EditorialShow some respect and keep Hong Kong clean
- When crowds flocked to leisure spots during the Easter weekend and Ching Ming Festival, the huge piles of rubbish at popular sites showed that many people left their sense of civic duty at home. Those responsible for such antisocial behaviour should be ashamed of themselves
The opening of beaches and swimming pools after four months of closure due to Covid-19 provided welcome relief for many Hong Kong people over the long Easter weekend and Ching Ming Festival. Crowds flocked to outdoor leisure spots, making the most of the good weather. Restaurants, shopping malls, hotels and parks were also busy. It was good to see life returning to something approaching normal. Sadly, many left their sense of civic duty at home.
Huge piles of rubbish were dumped at beaches and other popular spots. Some hikers paid little regard to the natural beauty of the country parks, veering off pathways and trampling over vegetation, maybe in search of the perfect selfie.
Meanwhile, the police were kept busy by motorists who had parked illegally. Fines totalling around HK$5 million were handed out to 980 residents who breached social-distancing rules and 14,000 verbal warnings were issued.
Those responsible for these various forms of antisocial behaviour should be ashamed of themselves. In their enthusiasm to enjoy the holiday, they have shown a lack of respect for fellow residents and the environment in which we live.
The dumping of rubbish is especially disappointing. In the past, Hongkongers have prided themselves on keeping their city clean. Mass gatherings were accompanied by a determination to clear up and to make sure garbage was removed. Those venturing out to a beach or park for the day, or going camping, should ensure they keep the trash they throw away to a minimum. Take it home with you, if that is the only option. Spare a thought for fellow citizens who would like to enjoy an unspoilt environment, or at least for the government workers and volunteer beach cleaners who end up clearing your rubbish away. Keep Hong Kong clean.
The city lags behind other parts of the world when it comes to waste management and recycling. We produce far too much rubbish and recycle too little. Authorities collected 3,856 tonnes of shoreline refuse in 2019.
While there is much for the government to do, a joint community effort is needed. We can start by showing more respect for our fellow residents and the environment we live in by taking our trash home and not turning scenic spots into rubbish dumps.