Your Voice: Make fashion more sustainable; the importance of exercise (short letters)

I am very concerned about the ongoing issue of environmental sustainability in the fashion industry.

The production of clothing and accessories contributes to excessive waste, water pollution, and carbon emissions, all of which are major contributors to climate change.

After the oil industry, the garment sector has become one of the most polluted industries in the world.

As young consumers and future leaders, we have a responsibility to make conscious choices about the clothes we buy. We can support brands that prioritise ethical and eco-friendly production methods. We should buy from companies that extend the lifespan of our clothing through upcycling and recycling. It is crucial for us to advocate for greater accountability within the fashion industry and to push for more sustainable practices and regulations.

We can work towards a more sustainable future by promoting environmental awareness and ethical consumption.

Kelly Chan Sze-tung, Kowloon True Light School

It is undeniable that exercising has a significant impact on one’s physical and mental well-being. Hence, it is important to ensure that Hong Kong students are given ample opportunities to stay active.

According to the World Health Organization and the Hong Kong Department of Health guidelines, it is imperative for all students to engage in physical activity for at least one hour every day. Unfortunately, many schools are failing to meet this requirement, and it is concerning that some schools prioritise academic results over student well-being.

To make matters worse, Hong Kong students are often confined to classrooms during the day and forced to attend tutorial classes at night, leaving them exhausted and overworked. This issue has become even more prevalent after the pandemic, as many students are struggling to readapt.

The rising suicide rate is another clear indication that we need to take mental health seriously. Schools can play a vital role in this regard by promoting physical activities which are known to alleviate mental health issues.

I truly hope that the future of education in Hong Kong will take this into careful consideration, allowing our students to not only survive but also thrive.

Movie stunts, martial arts courses kick up interest in Hong Kong heritage

Jerry Kwok Shiu-nam, Ho Fung College (Sponsored by Sik Sik Yuen)

With regard to the alarming rise in suicide rates among secondary school students, it is crucial for adults to address this phenomenon.

One primary reason why so many young people experience mental burnout is academic pressure. In Hong Kong, the education system is notorious for its exam-oriented nature. Consequently, students are compelled to attend numerous tutorial classes just to survive the cutthroat academic race. Not only do they sacrifice their leisure time for these tutorials, but they also have to cope with their school homework, thereby perpetuating a vicious cycle.

Teachers and parents sometimes set unrealistic goals for students and subject them to relentless criticism and punishment if they are not met. This undoubtedly contributes to the prevalence of supplementary classes, which further exacerbate students’ stress levels, physically or mentally.

One effective way to improve students’ mental well-being is by providing support when they face adversity. Parents, in particular, play a crucial role. The crux of the issue lies in alleviating the academic burden while providing emotional support to students.

Hong Kong scheme assisting pupils at high risk of suicide extended

Coco Cheung, Valtorta College

Fireworks are a popular and traditional way of celebrating the new year in China. However, several cities have begun to implement policies banning fireworks.

This has sparked major discussions in society, with some arguing that it would be disrespectful to the tradition.

However, I do believe that the regulation is an essential one.

Should Hong Kong switch to drone shows instead of fireworks?

Fireworks produce a lot of harmful gases, such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, when they are set off. These pollutants not only pose a threat to human health, but also have a negative impact on the air quality. In cities that have dense populations, like Beijing and Shenzhen, fireworks could increase the spread of respiratory diseases.

Another concern is accidents as fireworks are flammable and explosive, which can easily cause fire, especially in dry areas.

Undeniably, fireworks bring Chinese people a feeling of joy at the start of another new year. Nonetheless, cultural protection sometimes has to give way to future development. The ban on fireworks is not a ban on celebrating the Lunar New Year; its purpose is to protect the environment.