Milestones in Hong Kong Environmental Protection

   
  • 2020
    • 2020
       
      Air
      - Embarked on the legislative process to update Air Quality Objectives.
      - Launched an incentive-cum-regulatory programme to progressively phase out about 40 000 Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles by the end of 2027.
      - Expanded the scope of the New Energy Transport Fund to subsidise not only testing but also use of green innovative transport technologies.
      - Launched the $2 billion EV-charging at Home Subsidy Scheme to subsidise the installation of EV charging-enabling infrastructure in the car parks of existing private residential buildings.
      - Tightened the emission standards for newly registered motorcycles, light buses with a design weight of more than 3.5 tonnes and buses with a design weight of not more than 9 tonnes, in phases starting from October 2020.
      - Embarked on a review of the Eighth Technical Memorandum to further tighten the emission caps for power plants.
         
      Noise
      - Issued a professional practice note on the application of baffle-type acoustic windows in planning residential developments.
      - Completed resurfacing 102 local road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials, benefiting 146 000 people.
      - Completed retrofitting noise barriers at 19 road sections, benefiting 64 000 people. Noise barriers were under construction at two other road sections.
       
      Water
      - Invested $2 billion in sewerage infrastructure, bringing the total invested since 1990 to $59 billion.
      - Launched shoreline wardenship programmes to create temporary jobs in the realm of clean shorelines.
      - Consulted the trade on introducing a voluntary scheme for phasing out personal care and cosmetics products that contain plastic microbeads.
      - Supported a sewage surveillance research for monitoring the spread of the COVID-19 virus and tracking down infection cases from sewerage systems.
         
      Environmental Assessment and Planning
      - Continued to adopt green features in planning new development areas to promote a green living environment.
      - Continued to promote state-of-the-art construction methods that minimise environmental impacts and expedite land production.
      - Vetted the environmental implications of 237 funding and policy proposals submitted to the Executive Council, Legislative Council and other decision-making bodies.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Received a Special Achievement in Geographical Information System Award 2020 from the Environmental Systems Research Institute, in recognition of our achievements in developing innovative GIS applications.
      - Inspected about 540 import shipments and intercepted about 90 containers of imported illegal waste.
      - Arranged proper handling of the clinical and contaminated waste generated by COVID-19 testing and quarantine programmes.
         
      Waste Reduction
      - Community recycling: Brought 22 Recycling Stores (formerly known as Community Recycling Centres), 9 Recycling Stations (formerly known as Community Green Stations) and over 100 Recycling Spots under the new community recycling network, GREEN@COMMUNITY; extended Green Outreach, outreaching service providing assistance to the community in waste reduction and recycling, to 6 additional districts; and introduced the GREEN$ electronic participation incentive scheme at all outlets of GREEN@COMMUNITY.
      - Recycling facilities: Conducted a public engagement on newly designed recycling bins that would be installed in public places; launched a pilot scheme on smart recycling systems at selected community recycling facilities; and took over management of waste separation bins in public places from the FEHD.
      - Plastics: Launched a two-year pilot scheme to collect and recycle all types of waste plastics from non-commercial and non-industrial sources in Eastern District, Kwun Tong and Sha Tin; launched the Pilot Scheme for Provision of Necessary Equipment for “Plastic-free” School Lunch in about 45 primary and secondary schools; and completed the technical trial of reverse vending machines, paving way for the launch of a pilot scheme on using RVMs for the collection of plastic beverage containers.
      - Paper: Commenced territory-wide collection and recycling services on waste paper to enhance the quantity and quality of local waste paper recyclables and promote sustainability of the local recycling industry
      - Support to industry: Provided financial relief to recyclers to cope with the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
      - MSW charging: Continued to fund Community Involvement Projects to try out the use of dummy designated garbage bags for waste disposal (similar to the arrangement under the proposed MSW charging regime) in different types of premises – by the end of 2020, about 180 projects had received a total of about $150 million.
       
      Waste Facilities
      - Awarded the contract to build and operate the Y·PARK, which will turn yard waste into useful materials; it is expected to be commissioned in 2021.
      - Continued to develop O·Park2 to increase the capacity for recycling food waste; it is expected to be commissioned in 2023.
      - Announced the expansion of a trial scheme for co-digestion of food waste and sewage sludge to include Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works in 2023.
      - Continued with design and construction works of I·Park, which will be commissioned in 2025.
      - Continued with construction works for the extension of the Southeast New Territories Landfill and other preparations to extend the other two strategic landfills, namely Northeast New Territories Landfill and West New Territories Landfill.
         
      Energy
      - Met our target of improving the fuel mix for electricity generation by reducing the proportion of coal to one-quarter of the mix compared with one-half in 2015.
      - Approved more than 11 000 applications under the Feed-in Tariff Scheme since its launch in 2018.
      - Received approval of $4.3 billion for an additional District Cooling System at Kai Tak Development.
      - Achieved and exceeded our goal to reduce electricity consumption in Government buildings by 5% in the five years ending 2019- 2020. The final saving was 7.8%.
      - Saw more than 3 600 premises sign the Energy Saving Charter and over 500 premises sign the 4T Charter.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Approved a variety of countryside conservation and revitalisation projects under the CCFS.
      - Implemented minor improvement works at Lai Chi Wo and Sha Lo Tung to enhance remote countryside revitalisation.
      - Enhanced management of country parks in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      - Designated the Southwest Lantau Marine Park.
      - Implemented a new fisheries management strategy in marine parks.
      - Proceeded with the proposed expansion of the Sham Wan Restricted Area and extension of the restricted period to enhance protection of Green Turtles.
         
      Building Partnership
      - Completed a trial programme on retrofitting skips.
      - Held four briefings for the shipping and recycling trades on forthcoming controls over the import, export and re-export of plastic waste.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Reduce and Recycle 2.0 campaign to promote the community recycling network, plastic-free living and food waste recycling.
      - Promoted the Eco Anti-pandemic through initiatives such as a publicity campaign to advocate plastic-free takeaway meals.
      - Continued the reusable tableware lending programme to reduce the use of disposable plastic tableware.
      - Approved 166 community-initiated projects in 2020 through the ECF, providing a total grant of about $127 million.
      - Received a record 2 785 entries to the 2020 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) and 86 entries for the 2020 Hong Kong Green Innovation Awards (HKGIA), and honoured 214 winners from 2019.
      - Enrolled more than 7 700 students in the Student Environmental Protection Ambassador Scheme and honoured 72 schools with the Hong Kong Green School Award (HKGSA).
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Welcomed the Government’s decision to aim for carbon neutrality before 2050, as recommended by the SDC following a public engagement exercise.
      - Welcomed participation by 40 secondary and primary schools in the Sustainable Development School Outreach Programme, involving about 9 200 students and teachers.
      - Honoured 50 secondary schools in the Sustainable Development School Award Programme, whose activities reached about 100 000 students, teachers and members of the community.
         
