Further to the debate on air pollution (letter headlined, 'Tackling traffic air pollution on all fronts', from W. C. Mok of the Environmental Protection Department, South China Morning Post, March 15), has the Government considered the introduction of biodiesel as an alternative to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)? Biodiesel is a non-toxic and biodegradable fuel that can be used in conventional diesel engines. Taxis and public light buses could use it without conversion, with immediate reductions on regulated emissions. The fuel apparently eliminates the foul smell of diesel fumes and greatly reduces the black smoke associated with conventional diesel.
It is also a renewable energy source, produced from vegetable oils, not from the fast-dwindling supply of fossil-based oil, and it could be produced locally. Biodiesel can even be produced from used vegetable oil, a by-product of the catering industry, which at present is classified in the US as toxic waste.
Biodiesel can be stored in conventional diesel tanks. It mixes well with ordinary diesel so there is no need for new filling stations or any conversion whatsoever. This is in stark contrast to LPG, which is so dangerous that filling stations must be at least 30 metres away from residential developments.
With all the well-documented problems associated with the introduction of LPG to Hong Kong, would it not be better to introduce an eco-friendly fuel that could be used now, with no conversion costs or phasing-out periods? Information on biodiesel can be found on the Internet. Just Net search 'biodiesel'.
PAUL KEMBER Architect Central
