Shared by Edwin Lau, MH, Founder and Executive Director of The Green Earth
Extreme weather events have happened more often in recent years, showing that climate change is now a global crisis that cannot be ignored. The dense buildings in cities will absorb a higher level of solar radiation, and trap the heat generated by vehicles, buildings and economic activities in the concrete jungles, resulting in the #UrbanHeatIslandEffect*. In fact, the most straightforward way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to promote green energy transition, enhance energy efficiency of buildings and equipment, develop carbon capture and storage technologies, or bolster nature's ability to sequester carbon^ so as to achieve #NetZeroEmissions.
An increasing number of companies have gradually increased their effort in decarbonisation, such as installing energy-efficient equipment in offices, or setting up solar power systems on the rooftops of factories and buildings. Meanwhile, we also encourage businesses to plant trees in any spaces available to contribute to carbon neutrality. Some may think that planting trees only benefits the appearance of the surroundings. In fact, forests are important resources as they are the natural #CarbonSinks. Though we live in the city, trees lining the streets can absorb carbon dioxide and create a greener environment. For example, they help maintain biodiversity and ecological balance by providing habitats for birds, and relieve the urban heat island effect by effectively absorbing the city’s heat. In other words, every tree plays a role in #CarbonSequestration and helps reduce the impact of climate change on our planet.
The Green Earth joined the Plantation Enrichment Programme launched by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department in 2016. We have since then organised tree planting activities regularly for various organisations and the public. These events not only served as a public education platform, but also allowed participants to take actions to reduce carbon footprints and support the vision of #CarbonNeutrality.
The Green Earth: https://greenearth.org.hk/en/