      Climate Change
      - Announced that Hong Kong would strive to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050.
      - Launched the $200 million Green Tech Fund to support research and development projects on decarbonisation and environmental protection.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Held the second meeting of the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Environmental Protection and Combating Climate Change (JWGEPCCC).
      - Conducted a joint study with Guangdong on post-2020 regional air pollution reduction targets and concentration levels.
      - Allocated $311 million for a new five-year phase of the Cleaner Production Partnership Programme.
      - Amended regulations to control the import and export of mercury to fulfil our obligations under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
       
  • 2019
    • 2019
       
      Air
      - Completed a three-month public consultation on the proposed tightening of AQOs.
      - Required marine vessels to use low sulphur marine fuel in local waters.
      - Tightened emission caps for power plants effective 2024.
      - Tightened emission standards for newly approved non-road vehicles.
      - Implemented new indoor air quality objectives (IAQs) for the IAQ Certification Scheme for Offices and Public Places.
         
      Noise
      - Completed resurfacing 88 local road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials, benefiting 142 000 people.
      - Completed retrofitting noise barriers at 18 road sections, benefitting 58 000 people, and began work on another two road sections.
       
      Water
      - Invested $57 billion in sewage infrastructure from 1990-2019, including $2 billion in 2018-19 alone.
      - Achieved 100% compliance with WQOs at all 41 gazetted beaches.
      - Co-ordinated and organised more than 110 local shoreline clean-up activities.
      - Organised the first joint coastal clean-up effort with Guangdong authorities.
         
      Environmental Assessment
      - Applied smart technologies to facilitate EPD’s services, including the development of a 3D Geographic Information System (GIS) and a Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) immersive visualisation.
      - Approved EIA reports for Shuen Wan Golf Course and Yuen Long Effluent Polishing Plant.
      - Provided environmental advice on “Hong Kong 2030+: Towards a Planning Vision and Strategy Transcending 2030” and other strategic studies
      - Vetted the environmental implications of 290 funding and policy proposals submitted to the Executive Council, Legislative Council and other important bodies.
      - Organised training courses and refresher sessions on the EIA process for professionals and stakeholders.
      - Fostered EIA exchange and collaboration with Mainland China, held working meetings with Guangdong’s Department of Ecology and Environment and EIA authorities from the Greater Bay Area, and participated in attachment programmes with the national Ministry of Ecology and Environment and Macao Environmental Protection Bureau.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Inspected more than 1 200 imported waste containers, up more than 50% over 2018. More than 130 containers of illegally imported waste were intercepted, up more than 70% over 2018.
      - Completed 61 prosecutions involving illegal waste imports and exports, against 43 prosecutions completed in 2018.
      - Increased the number of air pollution abatement notices issued to waste plastics recycling yards to 17, compared with 3 in 2018.
         
      Waste Reduction
      - Continued to heighten awareness of MSW charging, including the launch of the “Dump Less, Save More” campaign to promote waste reduction and the establishment of new outreach teams (currently known as “Green Outreach”) to provide on-site assistance in waste reduction and recycling in the community.
      - Extended glass container collection and treatment services and launched the Glass Container Recycling Charter.
      - Continued to review the Plastic Shopping Bag Charging Scheme with a view to improve its effectiveness and prepare for launching a public consultation on the way forward.
      - Pressed ahead with the preparation for a new producer responsibility scheme on plastic beverage containers.
      - Commenced a technical trial on the application of reverse vending machines (RVMs) in the collection of waste plastic beverage containers.
      - Through the Recycling Fund, provided rental support to recyclers and launched a new scheme to support new and start-up recycling enterprises.
      - Collaborated with the retail trade to explore practical measures to reduce the use of plastic packaging materials.
       
      Waste Facilities
      - Awarded the contract to design, build and operate O·PARK2 to scale up the recycling capacity of food waste; the target commissioning date is 2022.
      - Commissioned pre-treatment facilities for a trial scheme for co-digestion of food waste and sewage sludge at the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works and began investigation and design work for similar facilities at Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works
      - Received a Merit Award for the T·PARK in the 2019 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE).
      - Continued with the design and construction works for the Integrated Waste Management Facilities (I·PARK), which will open in 2025.
      - Continued with construction works for the extension of Southeast New Territories (SENT) Landfill and a landfill gas utilisation plant at the West New Territories (WENT) Landfill.
         
      Energy
      - Pursued legislative amendments to exempt individual participants in the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) Scheme from applying for business registration and paying profits tax in respect of FiT payments.
      - Introduced Solar Harvest to install solar energy generation systems for free for schools and welfare organisations.
      - Launched the RE Certificate Scheme to offer the community another option for supporting clean energy.
      - Achieved a 5% reduction in electricity consumption in government buildings within four years.
      - Implemented the new Building Energy Code and added five more products to the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS).
      - Saw 3 800 organisations sign the Energy Saving Charter and more than 1 500 premises sign the 4T Charter.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Established the ACCC and launched the CCFS.
      - Proceeded with statutory procedures to designate the Southwest Lantau Marine Park.
      - Proceeded with legislative amendments to implement a new fisheries management strategy in marine parks.
      - Consulted the public on enhancing the recreation and education potential of country parks and special areas.
      - Celebrated the 40th anniversary of the MacLehose Trail.
      - Continued implementing the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-21.
         
      Building Partnership
      - Promoted best practices to the construction industry through the HKCA Environmental Awards, Environmentally Friendly Green Model Building Competition and MTRCL-EPD Joint Environmental Forum.
      - Conducted 20 environmental audits for the Wong Tai Sin District Council’s Quality Building Management Competition.
      - Organised a seminar on green practices for the vehicle repair trade.
      - Held the first of three seminars to prepare waste handlers on coming import and export controls on waste plastics and waste paper.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Launched Phase 2 of the Plastic-free Takeaway, Use Reusable Tableware campaign.
      - Organised the Plastic-free Fun Fair for World Environment Day and World Oceans Day.
      - Supported 186 community-initiated projects through the Environment and Conservation Fund with a total grant of more than $205 million.
      - Received a record 2 608 entries for the 2019 HKAEE and Hong Kong Green Innovation Awards and honoured 214 winners from 2018.
      - Welcomed more than 107 000 visitors to the Fanling, Wan Chai and Mobile Environmental Resource Centres and Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre.
      - Enrolled more than 8 300 students in the Student Environmental Protection Ambassador Scheme and awarded 40 schools with the Hong Kong Green School Award.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Through the SDC, launched a public engagement exercise on a long-term decarbonisation strategy for Hong Kong
      - Held a prize presentation ceremony for the Sustainable Development Promotion Award for Students of Higher Education Institutions.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Merged two cross-boundary working groups into the Hong Kong-Guangdong JWGEPCCC.
      - Launched a joint study with Guangdong on post- 2020 regional air pollutant emission reduction targets and concentration levels.
      - Agreed to include VOCs in the regional air quality monitoring network.
      - Launched the first joint coastal clean-up action with Guangdong.
      - Commended 180 enterprises under the Hong Kong-Guangdong Cleaner Production Partners Recognition Scheme.
       
