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Letters to the Editor, December 3, 2012

Reading Time:5 minutes
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Protesters at a "Protect Lung Mei" rally. Photo: Sam Tsang

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The government should implement new air quality standards as soon as possible.

Given that we have serious levels of air pollution, there should be no hesitation on the part of officials when it comes to dealing with this problem. The pollution and the dampness are particularly bad for people with respiratory diseases such as asthma, who will keep falling ill.

Hong Kong's air quality objectives are a measure of what is an acceptable level of air quality. This benchmark was established back in 1987, so our air quality standards are clearly outdated. When we measure the pollution index, smaller particles must be included (which can penetrate our lungs). This will more accurately reflect pollution levels.

In order to protect their respiratory systems, Hongkongers must push the government to implement new air quality standards. These standards must be based on World Health Organisation guidelines, which enable us to monitor air pollution effectively.

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If people want the situation to improve and protect their health, they must let the government know what they think. It is up to us to take responsibility to improve our society.

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