Rehabilitation of the Rum Jungle in Australia (Advanced, also
applicable to Issue 3b)
The Rum Jungle mine operated from 1954 to 1971. Apart from being Australia's
first uranium mine, Rum Jungle produced large quantities of copper, lead and nickel.
The site is located 85 km south of Darwin in the headwaters of the East Branch of the
Finniss River. Mining at the site led to significant environmental impacts due to
oxidation of sulphides by bacteria and the consequent release of acid and metals into
the East Finniss River.
An initial attempt to clean up the Rum Jungle was made in 1977, which led to the
setting up of a working group to examine more comprehensive rehabilitation. An
AUS$16.2 million Commonwealth-funded program was set aside in 1983 to
neutralize the tailings and remove heavy metals. It is planned that a more detailed
assessment of the longer term persistence of improved pastures and stability of
erosion control works will be undertaken by 2009, 25 years from the commencement
of rehabilitation.
Reference:
Rum Jungle Rehabilitation Project Monitoring Report for 1993-1998, Department of Infrastructure,
Planning
and
Environment,
Northern
Territory
Government,
Australia,
July
2002
http://www.lpe.nt.gov.au/advis/land/rumjungle/index.pdf [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Uranium Information Centre, Australia http://www.uic.com.au/fmine.htm#rumj [Download date:
22/4/2005]
Uranium http://pearl1.lanl.gov/periodic/elements/92.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
Uranium: Its Uses and Hazards http://www.ieer.org/fctsheet/uranium.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
"Australia's Uranium and Who Buys It", UIC Nuclear Issues Briefing Paper 1, February 2004
http://www.uic.com.au/nip01.htm [Download date: 22/4/2005]
http://www.ecnt.org/mining/mining_rehab.htm [Download date: 22/4/2005]
World Information Service on Energy – Uranium Project
http://www.antenna.nl/wise/uranium/#UMM [Download date: 22/4/2005]
56
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Discussion
1. What is uranium? What are the uses and hazards of using uranium?
2. Why did the Australian government spend a lot of money and time to rehabilitate
the environmental destruction at Rum Jungle?
3. Can the pollution caused by the damaged Rum Jungle be reduced through
rehabilitation?
4. What would be the consequences of not rehabilitating Rum Jungle?
5. If you were the officials of the Australian government, what would you do to
6.
reduce the pollution caused by uranium mining? How would you balance the
economic benefits and the environmental impacts of uranium mining?
"From a moral standpoint, I thought Australians should leave their uranium in
the ground. I think that the risks attached to its removal - such as those of
increasing the chances of nuclear war and of destroying part of Australia's great
natural heritage - are in no way balanced by its benefits." (Paul Ehrlich, 1977).
Discuss.
57
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Source 7: Over-fishing (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a, 2b and 3c)
A.
Yearly sustainable level of global fishing
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations estimates that
the sustainable level of global fishing is 100 million tonnes per year. Yet in 1987, the
commercial catch was 91 million tonnes and a further estimated 24 million tonnes
was caught by local fishermen, whose catches went unrecorded.
Reference:
John Beddington, "Failing Fisheries" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p. 151-156, p.154.
Other references
http://ecosystems.fws.gov/
B.
"Foodaholic" Hong Kong people a threat to rare fishes
Hong Kong people are famous for being "foodaholic". The average land resources
consumed by each Hong Kong people exceed the world average by one-third! The
consumption rate for seafood, a Hong Kong favourite, is almost double the world
average. How we eat is endangering some species.
Reference::
'"Foodaholic" Hong Kong people a threat to fish
Disturbed demand-supply endangers next generation" (港人大食趕絕稀魚損生態 耗用資源供求失
衡禍延下一代), Ming Pao, A04, 2000-10-30
58
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
C.
Frequent fish bombing in Pedro Blanco reduces fish
Pedro Blanco (located east of Sai Kung and in Chinese waters) is a popular place for
diving and fishing for Hong Kong people and is famous for its rich seafood
population. Uncontrolled dive-fishing is now threatening the marine ecology. More
serious is the frequent "fish bombing" by Mainland fishermen, killing at least 500 fish
each time. Marine experts recently discovered a drastic drop in sea animals there and
urged government action.
Reference:
"Frequent fish bombing in Pedro Blanco reduces fish population" (「大青針」炸魚頻頻魚量大減),
Ming Pao, A22, 2004-06-04
D.
Fishing moratorium in South China Sea
Fishing moratorium in the South China Sea began in June and lasted until 1st August.
About 1,400 local boats were affected. Representatives estimated that the supply of
fish would significantly drop from late June to early July, affecting mainly the wet
markets. Prices were estimated to rise by 10%. However, supplies to restaurants were
not affected since most of them depend on air import and on cultivated fish. During
the moratorium, except for gill-netting, long-lining, hand-lining and cage trapping, all
forms of fishing are prohibited.
Reference:
"20% drop in supply of fish during moratorium 'Infected' fresh water fish has poor sales
Increased
demand for sea fish raises price by 10%" (休漁期供應跌兩成淡水魚「含菌」銷量差 海水魚需求增
加價一成), Ming Pao, A16, 2004-06-16
"Estimated 10% increase in fish price during moratorium
Low-interest loans multiplied" (休漁期
魚價恐升一成 低息貸款援助額倍增), Ming Pao, A19, 2004-06-01
59
Optional Module II: Human-environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point b: The Carrying Capacity of the Ecosystem
Discussion
1. What was the global total catch last year?
2. What is the fish consumption rate per year for Hong Kong people? Do you
consider the figure shocking? Why?
3. Where does most of the fish sold in Hong Kong markets come from?
4. Is over-fishing serious in South China Sea?
5. What is a moratorium? How serious is its effect?
6. Only gill-netting, long-lining, hand-lining and cage trapping are allowed during
the moratorium. Why?
7. What are the impacts of moratorium on our everyday life?
8.
What help does the Hong Kong government offer the fishermen during the
moratorium?
9. Which fishing methods affect the fish most?
10. Why do some fishermen go for 'fish bombing'? What is wrong with it? Besides
marine animals, what else is affected?
11. Which species of fish are endangered?
60
Key Point c
Towards Sustainability
61
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Suggested Questions for enquiry
Are natural resources unlimited and can they be tapped without restraint? Is sustainable
development possible? Are we accountable to later generations in the use of resources?
Who has the right to decide on the use of land and the distribution of resources?
62
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 1: Non-renewable Sources of Energy (Elementary)
Most of the energy we use nowadays comes from uranium and fossil fuels such as coal,
natural gas and petroleum. These natural resources are non-renewable. When they are
used up, they are gone forever.
Reference:
Beth Rowen (ed.) Time for Kids Almanac 2004, Time Inc: New York, 2004, p. 82
http://www.fi.edu/guide/dukerich/tguide.html[Download date: 22/4/2005]
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
Which kind of natural resources are most commonly used in Hong Kong?
In what way can we limit the use of these resources?
Are there alternatives?
63
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 2: Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong (Intermediate, also applicable to
Issue 3b(Q1))
Hong Kong’s average yearly rainfall was 2569mm from 2000 to 2003. However, the
average evaporation rate can reach 50% due to intensive sunlight and summer heat.
Experts estimate that the average water resources for each Hong Kong resident is only
195 cubic meters (the global average is 7,600 cubic meters). In addition, most of Hong
Kong's land is located in granite area with inadequate underground water, which leads to
inadequate water supply in Hong Kong. Since 1965, Hong Kong has been importing
water from Dongjiang. The amount of imported water has been increasing from 68
million in 1965 to 760 million cubic meters in 2003, which accounts for 78.15% of the
total water usage in Hong Kong. This shows the importance of water supply from
Dongjiang.
Reference:
Water Supplies Department http://www.info.gov.hk/wsd/tc/html/info_publ/stat/consump.htm [Download
date: 22/4/2005]
http://www3.news.gov.hk/ISD/ebulletin/tc/category/environment/030628/features/html/030626tc06001.htm
[Download date: 22/4/2005]
中大綠色報 GreenPost 第 7 期 2003 年 4 月 1 日,
專題探討 http://go.to/greenpost [Download date:
22/4/2005]
Discussion
1. Where does Hong Kong’s potable water come from?
2. Can we rely on Dongjiang water in the long run? Is its supply unlimited?
3. If Dongjiang water is no longer available to Hong Kong, what are the alternatives
for us?
4. How can we protect our water from being polluted?
5.
If we rely on Dongjiang water continuously, how would that affect the residents
along Dongjiang?
64
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 3: Erosion of Topsoil and Desertification (Intermediate, also applicable to
Issues 1a and 2c)
A.
Erosion of topsoil
Some 24 billion tonnes of topsoil are eroded worldwide each year. This is equivalent to
all the Australian wheatlands, combined representing the loss of 9 million tonnes of
potential grain harvest.
Reference:
Lester Brown, "Blowing in the Wind" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p.64.
B.
Desertification
According to United Nations' statistics of 2003, 70% of the world’s 5.1 billion hectares of
agricultural dryland are experiencing soil degradation. The most serious case is Africa,
with three quarters of its agricultural dryland already degraded to some degree. Asia
has 1.4 billion hectares of land affected by desertification. 18 developed countries are
also affected. Global desertification is increasing at a rate of 3.5% each year, costing 42
billion US dollars annually.
Besides climatic changes, human activities are also to blame. Over-cultivation
deteriorates the land. Over-grazing damages the vegetation. Over-lumbering of forests
intensifies soil erosion. Improper irrigation salinizes the soil. These factors lead to
desertification.
Reference:
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
http://www.unccd.int/publicinfo/factsheets/showFS.php?number=2 [Download date: 22/4/2005]
World Day to Combat Desertification (世界防治荒漠化和乾旱日)
http://www.acca21.org.cn/news/2001/news06-02.html [Download date: 22/4/2005]
65
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Discussion
1. What is the value of the topsoil?
2. Why is topsoil being eroded?
3. What is cultivated land? Why is it important to keep the cultivated land?
4. Do we have enough cultivated land to cope with the growing population?
5. Collect information about the Conservation Reserve Programme in the United
States.
66
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 4: Cheap Resources – Coal (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a and 3c)
In the 19th century, Europe and United States used cheap, dirty coal to foster industrial
growth. Today, developing countries such as China and India would like to use their
abundant supply of low-cost coal for industrialization. But because these two countries
have a combined population of 2,000 million, the global impact of coal-burning there
would be far greater than in the 19th century. The US and Europe are not urging them to
adopt cleaner, more efficient and high tech methods of power production. Developing
countries naturally object because that would be initially more expensive than the
traditional options.
Reference:
Stephen Schneider, "Climate at Risk" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley Limited:
London, 1991, p.101.
Discussion
1. Is it fair to urge developing countries to abandon the use of cheap coal for their
2.
3.
industrialization process?
What would be a fairer solution to this dilemma?
What have China and India done with this problem?
67
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 5: Renewable Sources of Energy (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 2a)
Renewable energy is infinite. Examples of renewable energy resources include solar
energy, wind energy, geothermal energy, biomass energy and hydropower. Normally,
renewable energy generates less pollution in its collection and production.
Solar energy comes from the Sun and it is collected through solar panels which convert
sunlight into electricity.
Geothermal energy comes from the core of the Earth. Steam or extremely hot water
from the Earth's crust is used to generate electricity.
Biomass energy includes natural products like wood, corn and manure. Heat is generated
through the burning of these materials.
Hydropower is generated by water flowing through dams and rivers, activating a turbine
which runs an electric generator.
Reference:
Beth Rowen (ed.) Time for Kids Almanac 2004, Time Inc: New York, 2004, p. 82
"UK develops renewable energy resources" (英國大力發展可再生能源), Ta Kung Pao, 22 April 2004.
Discussion
1. Does Hong Kong make use of any of the above renewable sources of energy? Give
examples to illustrate this.
2. What are the benefits of using renewable sources of energy?
3. What are some environmentally friendly ways of generating electricity?
4.
5.
What has Hong Kong done in producing a clean environment?
Discuss the feasibility of large-scale use of renewable sources of energy in Hong
Kong.
68
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 6: Renewable Energy in Hong Kong (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues
2a(Q2) and 3b)
With regard to the reference of "renewable energy" mentioned in the document
"Sustainable Development Strategies for Hong Kong", the government has proposed four
scenarios: (1) "Business as Usual": continue relying on fossil fuel and nuclear energy
sources to meet our electricity needs; (2) "Localised Renewable Energy Facilities":
encourage the two power companies and private developers to install renewable energy
facilities to meet part of their in-house power demand; (3) "Incremental Change":
develop solar, wind and waste-converted energy; and (4) "Ambitious Model": the
government will propose regulations on the development of renewable energy in 2008
when profit control on the two power companies end.
"Waste-converted energy" is the generation of electricity by the combustion of waste. The
latest technology can effectively remove pollutants and the toxic chemical Dioxin
released during the process. The government believes that such a development can supply
long-term stable electricity and solve the problem of limited capacity of landfills.
Other references
Sustainable Development (可持續發展策略網站) (July 2004)
http://www.susdev.org.hk/en/paper/paper_ch3.asp
"Waste-converted energy resources highly recommended" (重點推介廢物轉化能 ),
Wenweipo, A06, 2004-07-10
"Litter combustion bring relief to landfills
Groups claim it does more harm than good" (團體指禍害環境更大 燒垃圾製能源減堆
填區壓力), Sing Tao Daily, A11, 2004-07-10
Electrical and Mechanical Services Department on energy and energy efficiency (機電工
程署有關能源和能源效益的互動網站)
http://www.energyland.emsd.gov.hk/eng/index.htm
Air pollution and greenhouse gas emission inventory (香港空氣污染和溫室氣體總量)
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/data/emission_inve.html
69
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Study on the Potential Applications of Renewable Energy in Hong Kong (香港可再生能
源之可能應用顧問研究報告)
http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/sgi/re.shtml
Chinese Renewable Energy Industries Association (中國可再生能源產業協會)
http://www.creia.net
China New Energy (CNE) (中國新能源網) http://www.newenergy.org.cn
"Renewable energy" (可再生能源), 60-Minute News Update (六十分鐘時事追擊),
2002/07/14. Hong Kong: ATV, 2002
Discussion
1. What are the pros and cons of using renewable energy in Hong Kong?
2. Are you and your family willing to pay more for renewable energy?
3. Are you willing to be accountable to later generations by conserving our limited
resources? How?
4. Do you agree Hong Kong should resort to renewable energy through the combustion
of waste? Why?
5.
6.
What is your view on the models proposed in the document "Sustainable
Development Strategies for Hong Kong" on "renewable energy" (July 2004)? Do
you have other suggestions?
“Traditional means of generating power does not take in environmental costs (i.e.
pollution to the environment).” Why? Is this comment fair and reasonable?
70
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 7: Sustainable Farming can save the Rainforest (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 2c)
A sustainable farming system can conserve resources, provide adequate food, optimize
crop output, and are profitable, supporting both the farmer and the rural communities.
For example, Brazil nuts can be sustainably harvested from tropical forests because they
are collected from the wild. Attempts to grow Brazil nut trees in plantations have failed
because the trees will only produce fruit in the forest. This has helped to prevent
deforestation.
Other references
http://eces.org/articles/000634.php
I.A. Merwin and M. P Pritts, "Are modern fruit production systems sustainable?”
HortTechnology 3(2):128-136. 1993
http://www.sarep.ucdavis.edu/NEWSLTR/v6n4/sa-9.htm
Discussion
1. Does Hong Kong import large quantity of wood from rainforests?
2.
3.
4.
For what are the imported wood used? Do we recycle these resources?
In what ways can we help in the sustainable development of the forest?
Browse through the Internet and learn about the sustainable development of the
rainforest in Malaysia, Indonesia and India.
71
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 8: Wind Farms (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 3c)
Wind farm is used in Nan'ao Island to generate electricity. There are 8 such wind farms in
Guangdong Province. China is working to increase its capacity to 4,000MW by 2010. To
combat climate change, we must minimize the use of fossil fuels and use more renewable
energy. China signed the Kyoto Protocol in August 2002, and extended both the Kyoto
Protocol and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to HKSAR in May 2003.