  • 2018
    • 2018
       
      Air
      - Completed a review of AQOs.
      - Passed legislation requiring new non-road vehicles to meet the same emission standards as vehicles on the street.
      - Announced stricter requirements on the sulphur content of fuel for ocean-going vessels in local waters.
      - Tightened qualifying standards for environment-friendly commercial ve­hicles to receive tax breaks.
         
      Noise
      - Resurfaced 76 local road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials by the end of 2018, benefiting 134 000 people.
      - Retrofitted noise barriers at 17 existing road sections, benefiting about 56 000 people by the end of 2018. Began retrofitting works at three other sections.
       
      Water
      - Achieved 100% compliance with Water Quality Objectives at all 41 gazetted beaches.
      - Revamped the Interdepartmental Working Group on Clean Shorelines into the Interdepartmental Working Group on Marine Environmental Management, to reflect its wider focus.
      - Took action to reduce near-shore pollution and enhance the quality of the coastal waters of Victoria Harbour.
         
      Environmental Assessment
      - Approved the Environmental Impact Assessment reports for the Hong Kong Offshore Liquefied Natural Gas terminal, Lei Yue Mun Waterfront Enhancement Project and other major projects.
      - Provided environmental advice on “Hong Kong 2030+: Towards a Planning Vision and Strategy Transcending 2030” and other strategic studies.
      - Vetted the environmental implications of 303 funding and policy proposals submitted to the Executive Council, Legislative council and other important bodies.
      - Continued to organise an exchange and attachment programme with the Appraisal Centre for Environment and Engineering under the Ministry of Ecology and Environment to foster connections and collaborations between Hong Kong and Mainland China.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Implemented the Mandatory Producer Responsibility Scheme on waste electrical and electronic equipment.
      - Deployed surveillance camera systems to about 70 illegal waste disposal black spots by the end of the year.
      - Stepped up enforcement control against noise nuisance generated by shops when promoting their wares.
         
      Waste Reduction
      - Continued to facilitate the scrutiny of the amendment bill on MSW charging by the Legislative Council.
      - Partnered with some 20 organisations to conduct MSW charging trial projects in such sectors as public rental housing estates, rural areas, shopping malls and the catering trade.
      - Earmarked additional funding to be spent annually on strengthening waste reduction and recycling, starting from 2019-20.
      - Continued to provide funding support for Community Involvement Projects by non-profit-making organisations that focus on MSW charging. By the end of 2018, more than 80 projects had received a total of $75 million via the Environment and Conservation Fund.
      - Implemented a new PRS on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). The WEEE treatment and recycling facility, WEEE·PARK, was developed and commenced full operation in 2018 to underpin the PRS on WEEE.
      - Opened the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 1 (O·PARK1) to receive food waste from the commercial and industrial sector for recycling and turning into energy and compost.
      - Launched a pilot programme to provide 90 primary and secondary schools with small food waste composters and education kits.
      - Opened two new Community Green Stations (CGSs) in Tuen Mun and Kwai Tsing.
       
      Waste Facilities
      - Commissioned Hong Kong’s first O·PARK to treat food waste from the commercial and industrial sector.
      - Opened the WEEE·PARK to treat this waste and turn it into reusable materials.
      - Proceeded with building food waste pre-treatment facilities for co-digestion with sewage sludge at the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works.
      - Set up a temporary yard waste shredding facility to handle the large quantities of felled trees that resulted from Super Typhoon Mangkhut as well as other yard waste.
      - Received a Merit Award for T·PARK in the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects Design Awards.
      - Continued with design and construction works for the Integrated Waste Management Facility, which will open in 2024.
      - Commenced construction of the extension of the Southeast New Territories Landfill and continued with construction of a landfill gas utilisation plant at the West New Territories Landfill.
         
      Energy
      - Tightened energy efficiency standards in the Building Energy Code by 18% compared with those in 2012.
      - Accelerated tax deductions for renewable energy and energy-efficient installations in buildings.
      - Reduced electricity consumption in Government buildings by 4.9% compared with 2015-16.
      - Added five new types of products to the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme.
      - Launched the Energy Saving for All 2018 Campaign.
      - Announced programmes to be implemented under the new SCAs to take effect from 1 October 2018 and 1 January 2019.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Established the Countryside Conservation Office (CCO) to co-ordinate and promote countryside conservation and revitalisation.
      - Conducted a study to formulate proposals for enhancing the recreation and education potential of country parks and special areas.
      - Continued implementing a three-step plan to phase out the ivory trade and increase penalties for illicit trade in endangered species.
      - Continued implementing the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021.
      - Continued pursuing an exceptional, non-in-situ land exchange proposal to protect the ecologically significant Sha Lo Tung site, and identified suitable minor improvement works at Sha Lo Tung and Lai Chi Wo.
         
      Building Partnership
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Construction Association to produce a trip-ticket guide for construction and demolition waste from private works projects.
      - Conducted 52 environmental building audits for Quality Building Management Competitions in Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon City and Kwun Tong districts.
      - Visited about 50 vehicle repair workshops to promote good environmental practices.
      - Implemented a plan with other Government departments to reduce air quality nuisance from ritual burning.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Reusable Tableware Lending Programme for organisers of large events, as well as a promotion to encourage the public to use plastic-free, reusable tableware.
      - Organised the Zero Waste Fun Fair to celebrate World Environment Day, and the Green Lunar New Year Fairs Programme.
      - Provided more than $216 million to support 174 community-initiated projects through the Environment and Conservation Fund.
      - Received 2 034 entries for the 2018 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence and Hong Kong Green Innovation Awards, and honoured 201 winners from 2017.
      - Welcomed more than 122 000 visitors to the Fanling, Wan Chai and Mobile Environmental Resources Centre and the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre, as well as 288 000 to the five Community Green Stations.
      - Enrolled more than 10 100 students in the Schools Environmental Protection Ambassador Scheme and awarded 59 schools with the Hong Kong Green School Award.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Supported the SDC in preparing to engage the public on a long-term decarbonisation strategy for Hong Kong.
      - Awarded a total $6.5 million to seven projects in the 13th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Selected the best five proposals for the Proposal Award under the Sustainable Development Promotion Award for Students of Higher Education Institutions.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Invited the Council for Sustainable Development to launch a public engagement exercise on Hong Kong’s long-term decarbonisation strategy.
      - Launched the Low Carbon Living Calculator.
      - Introduced controls on short-chain chlorinated paraffins and tributyltin compounds to the Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance, in accordance with the listing of those chemicals in Annex III to the Rotterdam Convention.
      - Jointly established a science team with Guangdong to launch a study on post-2020 regional air pollutants emission reduction targets and concentration levels for Hong Kong and Guangdong.
      - Completed the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Regional PM2.5 Study.
      - Held meetings with regional counterparts from Shenzhen and Macao.
      - Organised an environmental technology workshop on the regional movement of hazardous waste for the Pan Pearl River Delta Regional Environmental Co-operation Joint Conference.
       
