When people around the world talk about the 'great beaches of Asia', they are usually thinking of palm-fringed tropical islands, exclusive resorts, and glorious sunsets. But good beaches must have much more to them than simply golden sand and sun-kissed waves. Most crucially, swimmers need to be sure they are safe when they swim: safe not only from physical dangers such as harmful marine creatures, but from the many kinds of sickness and disease that can be transmitted in seawater.
A recent BBC news item* about a World Health Organisation (WHO) newly launched guidelines on beaches offers some surprising perspectives. Water quality can be very variable right across the world depending on a number of factors, and even the most apparently pristine beaches can be at risk. Because of this, the WHO report encourages governments both to advise beach users about changing potential pollution risks and to grade beaches, actions which give residents and tourists better information about beaches and force sub-standard beaches to clean up their act.
The BBC news item points to Hong Kong as leading the way in terms of the WHO's suggestions for better monitoring. With a grading system that was first introduced 17 years ago and has since been refined and improved, comprehensive regular testing carried out at all beaches, and an efficient system of getting relevant beach water quality information to the public, the report picks out Hong Kong as a showcase for good government practice right across Asia.
The Government body responsible for monitoring Hong Kong's beaches is the Environmental Protection Department (EPD). This annual report is designed to give readers a survey of the activities of the EPD over the past year, activities which are geared towards maximising safe public use of Hong Kong's wonderful beaches through a detailed monitoring and information programme. Packed with extensive and detailed maps, charts and tables, this Annual Report brings you comprehensive information on how Hong Kong's beaches have fared during the year.