Youth Anti-idling Support Action

Yesterday, CAN summoned several kids age 4-11 to participate in a “protest” to support the government’s newly introduced anti-idling ordinance, which seeks to prohibit idling beyond 3 minutes. We’re happy to report that the action received widespread coverage in the news media. The child demonstration trivialized the complaints of taxi and other professional drivers during yesterday’s deputations, that the new law is “inhumane”. Download full coverage here .

Session #2 of anti-idling deputations

Thanks to our mobilization efforts, two well-known medical professionals, Dr. Aaron Yu Chak-man of the Hong Kong Society of Pediatrics and Dr. Alfred Tam Yat-cheung of the Hong Kong Asthma Society, appeared before LegCo yesterday to defend the anti-idling ordinance. Their testimony made a dramatic difference to the cause of clean air. After giving their 3 minute prepared speeches, the two pediatricians answered questions posed by transport representatives and lawmakers, in regard to the dangers of exposure to elevated temperatures inside vehicles. It was the first time that experts were able to effectively allay drivers’ fears about the health dangers of no idling. Nigel Lam, an engineer distributing technology which enables the operation of air conditioning while the engine is otherwise off, was the other scene-stealer during yesterday’s proceedings. For the full account, read the SCMP story or visit our website for our detailed analysis and recap.