Hong Kong businesses 'call for air quality improvements'

Air quality has been put on the agenda in Hong Kong, where more than 200 companies have signed a petition calling on the government to take action.

The Clean Air Network is orchestrating the campaign in the specialist administrative region of China and its chief executive was quoted by BBC News as saying the aim is to raise awareness levels among the general public.

"I want the people of Hong Kong to tell their politicians that they support the use of the government's money for air quality clean-up measures," commented Joanne Ooi.

Entitled the Petition for Clean Air, the appeal is thought to be the first of its kind to be led by private businesses.

It follows the health warning issued last week by the local government as the air pollution index rose to hazardous levels in a number of areas.

The Clean Air Network states that pollution can be blamed for approximately three deaths a day in Hong Kong.

Written by Lauren Steadman