  • 2017
    • 2017
       
      Air
      - Continued to review the Air Quality Objectives and launched a public engagement exercise to gather views on possible new measures to improve air quality.
      - Announced tighter emission caps for power plants. Š
      - Continued to phase out pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles. By the end of 2017, 60,200 had been removed from the roads.
      - Supported trials of greener vehicles, including electric buses.
      - Progressively tightened emission standards for first registered vehicles.
         
      Noise
      - Resurfaced 73 local road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials as of the end of 2017, benefitting about 132,000 people.
      - Retrofitted noise barriers at 17 existing road sections as of the end of 2017, benefitting about 56,000 people, and commenced noise barrier retrofitting works at two other sections.
       
      Water
      - Achieved 100% compliance with the bacteriological Water Quality Objective for bathing waters at the 41 gazetted beaches for the eighth year in a row.
      - Continued with efforts to reduce marine refuse and shore-based waste and clean up blackspots, through the co-ordination of Inter-departmental Working Group on Clean Shorelines. Š
      - Established the Hong Kong-Guangdong Cross Boundary Notification Mechanism on Marine Refuse and launched a trial of the Notification and Alert System on Marine Refuse.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Approved the environmental impact assessment (EIA) reports for new development areas at Yuen Long South and Siu Ho Wan. Š
      - Provided environmental advice on strategic housing studies in the northern New Territories and North Lantau.
      - Vetted the environmental implications of some 280 funding and policy proposals considered by various key bodies, such as the Executive Council and Legislative Council. Š
      - Continued professional exchanges and co-operation between Hong Kong and Mainland, as well as the international community, on EIA matters.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Conducted more than 700 inspections of electronic waste recycling sites, resulting in 88 successful prosecution cases.
      - Inspected more than 700 cargo containers for suspected illegal import or export of hazardous waste and completed 65 prosecutions.
      - By the end of the year, completed installation of surveillance cameras at about 50 construction waste flytipping black spots. The information gathered was used in 69 successful prosecution cases and 23 fixed penalty notices against construction waste fly-tipping.
      - Engaged a contractor to produce a plan for implementing an electronic trip-ticket system for the Clinical Waste Control Scheme, to replace the conventional paper-based one.
         
      Waste Reduction and Recycling
      - Announced implementation plans for municipal solid waste (MSW) charging. Around 90 briefing sessions were organised to solicit views from the community and various stakeholders.
      - Continued to provide funding support to non-profit organisations for carrying out Community Involvement Projects to gain experience in MSW charging in different settings. By the end of 2017, more than 50 projects had received a total of about $55 million.
      - Opened new Community Green Stations in Kwun Tong, Yuen Long and Sham Shui Po.
      - Continued to allocate support to the recycling industry through the $1 billion Recycling Fund. From 2015 to the end of 2017, 115 projects were supported with total funding of about $90 million.
         
      Producer Responsibility Schemes (PRSs)
      - Completed legislative amendments for the PRS on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), launched the Removal Service Trial Scheme, further engaged the trade in preparation for the implementation of the PRS, and began initial operation of the WEEE Treatment and Recycling Facility (the WEEE·PARK).
      - Awarded glass management contracts for Hong Kong Island (including Islands District) and the New Territories in preparation for the glass beverage container PRS.
      - Commissioned a feasibility study on a new PRS for plastic beverage and personal care product containers.
       
      Waste Facilities
      - Awarded the design-build-operate contract for the Integrated Waste Management Facility Phase 1, which is scheduled for commissioning in 2024.
      - Awarded the design-build-operate contract for the Food Waste / Sewage Sludge Anaerobic Codigestion Trial Scheme in 2017.
      - Celebrated the first anniversary of T·PARK, which greatly reduced special waste disposal at landfills. T·PARK also received the highest Platinum Rating in the Provisional Assessment Stage under the BEAM Plus New Buildings (V1.1).
      - Neared completion of the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 1 (O·PARK1) to treat commercial and industrial food waste, as well as the tendering process of Phase 2.
         
      Energy
      - Signed the post-2018 Scheme of Control Agreements with the two power companies, which include provisions to promote energy efficiency and conservation and renewable energy.
      - Introduced a legislative amendment for Phase III of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme to extend coverage to five more types of electrical products.
      - Launched the Energy Saving for All 2017 campaign, which included the new 4T Charter on setting and achieving energy-saving targets; more than 1,000 premises have signed up.
      - Awarded Platinum Awards to more than 3,000 participants who are fulfilling a pledge to switch off external lights from 11pm-7am, and Gold Awards to more than 1,200 who switch off from midnight-7am.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Continued to implement the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021.
      - Progressed with an exceptional non-in-situ land exchange proposal that will protect the ecologicallysignificant Sha Lo Tung site.
      - Introduced a bill in the Legislative Council to phase out the ivory trade and impose heavier penalties on the illicit trade in endangered species.
      - Celebrated the 40th anniversary of Hong Kong’s country parks.
      - Initiated a study on coral bleaching in Hong Kong waters.
         
      Building Partnerships
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Construction Association (HKCA) on a practice guide promoting proper disposal of construction and demolition waste from private works projects.
      - Organised forums and seminars to promote best environmental practices in the construction industry with the HKCA, Government departments, Mass Transit Railway Corporation Limited and other partners.
      - Conducted 16 environmental building audits for the Quality Building Management Competition organised by Wong Tai Sin District Council.
      - Organised hands-on workshops for the vehicle repair trade demonstrating the use of vehicle refinishing paints that are waterbased and have low volatile organic compounds content.
      - Conducted a seminar on equipment and systems to control cooking fumes for the restaurant trade.
      - Tested alternative forms of worship to ritual burning during the Yu Lan festival.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Organised the Clean Recycling Campaign and World Environment Day Zero Carbon Fun Fair to mobilise community support for waste reduction, clean recycling and low carbon living.
      - Provided more than $171 million to support 150 community-initiated projects through the Environment and Conservation Fund.
      - Received 1,674 entries for the Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence and Hong Kong Green Innovation Awards and honoured 180 winners from 2016.
      - Welcomed more than 98,000 visitors to the Fanling, Wan Chai and Mobile Environmental Resource Centres, and the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre. In addition, 288,000 visitors were welcomed in the five Community Green Stations (see Waste Reduction chapter).
      - Enrolled more than 10,200 students in the Schools Environmental Protection Ambassador Scheme and awarded 56 schools with the Hong Kong Green School Award.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Acted on the report from the Council for Sustainable Development on the Public Engagement on Promotion of Sustainable Consumption of Biological Resources.
      - Launched the 13th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Launched the 2nd round of the Sustainable Development Promotion Award for Students of Higher Education Institutions.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Released Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2030+ setting a target to reduce carbon intensity by 65-70% by 2030, using 2005 as the baseline.
      - Established the Hong KongGuangdong Cross Boundary Notification Mechanism on Marine Refuse and launched a trial of the Notification and Alert System on Marine Refuse.
      - Met with the then Ministry of Environmental Protection (now renamed as the Ministry of Ecology and Environment) to exchange views on the Central Government's coming tighter restrictions on solid waste imports.
      - Signed a Co-operation Agreement for the establishment of a Shenzhen-Hong Kong Office for Marine Emissions Control with Shenzhen authorities, including the Maritime Safety Administration, the then Human Settlements and Environment Commission (now renamed as the Ecology and Environment Bureau), and Transport Commission.
       
