The Government has to review the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) at least once in every five years in accordance with the law to attain the ultimate targets set under the World Health Organization (WHO) Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs). The new guidelines are going to be implemented between year 2020 and 2025.

The new review only recommends:

–  Slightly tightening the concentration limits of two types of air pollutants ——- Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) and Fine Suspended Particulates (PM2.5) from WHO Interim Target 1 to Interim Target 2

And it is hard to believe the review also advises:

–  Significantly increase the number of exceedances allowed for PM2.5 from 9 times to 35 times annually  

The AQO Review Coalition opposes the proposal to relax the number of exceedances and requests to withdraw it. We have published “DUSTY ATTACK – The Unseen Enemies” website providing more details about 5 key air pollutants and their harmful threats to our health and well-being. The Coalition also initiates an ONLINE PETITION against the proposal increasing the number of exceedances for PM2.5 in the new set of AQOs

For those who have opinions on the clean air policy, it is the great chance to share your views about AQO review on the Government’s website on or before 11 October 2019. .

Submit Online Views Collection Form

AND

– SIGN NOW and Support the Coalition –

Against the Government proposal to increase Allowable Exceedances

In the meantime, the Environment Protection Department will arrange two publication consultation forums to brief the public on the AQO review.

Details of the forums are as follows:

Forum 1

Date:               August 6 (Tuesday)
Time:               7pm to 9pm
Venue:             5/F, Hong Kong Productivity Council
78 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Language:       Cantonese

Forum 2
Date:               August 13 (Tuesday)
Time:               7pm to 9pm
Venue:             Ming Hau Hall, 4/F, St James’ Settlement
85 Stone Nullah Lane, Wanchai
Language:       Cantonese
with simultaneous interpretation in English and Putonghua

Seating at the two forums is reserved on a first come, first served basis. Members of the public who would like to attend may complete the online registration form.

Your voice deserves to be heard for the benefits of a good environment to health and well being.

Photo/ Environmental Protection Department