Used cartridges are piling up in schools and recyclers are reluctant to take them.

A labelling scheme to certify that recycled cartridges are of good quality could help alleviate this problem.

The Earth has limited resources so we should not waste them.

To promote the scheme, the government and green groups can instal recycling bins for printer cartridges in more housing estates, schools and other venues.

Also, officials can organise exhibitions, distribute leaflets and use advertisements to emphasise the importance of recycling.

A labelling scheme for recycled printer cartridges is vital so that the public can play an active role in environmental protection.

Wansy Ho Wan-sin

Yan Oi Tong Tin Ka Ping Secondary School

Life without food would be boring

Some people think that eating is troublesome and a waste of time.

They would rather take supplements that have the same benefits as food.

But eating does not need to be boring - food is actually essential for your survival.

If you feel unhappy, food, such as desserts or chocolate, can help cheer you up, according to scientists.

Besides, food can boost your physical strength.

When you are tired, you can recharge your batteries by eating or drinking something.

Food can be cooked in many different ways. If we take pills instead of food, our life would be boring.

Food can be a recipe for a wonderful life. Enjoy what you are eating.

Jaymee Chow

Caritas Yuen Long Chan Chun Ha Secondary School

Sleep is vital for good health

Insomnia is one of the main symptoms of stress.

My mum relies heavily on sleeping pills. Otherwise, she would be awake the whole night.

She is depressed and even thought about committing suicide.

All my family members tried to convince her to stop taking sleeping pills but she wouldn't listen.

According to some surveys, many Hong Kong people take sleeping pills before going to bed. This can easily lead to an overdose.

We live in a fast-paced city and there is stress from school, work, family and friends.

If you don't have enough sleep, your mind and body will become weak.

You can listen to soft music, drink a glass of milk or take a warm bath before going to bed.

You need to sleep eight to nine hours a day to have a healthy life.

You should also cultivate develop healthy habits, such as going to bed at least before 11pm.

If you cannot sleep, change your mattress, pillow or the ventilation in your bedroom.

Think in a positive way, and be happy and calm before you go to sleep.

You should consult a doctor before taking any sleeping pills.

A good night's sleep can compensate the burnout from your daily activities. It helps you maintain a clear mind and healthy body.

Cheeze

Illness no barrier for brave girl

Recently, I met a girl who is very optimistic despite her poor health.

She has suffered from various illnesses since she was born. Although she needs to go to hospital often, she never complains to her mum or dad.

Every time I see her, she has a big smile on her face. She is very active and meets friends and schoolmates regularly.

Some teenagers are healthy, but they don't have any aim in life. They are lazy and waste valuable time.

Life is in your hands, so make the most of it.

Lee Ka-ying

CNEC Christian College

With knowledge comes maturity

I'm writing in response to the letter 'Treasures in my life' (Young Post, May 22).

What comes to your mind when you see the word 'treasures'? Diamonds? Money?

For me, knowledge is treasure.

Knowledge gives us wealth. If we are educated, we will find a well-paying job.

Hong Kong is a knowledge-based society.

Without knowledge, we will be left behind.

Knowledge gives us a better understanding about the world, which is changing every day.

That's why we need to read newspapers and magazines. It helps broaden our horizons and raise our self-esteem.

Knowledge will not only bring us wealth and confidence, it will also teach us to respect our parents.

When I was younger, I had many disagreements with my parents. But they never gave up on me. They showed their love and encouraged me all the time.

Now, as I acquire more knowledge, I realise how much I respect my parents.

Knowledge is such a wonderful thing.

Why Cheung

A mother's love

My mother is my hero. She is kind and patient. She takes care of the family and wants my sister and I to grow up and be good citizens.

She suffered from cancer over the past few years.

We were all worried about her, but she was very brave. She was in hospital for a long time and went through painful treatment.

Although it was hard for her, she never complained.

She told us that she would fight the disease and do anything for us.

Now she has completely recovered. She does exercise in the park every day.

I am proud of her because she is brave. I hope the Lord will always take care of her.

Erica Leung

Protect rats

People think rats are dirty, disgusting creatures.

I believe we should protect the rodents before they become extinct.

Rats play a major role in the food chain.

Extinction of rats could result in serious problems.

Eagles and owls, as well as other animals which prey on rats, would not have enough food and their numbers would decrease.

This could lead to a domino effect and cause the extinction of other animals.

Besides, scientists use rats for experiments to develop treatments for various illnesses.

Rats can transmit diseases to humans, but this can be controlled through advanced technology.

We should protect rats, not destroy them.

Kevin Suen

Queen Elizabeth School

Dog saves children

A dog has saved five children from an attack by an angry bull in New Zealand.

It's a shame that the brave dog died later.

His owner will soon receive a medal for his animal's heroic behaviour.

Dogs are always our best friends.

Cammy Chan