I have read the many articles and letters in these columns, concerning the air pollution situation in Hong Kong. Many of the letters place the blame on Hong Kong's taxis. True there are many taxis in Hong Kong but what about all of the goods vehicles and buses? Are these to be excluded from your scrutiny because they are not being studied? What about the industrial emissions? By focusing on one group, on a portion of the polluters, Hong Kong will miss the boat. In 10 years the situation will be 10 times worse than it is now unless clear and decisive action is taken against all types of particulate matter emissions. Focusing on taxis should be the first step in a series of many to combat poor air quality in Hong Kong. Alternative fuel should be investigated but methods to clean and control the emissions of all vehicles and industrial emissions should be implemented. Diesel vehicles provide a vehicle power source that cannot be substituted by alternate fuel power plants. Hong Kong should investigate and implement the strict air quality standards that are in place in other countries, including alternate fuel, petrol, liquefied petroleum gas, and diesel-powered vehicles. With the advancement of the computer and other technology, controlling emission from all types of fuel vehicles is possible. The technology is out there to be utilised. Laws should be passed and then enforced. Hong Kong can enjoy clean air without signalling out specific groups. In closing I urge responsible people and Hong Kong's government officials to look abroad and investigate all possible means to better their environment. You owe it to your children to make the future as good as the future that our ancestors left to us. HANS HILLER San Francisco, California, US
