Your Voice: Protect endangered species, why Hong Kong must prioritise mental health (short letters)

I want to raise awareness of the importance of protecting endangered species and their natural habitats. Human activities are increasingly threatening wildlife, and it is our responsibility to take action.

One of the most pressing issues is habitat destruction caused by urbanisation, deforestation and pollution. Animals lose their homes, leading to a decline in their populations. We must advocate for stronger environmental laws and support organisations that preserve natural habitats.

Education is also crucial. Schools should incorporate wildlife conservation into their curriculums, teaching students about biodiversity and every species’ role in our ecosystem.

Supporting local wildlife organisations through volunteering or fundraising can make a significant impact. Every small effort counts – whether it is participating in clean-up drives or spreading the word about endangered species.

In conclusion, protecting wildlife is not just an adult responsibility; it is a mission we can all be part of.

We all need to come together and work to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty of our planet’s diverse species.

Wil Wong, Tsuen Wan Government Secondary School

It is essential to acknowledge the gravity of the mental health situation of Hong Kong’s youth and stress the importance of enhancing mental health support in educational institutions.

Statistics highlight a concerning rise in anxiety and depression among young individuals, primarily linked to academic pressure.

Establishing peer support networks and mentoring programmes can provide valuable guidance to students facing similar challenges. Research indicates that peer support is highly effective in alleviating stress among youth. A significant barrier to students seeking assistance is the stigma surrounding mental health discussions. It is crucial to create safe spaces within educational settings where students can openly express their concerns without judgment.

Advocating for systemic changes within the educational framework is essential to effectively addressing these issues. Implementing comprehensive programmes, extracurricular activities, and accessible support services can help students.

I commend those who are raising awareness of this critical issue and extend my gratitude for their efforts.

Kara Yip, Kau Yan College

While Ocean Park is a popular destination with its fun park features and conservation and education elements, it’s important to note that it can have a significant negative impact.

Marine animals in captivity endure considerable stress, which is a result of their confined spaces and the constant presence of large crowds. This stress can lead to behavioural changes and a decline in their overall well-being.

Dolphins, highly social creatures, may become anxious when kept in small tanks without adequate companionship. The lack of stimulation from their natural habitat may cause boredom, compounding the animals’ distress. These conditions underscore the need for more naturalistic habitats that cater to these marine animals’ social and environmental needs.

Captive breeding programmes can lead to limited genetic diversity among marine animals, posing risks to their long-term viability if reintroduced into the wild. When only a few individuals are used for breeding, the gene pool becomes restricted, increasing the chances of inbreeding. Consequently, this lack of variation hinders their adaptability.

It is imperative that we address these concerns to improve the welfare of marine animals.

Hong Kong start-up flies in the face of food waste using insects to create compost

Hong Sze-yeung, Christian Alliance SC Chan Memorial College

We should revive Hong Kong’s tourism sector, which was vibrant and a significant contributor to its economy before the pandemic.

The city has iconic landmarks like Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland and the Avenue of Stars. These popular sites have attracted people worldwide to visit Hong Kong.

During Covid-19, the number of visitors decreased dramatically. In addition, many international flights were cancelled, further limiting access to the city.

Now, how can we revive tourism in Hong Kong?

In my opinion, we can focus on celebrating different cultural festivals and organising events that celebrate local traditions, art, and food. These events draw locals and tourists alike. We can also have more international events.

Hong Kong urgently needs to attract global conferences, exhibitions, and sporting events to increase visitor numbers and showcase its vibrant culture and value as a destination.