Kai Fong warns of ‘dangerous recycling’ as residents use cars to flatten cardboard

[Photo; Ricaela Diputado]

A recent resurgence of residents using vehicles to flatten cardboard in the vicinity of Rua de Horta e Costa e dos Cavaleiros in the Patane area has raised concerns regarding public safety risks.

The General Union for Neighbourhood Associations (UGAMM), also known as Kai Fong, is urging residents to cease this hazardous practice and is calling on relevant authorities to intensify inspections and enforcement to prevent unfortunate incidents.

Chan Sok I, a member of the concern group, stated that based on resident feedback and on-site verification, individuals have been observed periodically spreading cardboard sheets along a roadside on Rua de Horta e Costa e dos Cavaleiros, waiting for vehicles to drive over them to flatten the material.

It is believed this is done to facilitate subsequent recycling efforts, but the behavior is extremely dangerous.

This issue has occurred in the district previously. The community centre had previously collaborated with transport authorities to conduct educational campaigns in the area, which yielded some success.

Chan pointed out that this practice carries multiple risks. Crucially, individuals performing “vehicle-assisted cardboard flattening” must position themselves dangerously close to the tires of moving vehicles.

This makes them highly susceptible to losing balance or tripping, potentially being pulled under the vehicle and suffering severe injury or death.

Furthermore, the section of road experiences heavy traffic flow, and drivers’ visibility may be obstructed, making it difficult to immediately notice obstacles or individuals near or on the roadway, thereby increasing the probability of an accident.

He advises residents to adopt safe and proper methods for flattening cardboard, such as doing it manually or using appropriate tools, and to choose safe locations that do not impede traffic.

On the other hand, he suggests that enforcement action be taken against residents who repeatedly ignore warnings to ensure the safety of all road users.