Carol Cheung, Cathay Pacific
Our project focuses on two areas; ground and air. On the ground, we are working towards the use of less energy and waste management in our companies. In the air, we are focusing on the quality of the air, trying to find ways to decrease emissions as well as waste management in flights and using recyclable products.
The best way for us to address these environmental issues is for us to continue to look towards purchasing fuel-efficient planes as well as recycling. Recycling is also essential because there is so much waste during the flights, so we have moved to serve our clients with recyclable products.
The company was very supportive when it came to retraining the staff about our new environmental policies. Yes, it does cost money, but it is something we all have to do now so we won’t have to pay a more significant price in future. We are very environmentally sensitive as a company because we are a contributor to the problems we face today. And to our credit, we are doing as much as we can to curb the air emission, and by reducing waste.
We also had special support from various environmental consultants as well as animal protection agencies such as Friends of Deers. Additionally, we are involved with Friends of the Earth, Climate Group, and Green Power.
We have been trying to come up with new ways to educate people on our mission to help the environment. On weekends, I’d lead a nature walk with company people showing what can happen if we don’t do our part.
Progress
Locally in Hong Kong: I see in people trying to be more environmentally conscious.
Internationally: Both in China and internationally, wherever our airline docks and there are no recycling programs implemented in their country, Cathay Pacific will bring their recyclable waste back to Hong Kong so that we can dispose of it in a much more effective manner.
I am looking forward to the future with cleaner air, less waste and more people being aware of environmental issues.
