A ‘Straddling Bus’ Traffic Solution in China

Shenzhen Huashi Future Parking Equipment has developed an innovative 'straddling bus' designed to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce pollution in China. The bus, which can carry up to 1,200 passengers, runs on a combination of municipal electricity and solar power, and allows cars to pass underneath it. The design, which could significantly cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions, aligns with China's push for green transportation. The project has garnered interest from several Chinese cities and will be manufactured by the China South Locomotive and Rolling Stock Corporation. The cost of building the bus system is significantly lower than that of constructing a subway.

Arts Playground Sprouts in China

Guangzhou, often overshadowed by Hong Kong, has established a cultural district with the opening of the Guangdong Museum and Guangzhou Opera. The project, estimated to cost around $500 million, aims to be fully unveiled by November for the Asian Games. Despite ongoing construction, the venues are operational, offering a range of cultural events and attracting visitors. The opera house has already altered the city's cultural landscape, hosting major productions and drawing audiences from Hong Kong. The museum, designed by Rocco Yim, and the opera house, designed by Zaha Hadid, are architectural landmarks. Questions about the affordability of high ticket prices have been raised, but the opera house has offered discounted tickets for certain productions. The museum is experiencing high visitor numbers, and the cultural district is expected to enhance Guangzhou's urban appeal.

Hong Kong Book Fair Seeks to Develop Global Profile

The Hong Kong Book Fair, known for its large attendance, is making efforts to gain international recognition by incorporating more English-language material and international authors. The fair, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, featured prominent British authors and aimed to modernize with a focus on e-books and digital media. Despite controversies over young models promoting photo albums, the fair saw significant engagement from both local and international visitors, including students and mainland Chinese attendees. The event highlighted the fair's potential to become a global literary hub.

A Popular Chinese Blogger Finds a Place to Speak Openly

Han Han, China's most popular blogger, spoke openly at a Hong Kong book fair, addressing topics like the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown and censorship in China. Known for his critical blog and diverse media ventures, Han Han introduced a new magazine, Party, which aims to publish content outside the reach of Chinese censors. The event highlighted Hong Kong's unique position as a haven for free speech, attracting a significant mainland Chinese audience.

Hong Kong Book Fair Adds a New Element: Electronic Publishing

The Hong Kong Book Fair introduced a section on electronic publishing, featuring companies like Hanvon, Jecomtech, Kiwa Media, and Mimio. Hanvon presented e-book devices, Jecomtech showcased a multilingual e-book reader, Kiwa Media demonstrated an iPad application for children's books, and Mimio displayed interactive digital whiteboard products. The fair anticipates the launch of Apple's iPad in Hong Kong, which competes with e-readers. The event is a significant platform for the digital evolution of reading, attracting nearly a million visitors.

Environmental Cost of Shark Finning Is Getting Attention in Hong Kong

The environmental impact of shark finning is gaining attention in Hong Kong, driven by changing attitudes and increased awareness. Despite the cultural significance of shark’s fin soup in Chinese society, campaigns and public discussions are influencing a shift towards environmental consciousness. Organizations like Traffic, WWF, WildAid, and Shark Savers are actively involved in raising awareness and promoting alternatives. The trade in shark fins, primarily driven by demand from China, has led to a significant decline in shark populations. Efforts to reduce consumption are evident, with some restaurants and vendors in Hong Kong offering shark-free options. However, the transition is gradual, and shark finning remains a prevalent issue.

Wired Hong Kong Offers a Link to the Dead

Hong Kong has introduced an online memorial site, memorial.gov.hk, created by the Hong Kong Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, allowing residents to set up profiles for deceased loved ones. The site offers customizable layouts, background music, and options for public or private access. While some appreciate the convenience and connectivity it offers, critics argue it lacks sincerity and prefer traditional mourning practices. The service is free but limited to those buried or cremated in government-operated facilities.