南澳島風力發電場 (Wind Farm in Nan'ao Island)
2003-11-14©Greenpeace
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/chi/one_gallery.adp?priority=8&slide_id=51&campaign_id=32
date: 22/4/2005]
Other references
www.greenpeace-china.org
http://www.greenpeace.org/features/details？item%5fid=449506
http://www.ce.cn/cysc/ny/dl/200410/20/t20041020_2040779.shtml
http://www.soa.gov.cn/shixun/inside/200410/13521b.htm
72
[Download
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Discussion
1. What is the resolution of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol?
2. How much has Hong Kong done in these areas? What do you think?
73
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 9: Solar Energy Schools (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a (Q2) and
3a)
Hong Kong has attempted to use solar energy since 1980s. Examples are the
Observatory's automatic weather stations and the Hong Kong Science and Technology
Park. The first solar energy school is Kei Wai Primary School (Ma Wan) which has
installed solar system at a cost of over HK$4 million. The system came into operation in
March 2004, supplying 10% of the overall electricity needs of the school and saves
approximately HK$40,000 per year. In addition, students can learn about renewable
energy on the spot.
Reference:
"Sensors and mini-conservatory in classrooms Solar energy school saves $40000 per year" (課室裝感應
器設小型天文台 太陽能學校年慳電費四萬), Sing Tao Daily, A19, 2004-07-03
Activity
Divide into 2 groups. Debate on the feasibility of installing a solar system in your school
(You may consider the pros and cons of solar energy and the necessary conditions in its
favour.)
74
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 10: Catalytic converters for vehicles (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues
1a and 3c)
Acid rain is caused primarily by sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide released from power
stations, and also by nitrogen oxides from vehicles. European countries are obliged to
reduce sulphur dioxide emissions from power stations by specific amounts by the year
2003. From 1992 onwards, all new cars sold in the United States, Japan and European
countries must be fitted with catalytic converters.
Reference:
Michael Walsh, "Living Dangerously" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p.105-106.
Discussion
1. It was estimated that with the introduction of catalytic converters, the estimated
levels of hydrocarbons in the global atmosphere would fall. But since 2000, the
increasing numbers of cars will outweigh the benefits gained. How can this
2.
3.
problem be solved effectively?
Air pollution is very serious in the State of California. Can you find out what causes
it and suggest possible measures that the Government can implement?
How is the situation in Asia and Hong Kong?
75
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 11: Banning of Ozone-depleting Chemicals (Elementary, also applicable to
Issues 2a and 3c)
The Montreal Protocol was signed in 1986 and renegotiated in June 1990. By the year
2000, the vast majority of ozone-depleting chemicals have successfully been phased-out.
This shows that the atmosphere has no boundaries and it can only be protected by
international cooperation.
Reference:
Jonathan Porritt, Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p. 91.
Discussion
1. What is the content of the Montreal Protocol?
2. How do CFCs and halons harm the environment?
3. What can replace ozone-depleting substances?
76
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 12: Banning of Drift Net Fishing (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1a,
1b, 2a and 3c)
Drift net fishing by Japan, Taiwan, and Korea fleets usually uses large gill nets as long as
50 kilometres (30 miles). Gill nets kill a great many species which are of no value to the
fishermen, including marine mammals and turtles. It is estimated that 7,000 kilometres
(4,350 miles) of nets are operating every year in the Pacific.
The UN General Assembly banned ocean-going drift netting in 1991. Some countries
have introduced programmes to buy the operators in order to keep fishing to sustainable
levels.
Reference:
John Beddington, "Failing Fisheries" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.), Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley Limited:
London, 1991, p. 151-156, p.156.
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
4.
Since Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations, would the UN resolution have
no binding effect on her?
What sustainable fishing methods are used in other countries?
Do you know anything about whaling by Japanese fleets?
Find out information about the slaughter of pilot whales by inhabitants of the Faroe
Islands.
77
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 13: Concept and Benefit of Organic Farming (Elementary, also applicable to
Issue 3a)
Organic farming advocates the "natural principle". It emphasizes the conservation of
soil fertility by not using chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The "natural principle" refers to the practice of crop rotation, recycling of animal waste
and plant residues to maintain soil fertility. Organic farming maintains the biodiversity
of beneficial insects and pest which in turn facilitate the growth of healthy crops. Apart
from preventing environmental pollution and over-exploitation, organic farming produces
nutritious and safe food for human beings, and maintains a balanced, productive and
competitive ecosystem.
Other references
HOFA http://www.hofa.org.hk/index.php
綠田園基金 Produce Green Foundation
http://www.producegreen.org.hk/chinese/frame_organic.htm
http://www.producegreen.org.hk/hkone/content/page1a.htm
"AFCD recommends organic strawberry farming to farmers" (漁護署向農民推介種植有
機草莓), 8 January 2004, New Bulletin, http://www.afcd.gov.hk/news/news.htm
Discussion
1. What is organic farming?
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of organic farming?
3. What are the characteristics of organic products?
4. Give some examples of organic products.
5. Is organic farming popular in Hong Kong and in other parts of the world? Why or
why not?
6. The Hong Kong Government has promoted the farming of organic strawberry since
January 2004. Do you think this is good for farmers, customers, and the economy?
78
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 14: Ecological Footprints (Advanced, also applicable to Issue 3c)
The ecological footprint of a population is arrived at by calculating how much land and
water area is required on a continuous basis for the production of all the goods consumed,
and for absorption of all the wastes generated by that population.
Productive Areas
Fair Share=
World Population
The ecological footprint allows individuals, policy analysts, organizations, and
governments to measure and communicate the economic, environmental, distributional
and security impacts of natural resources.
Other references
http://www.civic-exchange.org/enviro/n_env_local/n_env_ecology/n_env_ecology.htm
"Ecological Footprints Accounts: Moving Sustainability from Concept to Measurable
Goal", p.1
http://www.redefiningprogress.org/programs/sustainabilityindicators/ef/efbrochure.pdf
Dr Jason Venetoulis, Dahlia Chazan, and Christopher Gaudet, "Ecological Footprint of
Nations 2004 – Sustainability Indicators Program", March 2004, Redefining Progress
http://www.redefiningprogress.org/publications/footprintnations2004.pdf
http://www.foe.org.hk/welcome/eco_footprint.asp
http://www.wwf.org.hk
http://www.regionalprogress.org/ef_ca_santamonica.html
HKSAR Government Working Paper No. 10: Ecological Footprint
http://www.info.gov.hk/hk2030/hk2030content/wpapers/wpaper_10/e_wpaper10.htm
Discussion
1. What is an ecological footprint composed of?
2. What is the use of working out an ecological footprint?
79
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 15: Green Architecture – One Peking Road (Elementary)
Environment-friendly concepts and features are beginning to appear in the design of
commercial buildings in Hong Kong. One good example is 'One Peking Road' in Tsim
Sha Tsui which was completed in 2003. This project won the 2003 Top Architectural
Award of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects.
The environment-friendly design of this 29-storey building has 3 features:
1. 3-tier heat-spreading glass wall system: glass wall captures natural lighting.
2. Light-sensitive automatic blinds: installed on the east and west facades, they reduce
the burden on air-conditioning from the heat of the sun.
3. Solar panels: generates power mainly for the blinds system. Located on the top floor,
their arch-shaped design increases sunlight-absorbing surface areas and matches the
arch shapes of both the building and the harbour.
With such a design, the total cost exceeds that of ordinary buildings by about 10%.
Other references
http://infrastructure.tdctrade.com/suc-c130.htm
"Yacht-like 3-tier glass saves energy
One Peking Road won architectural award" (外
形似乘風船帆三層玻璃慳能源 北京道一號獲建築大獎), Sing Tao Daily, A07,
2004-03-15
"Annual award of Hong Kong Institute of Architects won by One Peking Road
Rooftop solar panels
Computerized blinds take advantage of sunlight" (建築師學會
年獎北京道一號奪魁樓頂大陽能發電板 電腦控百葉簾採光), Apple Daily, A18,
2004-03-15
Activity
Visit One Peking Road and try to arrange an interview there.
Discussion
1.
2.
Are there other environment-friendly buildings in Hong Kong? Compare and
contrast their characteristics.
Find out the practical benefits of environment-friendly architecture.
80
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 16: The Future of the Earth (Elementary)
Can you imagine living in a world where there are neither animals nor trees? How about
living in a place with polluted air, the ozone layer almost destroyed, and you have to wear
a mask and protective clothes? If we want to live healthy and create a healthy
environment for future generations,
we shall reduce, reuse and recycle resources and plant
more vegetation.
Reference:
"A Glimpse of the Future?", Shelley W., Scituate, MA,
http://www.teenink.com/Past/1997/7993.html
Discussion
1. Will you be happy living in a world as described in the above paragraph? Why?
2. If you live in such a world, would you think your ancestors have been kind to you?
3. Why is damaging the environment an irresponsible act?
4. List 10 behaviours which can help to protect the environment.
81
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 17: Genetically Modified Food (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a and
3c)
Genetically modified food has special characteristics which cannot be found in food by
traditional planting methods, e.g., anti-insect maize, anti-herbicide soya bean and
cabbage and kale that produce toxins to kill insects, etc.
Although genetically modified food can be grown in large quantities and is more
adaptable, it has also triggered worldwide concerns among scientists and the media.
Some countries have postponed the launch of genetically modified food in the market.
Other references
Produce Green Foundation (綠田園基金)
http://www.producegreen.org.hk/chinese/frame_organic.htm
http://hk.geocities.com/haorgfarm/
Genetically Modified Food UK and World News
http://www.connectotel.com/gmfood/index.html
Discussion
1. What is genetic engineering?
2. What is genetically modified food? Give examples.
3. What are the benefits of genetically modified food? Do we urgently need this kind
of food?
4. What problems are there with genetically modified food? You can discuss this with
the examples of genetic vegetables and mega-insects.
5. How does genetically modified food affect human health and ecology?
6. How would genetically modified food affect our next generations?
7. Why does genetically modified food trigger so much opposition from the public?
8.
Do you think the government should implement a comprehensive genetically
modified food labeling system as soon as possible? What are the possible barriers to
the introduction of such a system?
82
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 18: Plans for Building a Natural Reserve or Golf Resort in Sham Chung
(Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2b and 3b(Q1))
Situated in the northwest of Sai Kung Country Park, Sham Chung is an important habitat
for fishes, particularly the Black Paradise Fish. The marsh is also home to invertebrates.
Some developers have now proposed turning Sham Chung into a golf resort. At the same
time, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and the Planning
Department are studying Sham Chung's ecological values and will probably designate
part of it as a natural reserve or a marine reserve. They hope to take care of both
development and conservation and come to a win-win resolution with the developers.
Reference:
"Plans in Sham Chung for a natural reserve" (深涌擬劃海岸保護區), Ming Pao,
2004-06-03
http://www.wwf.org.hk/chi/conservation/hab_protect/green_dragon/sham_chung.html
Discussion
1. Who has the right to decide on land use and the distribution of resources?
Sham Chung as an example and discuss.
2. What would be the most ideal and appropriate plan for Sham Chung?
83
Take
Optional Module II: Human Environment Relationship
Issue 1: What are the problems facing our environment and ecology?
Key Point c: Towards Sustainability
Source 19: Wilderness Areas in America (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 2c)
A primary benefit of wilderness is the recreational opportunities it provides.
Unfortunately, recreation use can also threaten wilderness conditions and values.
In the United States, the government has set up a standard to limit access to the Alpine
Lakes Wilderness by stating that a hiker seeking a true "wilderness" experience is not
supposed to encounter another human more than seven times a day. However, in August
1997, a hiker going up the most popular trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness encountered
people coming down at a rate of one group per minute.
The U.S. Forest Service's survey of wilderness visitors in 1965 and in 1997 indicated a
dramatic shift in public attitudes about wild areas. In 1965, 29 percent agreed that the
use of wilderness should be restricted whereas 56 percent in 1997 said that limits on
people were needed.
Reference:
Danny Westneat, "U.S. may limit wilderness access", Seattle Times Washington Bureau, 17 August 1997
http://www.wildwilderness.org/wi/limits.htm
Other reference
Mark Waite, "Limited access to Spring Mountains sparks concern", Pahrump Valley Times, 9
January 2004
http://www.pahrumpvalleytimes.com/2004/01/09/news/forest.html
Discussion
1. Should the US Forest Service limit the public's access to the Alpine Lakes
Wilderness?
2.
3.
4.
5.
Do you think the dramatic shift in US public's attitude towards wild areas is
expected? What are the reasons behind such changes?
Should human beings enjoy wilderness at the cost of degrading the wilderness? How
do we strike a balance between the two?
What are the rights and responsibilities of human beings in the wilderness areas?
Who has the right to decide on landuse and the distribution of resources?
84
85
Issue 2
What are the values and considerations for
environmental protection?
86
Key Point a
Technological and social development alongside
environmental protection
87
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Suggested questions for enquiry
Do environmental and ecological problems arise because of backward production
methods? Can technological advancements increase production and at the same time
enhance environmental protection? If the earth itself cannot escape the final fate of
destruction, why should we bother with environmental protection?
88
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 1: Environmental Hazards Caused by Improper Development and Wars
(Intermediate)
The Loess Plateau, through which the Huang He (or Yellow River) flows, used to be
blessed with fertile soil. Through the years, because of extensive deforestation,
wartime destruction of dams, backward agricultural methods and improper land uses,
serious soil erosion has occurred. Every year the amount of soil and sand flowing into
the Huang He reaches 1.6 billion tonnes, blocking the downstream and directly or
indirectly contributing to serious flooding.
That the flat land and convenient transport have made the Huang He region a densely
populated and major agricultural area intensifies the environmental problem.
Reference:
http://ihouse.hkedcity.net/~hm1203/hazard/flood-cause-huanghe.htm [Download date: 26/5/2005]
郭治 (Guo, Z.)（著）
，《熱愛地球》(Love the Earth) (中國江蘇：江蘇教育出版社，1999)，第 46
頁
Discussion
1. How is the forest ecosystem in the middle course of the Huang He?
2. Why do people damage the forest and grassland in the middle course of the
Huang He?
3. Why is a large amount of sand found in the Huang He? What problems will this
cause?
4. List some solutions to this problem.
89
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 2: Over-grazing/Over-cultivation (Elementary, also applicable to Issue
2b)
Overgrazing occurs when the amount of intensive grazing by livestock exceeds the
carrying capacity of grassland. Most overgrazing is caused by excessive livestock
feeding over a long period in a particular area. Overgrazing lowers the productivity of
vegetation and changes the quantity and types of plants in a given area. It contributes
to desertification and global warming. Wildlife habitats are threatened by overgrazing.
In North Sahel, which is south of the Sahara desert, people practise nomadism or
grazing to raise goats and camels. When overgrazing occurs, soil erosion results
leaving a harsh environment unfriendly to vegetation. In the wetter South Sahel, the
continuous practice of over-cultivation has caused soil erosion in the already limited
arable land. The whole region is now being turned into deserts.
Reference:
http://www.pepa.com.hk/problems/overgrazing/introduction_e.html [Download date: 26/5/2005]
http://www.hkba-travel.org/world_scenery/outlook_10.htm [Download date: 26/5/2005]
The global desertification threat (全球荒漠化的威脅)
http://www.agrionline.net.cn/zhuanjia/article/shta/19.htm [Download date: 26/5/2005]
Ho, C H & S T Chiu (Eds.), Natural Conservation in China, Hong Kong Museum of History: Hong
Kong, 1983, p.26
Discussion
1. What are the reasons for "over-grazing / over-cultivation"?
2. What possible ways can prevent this from worsening?
90
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 3: The Bad Consequences of Indigenous Mineral-refining (Advanced,
also applicable to Issues 1b, 2b and 2c)
Recent economic drives have seen a large amount of indigenous sulphur-refining
plants in mineral-rich eastern Yunnan and northern Guizhou in China. In indigenous
sulphur-refining, 10,000 cubic metres of gases, including 1.8 tonnes of sulphur
dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, are produced for each tonne of refined sulphur. The
toxic gases seriously damage the environment. It raises the pH value of rain water to
3.1, forming acid rain. Acid rain turns the area around the sulphur-refining plants
into a barren land: insects are gone; trees die; rocks turn white, severely eroded by
sulphur dioxide, vulnerable to landslides. Large amounts of sewage and debris
containing toxins like mercury, arsenium and cadmium are released in the process of
indigenous mineral-refining. A sulphur-refining plant which produces only a few
thousand tonnes of sulphur per year releases 158,000 tonnes of sulphuric sewage,
which infiltrates the soil and contaminates the rivers.
