Question of the week: What policy would you implement to improve the environment?

Marvin Chung Man-ting, 15

Wah Yan College, Hong Kong

A policy to minimise wastage and pollution. Firstly, I would implement a more effective recycling system with more categories, such as steel and wood. A fine will be charged if people dispose of rubbish without putting it into the right recycling bins. I would offer government subsidies to firms in the recycling business. Secondly, research and development of environmentally friendly fuels and materials should be encouraged and rewarded. Companies producing untreated sewage or trash would be punished.

Jacqueline Yiu Wan-yan, 16

Wa Ying College

I would plant some flowers in my neighbourhood. To save energy, I walk instead of using public transport. Also, I use energy efficient lighting and heating systems. I always take advantage of natural daylight and turn off all the electronic appliances when I leave the room. In summer, I turn on the fan and open the windows instead of using the air conditioner. I will also start spending less time in the shower to save water.

Amy Siu Choi-hang, 17

SKH All Saints Middle School

The pollution problem is getting worse, and it is repugnant. I think it's extremely important to educate people about protecting the environment. Lack of education is the reason that young people do not take environmental problems seriously. We must let everyone know the Earth's resources are limited. If we ignore the problem, people will waste lots of time and money.

Borromeo Li Ka-kit, 17

Shun Lee Catholic Secondary School

I would implement a comprehensive user-pay system, which would dramatically reduce the amount of garbage. It would not only reduce waste and save landfill space but also help increase government revenues. If people had to pay for each garbage bag, they would think twice before disposing of one. It would encourage recycling and provide an incentive for people to put trash in recycling bins.

Wu Ping, 15

STFA Tam Pak Yu College

I would request that everyone in Hong Kong grow a plant at home. Growing plants can reduce carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas, helping to stop global warming. Also, growing plants allows people to be in touch with nature. It will help them love nature and take more care of the environment. Then, they will do other things to protect the environment, such as using fewer plastic bags and recycling things. The environment will only improve if people care about protecting nature.

GET INVOLVED We'll kick one teen out each week until we have a winner. Who do you want out? E-mail yp@scmp.com with the name of that person in the subject field. Only one vote per person. Votes must be cast by Wednesday 2pm.

The ultimate winner will get a Nokia 5200 mobile phone worth HK$1,898.