Letter to the Editor of SCMP - Response to letter about amendment of APCO
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Letter to the Editor of SCMP - Response to letter about amendment of APCO
I refer to David Renton’s letter of 19 April 2008 regarding our proposed amendment to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance.
Quite contrary to what he is thinking, the proposed amendment is an important step for achieving the 2010 emission reduction targets agreed with the Guangdong Provincial Government. To ensure a smooth, timely and transparent implementation of the emission caps for the power sector, the Government proposes in the Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Bill to stipulate the maximum emissions allowed from the power sector as follows:
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1997 Baseline emissions
(tonnes) [For reference purpose] |
Maximum emissions allowed in 2010 (tonnes)
[Proposed in the Bill] |
Reduction
(%) |
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Sulphur dioxide |
54,400 |
25,120 |
54% |
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Nitrogen oxides |
56,100 |
42,600 |
24% |
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Respirable suspended Particulates |
2,600 |
1,260 |
52% |
The proposed amendment provides a clear and transparent mechanism for tightening up the emission control for achieving these and even more stringent emission caps in the future. Instead of considering the emission control on an individual plant basis alone, it will enable the Government to consider the power sector holistically and require the most stringent control requirements for the sector as a whole for more effective improvement of our air quality.
To achieve these emissions caps, the two power companies will be required to install additional emission reduction facilities such as advanced flue gas desulphurization system and low nitrogen oxides technology. The construction of these facilities is underway according to schedule and should be completed in phases from 2009 onwards.
The Amendment Bill also proposes to allow the power companies to participate in the cross-boundary emissions trading as an alternative for meeting the emission caps. The concerned emission trading scheme is operated on a project basis that requires the seller of emission credits to embark upon additional emission abatement projects to achieve further emission reduction beyond the statutory limits imposed on them. Only then will emission credits be generated for trading. This project-based emissions trading framework will therefore offer a flexible and potentially more cost-effective option for power plants in the region to meet the emission limits, thereby help improve the air quality of both Hong Kong and our neighbouring region. To ensure no adverse impact on the local air quality in the vicinity of the power station, the Director of Environmental Protection may also impose any necessary terms and conditions upon the approval of the use of these emissions credits.
Power generation is the largest emission source and it is essential to reduce substantially their emissions. The Government will strive to achieve maximum emission reduction from the power companies. The proposed legislative amendment will provide the necessary power and mandate to us to better deliver this commitment.
Best regards,
Pang Sik-wing
Principal Environmental Protection Officer
Environmental Protection Department
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