References:
Guo, Z. (郭治 （著）), Love the Earth (《熱愛地球》) (中國江蘇：江蘇教育出版社，1999)，p.67
Environmental Protection Administration of Zunyi City (遵義新聞網), "Indigenous mineral-refining
damages the environment.
Kilts in Changzheng City closed down." (「污染環境土法煉礦
長征鎮
"焙燒窑"被取締」) http://www.zyepb.gov.cn/Article_Show.asp?ArticleID=614
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
"Urgent need to protect mines—Second report on ecological development in Southwestern China" 「
( 保
護礦山刻不容緩——西南地區生態建設採訪札記之二」), People's Daily, 3rd August, 2000.
http://www.people.com.cn/GB/channel3/21/20000907/222423.html
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Discussion
1. Why do people refine minerals by indigenous methods?
2. How can the negative consequences of indigenous mineral refining be eliminated?
3. Under what conditions can it be done?
91
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 4: The Changes and Preservation of North-East Lantau (Elementary)
North-East Lantau used to be a rarely-visited place covered with mountains, streams,
coasts and bays. Since the building of the airport, the shrinking of the lumbering
industry, reclamation works, road construction and associated development projects,
the natural coastline and mountain range of North-East Lantau have been drastically
changed. Improved infrastructure has enhanced accessibility, but the natural
landscape has been deteriorating.
Based on Civil Engineering and Development Department findings in its Northshore
Lantau Development Feasibility Study completed in 2001 and taking into account the
changing circumstances of port development, the planning of North-East Lantau has
moved from predominantly port-based to recreation and tourism development. The
focus is an international theme park in Penny's Bay and compatible uses in the
surrounding areas.
References:
http://www.cedd.gov.hk/eng/archives/programmes/02_03_li_01_05.htm#a
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Days in the Nature 《
( 山河歲月》（
) Hong Kong: RTHK, 28-03-2001, 22mins）PolyU Library, AV Local
TV, 16667 VCD
呂沛銘，「大嶼山的哀歌」http://www.hkfca.org.hk/data/draft/0008lpm.htm
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Activity
Organize a field trip to North-East Lantau. Record the natural habitat, population
structure, and changes brought about by land development.
Discussion
1. What positive and negative influences have the changes in the northern part of
Lantau brought to North-East Lantau?
2. What changes are visible in the daily life and work of residents?
3. How has tourism and ecotourism benefited from better transport?
4. Are such changes good or bad?
92
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 5: Aswan Dam in Egypt (Intermediate, also applicable to Issue 2b)
In 1950s, the Egyptian government constructed the Aswan Dam for the purposes of
flood control, hydroelectric power and irrigation. The power generated by the dam
has provided more electricity to industry and created more job opportunities.
However, no one had predicted the shortcomings. Because of the Dam, the Nile
River can no longer bring fertile soil from the upper course to the farmland
downstream. Farmers are therefore forced to use artificial fertilizer as a substitute
for natural nutrients. This has increased the cost of farming and intensifies water
pollution. Due to the filtering effect of the Dam, water flowing downstream is now
too clean and lacks nutrients on which water animals and organisms depend. In
addition, the flow washes away the soil in the downstream, causing serious soil
erosion.
Reference:
Doerner, Dietrich (1996). The Logic of Failure (N.Y.: Metro-politan Books), p.72-73.
Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) website—Science & Nature—Technology & Inventions—Building
Big—Dams—Aswan High Dam
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/wonder/structure/aswan_high.html [Download date: 26/5/2005]
Discussion
1. What problems of the human use of technology are reflected in the Aswan Dam
project?
2. To demolish or to retain the Dam? Either will lead to a lot of problems. Spell out
the difficulties that the Egyptian government is facing.
3. What lesson does this experience teach us?
93
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 6: Green Revolution (Elementary)
In order to solve the problems of over-population and food shortage, countries like
Nigeria have launched the "Green Revolution". This means increased investment in
the agricultural sector by the government, raising the yield per unit of farmland by
advanced farming technologies, such as seeds of improved genes, fertilizers,
pesticides, irrigation system and improving methods of cultivation. The idea is to
achieve self-sufficiency in food supply. The Green Revolution was first launched in
the Philippines. In the 1960s, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) located
in the Philippines had come up with distinguished results from its farming
experimentation. Productivity of rice increased from 1665 kg/hectare in 1969 to 2206
kg/hectare in 1982. The introduction of "Filipino rice" in other countries has also
raised the output of food significantly. Many food-deficient countries can attain a high
level of self-sufficiency. This is the Green Revolution.
Reference:
http://www.cmi.hku.hk/reading/geo.nsf/0/3aa55e5ad9e6557948256a2c002285c9?OpenDocument
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Encyclopedia.com website:
http://www.encyclopedia.com/html/g/greenr1ev.asp [Download date: 26/5/2005]
Lessons from the Green Revolution http://www.foodfirst.org/media/opeds/2000/4-greenrev.html
[Download date: 26/5/2005]
“Growing More Per Acre Leaves More Land for Nature”
http://www.highyieldconservation.org/ [Download date: 26/5/2005]
From the Bengal Famine to the Green Revolution:
http://www.indiaonestop.com/Greenrevolution.htm [Download date: 26/5/2005]
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
What brought about "green revolution"?
Can the "green revolution" solve the problem of food shortage?
What are the consequences?
94
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Source 7: Invention of New Technologies (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 1c)
The invention of many new technologies has helped to ensure a more secure future for
human kind, e.g. energy efficient stoves; micro-processor control systems,
comprehensive recycling schemes; selective plant breeding; magnetic levitation; fibre
optics; high temperature ceramics; water sewage treatment; advanced
telecommunications; durable, reliable pump and irrigation systems etc.
Train systems based on magnetic levitation are efficient and produce minimal
pollution. Japan and several other countries have already introduced the "Maglev"
train.
Australian Solar collectors facilitate the production of energy at a low cost.
"Maglev" train
Solar collectors in Australia
Reference:
Jonathon Porritt, "Is this the Last Chance?" in Save the Earth, by Jonathon Porritt, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p.25.
95
Optional Module II: Human-Environment Relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point a: Technological and social development alongside environmental protection
Discussion
1. Is Hong Kong using these kinds of new technologies? Cite some examples.
2. Briefly introduce the "Maglev" train system in Shanghai.
3. How do solar collectors help lower costs?
4. Can technological advancement increase production and protect
environment?
96
the
Key Point b
Protecting human interests and ecosystems
97
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Suggested questions for enquiry
Should environmental and ecological problems be addressed solely with respect to human
interests? Or should the concern be extended to all ecosystems?
98
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Source 1: Human Interests and Ecosystems: The Problem with Meat-eating
(Elementary)
The meat-eating habit of human beings has led to a number of problems such as
deforestation, overgrazing, pollution and world hunger. According to the Worldwatch
Institute, the global livestock population has increased by 60 percent since 1961, and the
number of poultry being raised for human consumption has nearly quadrupled, from 4.2
billion to 15.7 billion during the same period. Since 1970, beef and pork consumption has
tripled in U.S. while it has doubled in Asia. The dramatic increase in global meat
consumption may be due to the growing popularity of American fast food which is
meat-intensive.
It requires 4.8 pounds of grain to feed a cattle which in turn produces one pound of beef for
human consumption. In a world where people still suffer from hunger and malnutrition, this
is a waste. According to the British group Vegfam, a 10-acre farm can support 60 people
growing soybeans, 24 people growing wheat, 10 people growing corn and only two
producing cattle.
European countries and America have been importing large amount of high-calorie plant,
the "cassava" from rainforests countries. It is used to feed lambs, pigs and chickens, etc.
The large demand of cassava has contributed to the disruption of rainforests.
Reference:
"The Case Against Meat", from the cover story of 'E' Magazine website <www.emagazine.com>
January/February 2002, Vol. XIII, no. 1
Thomas A. Mappes & Jane S. Zembaty (eds.) Social Ethics N.Y.: McGraw-Hill, 4th Edition, 1992
http://earthtrends.wri.org/pdf_library/country_profiles/Ene_cou_344.pdf [Download date: 26/5/2005]
FAS Online, Total Poultry Meat Consumption
http://www.fas.usda.gov/dlp2/circular/1997/97-03/poulcons.htm [Download date: 26/5/2005]
"The Disappearing Forest" in Jonathan Porritt, Save The Earth, Darling Kinderley: London, 1991.
99
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Discussion
1. Find statistics on the meat-eating habits of Hong Kong people. Are we eating large
proportions of meat?
2. Find out the nutritional values of meat and the health and environmental problems
caused by excessive meat consumption.
3. Examine your own eating habits. Do you like meat? Are you eating too much meat?
(Reference: food pyramid)
4. Given the global food shortage, do the meat-eating habits of yours and of Hong Kong
society need to change?
100
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Source 2: Ecosystem (Elementary)
Every time we walk in the wilderness or bulldoze a green field for a new building or
shopping complex, we are drastically altering an ecosystem. An ecosystem is a defined area
including all the living organisms (e.g. people, plants, animals, and microorganisms), their
physical surroundings (e.g. soil, water, and air), and the natural cycles that maintain them.
An ecosystem will fail if the elements do not remain in balance.
Reference:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website: http://ecosystems.fws.gov/[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Encarta
website:
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761582459/Ecosystem.html[Download
26/5/2005]
http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/ecosystems.htm[Download date: 26/5/2005]
http://nps.gov/crmo/chap4b.htm[Download date: 26/5/2005]
Discussion
1. How does an ecosystem lose its balance?
2.
3.
Take Hong Kong as an example, how is its ecosystem being disturbed?
Are there any ways to change the selfish behaviors of human beings?
101
date:
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Source 3: The Influence of Global Warming on Nature (Advanced, also applicable to
Issues 1a, 1b and 2a)
In the latest issue of Nature, a journal of science, two large-scale studies have shown that
global warming will shift the living range of hundreds of species in the Northern
Hemisphere by 6 kilometres northward in every decade. If the situation remains
unchanged, spring will arrive one month earlier than it does now in the next century.
Another study has found that in areas of high altitudes and latitudes where climatic changes
are the most severe, the influence of climatic changes on the ecosystem is particularly
obvious. And the most dangerous is that the shifting of different species is uncoordinated.
The speed and range of shifting varies among species. Food chains which are
inter-dependent would therefore be interrupted. Some species may be threatened by
shortage of food and need to change their eating habits. Food variety may be reduced.
Reference:
"Global warming brings earlier springs
Species in Northern hemisphere shifts northward 6 km per decade"
(全球暖化春季早臨 北半球物種每 10 年北移 6 公里), Ming Pao, 2003-01-03.
Discussion
1. What are the influences of global warming on nature and living organisms?
2. What are the influences of global warming on civilizations and human development?
3. Will global warming lead to other environmental problems? Elaborate with examples.
(Hints: An ecosystem is similar to a human body. It is an active and interactive living
system. A comprehensive perspective is called for in seeking to understand an
ecosystem.)
4. Throughout the history of the Earth, there are recurrent happenings of glaciation and
warming. Is the phenomenon of global warming caused by human activities, or is it a
natural process of the Earth's development? Does it deserve our attention? What
should our attitude be?
102
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Source 4: Peruvian Anchovy (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1b and 1c)
The Peruvian Anchovy is a small fish (about 12-20cm), a short-lived species which reaches
maturity in one year. It lives in groups in shoals off the coast of Peru and northern Chile.
Nutrients from phytoplankton are brought up by cold currents up-welling from the seabed
which provide the anchovy with food. Anchovy serve as human food and animal feed.
In 1972, the El Nino phenomenon brought warm water into the area and prevented the
up-welling of cold currents. It also slowed down the growth of phytoplankton. The quantity
of anchovy dropped. To compensate, fishing fleets used finer nets and caught a huge
number of young fish, seriously affecting the reproduction of anchovy. In consequence, the
fish population decreased substantially below their recovery rate.
Reference:
“What can be done to stop the loss of biodiversity?” The Open Door Website.
http://www.saburchill.com/IBbiology/chapters02/042.html [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Other references
Measures to Help Fishermen Cope with Fishing Moratorium, Monday, 31 May 2004, Press
Releases http://www.afcd.gov.hk/news/news.htm
Hong Kong Fishing Fleets
http://www.hk-fish.net/chi/fisheries_info/fishing_fleeting/index.htm
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website
http://ecosystems.fws.gov/
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
What is Peruvian Anchovy used for?
What measures should the Peruvian government implement to stop the quantity of
anchovy from falling?
What are the limitations of these measures?
103
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point b: Protecting human interests and ecosystems
Source 5: Hunted to Extinction (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b, 1c and 2c)
Even though it is illegal to hunt endangered animals, such as the orang-utan, tiger, and
rhinoceros, they are still poached for their meat and hide. Sometimes mothers are killed so
that their young can be captured and sold as pets. Young primates are also caught and sold
for medical research. Some endangered animals are also hunted because their body parts
are thought to have healing powers according to traditional Chinese medicine. For
example, a tiger's whiskers are sold to ease toothache, its tail is used to treat skin diseases,
and its bones are thought to help cure rheumatism.
Reference:
Text from Theresa Greenaway, Eyewitness Jungle, Copyright 2003, Dorling Kindersley Limited, London,
Penguin Group, 2003, p.66-67 [Reproduced by permission of Dorling Kindersley Ltd]
Activity
Chinese people commonly believe that all animals with "back facing the sky" can be eaten.
Divide into two teams and debate on the habit of eating wild animals among the Chinese.
Discussion
1. What are endangered species?
2. Among endangered animals, which species are facing the greatest threat?
3. Are there good reasons for hunting wild animals? Name a few.
4. Can we apply the concept of "respect for life" on animals?
104
Key Point c
Values of the environment and ecology for
humankind
105
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Suggested questions for enquiry
What is the value of nature towards humankind? What are the different implications for
nature to be viewed as a big garden (value of appreciation and repose), a cathedral
(value of spiritual refinement and aesthetic beauty), a silo (value of materials for
human use) and a laboratory (value of experimentation for knowledge and
development)? To humankind, is nature an instrument, a refuge, or a partner? Which
viewpoint is more acceptable?
106
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 1: USA's Definition of Wilderness (Elementary)
In general, "wilderness" refers to a piece of land or a region, uncultivated and
uninhabited by human beings. It can be a forest, a barren plain, a wasteland, a desert,
etc.. It exists where large areas are characterized by the dominance of natural
processes and the absence of human constraints in nature.
According to Section 2(c) of USA's Wilderness Act of 1964, "wilderness" refers to a
natural area or landscape free of human manipulation and interference. Humans will
not dominate the landscape nor will they control natural processes. They are only
visitors.
Reference:
Wilderness Watch website—What is Wilderness?
http://www.wildernesswatch.org/what%20is/wild.html[Download date: 27/5/2005]
The definition of "wilderness", Webster Dictionary
http://www.webster-dictionary.org/definition/wilderness[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Definition of Wilderness, Alberta Wilderness Association of Canada
http://www.albertawilderness.ca/AWRC/Positions/PS0206WD.pdf[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
According to the definition of the USA's Wilderness Act (1964), do you think there
are any wilderness areas in Hong Kong? Why?
107
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 2: Recreational Value of Nature – California's National Forest
(Elementary)
According to a public opinion poll conducted in California, 82% of Californians
believe that outdoor recreation areas are an important component of their quality of
life, and natural and undeveloped areas are the preferred destinations for outdoor
recreation. In addition, almost 60% of Californians went hiking in 1997.
California's national forest wilderness areas received over two and a half million
visitors in 1995. The common activities of human beings in these areas include
hiking, horseback riding, hunting, camping and fishing.
Nowadays, over 48 million acres of land in California are publicly owned, with only
14 million acres being protected as wilderness. It means that there are still
two-thirds of the land left open for mining, logging, and off-road vehicle use.
