************************************************************
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) will hold a roving exhibition at the Hong Kong Central Library starting tomorrow (June 18) as part of events marking the 25th anniversary of the EPD. The exhibition will showcase the efforts of the EPD, in partnership with the community, to enhance the environment and quality of life and encourage citizens to continue to join with the Government to create a greener home for everyone.
The Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, and the Permanent Secretary for the Environment/Director of Environmental Protection, Ms Anissa Wong, officiated at the roving exhibition's opening ceremony, which was held at the Central Library today (June 17). Other guests included representatives from various sectors of the community.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Yau said, "Since the establishment of the EPD, various goals of environmental protection have been achieved through the drive of the Government and the co-operation and support of the members of the public and our partners in the community.
"Nowadays, we witness increasing public awareness of environmental protection. People are willing to pitch in more to protect the environment, such as by recycling, bringing their own shopping bags, promoting energy efficiency, using low-emission vehicles and switching off vehicle engines while waiting. This is a great leap forward when compared with the situation a few decades ago."
Featuring descriptive and pictorial display panels, the exhibition will showcase achievements and the changes in the local environment since the establishment of the EPD in 1986. Environmental protection issues, such as the handling of pollution problems, promotion of green living, enhancement of regional co-operation and measures to combat climate change, will be covered in the exhibition.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Ms Wong noted that Hong Kong's environment has been significantly improved after 25 years of hard work. She thanked the community for its support and co-operation, which has contributed to the smooth implementation of measures and work on environmental protection. She said she hopes that the roving exhibition can provide an opportunity for members of the public to review the fruits of their efforts and to continue their support to make Hong Kong a greener place.
Public announcements for TV produced by the EPD over the years will be on display at the exhibition for participants to recall major environmental issues from the past. They can also try some interactive multimedia games about environmental protection at the venue.
Members of the public are cordially invited to visit the roving exhibition, which will be open to the public between 9am and 6pm at the Exhibition Gallery 1 of Hong Kong Central Library in Causeway Bay tomorrow and at the G/F lobby of Revenue Tower in Wanchai from July 25 to 29. The exhibition will be moved to different locations in Hong Kong between August 2011 and March 2012.
In addition to holding the exhibition, the EPD since May this year has organised a series of activities for the public to join to further spread the message of environmental protection. These activities include student design competitions for primary and secondary schools and tertiary institutions, as well as open days at the EPD's waste treatment, recycling and restoration facilities. An environmental seminar will also be held in October. More information is available at the EPD's website, www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/25_anniversary/activities/activities.html.
Ends/Friday, June 17, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:35
NNNN
