On 17^th September, the beach quality grading were released. It was found that beaches Casam and Gemini were poor, and Anglers’, Approach, Ting Kau, Castle Peak and Rocky Bay were closed because of their really poor water quality.

Scientists also warned people not to swim in beaches after storms because during or after storm, the pollution would be worsen.

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(Post Magazine, 26^th September 1999)

By Lisa Hopkinson, summarized by Kent Wong

Red tides are caused by killed microscopic plankton algae, which are very dense. The blooms are harmless unless their cells concentrate and they’ll kill the fish. They produce toxins lethal or mucus to clog the fish’s gills. Pollution, especially sewage and wastes, make red tides even worse.

Nutrients make food for fish and animals in water, but it also make the algae grow rapidly. Red tides were also recorded average, 20 times every year since 1994. Since red tides have increased a lot, it has made Hong Kong lose about 80 million dollars last year by killing fish in the water.

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(South China Morning Post, 23^rd September, 1999)

 By Edward Stokes, summarized by Kent Wong

The once-upon-a-time tourist attraction, the Aberdeen Harbor is now a severely polluted place. The water pollution usually comes from the fishing families who live in boats.

Christine Loh commented that there is too much "lap sap" in the harbor. Almost everything from polystyrene to oil slicks and smoke can be seen. The question is, should the Marine Department be responsible for all this marine pollution?

Stokes also believes that if we do not properly enforce environmental regulations, our harbor will lose its attraction. Someone should be responsible for taking action to solve this problem.