Reference:
California Wilderness Coalition—Resource Centre—Get the Facts—Californians Benefit from
Wilderness Protection:
http://www.calwild.org/resources/facts_benefits.php
[Download date: 27/5/2005]
The California Wild Heritage Campaign http://www.californiawild.org/[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
1. Comparing with California, do you think Hong Kong has enough natural
environment for recreational use?
2. Can you name five country parks in Hong Kong? How do you feel being in the
country park? Share your experience with your classmates.
3.
Apart from providing excellent recreation opportunities, what other values does
the natural environment provide?
108
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 3:
Economic Value of Nature – Antarctic Tourism (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 1c)
Located in the South Pole, the Antarctica is one of the most beautiful, remote places
on the planet. With most of the land covered with ice and no native human
population, many people find the Antarctica a place of mystery, discovery and
exploration. This explains why Antarctic tourism has grown substantially over the
past two decades, now numbering nearly 15,000 visitors each year. Though its flora
and fauna is not diverse, the Antarctic wilderness is vast and unique.
Reference:
"Antarctica: Tourism, Wilderness, and "Ambassadorship"", Patrick T. Maher, Gary Steel and Alison
McIntosh.
USDA
Forest
Service
Proceedings
RMRS-P-27.
2003,
pp.204-210.
www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs/rmrs_p027/rmrs_p027_204_212.pdf[Download date: 27/5/2005]
The Official Antarctica Home Page: http://www.vb-tech.co.za/Antartica/ [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Can you identify wilderness tourism in some other regions?
What is the difference between eco-tourism and tourism in general?
Do you think tourism and environmental conservation are compatible?
Can tourism support and conserve the Antarctic wilderness?
Can the Antarctic wilderness support the current increasing tourism?
109
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 4:
Economic Value of Nature – California's Rural Economies Depend
on Intact Natural Landscapes (Intermediate, also applicable to Issue 1c)
Many of California's rural regions rely on the income generated from tourism and
recreation within the national forests. A study conducted by the U.S. Forest Service
in 1995 shows that recreation generated by national forest use provides 88% of the
jobs and 85% of the income. Resource extraction like timber production accounts
for only 2% of the jobs and 3% of the income. It is expected that the income
generated by recreation will continue to grow in the future. This echoes the
consensus report by 66 northwest economists that "a healthy environment is a major
stimulus for a healthy economy".
Reference:
California Wilderness Coalition—Resource Center—Get the Facts—Californians Benefit from
Wilderness Protection http://www.calwild.org/resources/facts_benefits.php
[Download date: 27/5/2005]
California Land Use Planning Information Network
http://ceres.ca.gov/planning/demographics/ [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
1. Are there spots of natural resources in Hong Kong and in China? Do they help
promote the economic prosperity of the region? Elaborate with examples.
2. Share with your classmates a scenic natural spot you have visited.
3. Do you agree with the saying in the consensus report that "a healthy environment
is a major stimulus for a healthy economy"?
4. How can we create "a healthy environment"?
110
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 5: Ecotourism (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 1c)
Ecotourism is the world's fastest growing industry. In Malaysia, the government has
conserved and developed a number of national parks to cater for the ecotourism
industry. In 2001, the number of visitors reached 12.7 million, with a growth rate of
25%. Rwanda in Africa is also a very popular ecotourism spot. Visitors sightsee and
learn about its natural environment and do not have to stay in luxury hotels.
Reference:
Sham Sani (eds) The Environment, Malaysia: Archipelago Press 1998, pp.130-131.
Badaruddin Mohamed. “The Development of Ecotourism in Malaysia—Is It Really
Sustainable?”:
http://www.hbp.usm.my/tourism/tourism/ecotourismmalaysia.PDF
Rainforest Action Network website: www.ran.org
Tropical Rainforest Coalition: http://www.rainforest.org/
Rainforest Alliance: http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/
World Wide Fund: http://wwf.org
Ng Cho-nam and Y.Li, "Eco-tourism in Hong Kong: its Potentials and Limitations",
2000 http://www.kiskeya-alternative.org/publica/diversos/hong-kong.htm
Discussion
1. Describe some ecotourism activities. What do you like most among all these
2.
3.
4.
5.
activities?
Name a few famous ecotourism spots in the world.
What are the potentials and limitations of ecotourism in Hong Kong?
Name some popular ecotourism spots in Hong Kong.
Suggest new ecotourism spots for Hong Kong.
111
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 6: Spiritual Value – Solitude (Elementary)
Wilderness area provides a shelter for relaxation, reflection, and meditation, and
facilitates spiritual renewal and personal growth. It is a good place for solitude.
Solitude refers to a state of loneliness away from companionship. Wilderness solitude
is a state of mind, in which visitors enjoy nature freely without being reminded of
human society, e.g. large groups, signs, technology, unnatural sounds, customs, etc.
Reference:
http://www.hyperdictionary.com/dictionary/solitude [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English (English-Chinese), 1999, p.1458.
Wilderness Watch (USA's national organization whose sole focus is the preservation and proper
stewardship of lands and rivers)
http://www.wildernesswatch.org/what%20is/steward.html [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Q.7 of FAQ, Outward Bound Hong Kong Webpage (2004)
http://www.outwardboundhk.org/question.php?pagesId=8&lang=en[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
1. Do you enjoy going to the countryside? Why?
2. Do you think the natural environment gives you more opportunities for reflection
and relaxation?
3. "Solo" is a component in some of the courses offered by Outward Bound Hong
Kong. What are the characteristics and purposes of "solo"?
4. Share with your classmates your experience(s) of "solo".
112
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 7: Spiritual Value – Sounds of Nature (Elementary)
Sounds of nature refer to pure nature sounds with no addition of voices, music or
human-induced sounds. Examples include natural sounds of wildlife, rainforest,
crashing waves, rainstorm, waterfalls, whales, birds, etc. Such sounds can reduce
stress, aid in relaxation and are used in alternative medicine programs.
Reference:
http://www.naturesmusic.com/[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Relaxing Sounds of Nature http://sulger.net/soundsculptures/ (with samples of sounds of nature)
[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Activity
Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of nature. You can do so either through
listening to CDs, on the web, or when you are in a country park, on the ferry, or on the
beach. Do the sounds of nature soothe your body, mind and spirit? How do you feel?
Discussion
Select a few songs which celebrate the beauty of nature.
through these songs.
113
Learn to appreciate nature
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 8: Intellectual Value – Nature and Wilderness in American Literature
(Advanced)
The intellectual value of wilderness is expressed in different forms of art such as
writings, songs, literature and discourse among people. For example, wilderness is
one of the feature themes of American Literature. Two important American writers,
Emerson and Thoreau, developed the themes of nature and wilderness in their
masterpieces. Both writers are considered as American prophets of eco-wisdom1.
A. Nature (1836) by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Nature (1963), a book-length essay written by Ralph Waldo Emerson, explores the
relationship between God and Nature. An excerpt from Chapter I (Natre) paragraph
1, of Nature:
"To go into solitude, a man needs to retire as much from his chamber as
from society. I am not solitary whilst I read and write, though nobody
is with me. But if a man would be alone, let him look at the stars. The
rays that come from those heavenly worlds will separate between him
and what he touches. One might think the atmosphere was made
transparent with this design, to give man, in the heavenly bodies, the
perpetual presence of the sublime."
B. Walden (1854) by Henry David Thoreau
Walden (1854) by Henry David Thoreau is about the author’s stay at Walden Pond in
the 1800s. Walden covers many different themes, including the relationship between
light and darkness, the ideas and importance of nature, the meaning of progress, and
the relationship between the mind and body. He also looks into many philosophical
ideas concerning knowing yourself, living simply and deliberately, and seeking truth.
1
"Emerson and Thoreau as American Prophets of Eco-wisdom", paper presented to Virginia
Humanities Conference, 1990; copyright Ann Woodlief.
Partially reprinted in American
Romanticism. The Greenhaven Press Companion to Literary Movements and Genres, 1999, pp.
92-6.
http://www.vcu.edu/engweb/home/ecotran.html
114
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Reference:
“Walden by Henry David Thoreau”
http://www.123helpme.com/view.asp?id=15263 [Download date: 27/5/2005]
“Ralph Waldo Emerson website
http://rwe.org/works/Nature_sectioned_2_Chapter_I._Nature.htm [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Perry Brown, "Personal and Societal Values, and Wilderness Stewardship", USDA Forest Service
Proceedings RMRS-P-27. 2003, pp.121-123
http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs/rmrs_p027/rmrs_p027_121_126.pdf[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Nature and Wilderness in American Literature, course outline
http://www.americanwriters.org/works/nature.asp [Download date: 27/5/2005]
Discussion
1.
2.
What is the place of nature in the literary world? Do you think a beautiful
landscape is a good source of inspiration?
Many literary works and paintings describe and express the beauty of Nature and
of the environment. Have you come across any of these works? Please name
two examples and discuss them with your classmates.
115
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 9: Nature's Intellectual Values—Nature in Chinese Literature
A famous Chinese poet, Xu Zhimo (徐志摩), once wrote a poem "Saying Goodbye to
Cambridge Again" about his days on the campus of Cambridge University.
徐志摩:再別康橋
Saying Goodbye to Cambridge Again
by Xu Zhimo
輕輕的我走了，
Very quietly I take my leave,
正如我輕輕的來；
我輕輕的招手，
作別西天的雲彩。
那河畔的金柳，
As quietly as I came here;
Quietly I wave goodbye
To the rosy clouds in the western sky.
The golden willows by the riverside
是夕陽中的新娘；
波光裏的豔影，
在我的心頭蕩漾。
軟泥上的青荇，
油油的在水底招搖；
在康橋的柔波里，
Are young brides in the setting sun;
Their reflections on the shimmering waves
Always linger in the depth of my heart.
The floating heart growing in the sludge
Sways leisurely under the water,
In the gentle waves of Cambridge,
我甘做一條水草！
那榆蔭下的一潭，
不是清泉，是天上虹；
揉碎在浮藻間，
沉澱著彩虹似的夢。
尋夢？撐一支長篙，
向青草更青處漫溯；
滿載一船星輝，
在星輝斑斕裏放歌。
但是我不能放歌，
I would be a water plant
That pool under the shade of elm trees
Holds not water but the rainbow from the sky;
Shattered to pieces among the duck weeds
Is the sediment of a rainbow-like dream.
To seek a dream? Just to pole a boat upstream
To where the green grass is more verdant;
Or to have the boat fully loaded with starlight
And sing aloud in the splendour of starlight.
But I cannot sing aloud:
悄悄是別離的笙蕭；
夏蟲也為我沈默，
沈默是今晚的康橋！
悄悄的我走了，
正如我悄悄的來；
我揮一揮衣袖，
不帶走一片雲彩。
Quietness is my farewell music;
Even summer insects keep silence for me;
Silent is Cambridge tonight!
Very quietly I take my leave,
As quietly as I came here;
Gently I flick my sleeves,
Not even a wisp of cloud will I bring away.
116
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Reference:
中華校園網 -- 徐志摩:再別康橋
http://www.54youth.com.cn/gb/paper111/1/class011100004/hwz72144.htm[Download date: 27/5/2005]
Activity
Sketch the scenery of Cambridge based on the description in the poem. Could you
feel the beauty of Cambridge through this literary work? Compare your sketch with
photos of Cambridge.
My sketch of Cambridge
117
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Cambridge University, UK (2003)
Cambridge University, UK (2003)
Discussion
1. If there are no natural beauty, do you think writers can create beautiful literary
works?
2. Find descriptions of the beauty of Nature in classical and contemporary Chinese
literature.
118
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 10: Practical and Complementary Values of Nature (Intermediate, also
applicable to Issue 1c)
A. Biological Diversity and Ecosystem Integrity
Wilderness protects biological diversity which produces a number of advantages.
Apart from serving as a source of oxygen, material, energy, medicine and food to
human beings, it facilitates the maintenance of a large variety of genes in nature
which is important for the ongoing life of the ecosystem on earth.
Reference:
"Science on the Wild Side: Where Wilderness Advocacy Meets Conservation Biology", Southern Utah
Wilderness
Alliance,
SUWA
Summer
1999
Newsletter
-
Feature
Article
http://www.suwa.org/newsletters/1999/summer/scienc~1.htm [Download date: 27/5/2005]
GPUSA National Program: Biological Diversity and Animal Liberation
http://www.greenparty.org/program/oldprogram/p_biol.html[Download date: 27/5/2005]
B. Weevils in Cameroon
Until twenty years ago the pollination of millions of oil-palm trees had to be done by
hand, an inefficient and expensive way of performing the task. One day, the
plantations' owners asked themselves how the oil-palm got itself pollinated in its
native habitat of Cameroon's forests in West Africa. So researchers went off to
Cameroon, where they found the job was undertaken by a tiny weevil. Stocks of the
weevil were taken back to Malaysia, where they were released into the plantations.
(There were no problems of ecological complications with other species, since it was
known that the weevil confined its attentions to the oil-palm alone.) The pollination is
now entirely accomplished by the weevil, saving US$140 million per year. Next time
when we use margarine or cosmetics or palm-oil-based products, we should be
thankful for the tiny Cameroon insect weevil.
Cameroon insect Weevil
119
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Reference:
Norman Myers, "The Disappearing Forest" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p. 47-48.
C. Tree sap as fuel
The Copaila langsdorfii tree, which grows in the Amazon basin, produces a sap so
similar to diesel oil that it can be poured straight into a truck's fuel tank.
Reference:
Peter Raven and Ghillean Prance, "The Richness of Life" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p. 72.
D. Sowing seeds by means of an outside agent
1. The familiar Brazil nuts grow inside a fruit about the size of a tennis ball. The
outer surface of this fruit is very tough and does not break when the fruit falls
from the tree. Large, sharp-toothed rodents break open the hard fruit containing
Brazil nuts, and store them as food.
2. Squirrels hoard and bury acorns for the winter. The nuts that are left behind by the
squirrel are the ones that will go on to form the next generation of oak trees.
3. In the case of wild strawberry, the tiny seeds pass through a bird's gut and are later
excreted some distance away.
120
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
4. Seeds of the Galapagos tomato must pass through the gut of a giant Galapagos
tortoise in order to germinate. This process may take several days, a time span that
makes even this slow-moving creature an effective dispersal agent.
Brazil nuts
Galapagos tortoise
Sharp-toothed Rodents called Agoutis
Reference:
Peter Raven and Ghillean Prance, "The Richness of Life" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth,
Dorling Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p. 76-77
Discussion
1. Why is biodiversity so important?
2.
3.
What will happen to the ecology when biodiversity can no longer be maintained?
Do you consider human beings victims or beneficiaries of biodiversity?
121
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 11: Tropical Forest is a Wealth of Medicine (Elementary, also applicable
to Issue 1c)
There is a one-in-four chance that much of our medicine is derived from tropical
forest plants. It may be an antibiotic, an analgesic, a diuretic, a laxative, a tranquillizer
or cough drops.
The contraceptive pill was originally based on a wild yam growing in Mexico's
forests. The latest pill comes from a forest plant in West Africa. One of the biggest
breakthroughs against cancer in recent decades stems from the Madagascar periwinkle
(Catharanthus roseus), which is used to cure leukaemia and Hodgkin's disease.
Periwinkle in Madagascar tropical rainforest
Reference:
Norman Myers, "The Disappearing Forest" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p. 47-48.
Text from Theresa Greenaway, Eyewitness Jungle, Copyright 2003, Dorling Kindersley Limited,
London, Penguin Group, p.42-43 [Reproduced by permission of Dorling Kindersley Ltd]
Discussion
1. Which traditional Chinese medicines come from plants?
2. If the forest disappears, will Chinese medicine also disappear?
3. Try to find daily life objects which originated from forests?
122
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 12: Climate control (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1b and 2b)
The rainforest plays a big role in climate control. As deforestation transforms the
green band into a bald ring, there is an increase in the "shininess" of the Earth's
surface. This "albedo effect" will eventually distort convection currents, wind
patterns, and rainfall regimes in regions throughout the tropics, and possibly
extending to other regions too.
Reference:
Norman Myers, "The Disappearing Forest" in Jonathan Porritt (ed.) Save the Earth, Dorling Kindersley
Limited: London, 1991, p. 49.
