Simon Chau, Green Tea Club
Simon has had many years of activism in Green affairs and has published writings, set up Green Tea Club with regular Friday meetings in Central and held Permaculture workshops with Bill Mollinson (Permaculture founder). He initiated Green Power Environmental organisation. Since the 1980s, Simon realised that the “environmental problem” is a misnomer. It is, in reality, a Worldview problem, a Lifestyle problem, and a Spiritual problem. Simon became convinced that the planet crisis has its origin in our “hearts”. To save the Earth and ourselves, we needed nothing short of a shift in everyone’s consciousness (which automatically leads to lifestyle and social changes).
Simon is about Educating people to live in a green way – Green consumerism!
Simon has been actively involved in environmental education for more than 20 years. Set up the first organic farm in Hong Kong.
He turned vegetarian and started practising qi-gong, yoga, meditation, hands-on healing, fasting, etc. He started living a greener life, e.g. has no air-con in his home; cycles to work; only owns one pair of shoes.
He initially received government subsidies. Simon is now exploring online radio/TV possibilities and collaborating with Tai Po Country Centre to produce a Community TV programme on Youtube. There will be 11-12 episodes on how to live a greener life.
Simon had to overcome obstacles such as apathy & consumerism. He organised “Zen” dinner parties to attract potential supporters, to have a chance to talk with them. He is encouraging people to stop flying. “You need to change people’s hearts”.
Progress
By living his philosophy, he has attracted 100’s of followers and helped transform their lives. He believes in “Save China, Save Hong Kong, Save The Planet”. Has worked with local schools, creating educational material for students to learn more about organic farming.
In 1978 Simon launched an anti-MSG campaign resulting in a national reduction in MSG consumption. He’s currently running over 150 projects per week, including a community farm in Choi Hung and a weekend farmer scheme.
Simon’s vision for his organisation is to become a platform for all green groups in Hong Kong.
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