  • 2016
    • 2016
       
      Air
      - Began a review of the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs).
      - Continued to phase out pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles through an ex-gratia payment scheme. By the end of 2016, about 49,700 had been phased out. Š
      - Supported trials of greener vehicles including electric buses.
      - Announced tighter emission caps for power plants from 2021.
         
      Noise
      - Added more items to the list of quieter construction equipment that qualifies as Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment, bringing the total to 15.
      - Continued resurfacing local road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials; by the end of 2016, 69 local road sections had been resurfaced benefiting about 130,000 people.
      - Continued retrofitting noise barriers along local road sections; by the end of 2016, 17 road sections had been retrofitted benefiting about 56,000 people and work had begun on two more sites.
       
      Water
      - Achieved 100 per cent compliance with beach water quality objectives at all 41 gazetted beaches for the seventh year in row.
      - Co-ordinated inter-departmental efforts to handle a sudden summer surge in marine refuse on Hong Kong’s southern beaches and coastal areas. Š
      - Set up the Hong Kong-Guangdong Marine Environment Management Special Panel under the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection.
      - Commissioned a two-year consultancy study on further enhancing the quality of the coastal waters of Victoria Harbour.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Approved the EIA reports for a number of major development projects, such as Tung Chung New Town Extension, Hung Shui Kiu New Development Area and Sha Tin Cavern Sewage Treatment Works. Š
      - Provided environmental advice on strategic studies of territorial and regional development plans, cavern and underground space development, waste infrastructure development, a water resources management plan, etc.
      - Vetted the environmental implications of 268 funding and policy proposals submitted to important bodies such as the Executive Council and the Legislative Council. Š
      - Organised a round-table forum on international EIA laws and policies for EIA regulators and professionals from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Australia, Japan, Europe and North America.
      - Strengthened exchanges and cooperation between Hong Kong and Mainland China on EIA systems and practices, with the signing of a framework agreement on collaboration between the EPD and the Appraisal Center for Environment and Engineering (ACEE) under the Ministry of Environment.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Continue with stepped-up enforcement against fly-tipping and a review of the trial surveillance camera system launched in 2015 at 12 black spots.
      - Conducted more than 400 inspections of electronic waste sites.
         
      Waste Reduction and Facilities
      - Undertook preparatory work with a view to introducing enabling legislation for MSW charging.
      - Received Legislative Council approval to increase disposal charges for construction waste from 2017.
      - Saw passage of enabling legislation for producer responsibility schemes on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and glass beverage containers.
      - Began construction of a WEEE Treatment and Recycling Facility.
      - Introduced a scheme for regulating the recycling of waste cooking oils.
      - Completed construction of new Community Green Stations in Kwun Tong and Yuen Long.
      - Commenced full operation of T · PARK, a facility that combines sludge treatment and community amenities.
      - Commenced construction of the ORRC Phase 1, which will convert 200 tonnes of food waste into electricity and compost each day.
      - Received tenders from pre-qualified tenderers for the Integrated Waste Management Facilities (IWMF) Phase 1, and began tender preparations for a trial of food waste/sewage sludge co-digestion.
      - Implemented the Waste Diversion Plan following the designation of Southeast New Territories (SENT) Landfill to receive only construction waste.
      - Received 27 applications in the first batch of the Restored Landfill Revitalisation Funding Scheme.
      - Continued with preparations to extend the capacity of the existing landfills.
         
      Energy
      - Commenced negotiations on the post-2018 SCAs with the two power companies.
      - Continue to increase local gas generation to help achieve the 2020 fuel mix plan.
      - Launched the Energy Saving for All 2016 Campaign to foster partnership in promoting energy saving in the community.
      - Launched the Charter on External Lighting to tackle light nuisance and reduce energy wastage that may be caused by external lighting installations.
      - Held green building engagements with stakeholders from the built environment and energy sectors.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Launched the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021.
      - Proposed a plan to phase out the local trade in ivory.
      - Designated The Brothers Marine Park.
      - Launched the Second Phase of the “Take Your Litter Home” public education programme in country parks.
      - Enhanced the accessibility and visibility of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Collaborated with the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the Hong Kong Construction Association (HKCA) to promote environmental best practices for the construction industry.
      - Collaborated with the Kowloon City and Wong Tai Sin District Councils to conduct 37 environmental building audits for Quality Building Management Competitions.
      - Supported the Home Affairs Department’s Quality Property Management Initiatives.
      - Gave a presentation to the vehicle repair trade on relevant environmental legislation, at a seminar organised by the Automobile Training Board.
      - Conducted a seminar for the catering industry on suitable air pollution control equipment for removing cooking fumes from restaurants.
      - Commissioned the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) to continue the Green Yu Lan project on ways to reduce air pollution caused by burning joss papers and paper artefacts during the Yu Lan Festival.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Mobilised the community to support clean recycling and low carbon living through the Clean Recycling Campaign and World Environment Day publicity event.
      - Provided more than $170 million to support 193 community-initiated projects through the Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF).
      - Received 1,505 entries for the 2016 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence and Hong Kong Green Innovations Awards and honoured 184 winners of the 2015 awards.
      - Welcomed more than 159,000 visitors to the Sha Tin and Eastern Community Green Stations, and more than 91,000 visitors to the Fanling, Tsuen Wan, Wan Chai and Mobile Environmental Centres, and the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre.
      - Enrolled more than 10,300 students in the Student Environmental Ambassador Scheme and awarded 58 schools (including 12 pre-schools) with the Hong Kong Green School Award
      - Enhanced the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in schools and collected 4,200 items of WEEE.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development (SDC) launch a public engagement exercise on the promotion of sustainable consumption of biological resources.
      - Initiated a new award scheme to encourage undergraduate students in local tertiary institutes to plan and implement activities that promote sustainability.
      - Launched the 12th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Welcomed the participation of 78 schools in the Sustainable Development School Outreach Programme and 44 schools in the Sustainable Development School Award Programme.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Signed the 2016-2020 Co-operation Agreement (CA) on Environmental Protection with Guangdong authorities to further enhance cross-boundary co-operation.
      - Signed the CA on Prevention and Control of Air Pollution from Vessels between the Mainland and Hong Kong with the Maritime Safety Administration of the Ministry of Transport.
      - Established an Inter-departmental Steering Committee on Climate Change.
      - Held a high-level lunch for business leaders on climate change and a Climate Change Stakeholder Exchange Forum.
      - Organised a Carbon Audit Seminar for Hong Kong-listed companies.
       