Discussion
1. How does the tropical rainforest control the climate of the Earth?
2. Which regions are experiencing deforestation now?
3. What solutions are there?
123
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 13: Hong Kong Wetland (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 3a and
3b(Q1))
Most of the wetlands in Hong Kong are located in the northwestern New Territories
and Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site is the biggest. For the purpose of
environmental conservation and ecotourism, the Hong Kong Government has
designated and developed at least 10 wetland attractions, where visitors can find great
biodiversity and rare and unique species.
Besides wetland ecotourism attractions, the Hong Kong government has established
the Hong Kong Wetland Park in Tin Shui Wai. The mission of the Park is to foster
public awareness of the inherent values of wetlands throughout the East Asian region
and beyond, and to marshal public support and action for their conservation. The Park
will also be a world-class ecotour facility to serve both local residents and overseas
tourists.
Activity
Visit the Hong Kong Wetland Park or any one of the wetland ecotourism attractions.
A. Information about "Wetland Tour"
Objectives:
The "Wetland Tour" is a guided visit. It is a conservation education programme of the
Hong Kong Wetland Park, aiming to arouse public awareness of the wetland
ecosystem in Hong Kong.
Target Group:
The tour is open to schools. Each group is limited to 40 participants including 1 or 2
teachers.
Content:
The tour is tailor-made to suit the need and age profile of individual schools,
encompassing three major wetland themes: Wetland Conservation, Adaptation of
Wetland Plants, and Adaptation of Wetland Birds.
124
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Details:
Each tour consists of an interpretive tour to Phase 1 of the Hong Kong Wetland Park
and a field visit to Tsim Bei Tsui to experience a natural wetland ecosystem at the Mai
Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site. Each tour lasts for about 2.5 hours and is conducted
by Park interpretive staff. The Wetland Tour is available Monday to Saturday
(excluding Tuesday and public holidays), with morning and afternoon sessions. The
morning session starts at 9:30 a.m. and the afternoon session at 2:00 p.m.
The activity is free of charge, but each school should arrange its own transportation. A
number of binoculars will be provided for bird watching during the field visit.
B. Mai Po Public Visits
The wetlands around the Mai Po Marshes and Inner Deep Bay in the northwestern
corner of Hong Kong are known as heaven for migratory birds. In 1984, WWF Hong
Kong began to take active management of the Reserve together with the Government
for environmental education and conservation.
In addition to the birds, the Reserve has many features of importance. The heart of the
reserve is made up of 24 traditional shrimp ponds (locally called gei wai), which are
now the only such ponds in Hong Kong, and possibly in southern China. The strand
of inter-tidal mangroves fringing Mai Po and Deep Bay is the sixth largest in China,
and the reedbeds are one of the largest in Guangdong Province.
Mai Po Nature Reserve is a restricted area. Public must obtain prior permission from
the authorities as well as WWF Hong Kong.
During weekends and Public Holidays, WWF Hong Kong organizes guided tours for
the general public. Each tour lasts approximately three hours and includes visits to the
Tower Birdwatching Hide, the Waterfowl Collection, and the Wildlife Education
Centre. The fee is HK$70/person. Binoculars are available for hire at
HK$20/pair/visit.
Visitors can make bookings up to three months in advance. For those interested,
please specify the preferred dates/times of visit and the number of visitors by calling
2526 4473. Then send an application for entry pass after the phone call.
125
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
For enquiries or appointment, please call the Mai Po Visit hotline:
Telephone : (852) 2526 4473
Fax : (852) 2526 2667
Email : publicvisit@wwf.org.hk
Reference:
http://www.wetlandtour.net/
http://www.wwf.org.hk/eng/involved/public_visits/index.html
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/others/wetlandpark/html-tc/master-about-badkground.htm
http://www.afcd.gov.hk/conservation/chi/abowetinfo.htm
Other references
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (漁農自然護理署著), Exploring
the Wetland <濕地探索>, 出版: 郊野公園之友會, July 2004.
http://www.hkdiscovery.com/frameset.html
Mangrove 紅樹林 http://www.wwf.org.hk/chi/pdf/education/cd-rom/C_factsheet5.pdf
www.conservancy.org.hk/ramsar/leaflet3.html
http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/bd/rm410411/public_html/mangrove.html
Discussion
1. What is wetland? Why is it valuable?
2. Where are the wetlands in Hong Kong? Have you ever visited any of them?
Share your experience with your classmates.
3. When we visit the wetland, we have to follow the rules. Find out the details of
these rules and why we should follow them.
4. What role does Hong Kong Government play in the development and promotion
of wetlands in Hong Kong?
126
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 14: Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park Ecotour (Elementary, also applicable to
Issue 3b)
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is one of the first marine parks established in Hong Kong. It
was designated on 5 July 1996. Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is a sheltered bay located
north of Sai Kung West Country Park. It covers an area of about 260 hectares.
The rich marine life in Sai Kung Hoi Ha Wan provides an excellent place for local
people and tourists. However, rising figures on illegal fishing and littering in the last 6
months reveal a lack of environmental awareness among visitors. As a response, a
new course of ecotour guiding (自然導賞基礎課程) will be introduced to raise the
standard of ecotour guides.
There are nine prohibitions for Visitors in marine parks. (Source: Agriculture,
Fisheries and Conservation Department)
1. Don’t dig up sand and rubbles
2. Don’t litter
3. Don’t pollute water bodies
4. Don’t anchor outside the anchoring areas
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Don’t overturn stones and boulders
Don’t stand on corals
Don’t dive in the coral area before you can master your buoyancy properly
Don’t hurt or disturb any marine wild life
Don’t collect any live or dead specimens
Reference:
"Starfishes and hermit crabs as souvenirs Tourists damage Hoi Ha Wan ecosystem" (「海星當飛鏢 捉
寄居蟹返屋企」 遊人破壞海下灣生態), Apple Daily, A09, 2004-08-01
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park Ecotour, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department
http://parks.afcd.gov.hk/newmarine/event/Hoihawan/index.htm# [Download date: 30/5/2005]
Other references
Green Power Online Ecotour
http://www.greenpower.org.hk/new/pananoma/home.html
127
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Activity
1. Visit any one of the marine parks or ecotourism attractions.
2. Divide into groups. Hand in a report on one of the following topics after the visit:
a. Describe places that are worth appreciating or conserving.
b. The extent of disturbance in the area.
c. Suggestions on how to reduce disturbance.
Discussion
1. What is the value of developing marine parks and ecotourism attractions in Hong
2.
3.
4.
Kong?
Do you like to visit marine parks and ecotourism attractions in Hong Kong?
Why?
If you were a natural organism, would you like to see visitors looking at you and
learning about you?
How can we attain a win-win balance between the interests of human beings and
of natural organisms?
128
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 15: Hong Kong's Country Parks (Intermediate, also applicable to Issue
3b)
Hong Kong is regarded as one of the world's great cities. Out of a total of 1092 square
kilometres of land, about three-quarters is countryside. Scenically, Hong Kong has a
great deal to offer - a landscape of sandy beaches and rocky foreshores, and
woodlands and mountain ranges rising to a height of almost 1000 metres.
Country Parks are designated for the purposes of nature conservation, countryside
recreation and outdoor education. Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of
nature conservation.
A total of 23 Country Parks and 15 Special Areas (11 of which lie inside Country
Parks) have been established. They cover a total area of 41 582 hectares.
Reference:
http://parks.afcd.gov.hk/newparks/eng/country/index.htm [Download date: 30/5/2005]
Other references
So Far, So Close (《這麼近、那麼遠》): TVB production (星期日檔案)
Friends of the Country Parks:
http://www.focp.org.hk/
Activity
Visit one of Hong Kong’s country parks and assess its importance to the city.
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
4.
What do you expect to see in Hong Kong's country parks?
Have you visited a country park before? Share your experience with your
classmates.
What do you usually do in a country park? What kind of activities is likely to
disturb the environment? How can we prevent it?
The ratio of population to land area is high in Hong Kong. How can we balance
the interests of commercial development and environmental protection? Shall we
limit the number of visitors to country parks?
129
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 16: Chinese White Dolphin Watching (Elementary, also applicable to
Issues 1b and 2b)
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has found that
dolphin-watching activities have become excessive, disturbing the Chinese White
Dolphins. The Chinese White Dolphins have cut short their surface exposure and
stayed away from dolphin-watching boats. It is also found that many of the tour
guides lack dolphin-watching expertise. The Department has now joined hands with
the Hong Kong Dolphin Conservation Society to provide free training in dolphin
conservation (海豚保育大使). Trained ambassadors will serve as on-board guides
following an established code of conduct.
Code of Conduct for Dolphin Watching Activities: always observe from a distance;
boat speed should not exceed 5 km; when observing dolphins, always parallel the
dolphin's course; never chase or cut across the course of dolphins.
Reference:
"Intensive dolphin-watching disturbs their life" (密集式觀豚活動 滋擾白海豚生活), Apple Daily,
A13, 2004-06-02
Other references
Hong Kong Dolphin Conservation Society www.hkdcs.org
http://chitwins.uhome.net/dp.htm
"Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge drives white dolphins away" (港珠澳大橋 趕絕
白海豚), Sing Tao Daily, 2002-09-24
Activity
Visit the Chinese White Dolphin Resource Centre in Hong Kong in Lung Kwu Tan
(龍鼓灘), Tuen Mun.
130
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Discussion
1. How many species of dolphins are found in Hong Kong? What are their
characteristics?
2. What threats do dolphins in Hong Kong face? How should we protect them?
3. Dolphin-watching in Hong Kong has become more and more popular in recent
years. How can we maintain a balance between economic interests and the
well-being of the dolphins?
4. The construction of the planned Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge may have
negative impacts on the Chinese White Dolphins. Should we build the bridge
despite this? Why?
131
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 17: Fur (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1c and 2b)
On 8 November 1991, Next Magazine (《壹週刊》) reported the fur industry's
responses to opposition from environmental groups.
advertisements to set out their positions.
Both parties took out
Advertisement 1: "The value of fur cannot be compared with the value of life!" 「皮裘豈
比生命貴！」
This advertisement comes from an anti-fur group, which advocates the restriction and
phasing out of the use of fur by human beings.
Advertisement 2: "Meat can be eaten. Leather can be used. Silk can be weaved.
Why not wear fur! Where is the logic? The fur comes from farm breeding, and
the manufacturing process follows international standards for animal protection.
(「肉可食，革可用，絲可織，毛皮不可穿！是何邏輯？皮毛業的生產原料來自飼養，
並完全根據國際保護動物法例製造及經營。」)
This advertisement comes from fur manufacturers in response to attack from anti-fur
groups.
People who love animals oppose wearing furs. They believe fur making involves the
following behaviour:
 Killing of wild animals and pups. Using traps is very cruel because it will cause
great pains to animals.
 Hunting which is likely to bring wild animals to extinction. The Tibetan
antelope is an example.
 Fur is a symbol of social status, and becoming very expensive. It provides more
incentive for people to hunt.
Responses from fur manufacturerse:
 Nowadays, most animals from where fur is obtained no longer come from the
wild but are reared in farms.
 Killing for fur is not done in as cruel a fashion as it used to be. Less painful
ways have been developed.
 Why do advocates oppose wearing fur but not wearing leather or eating meat?
132
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Reference:
Next Magazine (《壹週刊》), 8 November 1991
Other references
http://www.hkfurfed.com.hk
World Animal Net: Anti-Fur Campaign
http://worldanimal.net/fur-index.html
Discussion
1. Do you agree with those who love animals? Why?
2.
Do you agree with the response from fur manufacturers? Why?
133
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 18: Nature is habitat for human beings—Peng Chau (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 1c)
The coral reef of Peng Chau is about to be destroyed by the reclamation project in
Penny Bay and the construction of Disneyland. A Peng Chau resident, Chan Lit-fong
is concerned about the Chinese White Dolphins and the environment of Peng Chau.
To protect wildlife in Peng Chau, she has formed the Green Peng Chau Association.
Peng Chau should remain a green island and develop ecotourism and organic farming.
Peng Chau needs to rediscover its history.
Reference:
Remaking Peng Chau My Way (《再造坪洲》
：（我有我方向）) RTHK production, 2001-03-04
Discussion
If you are a Peng Chau resident, do you think Disneyland would bring you more
benefit or harm? (Try to think in terms of economic growth, impact on environment
and life style changes.)
134
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 19: Nature is Humankind's Partner – Animals (Elementary)
A. Adopting an animal
Many zoos and conservation group allow you to adopt an animal by making a
contribution towards its upkeep. For example, through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
International, you can adopt a gorilla from the Karisoke Research Centre in Rwanda.
When you adopt an animal, you receive a photo and adoption papers and can keep
track of the animal over the website (http:/www.gorillafund.org/). This is a new way
to express your love of animals.
B. Animal welfare
The Farm Animal Council in UK is advocating "Five Freedoms" for animals: freedom
from hunger and thirst, freedom from discomfort, freedom from pain, injury or
disease, freedom to express normal behaviour, and freedom from fear and distress. In
1990, a scholar in Taiwan summarized animal welfare as "treating the living animal
well and lessening the pain of dying ones."
The pets protection agreements by the European Parliament forbid the selling of pets
to persons under 16. Pet-owners must provide a proper eating and living environment
and ensure that the pets would not get lost. Abandoning pets is liable to allegations of
abuse. Under "retirement schemes", the law also grants "right to tolerable workload"
and "right to limited working hours" to working animals like horses, cows and
camels. Their psychological well being should also be protected against external
distortion and damage.
Reference:
Text from Theresa Greenaway, Eyewitness Jungle, Copyright 2003, Dorling Kindersley Limited,
London, Penguin Group, p. 68-69 [Reproduced by permission of Dorling Kindersley Ltd]
Other references
"Treat all lives well" (善待所有生命), Discovery of Nature (《大自然探索雜誌》),
2003, Volume 5. http://www.donature.com/work/ReadNews.asp?NewsID=39
135
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
“The 5 freedoms, Farm Animal Welfare Council
http://www.fawc.org.uk/freedoms.htm
London Zoo
http://londonzoo.com
SOS Rhino
http://www.sosrhino.org/
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
http://www.spca.org.hk/chinese/homing/
to
Animals
(Hong
Kong)
"How to love animals" (怎樣喜愛動物), Wildlife Conservation Society (China) (國際
野生生物保護學會中國項目)
http://www.wildlifewarden.net/wcs/edu/diaocha/017.htm
Discussion
1. Are there organizations in Hong Kong which provide animal adoption services?
Find the relevant information and regulations.
2.
3.
Do you like keeping pets? Why?
If you were an animal, would you like to be adopted by human? Why?
136
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 20: The Zoo: its function and meaning (Intermediate, also applicable to
Issue 2b)
View 1
The zoo is being criticized for its lack of commitment to nature conservation. Wild
animals belong to the wild, not the zoo. But nature is not always an option. For
example, the habitat for the rainforest gorillas in Africa and the pandas in China has
been undermined by over-development. Wildlife survival is severely threatened.
The average life span of all zoo-kept animals exceeds that of their counterparts in the
wilderness, being cared for by vets and nutritionists.
The modern zoo should take up the functions of conservation, education, research and
leisure. The zoo should be a shelter for wildlife. With conservation by the zoo, the
population of many zoo-kept species has exceeded their wildlife counterparts, and
might revive extinct species.
View 2
The value of the zoo lies in conserving rare animals by conserving a genes database,
and in research and education. However, many zoos do not seem to have such a
vision. If a zoo is there only to show how an animal looks like, its habits and place
of origin, there is no need to take the animal away from nature and shut it up in a
cargo. Some zoos import special species of rare animals for the sake of increasing
income. This definitely defeats the purpose of wildlife conservation.
Other references
The tragedy of celebrity animals
http://www.kta.kh.edu.tw/~evec/schoolecology_html/eco_edu_007.htm
Activities
1. Visit the Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens. Observe the animals there
and write down your comments.
2. Visit the Ocean Park and observe the marine animals. Write down your feelings.
137
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Discussion
1. Describe the lives of animals in the zoo and the aquarium.
2. What are the differences between natural reserves for wild animals and zoos?
138
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 2: What are the values and considerations for environment protection?
Key point c: Values for the environment and ecology for humankind
Source 21: Nature is Humankind's Partner – the Little Egret in Sha Tau Kok
(Elementary, also applicable to Issue 2b)
One-third of Hong Kong's egrets live on an island near Sha Tau Kok (沙頭角).
