Towards a light-green society for Hong Kong, China: Citizen perceptions

Attempts to balance ecology (nature) and modernity (culture) are amongst the greatest challenges facing humanity in the twenty-first century. The interpenetration of nature and culture is the hallmark of the new 'light-green society'. This paper reports a survey of public opinion in Hong Kong, conducted in 2009: an attempt to evaluate the lifestyle orientation of Hongkongers in the post-colonial era. The results found that Hongkongers hold positive attitudes towards green living initiatives launched by their government. But the colour of their opinions is light green, rather than something deeper. Nevertheless, it is argued that the 'light-green' environmental posture is the less painful and more pragmatic option in the paradigm shift to a greener society. If successful, it will indicate the integration of nature and culture that ensures the future long-term sustainability of society.