  • 2015
    • 2015
       
      Air
      - Introduced regulations to control emissions from ocean-going vessels and non-road mobile machinery.
      - Announced tighter emission caps for power plants from 2020.
      - Continued to phase out pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles through an ex-gratia payment scheme; by the end of 2015, about 38,600 had been phased out.
      - Supported trials of greener vehicles, including electric buses.
      - Set up zones in busy corridors where franchised bus operators can deploy only low-emission buses.
         
      Noise
      - Launched new webpages targeted at the construction trade and liquor-licensed establishments to promote good practices on mitigating noise from their operations.
      - Completed resurfacing 61 road sections with low-noise road surfacing materials by the end of 2015. About 120,000 people have benefited.
      - Completed retrofitting 17 existing road sections with noise barriers by the end of 2015, benefitting about 56,000 people.
       
      Water
      - Commissioned the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
      - Achieved 100 per cent compliance with beach water quality objectives at all 41 gazetted beaches for the sixth year in a row.
      - Launched activities to promote clean shorelines.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Signed a framework agreement with the Appraisal Center for Environment and Engineering under the Ministry of Environmental Protection, PRC, to strengthen exchanges and co-operation on environmental impact assessment.
      - Approved 193 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports under the EIA Ordinance from 1998 to the end of 2015.
      - Approved EIA reports for the Desalination Plant at Tseung Kwan O, In-situ Reprovisioning of Sha Tin Water Treatment Works – South Works, and a Flyover from Kwai Tsing Interchange upramp to Kwai Chung Road.
      - Provided environmental advice on strategic studies for territorial development, new town development in the northern New Territories, and cavern and underground space development.
      - Vetted the environmental implications of 321 funding and policy proposals submitted to decision-making bodies such as the Policy Committee, Executive Council and Legislative Council.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Supported implementation of Plastic Shopping Bag Charging to all retail outlets through enforcement and outreach.
      - Conducted publicity and education activities on the proper disposal of construction waste at 26 locations.
      - Installed pilot surveillance cameras at 12 black spots for construction waste fly-tipping under the Keep Clean 2015@Hong Kong: Our Home campaign.
      - Installed surveillance cameras at Gin Drinkers Bay for a targeted campaign cracking down on the fly-tipping of commercial and construction waste.
         
      Waste
      - Earmarked $50 million through the Environment and Conservation Fund for community involvement projects on MSW charging.
      - Introduced a legislative proposal for a Product Responsibility Scheme (PRS) on WEEE and awarded a contract to build a WEEE treatment and recycling facility.
      - Introduced a legislative proposal for a PRS on glass beverage containers and expanded the glass container collection network to serve about 70 per cent of the population.
      - Opened the first two Community Green Stations in Sha Tin and Eastern districts.
      - Fully implemented the Plastic Shopping Bag Charging Scheme.
      - Reviewed the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme with a view to adjusting the charges.
      - Launched the Food Wise Eateries Scheme to encourage outlets to reduce food waste.
      - Received funding approval for the Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 1.
      - Opened the T•PARK (a sludge treatment facility).
      - Began a pilot trial on food waste-sewage sludge anaerobic co-digestion.
      - Implemented the Waste Diversion Plan to prepare the Southeast New Territories Landfill for receiving only construction waste.
      - Continued to make progress on the landfill extension projects.
      - Began a study to identify the additional waste management and transfer facilities that Hong Kong will need up to 2041.
      - Introduced statutory requirements to ensure refuse collection vehicles are equipped with proper environmental control equipment.
      - Launched the Restored Landfill Revitalisation Funding Scheme.
         
      Energy
      - Launched the Energy Saving Plan for Hong Kong’s Built Environment and a target to reduce energy intensity by 40 per cent by 2025 compared with 2005.
      - Launched the Energy Saving for All campaign to promote energy saving and efficiency in the community.
      - Consulted the public on the future development of the electricity market.
      - Announced the 2020 fuel mix for electricity generation, which will help Hong Kong achieve the target of reducing carbon intensity (the amount of greenhouse gases per unit of GDP) by 50-60 per cent by 2020 compared to 2005.
      - Received recommendations from the Task Force on External Lighting on ways to reduce light nuisance and energy wastage from external lighting, and began to implement various measures.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Co-organised the first Hong Kong Biodiversity Festival to raise awareness of biodiversity conservation and sustainability.
      - Adopted the new UNESCO Global Geopark label.
      - Launched the “Take Your Litter Home” public education programme in country parks.
      - Strengthened control of the ivory trade.
      - Consulted stakeholders on the boundary and management plan of the proposed Brothers Marine Park and prepared a draft map.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Construction Association and operators in the private and public sectors to promote and recognise best practices.
      - Collaborated with Kwun Tong, Wong Tai Sin, Kwai Tsing and Sham Shui Po District Councils on environmental building audits and green property management initiatives.
      - Conducted workshops on the application of water-based vehicle refinishing paints for vehicle repair workshops.
      - Held a seminar for restaurants on air pollution control equipment (APCE) to remove cooking fumes.
      - Commissioned the Hong Kong Productivity Council to promote “Green Yu Lan” and demonstrate APCE for burning joss papers.
         
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Clean Recycling Campaign on World Environment Day to encourage people to embrace clean recycling practices in daily life.
      - Launched the Pilot Scheme on Shopping Bags Sharing in the Community to explore ways of sharing and re-using shopping bags.
      - Organised the high-level Go Green Waste Less Summit for the 18 District Councils and community stakeholders.
      - Collected 8,000 items of used computers and electronic appliances under the Schools Recycle WEEE Programme.
      - Received 1,210 entries from companies to compete for the 2015 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE), and honoured 175 winners of the 2014 awards .
      - Received more than 87,000 visitors to the Fanling, Tsuen Wan, Wan Chai and Mobile Environmental Centres, and the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre.
      - Enrolled more than 11,700 students in the Student Environmental Ambassador Scheme and awarded 52 schools with the Hong Kong Green School Award (HKGSA).
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Supported the Council for Sustainable Development in preparing for its new round of public engagement on “promotion of sustainable consumption of biological resources”.
      - Launched the 12th round of application under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Welcomed the participation of 57 schools in the Sustainable Development School Outreach Programme, and 52 schools in the Sustainable Development School Award Programme.
         