Recently their habitat is threatened by an external attacker, the Mikania Micrantha (薇
甘菊). The super-speed breeding of the Mikania Micrantha kills off other plants on
the island. So people have to destroy the Mikania Micrantha in order to protect the
egrets' natural habitat.
Reference:
The Silent Competition (《靜默的競賽》
：（山水傳奇系列）). Hong Kong: RTHK production,
2001-03-21
Discussion
1. There is a saying that "the fittest survives". The egret seems to be a loser. What
should our role be in trying to help them? What should be our intentions?
2. What does the spread of the Mikania Micrantha do to the environment? There
3.
4.
are many ways to deal with it. Is killing it by hand the only way?
What is our role in this competition between the egret and the Mikania
Micrantha?
To humankind, is nature an instrument, a refuge, or a partner? Which viewpoint
is more acceptable?
139
139
Issue 3
Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the
confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
140
Key Point a
Green Life
141
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Suggested questions for enquiry
Can environmental protection be achieved through individual participation in green
life? Should we just do our duty or should we demand that others follow us? What is
green life? How can it be practised in Hong Kong? Will it hinder economic
development?
142
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 1: Our Responsibility (Elementary)
Every person should have responsibility for the Earth and for our future generation. If
everybody does less harm to our environment, we can still have a rich and beautiful
Earth for the future. Personal responsibility at the community level includes: joining
green organizations, supporting community initiatives and sharing resources. In other
words, let us live more simply so that others can have a better life.
Reference:
Jonathon Porritt, "Ecology Begins at Home" in Save the Earth, Jonathon Porritt (ed.), Dorling
Kindersley Limited: London, 1991, p. 189-195, p.190.
Discussion
1. Can pursuing a green life on a personal level achieve environmental protection?
2. Should we ask others to strive for a better environment as we do?
3. Examine your own life, do you live by the principles of green life?
143
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 2: Abusing Plastic Bags (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 1a)
Abusing plastic bags has become a serious environmental problem in Hong Kong. It
is estimated that about 21 million pieces or 700 tonnes are dumped into the landfills
per day. According to the Environmental Protection Department, the landfill sites can
only be used for 10 more years. After that, Hong Kong will no longer have spare land
for landfills.
Governments such as Taiwan, Finland and New Zealand, have adopted different
measures to solve this problem. Most supermarkets all over the world have stopped
giving out plastic bags free of charge. In Hong Kong, as of November 2002, the
supermarket Wellcome has installed stainless steel boxes in 24 branches for plastic
bag recycling.
The Green Student Council initiated a "BYOB Reload
signature campaign" in December 2003 and passed the
signatures onto the Secretary for the Environment,
Transport and Works, Dr. Sarah Liao. The campaign:
1) Encourages us to bring our own shopping bags to
reduce the use of plastic bags.
2) Urges the 2 biggest supermarkets to adopt a
long-term policy and stop giving away plastic bags
for free.
3) Urges the government to develop executive and
legislative measures to reduce the use of plastic
bags. For example, studying the feasibility of
imposing a plastic bag tax or limiting the use of
plastic bags.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/tc_chi/news_events/current_issue/recycle_clean_bag.html [Download date:
30/5/2005]
Green Student Council (綠色學生聯會) http://www.gsc.org.hk/email/email.htm [Download date:
30/5/2005]
144
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Discussion
1. Do you have the habit of bringing your own shopping bags? Why?
2. Count the number of plastic bags your family gets from daily shopping and the
number of disposal.
3. How do you handle used plastic bags?
4. Is the problem of plastic bags disposal serious in Hong Kong?
5. How can we reduce the environmental pollution caused by plastic bags?
6. Do you consider it workable for Hong Kong supermarkets to stop giving away
plastic bags for free? Will you support it?
145
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 3: Green Home (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 1c)
Conservation is important for a green home. At the same time, saving money is also
important for many families. The followings are some suggestions to make a green
home.
Activity:
Please fill in the blanks (answers) and find out the correct answer.
1. Cooking utensils
Flat-bottom pans save more energy than dome-bottom pans. Don't take off the lid
frequently during cooking. Pressure cookers and electric cookers are more efficient as
well as time- and energy-saving.
2. Lighting
Fluorescent lamps are brighter and save more energy than light bulbs. Moreover, its
lifetime is 10 times longer compared with conventional bulbs. Don't use
dark-coloured lampshades which reduce brightness
3. Water heater
Taking a shower instead of a bath can save over half of the water and energy. Switch
off the heater after use.
4. Washing machine and spin dryer
Use the washing machine only when you have enough dirty clothes. Use
low-temperature or cold water instead of hot water as far as possible. Try to dry the
clothes with sunlight.
5. Refrigerator
Avoid placing the refrigerator near the stove or sunlight. Cool the food first before
putting it into the refrigerator. Clean the condenser at the back regularly to prevent the
dust from affecting heat spreading.
6. Air-conditioner
If the weather is not so hot, use a fan instead of an air-conditioner. Keep the
temperature of the air-conditioner at 26°C.
146
Clean the dust separator once every one
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
or two weeks. Close all windows and doors when you turn on the air conditioner.
7. Energy label
A lower number 'energy label' means better energy-efficiency and is correspondingly
less energy-consuming.
8. Cars
Use public transport as far as possible. Choose a car with a smaller size and
mechanical capacity so as to save on petroleum. Drive in a normal speed; try to avoid
driving too fast, too slow or with sudden acceleration.
Reference:
http://www.hkrecycling.com.hk/view8_home1.cfm [Download date: 30/5/2005]
Other references
“Community Science Action Guides”, in the Franklin Institute Online
http://www.fi.edu/guide/schutte/index.html
http://www.fi.edu/guide/schutte/water_teacher.html
http://www.fi.edu/guide/stevenson/index.html
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Have you followed the above suggestions? Why?
What is "energy label"? When purchasing electrical appliances, does your family
consider it?
What is green life?
How can we practise it in Hong Kong?
Will green life hinder economical development?
147
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 4: Simplify your life (Elementary)
Simplify Your Life is a bestseller which advocates that 'big' does not mean 'good' and
'abundant' does not mean 'rich'. Only when you lead a simple and easy life can you
really enjoy it.
Some suggestions from the book:
 Live in a small flat! Otherwise you'll exhaust yourself with cleaning it.










The wardrobe shouldn't be too big; you'll want to buy more clothes.
Switch off the TV! It costs us too much time.
Don't pick up the call on reflex when it rings.
Spend your holidays at home! Don't join the crowd outside.
Think over your shopping habit. Don't buy for buying's sake.
Don't fall slave to schedules!
Work less and enjoy life more!
Learn to laugh!
Spend time alone once a month.
Do one thing at a time.



Take time to watch the sunset!
Learn to say "no"!
Jogging is better than doing gym.
Reference:
Elaine St. James Elaine St. James(愛琳．詹姆絲) Simplify Your Life : 100 Ways to Slow Down and
Enjoy the Things That Really Matter《生活簡單就是享受》, 1994, USA: Hyperion.
Discussion
1.
Do you agree with the lifestyle advocated in the book Simplify Your Life?
2.
How is your present lifestyle?
3.
Are you willing to live according to the author's suggestions? Why?
148
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 5: ISO 14000 Standard (Advanced, also applicable to Issues 3b and 3c)
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization, a non-governmental
organization located in Geneva, Switzerland. ISO promotes the development and
implementation of voluntary international standards, both for particular products and
for environmental management issues. The ISO 14000 family is primarily
concerned with "environmental management" and requires an organization to:


Minimize the harmful effects on the environment caused by its activities; and
Achieve continual improvement of its environmental performance.
Some potential benefits of an Environmental Management System (EMS) based on
ISO 14000:



Improvements in overall environmental performance and compliance
Increased efficiency and potential cost savings when managing environmental
obligations
Enhanced corporate image


Driving internal improvements
Gaining competitive advantage in the marketplace
Reference:
Report on "Environmental Management – The ISO 14000 Family of International Standards",
September 2002, pages 7 and 12
http://www.iso.ch/iso/en/prods-services/otherpubs/iso14000/index.html [Download date: 31/5/2005]
ISO 14000 Information Center http://www.iso14000.com/ [Download date: 31/5/2005]
“Environmental Management Systems/ ISO14001-Frequently Asked Questions” in U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. www.epa.gov/owm/iso14001/isofaq.htm [Download date: 31/5/2005]
Other references:
Mr. Raymond Leung, "Barriers and Drivers for SMEs in the Adopting EMS"
http://igpa.ema.org.tw/newsletter/no-8/no-8-3.htm
Shen-yann Chiu, "Nearly 1,000 Certified Firms: Taiwan's Experience in ISO 14000
Promotion", Taiwan http://igpa.ema.org.tw/newsletter/no-8/no-8-3.htm
149
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Discussion
1. Do you think the promotion of green culture in ISO14000 will hinder economic
development?
2. What are the positive and negative impacts of ISO14000 on the company's
operation, performance, and resource organization?
3. What are the tangible and intangible benefits that ISO14000 certification can
bring to a company?
4. Name one or two Hong Kong companies that are ISO 14000 certified. Describe
how they strive to improve the environment.
150
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 6: Green Cathay Pacific City (Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1c
and 2a)
Cathay Pacific City is a benchmark building for several environmental friendly ideas.
Green features have been incorporated into the design, construction and operation
phases of the City. In view of its commitment to the environment, Cathay Pacific
Airways Limited achieved ISO 14000 certification in 1997 and the Hong Kong
Airport Authority Environment Award.
Some of the green features of the Cathay Pacific City include:
 the computerized building management system (BMS);
 formaldehyde-free furniture, carpets and fabrics;
 use of light wells and atrium to introduce natural light;
 use of bio-odour remover for kitchen and toilet;
 use of seawater cooling chiller water plant;
 use of room temperature sensor to reduce energy wastage;
 the extensive recyclable waste separation green bins, etc.
A success of Green Cathay Pacific City is energy saving of up to 30% due to the
adoption of seawater cooling chiller plant. Conventional chillers use energy to lower
water temperature before cools the ventilation air in the system. Seawater however
can act directly as a cooling agent to the air.
Reference:
Pauline P Y Wong, "Technical Visit to Green Cathay Pacific City"
http://www.hkie-ymc.org/diary/activity_report/Tech_Visit_CX_City.htm [Download date: 31/5/2005]
Other reference
“Environmental Report 2003” in Cathay Pacific website—About Us: Ties with the
Community--Environmental
http://downloads.cathaypacific.com/cx/press/environmentalpolicy_en.pdf
151
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Discussion
1. Which of the green features of the Green Cathay Pacific City can be applied to
your school?
2. What need to be considered when a company or a school plans to build up a green
environment?
3. The success of developing a green culture in business depends very much on the
support and advocacy of the senior management. Do you agree? Can you illustrate
this by referring to the environmental policy of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited?
(visit http://downloads.cathaypacific.com/cx/press/environmentalpolicy_en.pdf)
4. Pick one or two green companies and discuss whether the ISO 14000 certification
hinders or facilitates their business.
152
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 7: CD Recycling Programme (Elementary, also applicable to Issue 3b)
Hong Kong ranks eighth worldwide in terms of computer use and more than 60% of
households own a computer. While there are global concerns about the treatment of
electronic waste, one particular type, the CD, poses potential threat to our waste
volume.
In 2004, Friends of the Earth (HK) launched the first large-scale CD recycling scheme
in Hong Kong. More than 200 housing estates, shopping malls and schools have taken
part in it. The scheme aims to collect 100,000 CDs in one year. Interviewing 438
households from 31 May 2004 to 2 June 2004, Friends of the Earth (HK) found that
on average there are 129 CDs in each household. More than 10% of the interviewees
had more than 200 CDs at home, some owned more than 1,000. Most are movie and
music discs.
The main material of CD is polycarbonate, which, like plastic bags and foam lunch
boxes, is non-biodegradable and poses a hazard to our environment. However, broken
CDs can be converted into plastic particles which can be used to make durable plastic
material for mobile phones and computers.
Reference:
"80 million rarely-used CDs
Conservation group launched recycling scheme" (逾 8000 萬光碟遭束
諸高閣 環團推全港光碟回收), Ming Pao, A14, 2004-06-12
CD Recycling Programme, Friends of the Earth
http://www.foe.org.hk/welcome/gettc.asp?language=en&id_path=1,%208,%20157,%202093
[Download date: 1/6/2005]
153
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Activity
1. Collect some unwanted CD-ROMs and outdated software CDs and put them into
Friends of the Earth "CD recycling bins". Make sure you scratch the CDs to
erase the information contained.
2. Reduce the use of CD-ROMs; and if possible, buy re-useable CDs
Discussion
1. When you buy or burn CDs, have you ever thought of the potential problems it
brings to our environment?
2.
3.
Can we control the continual increase in the number of CDs in our daily life and
society? Why? What are your suggestions?
Do you think that the "CD Recycling Programmes" of Friends of the Earth (HK)
are effective? Why?
154
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point a: Green Life
Source 8: Disposable lunch boxes harm the environment (Elementary, also
applicable to Issues 1a, 1c, 2a and 3b)
Have you ever given any thought to the 60 million disposable lunch boxes generated
from 400 primary schools in Hong Kong each year? They fill up more than 200
standard football pitches or they can be used to build 16,000 buildings as tall as the
Bank of China? The Green Student Council revealed yesterday that more than 70% of
primary schools in Hong Kong used disposable lunch boxes, throwing away 320,000
every day.
The increase use of disposable lunch boxes in primary schools is mainly due to the
increase of full-day primary schools from 320 to 440 this year. The problem of foam
lunch boxes has been with us for a long time. The government has been searching for
substitutes for polystyrene. While the new material may not be good enough, an
alternative is recycling which costs relatively more.
Reference:
"Disposable lunch boxes from 400 primary schools harm the environment
Building 16000
Bank-of-China-high lunch box pillars per year"
(400 小學即棄飯盒破壞環境 每年可砌萬六條中銀高度飯盒柱), Apple Daily, A06, 2004-07-12
Other reference
Green Student Council http://www.gsc.org.hk/whatnews/index_whatnews.htm
Discussion
1. Do you consider yourself responsible for the on-going increase in the number of
disposable lunch boxes?
2. How can we solve the problem of disposable lunch boxes in schools?
3.
What can the government do? What are the difficulties?
155
156
Key Point b
The roles of government and non- governmental
organizations (NGOs)
157
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Suggested questions for enquiry
What is the role of government in environmental protection? What role can it play in
promoting the recycling of used materials and the quality of life? Is it feasible for
government to use taxation and other policies to promote environmental protection?
Is it reasonable?
158
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 1: The Role of Government in Conserving National Resources
(Intermediate, also applicable to Issues 1a, 1c and 3c)
Some developing countries which face heavy debt make use of one of their assets, the
forest as payment. This is very common for countries such as Russia or countries in
the Far East. Poor South American countries such as Suriname and Guyana have
considered selling half of their national forests to Asian lumbering companies. A
typical example is the Indonesian government which subsidizes lumbering and sells
lumbering permits to gain the support of politicians and the military. In 1991, a few
companies won control of 41% of the entire national forest in Indonesia. These
policies have speeded up the consumption of the forest.
Reference:
"What has the government done?" (「政府做了什麼」), Taking a Stand: Cultivating a New Relationship
with the World's Forests (參與行動：人類與世界森林的新關係), 看守台灣研究中心文集 B008
http://staff.pccu.edu.tw/~ayo/5green/ForestWat02.htm [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Has the government of Indonesia handled forest resources properly? Explain.
2. Why did they handle forest resources in this way?
3. How do laws, policies and attitudes affect the fate of the forests?
159
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 2: The Hong Kong Environment and Conservation Fund (Elementary)
An Environment and Conservation Fund was set up by the government in 1994 to
fund research, and community and education work. It received an extra injection of
$100 million in May 2002 to fund community-based waste recovery activities,
educational, promotional and community involvement projects, and research and
technology demonstration projects. In 2002, 113 applications were received. 85 were
approved and $2.26 million handed out. 22 Community Waste Recovery Project
applications were also received and about $6.82 million distributed.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk03/eng/aware/index.html [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Do you think the government should spend so much money on environmental
protection? Why?
