Learning Objective: This is a discussion-conversation class. At the end of the session, the participants are expected to be able to comment objectively or critically in each of the issues being discussed.



China Plays Environmental Catch-Up: Solar Power Boom in Shandong

Carbon emissions might be increasing in China, but so are efforts to curb them. In the eastern province of Shandong, these efforts are starting to pay off. The region is home to the headquarters of China's largest solar thermal company.

Its CEO is confident that attitudes to the environment are changing in China, as the realization dawns that climate protection is profitable. The company's products sell mainly on the domestic market.

Questions

Do you believe that China is actually getting more serious about protection taking care of the environment?
Why? or Why not?
How is it possible?
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All in a Name: Greensburg, Kansas – The World's Greenest Town

On May 4, 2007, a 2.7-km-wide tornado swept through Greensburg, Kansas, at 330 km per hour, destroying 95 percent of the town. Its 1,500 inhabitants had no choice but to rebuild their town from scratch.

They've turned it into an 'eco-town', which garnered praise across the country. President Barack Obama called Greensburg "a global example of how clean energy can power an entire community".

Questions

Any comment about the "World's Greenest Town"?
What do you think was their secret in achieving their goal?
Is this "eco-town" possible to happen to any other places in the world?
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Mexico City's "Plan Verde" and the Fight Against Smog

Mexico City is constantly shrouded in smog. Its gridlocked traffic means that bad air quality is a fact of life - and the environment and the public suffer. But a new 'Green Plan' has been introduced to battle the smog problem.

This clean air campaign includes extra traffic lanes for low-emission buses, pedestrian zones, a new underground line and a bike-sharing network.

Questions

Have you experienced being in a smog? How was it?
How do you find the "Green Plan" of Mexico City?
Any advantage or disadvantage?