Solar power!: The Hong Kong Observatory team and their cart Solar Wind.

The meteorological maestri of the Hong Kong Observatory have utilised their scientific skills to win the Charity Gold Award in the Solar Cart Race.

With its cart Solar Wind, the observatory staff took the gold award in the advance team category on January 16, the department's debut in the annual Friends of the Earth event in Victoria Park.

With a sleek aerodynamic design, Solar Wind is made of re-useable materials, including aluminium cans and compact discs, to minimise waste. Safety is also an important consideration in its design, which features headlights, taillights, rear-view mirrors, a horn and brakes.

The observatory joined the event to raise public interest in the weather and climate, and to enhance environmental awareness.

Observatory Director Lam Chiu-ying said the team performed better than expected, completing the 10-kilometre race within 30 minutes.

"I am particularly proud of winning the award because this indicated that our colleagues always care about the community and give contributions to charity without reservation."