2. Do you think the present environmental protection education and community
activities implemented by the government are adequate?
160
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 3: EPD's partnership with industrial and commercial sector
(Intermediate)
Traditionally, pollution in Hong Kong is controlled through laws and enforcement
actions. But while this is good for catching offenders, it is not so effective in
encouraging compliance and better understanding. To address this gap, the
Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has pursued a policy of partnership with
industries. The goals are to improve communication, offer advice on pollution
prevention measures, clarify requirements of the law and encourage different sectors
to perform better in specific areas, such as waste reduction and environmental
management.
The results so far have been positive. Pollution complaints have dropped from a high
of 25 000 in 2000, when partnership was just starting to be formalized with trade
associations, to about 20 000 in 2002. At the same time, prosecutions have fallen from
a high of 1 824 in 2000 to 842 in 2002. Areas not covered by the law have also seen
some improvement. For example, more people are separating their waste for recycling
than ever before. Partnership not only helps to improve communication with industry,
it also helps to reduce pollution.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk03/eng/partner/index.html [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. What contributions have the Environmental Ordinance made to combating
pollution?
2. Do you think it is enough to rely simply on laws and regulations in order to
control pollution?
3. Why does the EPD need to develop partnership with stakeholders?
161
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 4: Environmental report among governmental departments in Hong
Kong (Elementary)
Hong Kong is one of the few jurisdictions in the world that requires all government
departments to report annually on their environmental performance in their policies
and actions. The practice began in 2000 and, while every department has produced
annual reports, their quality varies. The Environmental Protection Department
therefore conducted a major review in 2002 in order to identify areas of strengths and
weaknesses. The review led to the publication of "A Benchmark for Environmental
Performance Reports" in December, which provides guidance on how government
agencies can improve the quality of their future reports.
A Benchmarking Guidebook for environmental performance reports
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk03/eng/plan/index.html [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Have you ever read these environmental performance reports? How can we get
hold of them?
2. Why does the government require departments to produce such reports? What
purpose does it serve?
162
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 5: Rainforest education – The Eden Project (Elementary, also applicable
to Issue 1a)
The Tropics Biome at the Eden Project in Cornwall England is the largest
conservatory in the world, containing over 1,000 plant species from the jungles of
Malaysia, West Africa, the islands of Oceania and South America. Misters and
waterfalls inside the dome keep the air moist, and the air temperature is regulated at
between 18-35°C, maintaining the temperature and humidity of a tropical rainforest. It
is a great experience walking through the jungle plants and learn about their hundred
uses in everyday life.
Reference:
Eden Project website: www.edenproject.com [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Other references
Tropical Rainforest Coalition website: http://www.rainforest.org/
Rainforest Alliance website: http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/
Discussion
1. Why does the British spend GBP 86 million to build the Eden? Do you think it is
a worthwhile project? Why?
2. What difficulties are encountered in building the Eden? Is it possible to build an
artificial environment that suits us perfectly?
163
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 6: Waste Recycling Campaigns in Hong Kong (Elementary, also
applicable to Issues 1a, 1b and 3a)
People in Hong Kong produce some 18,000 tonnes of waste per day. This amount
would fill up 200 double decker buses. If this trend continues, our existing landfills
will be exhausted by 2012. We need to reduce the amount of waste. Recycling is the
best way to achieve this goal.
In view of this, the Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC) has organized a
Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates with the purpose of educating the
residents, and encouraging them to adopt a waste separation and recycling habit. This
Campaign is now marching into Phase V, covering more than 800 public and private
housing estates.
Response to Phase I and II of the campaign was good. 9,365 tonnes of waste paper
and 232 tonnes of aluminum cans were collected. Given that each tonne of paper
recovered represents the saving of 17 trees, the campaign has saved some 159,205
trees.
And, given that 1 kilogram of used aluminum cans can produce 60 new aluminum
cans, the campaign has saved enough material for 13,920,000 aluminum cans. With
support from all walks of life, it is believed that the results of Phase V will even be
more encouraging.
Reference:
http://www.ecc.org.hk/new/inside-act-highlight-15.asp
164
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Discussion
1. Why do we need to separate waste and recycle them?
2. Can we make our city green simply by doing our part as an individual?
3. How does the government encourage the habit of waste separation? Any
suggestions?
4. Do you think environmental protection should be paid for by raising tax?
165
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 7: Waste Recycling Programmes in Hong Kong (Elementary, also
applicable to Issues 1b and 3a)
Until 1998 - just a few years ago - public awareness of domestic waste recycling was
not high. A few individual housing estates tried recycling under the direction of green
groups. But the vast majority had little knowledge or experience in separating their
waste for recycling. This started to change with the Waste Recycling Campaign in
Housing Estates organized by the Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC), a
government-appointed group that promotes public awareness and action. In 1998 it
organized the first Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates, involving 41
estates. By the end of 2002, the campaign had reached 1 200 estates, covering some
1.5 million households.
The campaign collects waste paper, aluminium cans and plastic bottles for recycling.
In 2002, 139,089 tonnes of waste paper, 5,434 tonnes of aluminium cans and 1,206
tonnes of plastic bottles were collected. Participation has increased substantially over
the years, as revealed in annual surveys conducted by the ECC. In 2002, 82 per cent
of people said they had used the bins, as against 70 per cent in 2001 and 62 per cent in
2000. While there is still much room for improvement in the household recycling rate,
the campaign has helped to put a waste recovery structure in place and exposed
millions of people to the practice of waste separation.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk03/eng/aware/index.html [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. How effective are the waste recycling campaigns organized by the government?
Give reasons.
2. Besides these campaigns, are there other environmental protection campaigns?
Give examples.
166
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 8: Developing Green Jobs in Hong Kong – Problems and Opportunities
(Intermediate)
There is ample room in Hong Kong to expand the waste separation system and create
more green jobs. Greenpeace has recently surveyed the state of waste reduction and
recycling in Hong Kong. It shows that the recycling system managed by government
departments is very inadequate. For example, the Food and Environmental Hygiene
Department (FEHD) has set up 18,200 waste collection facilities (16,000 litter bins
and more than 2,000 refuse depots) in public areas all over Hong Kong. But among
these only 148 facilities cater to waste separation, only 0.8%. This adversely affects
not only kerbside waste separation but also waste separation in household, offices and
commercial premises, because these 2,000 refuse depots also collect waste from
households, offices and commercial premises all over Hong Kong.
The local waste transport system is also unsupportive of waste separation. Among the
400 refuse collection vehicles managed by the FEHD, none has any waste separation
function. Already-separated waste is therefore mixed up with general waste which
ends up in landfill sites.
Inadequacies in the waste recycling system contribute to many serious drawbacks: (1)
massive recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, compostable organic materials,
lay waste; (2) landfill sites are quickly exhausted, taking up more scarce land in Hong
Kong; (3) very expensive refuse incineration plants have to be built; and (4) most
importantly, such poor policies mean few green jobs in Hong Kong.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/chi/one_article.adp?campaign_id=7&article_id=77 [Download date:
1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Do you consider the government's waste separation campaigns effective? Why?
2. Examine which countries have the most effective waste separation campaigns.
Give reasons.
167
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 9: Solid Waste Management in Hong Kong (Advanced, also applicable to
Issues 1a, 1c, 2a, 2b and 3a)
3.5 million tonnes of household waste are handled in Hong Kong each year and the
number doubles in 20 years. It is estimated that the present landfills can only function
for another 7 to 11 years. In a consultation document in July 2004, the Council for
Sustainable Development proposed levying a waste collection and disposal charge
according to the rateable value of properties or the amount of waste. By the
polluter-pays principle, it is hoped that waste production could be reduced. The
charges collected can go to bring in advanced incineration technology and
biotechnology, taking the place of landfill sites. This can also create green jobs.
Reference:
Sustainable Development http://www.susdev.org.hk/en/index.html [Download date: 1/6/2005]
"Polluter-pays Principle in consultation
Government plans for household waste charges" (倡污者自
付諮詢四個月 港府擬徵家居垃圾費), Sing Tao, A12,
2004-07-16
"Plans for household waste handling charges" (擬開徵家居廢物處理費), Apple Daily, A11,
2004-07-10
Other references
Sustainable Development
http://www.susdev.org.hk
On the production, reduction and management of waste in Hong Kong
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/waste_maincontent.html
Taipei City Government: "Zero Landfill / Total Recycling Policy" by 2010
http://www.epb.taipei.gov.tw/about_epb/2010bury/index.htm
Waste management plan in Singapore Green Plan 2012
http://app.env.gov.sg/sgp.asp?cid=166&nid=166&id=SAS762
International and European waste management http://www.wasteonline.org.uk
Municipal Waste Management Strategy in London
http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor/strategies/waste/index.jsp
168
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Discussion
1. Why is solid waste management an important topic in sustainable development
in Hong Kong?
2. How do other cities handle waste?
3. To make waste management in Hong Kong more in line with the principles of
sustainable development, what are some alternatives? What decisions need to be
made?
4. How does the proposal by the Council for Sustainable Development in July 2004
affect us? Analyze the effects from economic, social, environmental and personal
perspectives.
169
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 10: Construction Waste Landfill Charges (Intermediate, also applicable
to Issues 1c and 2a)
On 2 July 2004, the Legislative Council passed the Waste Disposal (Amendment)
(No.2) Bill 2003. Starting from 2005, a disposal charge of $27 to $125 per tonne will
be imposed on construction waste disposal at landfills. Operators said the new charge
would be passed onto waste producers. Some green groups worried that the regulation
would trigger more illegal disposal and urged government to step up enforcement.
The charge will be collected by a direct settlement system. It requires major
construction contractors with contracts of $1 million or above to open billing accounts
and pay waste disposal charges to the Government direct. No such requirements exist
for small-scale contractors.
Reference:
"Charging contractors from next year
Landfill charges passed onto owners" (明年起向承辦商徵收
堆填費勢轉嫁業主), Sing Tao, A14, 2004-07-03
170
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Other references
Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme, Environment, Transport and Works
Bureau, April 2004.
http://www.etwb.gov.hk/whats_new/Paper_n_publicity_materials/index.aspx?langno=
2&nodeid=1366
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200407/02/0702132.htm
Discussion
1.
2.
Should government make use of taxation to promote environmental protection?
Is this reasonable? Why?
Is the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme fair and effective?
171
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 11: Hong Kong Environmental Resource Centres (Elementary)
The Environmental Protection Department's Environmental Resource Centres at Wan
Chai, Tsuen Wan and Fanling and the Mobile Environmental Resource Centre provide
the public easy access to environmental resources materials. Workshops will be
offered in the centres from time to time. All are welcome to participate and have fun.
Services and facilities include Library Database, Interactive Learning Room,
Information Gallery, Environmental Garden and Green Experience Classroom, etc.
Environmental videos, CD-ROM and educational kits from the Environmental
Protection Department are available for loan by organizations.
Reference:
Environmental Protection Department http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/eindex.html [Download date:
1/6/2005]
Other references
Wan Chai Environmental Resource Centre
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_education/envir_resourcectr/resource_ctr01.html
Tsuen Wan Environmental Resource Centre
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_education/envir_resourcectr/resource_ctr02.html
http://www.greenpower.org.hk/new/brown/c_frm_brown_index.html
Fanling
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_education/envir_resourcectr/resource_ctr03.html
Mobile Environmental Resource Centre
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/news_events/events/events_mercrp_cgnp.html
Activity
Visit any one of the above resource centres.
Browse the websites for details.
Discussion
What is the role of the government in environmental protection?
172
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 12: Environmental Protection Education (Elementary)
On World Meteorological Day, Greenpeace mounted a photo exhibition on "Nature's
Warning – Impacts of Climatic Change" at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. It
aims to increase public awareness of the dangers of global warming and urges the
government to develop renewable energy.
Reference
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/news_archive_item.adp?campaign_id=32&id=791 [Download date:
1/6/2005]
Activity
Design a pamphlet for the promotion of environmental protection.
Questions
1. Why did Greenpeace hold this photo exhibition?
2. What did this exhibition expect to achieve?
173
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 13: Friends of the Earth (Hong Kong) (Elementary)
Founded in 1983, Friends of the Earth (HK) is dedicated to promoting and improving
the environment through education, research and campaigns. Its goal is to raise public
awareness, monitor environmental protection efforts, and promote sustainable
development in Hong Kong. Campaigns organized by Friends of the Earth (HK) aim
at introducing renewable energy to Hong Kong in order to abate air pollution, and
actively encouraging rational consumption, and reduction of municipal solid waste.
The green group also runs community activities, including “Plants for the Earth”,
solar cart race, and green Christmas.
Reference:
http://www.foe.org.hk/welcome/geten.asp?id_path=1,%202,%2021 [Download date: 1/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Have you taken part in any activities organized by Friends of the Earth (HK)?
Share your experience with your classmates.
2.
"Every society needs some voluntary organizations to promote environmental
protection." Discuss.
174
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 14: Green Power (Elementary)
Environmental Education
Green Power was founded in 1988 by a group of dedicated volunteers concerned with
environmental affairs. It puts environmental education as its first and foremost
priority. Green Power has established the first ever Green School Network in Hong
Kong, running Environmental Resource Centres in schools. Each year,
cross-disciplinary environmental education kit, multimedia educational CD-ROMs on
varying themes are produced for On-line Green Classrooms.
Tackling Environmental Issues
Green Power actively undertakes investigations and research. Reports are published
on a regular basis to raise public awareness and understanding of the relationship
between the environment, quality of life and health.
Conservation Work
Green Power will put prime focus on butterfly conservation in the coming years. It
has organized a series of butterfly watching activities for secondary school teachers
and students and have joined hands with about 200 secondary school students to build
up the first citizen-initiated butterfly database in Hong Kong. This will benefit
butterfly conservation work in the long term. The result is a Butterfly Net which
carries over a hundred photos and a great deal of information on butterfly diversity,
ecology and local conservation.
Participation in Environmental Policy
Green Power has representatives in many government environmental advisory bodies
to make its voice heard.
Reference:
Green Power
http://www.greenpower.org.hk/new/e_index.html [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Other reference
Hong Kong Butterfly Net
http://www.shell-greenpower.net/
175
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Discussion
1. As a non-government organization which does not receive government funding,
how does Green Power support its daily operation? Where does its resources
come from?
2. Collect information about butterflies in Hong Kong. If Green Power is to
establish a database for another organism, what would be your suggestion?
176
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 15: The Conservancy Association (Elementary, also applicable to Issue
3a)
The Conservancy Association, founded in 1968, is a non-government environmental
organization with the longest history in Hong Kong. As a champion of sustainable
development, it is dedicated to the protection of the environment and the conservation
of our natural and cultural heritage. It publishes regularly CAre News and provides
environmental education kits for loan. Besides local and global environmental issues,
the development of environmental protection in the Mainland is also its concern.
Reference:
http://www.conservancy.org.hk/aboutCA/mainE.htm [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Here is one of its activities promoting environmental education:
"Used Clothes Collection for the Environment" Campaign
To lessen the burden of landfills and to enhance public awareness of environmental
protection and waste reduction, the Conservancy Association has been holding
used clothes collection campaign since October 2000. It collects used clothes in
public and private housing estates in Hong Kong on a regular basis. By February
2002, it successfully covered more than 180 public and 300 private housing estates.
The Used Clothes Collection for the Environment campaign targets a serious waste
problem in Hong Kong. It directly reduces waste in landfills by recycling used
clothes, shoes, socks, stuffed toys, handbags and fabric and textile products. The
advocacy work of the Conservancy Association needs citizen support!
Reference:
http://www.conservancy.org.hk/recycle/UclothesC.htm [Download date: 2/6/2005]
177
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Here is one of the Conservancy Association's programmes in promoting
environmental protection in the Mainland:
Green Gift to Our Beloved Country – planting trees in deserts
Theme
Fieldwork in the desert regions of Nei Mongol has led the Conservancy Association
to launch a "tree-planting in the deserts". It is based in the Chifeng regions, 400 km
from the capital.
Programme
From 1998 to 2000, a planting campaign took place in the Chifeng regions, with a
total area of 107.4 hectares. At least 120,000 trees and 60 hectares of grass were
planted.
