However, in the specific examples of other technologies they were among the most optimistic sample, especially with regard to genetic engineering and biotechnology. IVF is well accepted in Singapore due to the recent decline in birth rates. Recently a sex selection clinic opened, stating that they would only aim to balance male-female ratios in families. They were also more positive for patenting of plants and animals, but less positive about copyright of books or inventions in general. Singapore is a country with no natural resources and the potential of biotechnology as an industry to produce value-added products is therefore exploited by the policy makers.
Students are hence supportive of patenting as it implies money making.
It is interesting that several investors in Hong Kong have set up biotechnology laboratories in neighbouring China, because of not only reduced cost of land and labour, but also the less restrictive patent and copyright laws. Also in Hong Kong there is widespread illegal photocopying of books, or computer programmes, and students often use photocopies versions of textbooks rather than buying them. Projects related to the recycling of plastics and cans, etc., are given to final year students to complete. Recycling bins are placed in strategic areas, such as around the library. Advertisements related to conservation are also common in the local newspapers and on television.