Professor Frank Lee, Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Frank Lee works at Polytechnic University and has initiated several projects that test air pollutants, leading to environmental recommendations.
He leads consulting jobs from the Hong Kong government to measure pollution mostly from vehicles, temple incense, cooking, printing companies etc.
He works with grad students, some of which he is training to be future leaders in this area, he travels to conferences and to workshops, testing air in other countries, and uses the media to promote public awareness and action.
Frank started this initiative for academic reasons at first, but likes to do community outreach – to make a difference. He has been doing this since 1994 and the projects are ongoing, with grad students doing the studies.
Frank did his undergrad degree in chemical engineering and became aware of toxic waste so switched his PhD research to environmental engineering to close his knowledge gap.
He has had to learn how to monitor toxic air, collaborate with the Hong Kong government and Friends of The Earth, how to use resources, and how to work effectively with grad students by letting them lead and encourage them to be innovative.
Progress
Locally in Hong Kong
He has had success with individual companies, museums, printing shops, marine ship emissions. He is also looking for new areas. Meanwhile he is training graduate students (20 so far) from Hong Kong and the Mainland to be future leaders in this area.
Nationally (China)
He has projects in Xian, Beijing and Gansu. Another project involved testing the interior of the Xian Terracotta Warrior Museum and what to do about it.
Internationally
He speaks at conferences giving his findings and discussing with others. He trains third world countries on how to check air quality and manage it.
The initiative is ongoing and positive. It is contributing to change and building a critical mass through his teachings of students on undergrad and grad courses. Polytechnic University is environmentally sensitive, recycling and funding environmental projects on campus.
Frank constantly monitors inside/outside air pollution and has been invited to different cities in China and Korea to take part in workshops. His published research is read by many.
He believes each of us needs earth education.
Each of us needs to do more and become responsible.
Contact:
