"The risk posed by air pollution on human health will form an important basis for updating the air-quality objectives," said Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau Tang-wah Thursday at the International Conference on Environment and Health.
In cooperation with Guangdong province, Hong Kong has set a 2010 target to reduce emissions of particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide by 55 percent in the Pearl Delta delta region.
Tightening emission caps placed on power plants are expected to achieve 2010 emission reduction targets, The Standard reported.
Meanwhile, a new generation of masks was unveiled this week, complete with filter that eliminate viruses and airborne disease-causing microbes. The new anti-viral masks will be available in mid-2008.
Chair Professor of Community Medicine at Hong Kong University Anthony Hedley said the masks would go a long way in reducing risks, especially at street level.