      Cross-boundary And International Co-operation
      - Embarked on a joint mid-term review with Guangdong to determine the air pollutant emission reduction results for 2015 and finalise the targets for 2020.
      - Signed the Guangdong-Hong Kong Co-operation Agreement on Cleaner Production and held the first meeting of the Hong Kong- Guangdong Joint Working Group on Cleaner Production.
      - Held the 14th and 15th meetings of the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection.
      - Held the 4th meeting of the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Liaison Group on Combating Climate Change.
      - Held the 20th meeting of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Environmental Co-operation Forum.
       
  • 2014
    • 2014
       
      Air
      - Implemented new Air Quality Objectives from January 1, 2014.
      - On reducing air pollution from existing vehicles, launched an $11.4 billion ex-gratia payment scheme to progressively phase out pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles and completed a one-off $150 million subsidy programme to replace the emission control devices on about 17,000 petrol and liquefied petroleum gas taxis and light buses.
      - On alternative vehicles, added 100 medium chargers for electric vehicles in Government car parks to reduce the charging time, and supported the trial of hybrid buses by the franchised bus companies.
      - On marine air pollution, introduced a new regulation to cap the sulphur content of locally- supplied marine light diesel at 0.05 per cent.
      - Regionally, signed the “Cooperation Agreement on Regional Air Pollution Control and Prevention among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao”. Macao has become part of the now-renamed Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao PRD Regional Air Quality Monitoring Network, and the three sides agreed to launch the 30-month “Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Regional PM2.5 Study”.
         
      Energy
      - Conducted a three-month public consultation on the future fuel mix for electricity generation in Hong Kong.
      - Signed up a record number of participants to the Energy Saving Charter on Indoor Temperature.
       
      Waste
      - Received the report from the Council for Sustainable Development on recommendations on implementing municipal solid waste (MSW) charging in Hong Kong, and tested quantity- based MSW charging in several local housing estates.
      - On food waste, unveiled the “Food Waste and Yard Waste Plan for Hong Kong 2014-2022”, continued the Food Wise Hong Kong campaign, and made food waste the focus of the World Environment Day campaign “Eat Wise, Waste Less”.
      - On the collection of recyclables, expanded the glass container collection network and collected more than 7,700 items of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) under the Schools WEEE Recycling Programme.
      - On producer responsibility schemes (PRSs), secured the passage of a legislation to enable the plastic shopping bag charging scheme to be implemented in all retail outlets from April 2015, and made preparations for the introduction of mandatory PRSs for WEEE and glass beverage containers.
      - On waste facilities, substantially completed construction of the Sludge Treatment Facility Phase 1 and received Legislative Council (LegCo) funding approval for the Organic Waste Treatment Facility (OWTF) Phase 1. Funding approval was also received to implement the Southeast New Territories Landfill Extension and Northeast New Territories Landfill Extension projects, and to commission an investigation study of the West New Territories Landfill Extension project.
      - Implemented a scheme to provide a one-off subsidy for improvements to private refuse collection vehicles to ensure more hygienic transportation of waste.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Organised a climate change adaptation workshop for officials from Hong Kong and Guangdong.
         
      Water
      - Completed a joint study to assess the pollution load carrying capacity of the Pearl River Estuary, which will provide a scientific basis for future water quality management.
      - Completed construction of a 21-kilometre tunnel network connecting the north and southwest of Hong Kong Island to the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works, thus bringing the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A closer to completion.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Sought stakeholder input to the drafting of the first Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for Hong Kong
       
  • 2013
    • 2013
      Community Awareness
      - Organised the “Love Food, Waste Not” Summit to provide a platform for representatives from the 18 District Councils and community stakeholder groups to share their experiences in mobilising community action in waste reduction. The event also included the Award Presentation Ceremony for the Programme on Source Separation of Waste.
      - Organised events for World Environment Day which included the “WED 2013 - Love Food, Waste Not” Campaign to engage households, a “Wallpaper Design Competition” targeting primary and secondary school students and a “Video Filming Competition” for post-secondary school students. All three events encouraged people to reduce food waste.
      - Held the 2012 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) Awards Presentation Ceremony cum 2013 HKAEE Launching Ceremony with the Environmental Campaign Committee.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Co-organised the joint annual Safety, Health and Environmental Seminar for the construction industry with CLP, CEDD, HyD and MTRC . The seminar promoted green construction technology and strategies for preventing, managing and resolving pollution complaints.
       
      Air
      - Consulted the local marine trade and other stakeholders on upgrading the quality of local marine light diesel.
      - Released “A Clean Air Plan for Hong Kong” to outline comprehensively and clearly the challenges Hong Kong is facing with regard to air quality, as well as the relevant policies, measures and future plans to tackle this problem.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2012.
      - Consulted the shipping trade on a proposal to require ocean-going vessels to switch to cleaner fuel while berthing in Hong Kong waters.
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control (Amendment) Ordinance 2013 for new Air Quality Objectives that took effect 1 January 2014.
      - Commenced a one-off subsidy programme to replace the catalytic converters and oxygen sensors of petrol and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) taxis and light buses.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for the firsthalf of 2013.
      - Launched a new Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), to replace the Air Pollution Index (API) and communicate the health effects of air pollution to the public in a more effective and timely manner.
      - Commenced operation of the Tuen Mun Air Quality Monitoring Station.
         
      Energy
      - Launched the Energy Saving Charter on Indoor Temperature and the Energy Saving Charter on No Incandescent Light Bulbs, aimed reducing electricity consumption through air conditioning and the use of energy-inefficient incandescent light bulbs. The charters are a joint initiative of the ENB and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department.
      - Marked the deadline for energy audits of the first batch of buildings affected under the Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance. These were commercial buildings and commercial portions of composite buildings that had their occupation permits issued in or after 1988.
       
