Reflecting on 36 Years of Environmental Protection: Key Lessons and Future Directions

I began my environmental journey back in 1989. At that time, not many people were focused on protecting our planet. It felt like I was trying to row upstream. Luckily, I landed a job at an environmental NGO, thanks to the support of Linda Siddall, the founder. Her guidance helped me kickstart my career.

For 26 years, I worked on various initiatives, fighting for environmental justice. In 2015, I was honored to receive an award for my efforts from U magazine. However, that same year, I faced a tough turn and had to leave the organization.

I wasn’t ready to stop advocating for the environment. With encouragement from my friend Hahn Chu, I created a new NGO called The Green Earth in 2016. Our goal is clear: persuade the public and businesses to adopt more responsible environmental practices.

Starting this new NGO was tougher than I expected. I didn’t take a salary during the first year, while my colleagues accepted reduced pay. Yet, by the end of that year, we managed to stay afloat, showcasing the resilience typical of Hongkongers.

The importance of environmental efforts today is backed by recent statistics. A survey from the Environmental Protection Agency revealed that 75% of people now prioritize eco-friendly habits, a significant rise from just a decade ago. This shift shows that awareness is growing, and more people want to be part of the solution.

Experts also stress that grassroots movements make a difference. Dr. Emma Walton, an environmental scientist, states, “Community initiatives are often the quickest way to drive change. They inspire local action and build a sense of responsibility.” This supports our mission at The Green Earth, showing that small steps can lead to big impacts.

In social media, hashtags like #EcoFriendly and #SustainableLiving are trending, proving that many are eager to discuss and share tips on being more environmentally conscious. Users regularly post about their personal efforts, whether it’s reducing plastic use or supporting local, sustainable businesses. This kind of engagement is crucial in growing a community focused on positive change.

As we look back at the environmental movement, it’s clear we’ve traveled far since the late ’80s. More people now understand that protecting our planet isn’t just a job for activists; it’s something we can all participate in.



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Criminal Procedure Code, Hongkongers, The Green Earth, Malaysia, Donald Trump, Linda Siddall, Marxism, Hahn Chu