Results
After 3 years' effort, 257,700 trees and 64 hectares of grass had been planted, in a
total area of 117.4 hectares. Sand fixing zones had been formed and wild plants
appeared on the bare lands in the regions. Oases are emerging. The Conservancy
Association and Green Earth (Beijing) mobilized 2000 volunteers for the campaign.
Advanced technology improves planting methods. Machines sow the seeds and
efficiency has been greatly increased. In addition 140,000 trees have been planted.
Education and promotion
With success in the Chifeng regions, the Conservancy Association has further
expanded its educational work. Cooperating with the Hong Kong Professional
Teachers' Union, the Conservancy Association has introduced civic education in
primary and secondary schools. In the spring of 1999, about 1,000 teachers and
students joined a tree-planting campaign in country parks in Hong Kong. Besides
building a greener Hong Kong, the campaign is also an echo of the planting
campaign in the North, a friendly planting competition between two regions.
Reference:
http://www.conservancy.org.hk/conser/Grngift/desert.htm [Download date: 2/6/2005]
178
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Activities
1. Check your wardrobe at home. List all the clothes suitable for used clothes
collection.
2. Review the list, are we buying more clothes than we need? Do we really need so
many clothes?
3. Are you prepared to take some of the clothes in the list to the collection spots of
the Used Clothes Collection for the Environment Campaign?
Discussion
1.
2.
3.
4.
What is the role of non-governmental organizations like the Conservancy
Association in environmental protection?
If you were to plan another used material collection campaign, what would you
propose? Why? How would you evaluate its effectiveness?
Which non-governmental environmental organizations do you know about?
What campaigns have they held? How effective were they? Give examples.
Have you joined these campaigns? Why?
179
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 16: World Wide Fund for Nature (Hong Kong) (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 3c)
World Wide Fund for Nature
WWF is the largest and most experienced environmental protection organization in
the world, with branches and offices covering 96 countries and a membership
reaching 4.7 million. WWF's mission is to stop the degradation of the planet's natural
environment and to build a future in which humankind lives in harmony with nature.
This is done by:
- conserving biological diversity;
- ensuring sustainable use of natural resources;
- promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption.
World Wide Fund for Nature (Hong Kong)
WWF Hong Kong, established in 1981, first raised funds for the Giant Panda and
other endangered species. In the 1980s, WWF promulgated plans to develop the Mai
Po Education Centre and Nature Reserve into a priceless resource for the people and
wildlife of greater China – a success best exemplified by China declaring Mai Po to
be her seventh Ramsar Site in 1997 and by the wonder and joy felt by the hundreds of
thousands of visitors who experience first-hand the beauty and wonder of healthy
natural environment.
WWF has developed a highly professional yet entertaining environmental education
programme for Hong Kong schools. Whether it is a field study visit or an in-school
educational activity, WWF strives to present positive aspects of Hong Kong's natural
environment so that participants would know there is still nature worth protecting and
why it should be protected.
In the 1990s, WWF implemented a wide-ranging conservation programme to protect
Hong Kong's threatened natural habitats. Key successes include wetlands policy
advocacy, especially over the KCR Spur Line Long Valley EIA dispute, and marine
policy work in relation to the Chinese White Dolphin, symbol of Hong Kong's return
to the Motherland in 1997.
Since 1996, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has been
sponsoring 60% of Mai Po's management expenses. The other 40% comes mainly
from funds raised by WWF's annual Big Bird Race.
180
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Reference
WWF (Hong Kong) http://www.wwf.org.hk/eng/index.html
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
WWF http://www.panda.org/ [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Hong Kong Bird-Watching Society http://www.hkbws.org.hk/ [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Other reference
http://www.wwf.org.hk/eng/maipo/bird_migrate/index.html
Discussion
1. How many species of resident and migratory birds are found in Hong Kong?
2. Why do migratory birds come to Hong Kong?
3. Which campaign(s) by WWF (Hong Kong) impress you most?
4. If you were the management of WWF (Hong Kong) and you need to organize
interesting and innovative environmental protection activities for secondary
school students, what would be your suggestions?
181
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 17: Greenpeace (Advanced, also applicable to Issues 1a, 2b and 3c)
Greenpeace is a non-profit making organization, with a presence in 40 countries
across Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. To maintain its independence,
Greenpeace does not accept donations from governments or corporations but relies on
contributions from individual supporters and foundation grants.
As a global organization, Greenpeace focuses on the most crucial threats to our
planet's biodiversity and environment. It campaigns to warn of climate change, protect
ancient forests, save the oceans, stop whaling, say no to genetic engineering, stop
nuclear threat, reduce toxic substances and promote sustainable trade.
Banner saying no to Genetically Modified Food
Marching for peace
2004-06-16©Greenpeace
2004-03-20©Greenpeace
Greenpeace activists in opposition to shipment
of illegal timber 2004-03-17©Greenpeace
Campaign to tackle global warming
2004-06-04©Greenpeace
Greenpeace's environmental projects in China include concerns for ocean dumping,
genetic engineering, toxic pollution, ancient forests, the Dongjiang River Pollution,
waste management, no war, renewable energy and e-waste, etc.
182
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Posters of Greenpeace campaigns
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org/international/photosvideos/photos [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Greenpeace China—Campaign
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/campaign.adp
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
Greenpeace International—What we do http://www.greenpeace.org/international_en/campaigns/
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Evaluate one major environmental project of Greenpeace.
2. What of international or non-international environmental organizations do you
know? How effective are their campaigns?
183
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 18: Green Peng Chau Association (Elementary, also applicable to Issue
1c)
The Green Peng Chau Association is a non-profit making organization founded in
1991 by a group of islanders and young people who love and care about nature and
Peng Chau. The association is committed to promoting public awareness of the
environment, concentrating on Peng Chau and its local culture. Its long term goal is to
help the locals build a sustainable economy based on the Island's unique culture and
environment. Ecotourism, Organic Farming and Green Market are a few of the
activities through which the Association has tried to achieve its goal.
Over the past ten years, the Green Peng Chau Association has been constantly fighting
for a better environment. It highlighted pollution problems such as untreated water
running into the beach and the dumping of building refuse. It launched an anti-new
cargo bay campaign. It has also organized environmental awereness activities like
Environmental Workshops for Kindergarden and Primary students, Tree Planting Day,
Beach Cleaning Campaign, Talk A Greenlife, Life and Environment Exhibitions,
ecotours, ecotour guide training courses, recycling programs and so on. Other
achievements include the Commission of Environmental Protection and Ambassodors
of Environment Day Camp. The association has been invited to other districts for
environmental talks, workshops and exhibitions.
Reference:
Green Peng Chau Association (坪洲綠衡者)
http://www.greenpengchau.org.hk/theme.php?page_id=Aim&lang=e [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Other reference
Remaking Peng Chau My Way (《再造坪洲》
：
（我有我方向）), RTHK, 3 April 2001
(22 minutes)
Discussion
1. Do you think the work of the Green Peng Chau Association is helpful to the
residents of Peng Chau?
2. More development brings more economic benefit. Yet at the same time,
economic development also brings pollution and other environmental problems.
If you are a resident of Peng Chau, how would you deal with this dilemma?
184
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point b: The roles of government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Source 19: The Hong Kong Organic Farming Association (Elementary, also
applicable to Issue 1c)
The Hong Kong Organic Farming Association (HOFA) is a non-profit making
organization. It drafted Hong Kong’s first "Organic Production Standard and
Certification System" to protect the interest of organic producers, traders and
consumers. Together with local institution and professional organizations, it helps
develop farming techniques and encourages local farmers to get involved in organic
farming. It has urged the government to set up a “Seed Bank” where local species
are saved and restored. They also run many educational programs to promote the
benefits of organic farming to the general public.
Reference:
Hong Kong Organic Farming Association (香港有機農業協會) http://www.hofa.org.hk/index.php
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
The Organic Farm
http://www.organic-farm.com/ [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Michelle Frain, "Marketing Success Stories: Organic Farmers Share Their Successes and Challenges",
The New Farm http://www.newfarm.org/depts/midatlantic/Fact%20Sheets/success.shtml [Download
date: 2/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Do you think the Hong Kong Organic Farming Association (HOFA) has
contributed a great deal to organic farming in Hong Kong?
2. What has the Hong Kong government done in promoting sustainable organic
farming in Hong Kong?
3. There are a number of organic farms in Hong Kong. Where are they? What are
the characteristics of these organic farms?
4. Find some successful cases of organic farming in the world and discuss the
reasons for their success.
185
186
Key Point c
International collaboration
187
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Suggested questions for enquiry
Why is international collaboration important? How should developed countries
cooperate with developing countries? How can the urge for development in
developing countries be reconciled with that for environmental protection in
developed countries? Are developed countries obliged to help developing countries
deal with environmental problems?
188
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Source 1: Extracts from International Environmental Conventions and
Agreements (Intermediate)
Article 153 of the Basic Law provides that the application of international agreements
to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to which the People's Republic of
China is or becomes a party shall be decided by the Central People's Government, in
accordance with the circumstances and needs of the Region, and after seeking the
views of the government of the Region. International agreements to which the
People's Republic of China is not a party but which are implemented in Hong Kong
may continue to be implemented in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Some examples of international environmental conventions and agreements being in
force and applicable to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region:
Subject
Convention
Aims
Global
Climate
Change
United
Nations
Framework To achieve stabilization of
Convention on Climate Change atmospheric
(UNFCCC), 1992 and the Kyoto concentrations of
Protocol (The UNFCCC and the greenhouse gases at levels
Kyoto Protocol were extended to that would prevent
the HKSAR from May 2003)
dangerous human-induced
interference with the
climate system.
189
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Ozone Layer
Protection
Vienna Convention for the
Protection of the Ozone Layer,
1985, as supplemented by Protocol
in 1987 (amended in 1990 and
1992).
To protect the ozone
layer by taking
precautionary measures
to regulate and control
global emissions of
ozone depleting
substances so as to
protect human health and
the environment from
harmful effects.
Amendments have been
made from time to time
to adjust the timetable for
reducing consumption
and production of the
substances that deplete
the ozone layer.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk04/english/hk/03.html [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Discussion
1. How binding are these conventions and agreements?
2. Do you think these conventions and agreements can improve our environment if
Hong Kong would follow them all?
3. Why is international collaboration important in environmental protection?
190
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Source 2: The Basel Convention (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 1a, 1b, 2a
and 2b)
The Basel Convention seeks to control the transfer of hazardous wastes across
national boundaries. Since May 1992 about 100 countries, including China, have
signed this Convention. However, the United States, which produces large amounts of
hazardous wastes, has not done so.
The Convention encourages developed countries and developing countries to join
hands in the handling of hazardous waste through technology transfer, information
sharing and skills training, etc. It requires that the exporting country must report the
amount and nature of the waste to the importing country and that written permits must
be obtained from the importing country.
Reference:
http://big5.xinhuanet.com/gate/big5/news.xinhuanet.com/ziliao/2003-11/16/content_1180881.htm
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
http://www.greenpeace.org.au/toxics/government/basel.html [Download date: 2/6/2005]
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk04/english/hk/03.html [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Discussion
1. Why do we have to control the movement and disposal of hazardous waste?
2. Given that the US is not a signatory of the Basel Convention, can the Convention
effectively control the transfer of radioactive waste?
3. Why do countries need to join hands in handling hazardous waste?
191
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Source 3: Environmental Protection Department's close links with International
Association of Impact Assessment (Elementary)
The Environmental Protection Department's Assistant Director, Mr. Elvis Au, was
President of the International Association of Impact Assessment (IAIA) in 2002. In
June he chaired an international conference on impact assessment in the Hague, in
which more than 600 people from more than 70 countries participated. He also
represented the EPD at the World Summit on Sustainable Development and, in his
capacity as President of the IAIA, contributed to an international symposium on
impact assessment.
The EPD was also a major contributor to an international conference in Hong Kong in
2002 on "Reshaping Environmental Assessment Tools for Sustainability". Organized
by the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the conference attracted delegates from the
Mainland, Europe, North America and Hong Kong. Among the officiating guests were
the Vice-Chairman of the Environment and Resource Committee of the National
People's Congress, Mr. Wang Tao, and Hong Kong's Secretary for the Environment,
Transport and Works, Dr Sarah Liao. Among the EPD's contributions to the
conference were the submission of 13 papers, the provision of a technical visit to our
waste facilities for delegates, the participation of the Director of Environmental
Protection as an Honorary Advisor and the participation of the Assistant Director of
Environmental Protection in helping to organize the event.
Reference:
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/ehk03/eng/plan/index.html [Download date: 2/6/2005]
Discussion
1. What is the significance of international meetings like the international conference
on impact assessment and "Reshaping Environmental Assessment Tools for
Sustainability"?
2. Why is international cooperation important?
3. How is Hong Kong's environment affected by the Mainland and neighbouring
regions?
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Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Source 4: International Conference on Electronic Waste and Producers'
Environmental Responsibilities (Elementary, also applicable to Issues 2a and 3b)
Greenpeace and the Chinese Society for Environmental Science held an "International
Conference on Electronic Waste and Producers' Environmental Responsibilities" in
Beijing 21-22 April 2004. This Conference aimed to: further promote the progress of
e-waste handling in China; promote producers' responsibility and the development of
clean production procedures; enhance international sharing and cooperation in
e-waste handling among government officials, NGOs, corporations, academic
institutes and the media; study relevant strategies and regulations and thereby explore
sustainable production and consumption, in the light of producers' responsibility and
prevention.
This conference received active support from the world-renowned Basel Action
Network, Oxfam, Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition, Indian Toxics Coalition, Clean
Production Action and Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and Research,
etc. The success of the conference will promote circular economy and sustainable
development in China.
Reference:
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/chi/news_archive_item.adp?campaign_id=39&id=807
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
Other reference
http://www.greenpeace.org/china/ch/press/releases/96299
"Hong Kong: Free Port for Electronic Toxic Waste?"
http://www.greenpeace.org.hk/eng/one_article.adp?campaign_id=39&article_id=608
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Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Discussion
1. What is electronic waste? What hazardous substances are found in it?
2. Where does electronic waste come from and where does it go?
3. What are the most appropriate ways to handle electronic waste? Should developed
countries dump their electronic waste in developing countries?
4. How can we urge developing countries to adopt environmental protection
measures practised by developed countries?
5. Why should we urge China to be concerned about electronic waste?
6. Have you ever disposed of electronic waste?
7. How much electronic waste is there in Hong Kong in recent years?
8. Where does the electronic waste in Hong Kong go?
9. Are the efforts on electronic waste of non-governmental organizations like
Greenpeace effective?
194
Optional Module II: Human-environment relationship
Issue 3: Can we find a clear way ahead amidst the confusions and contradictions in the practice of
environmental protection?
Key point c: International Collaboration
Source 5: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (Intermediate)
"The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as a Waterfowl
Habitat (or Ramsar Convention)" is an intergovernmental treaty which provides the
framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and
wise use of wetlands.
On 4 September 1995, an area of about 1,500 ha of wetland in Mai Po and Inner Deep
Bay was designated a Ramsar Site according to the Ramsar Convention. The area is
the largest wetland area in Hong Kong, which consists of different habitats such as
shallow bay, intertidal mudflats, mangroves, shrimp ponds and fish ponds. In winter,
this wetland supports more than 50,000 migratory birds (including the extreme critical
species, Black-faced Spoonbill). The site regularly holds 13 globally threatened
species and supports 17 species of invertebrates including one species of crab found
nowhere else in the world. All these show the species richness of the Mai Po and
Inner Deep Bay Wetland, a worthy Ramsar Site.
Reference:
HK Nature.net
http://www.hknature.net/eng/areas/index4.html
[Download date: 2/6/2005]
Other references
Conservancy Association http://www.conservancy.org.hk/conser/RamsarC.htm
Mangrove (紅樹林) http://www.wwf.org.hk/chi/pdf/education/cd-rom/C_factsheet5.pdf
http://www2.hkedcity.net/citizen_files/aa/bd/rm410411/public_html/mangrove.html
Discussion
1. What is a mangrove? What are its ecological values?
2. Where are mangroves found in Hong Kong? Why do governments devise
3.
international conventions to protect them?
Are such international conventions effective? Why? Elaborate by using the
example of the Ramsar Convention.
195