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“Well, conservation
isn’t just the business of a few people. It’s a matter that concerns
all of us …… the natural resources of our vast continent are not
inexhaustible. But if we will use our riches wisely, if we will
protect our wildlife and preserve our lakes and streams, these
things will last us for generations to come.”
The above words were not spoken by some leaders of green groups, but
the founder of Disneyland – Walt Disney. Unfortunately, Disney’s HK
Branch has forgotten their founder’s teaching, and against the
company environmental policy, by planning to serve the
environmental-unfriendly shark fin soup during its wedding banquet
services in the excuse of ‘respect the local custom’. If Walt knew
this, he’ll feel outraged!
Since what Disney selling for its wedding banquet is the brand name,
dream and joy…etc., then why Disney and the marrying couple get
blood in their own hands, to get involved with the cruel shark fin
hunting business, just because of adding one dish in the menu? We
believe the truth is: what attract brides and grooms to buy Disney’s
service is the brand name and the dream-come-true setting, and they
won’t go away just because Disney change one of the dishes in the
menu.
Besides, there are alternative in the market. In Hong Kong, many
vegetarian restaurants provide ‘vegetarian shark fin soup’ in their
menu. This is a practical substitute for the Disney’s shark fin
soup. This could save the face of the customers and balance the
biology, why Disney does not take this win-win solution?
Disney has always claimed herself as an environmental-friendly
company. On their US official website, they stressed that they
“integrate natural resource conservation in all Disney’s planning,
development and operations activities” and they are so proud to
claim that the produce lots of nature films. Disney also told us,
they incorporate Walt’s ideas of conservation in the Walt Disney
World Resort master plan. With there are plenty of alternatives, now
they decide to provide the notorious shark fin soup in their wedding
banquet service. Certainly, the company image would be damaged. Is
it worth? Is it double standard?
Disney picked Jimmy Cricket as their environmental figure. As we all
knew, Jimmy Cricket represents the conscience of Pinocchio. However,
Pinocchio doesn’t always listen to Jimmy’s advice. He lies and that
make his nose longer and longer. Fortunately, Pinocchio finally be
good again. Fairy tale always has a good ending. Wish that the
Pinocchio in the real world would listen to the call of real life
Jimmy Cricket, and chose not to be the long nose one. Otherwise, the
punishment is not given from the goddess but thousands of potentials
customers throughout the world. |
