Green Government House

The kalanchoe is the theme flower of this year's Hong Kong Flower Show. This spectacular flower has drawn a large attendance to Victoria Park, where the show is taking place. If you can't have enough of the flower, I suggest that you come to Government House tomorrow on its Open Day. This year, we have introduced nearly 20 types of local flowers here, including the kalanchoe. Apart from appreciating the flowers, you may also have a closer look at this old building with a history of over a century.

Earlier today, a sneak preview was held for a group of people with disabilities and their family members. They were invited to join the activity by non-governmental organisations providing rehabilitation services in various districts contacted through the Social Welfare Department. This activity aimed to give the participants an opportunity to enjoy a family day out, and help foster a caring and inclusive culture in the community. Besides flowers and plants, green facilities were also on display in the garden of Government House.

This big garden produces a lot of yard waste. To reduce waste at source, we have installed a three-bin composting system and a wood chipper. These two green facilities can convert yard waste into compost, which can then be re-used in organic farming. In addition, Government House uses food waste composters and energy-saving lights, and arrangements have been made for the recovery of waste, including glass bottles and more, to reduce waste and save energy in every possible way.

As members of society, we are doing our bit to protect the environment with these green measures. We hope to set an example for others to follow and spread the green message. All government departments are also going green in their own ways. For example, this year's Hong Kong Flower Show introduced a Flower Re-planting Scheme, which lets non-governmental organisations and schools collect potted plants remaining in the showground after the show for replanting. This environmentally friendly initiative should be encouraged.

I appeal to you to live a green life and contribute to the environment by reducing waste, reusing materials, saving energy and cherishing food.

The Chief Executive presents a wood chipper to visitors during the sneak preview.		The Chief Executive demonstrates how to operate a wood chipper, which cuts branches into chips for reuse in organic gardening and farming.
Government House will be open to the public from 10am to 5pm tomorrow (March 16).

March 15, 2014