“Exploring Climate Change in Macau: Insights from Professor Qingbin Song”
Qingbin Song, a professor at Macau University of Science and Technology, is shedding light on the environmental impacts of climate change in Macau. In an interview with Macau Business, he emphasized the importance of understanding the indirect carbon emissions that contribute to the city’s overall carbon footprint.
Macau, as an international tourist service city, heavily relies on energy and resources from China, Hong Kong, and other regions. While direct carbon emissions in Macau are relatively low, the city must adopt a whole life-cycle approach to carbon emissions. This means considering the carbon footprint of the entire industrial chain, including society, economy, and trade. By focusing on green purchasing and finance, Macau can play a significant role in mitigating regional and global climate change.
Research conducted by Song’s team revealed that a majority of Macau residents are aware of the environmental impact of climate change. However, there is still a need to increase public awareness and knowledge on climate change mitigation strategies. By promoting sustainable consumption choices and behaviors, residents can contribute to reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
When asked about the role of sustainability practices in addressing climate change, Song highlighted the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. These practices involve businesses taking comprehensive actions in environmental protection, social responsibility, and governance. By implementing ESG practices, companies can reduce their impact on the environment and contribute to climate change mitigation.
Song also recommended the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, which hold companies accountable for the entire life-cycle of their products. Additionally, he mentioned the Macau Carbon Inclusion Project, which incentivizes residents to participate in carbon reduction tasks through a mini-programme.
Regarding the issue of saturated landfills in Macau, Song explained that while the Macau Construction Waste Landfill has been in use for inert solid waste, the city faces challenges in managing construction and demolition waste. With the landfill reaching saturation point, there is a need to implement effective measures to control landfill height and ensure safety. By addressing these challenges, Macau can minimize the impact of landfills on climate change and the environment.
Overall, Qingbin Song’s insights highlight the importance of collective action in addressing climate change in Macau. By raising awareness, implementing sustainable practices, and managing waste effectively, the city can make significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable future.