CCHU9001 23-24 Fall Week 4 Quiz

What is the principal argument that Eric Schlosser ‘Fast Food Nation’ (2001) and Robert Kenner, ‘Food Inc.’ (2006) make about the effects of the global food industry / mass food production?

Answer explanation

- The commercialization of food and the mass production of it are making us sick and fat.

­- We need to focus on minimizing food production (just enough), rather than maximizing profit.

­- Concentrate on healthy foods

What is ‘Agro-imperialism’ and why should we be concerned?

Answer explanation

• ­- Country A buying food producing land in Country B to ensure A’s own food supply in future, at the expense of B.

­- Using economic advantage to secure privileged access to food resources

Why is water such a political issue in Hong Kong?

Answer explanation

- We are not self sufficient / dependent on others

­- If there is a threat to our supply we have no back up

What are the primary threats to Hong Kong’s water supply?

Answer explanation

- Urbanisation in the Dongjiang River catchment

- Pollution from industry and agriculture

- Wastage / leakage in the supply system

Name three things that HK is doing to try address the imbalance between supply and  consumption of water?

Answer explanation

- Use of seawater for cooling / flushing (non human consumption uses)

­- Public awareness campaigns on water use (taps, less water demanding products)

- Minimising wastage / leakage in the water supply system

- Water capture in urban areas and use of grey water

­   Desalination lants to increase supply