      Waste
      - Awarded the Outlying Islands Transfer Facilities Follow-on Contract.
      - Awarded the North Lantau Transfer Station Follow-on Contract.
      - Formally launched the Food Wise Hong Kong Campaign, which is a social mobilisation campaign to galvanise the community, from individuals to households to C&I operators, to avoid and reduce food waste at source.
      - Introduced the Product Eco-responsibility (Amendment) Bill 2013 in the Legislative Council to extend the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags to all retail outlets.
      - Completed a public consultation on the mandatory Producer Responsibility Scheme on Glass Beverage Bottles.
      - Invited the Council for Sustainable Development to commence a second-stage public engagement on the implementation details of quantity-based municipal solid waste charging. The engagement exercise ran for four months.
      - Invited tenders for the “design-build-operate” contract of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Treatment Facility.
      - Held two engagement sessions on ways to promote the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s recycling industry and to support recycling operations. A total of about 130 stakeholders participated from the recycling trade, green groups, non-government organisations, community groups, academia, and various councils and committees.
      - Successfully obtained funding approval of $18.8 million from the Finance Committee of the Legislative Council to implement a subsidy scheme for retrofitting private refuse collection vehicles with metal tailgate covers and waste water sump tanks, so as to enhance their environmental performance during waste transportation.
      - Enlisted 1 979 housing estates/residential buildings and 861 commercial & industrial buildings to join the Programme on Source Separation of Waste.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Organised the Environmental Ambassador Appointment Ceremony for 2013-2015 in collaboration with the two SME vehicle repair trade associations and the Hong Kong Productivity Council.
      - Collaborated with Wong Tai Sin and Kwun Tong District Councils to conduct environmental building audits under the Quality Building Management Competitions.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - The Hong Kong/Guangdong Joint Liaison Group on Combating Climate Change held its second meeting in Hong Kong.
      - Co-organised the 8th EcoExpo in Hong Kong.
      - Co-organised the 5th Award Ceremony for the Cleaner Production Partners Joint Recognition Scheme.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Established the Steering Committee to Promote the Sustainable Development of the Recycling Industry, chaired by the Chief Secretary for Administration, to enhance co-ordination among relevant bureaux and departments in this area.
      - Launched the 11th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
       
  • 2012
    • 2012
      Community Awareness
      - Held the 2011 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) Awards Presentation Ceremony cum 2012 HKAEE Launching Ceremony with the Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC)..
      - Jointly organised the “Green Living Collage Competition" and "Green Living Digital Drawing Competition" for the ECC MTR Environmental Award for Schools 2012 with the ECC and the MTR Corporation.
      - Organised a series of events for World Environment Day which included a household engagement campaign entitled “Green Home Action”, roving exhibitions on the 3R principles and the publication of the “Green Living Green Cooking” cookbook for foreign domestic helpers.
      - Saw the ECC introduce new glass bottle recycling bins under the Promotion Programme on Source Separation of Waste.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Fully implemented a regulation to control the volatile organic compounds content in architectural paints, vessel paints, pleasure craft paints, vehicle refinishing paints, printing inks, selected consumer products, adhesives and sealants.
       
      Air
      - Announced the Government would adopt proposed new Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) together with a package of air quality improvement measures to better protect public health. Legislation will be introduced to implement the new AQOs.
      - Commenced regular, real-time reporting of the hourly concentration of fine suspended particulates (known as PM2.5) as measured by the air quality monitoring network.
      - Set up the Working Group on Upgrading the Quality of Marine Light Diesel to study tightening the fuel sulphur content from 0.5% to 0.05% for marine light diesel supplied locally. Members include representatives of EPD, the Marine Department, Transport Department and local vessel operators and a non-Government expert on marine engineering.
      - Launched a three-year Incentive Scheme to encourage ocean-going vessels to switch to cleaner fuel when berthing in Hong Kong waters. The scheme allows for a 50 per cent reduction in port facilities and light dues.
      - Tightened emission standards for newly registered vehicles from Euro IV to Euro V.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2011 and for the first half of 2012.
      - Issued the "Third Technical Memorandum for Allocation of Emission Allowances in Respect of Specified Licences" to further tighten the emission caps of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and respirable suspended particulates of the power sector from 2017.
         
      Noise
      - Consulted stakeholders on the refinement of the administrative Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment scheme to enhance and promote the use of quieter and more environmentally friendly construction equipment.
       
      Energy
      - Commenced full operation of the Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance (Cap.610).
      - Announced the outcome of a public consultation on a proposal to restrict the sale of energy-inefficient incandescent light bulbs, and the proposed way forward.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Approved the environmental impact assessment report of the Integrated Waste Management Facility and gained town planning approval for the proposed Outline Zoning Plan of the Shek Kwu Chau site.
         
      Waste
      - Launched the Community Participation Programme in Environmental Protection in collaboration with all 18 District Councils.
      - Completed a public consultation on municipal solid waste (MSW) charging to engage the community and relevant stakeholders on the pertinent issues and explore appropriate solutions.
      - Invited tenderers interested in designing, building and operating the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Treatment Facility to apply for prequalification.
      - Awarded one of the Phase 2 lots in EcoPark to a food waste recycler.
      - Awarded the West Kowloon Transfer Station Follow-on Contract.
      - Awarded the Island West and Island East Transfer Stations Follow-on Contract.
      - Enlisted 1,940 housing estates/residential buildings and 804 commercial & industrial buildings to join the Programme on Source Separation of Waste. The Programme now covers more than 80 per cent of the Hong Kong's population.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Facilitated the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education to develop the Environmental Management Course for Construction Managers, which is recognised by the Development Bureau.
      - Produced “Guidelines on Air Pollution Control for Joss Paper Burning at Chinese Temples, Crematoria and Similar Places” and organised a seminar to encourage the trade to adopt the best available technology for air pollution control.
      - Co-organised the annual Safety, Health and Environmental Seminar to promote green construction technology to the construction industry, with CLP Power, the Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Highways Department.
      - Engaged in the Development Bureau's annual Considerate Contractors Site Award Scheme to audit participating contractors' environmental performance, and served on the assessment panel for its Outstanding Environmental Management and Performance Award.
      - Co-organised with the Hong Kong Construction Association a seminar on environmental law and ISO 14001, to facilitate a proposal that contractors under the Government's List of Approved Contractors for Public Works be required to obtain ISO 14001 Certification.
      - In collaboration with two SME vehicle repair trade associations and the Hong Kong Productivity Council, organised an Environmental Seminar for Environmental Ambassadors, trade practitioners and other stakeholders to share knowledge on vehicle repair, design, and environmental protection.
      - Collaborated with Wong Tai Sin and Kowloon City District Councils to conduct environmental building audits under the Quality Building Management Competitions.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Sent a delegation of representatives from Hong Kong's green industry to Europe, led by the Secretary for the Environment, to promote the market for green technological and innovative solutions in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region.
      - Jointly announced with Guangdong and Macau the Regional Cooperation Plan on Building a Quality Living Area.
      - Set up a “Hong Kong Pavilion” at the 2nd International (Guangdong) Energy Conservation Expo held in Guangzhou, to support Hong Kong's environmental service sector and showcase the environmental technologies and services of Hong Kong.
      - Co-organised the 7th Eco Expo Asia to promote the development of the environmental industry and a low carbon economy in the region, and set up a “Hong Kong Pavilion” to support Hong Kong's environmental service sector and showcase the environmental technologies and services of Hong Kong.
      - Concluded that Hong Kong had met the 2010 air pollution emission reduction targets jointly set with Guangdong in 2002, and agreed with the Guangdong Provincial Government on new emission reduction targets for four pollutants for 2015 and emission reduction target ranges for 2020.
      - Awarded “Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partner” commendations to the 4th batch of Hong Kong enterprises, to recognise their efforts in pursuing cleaner production.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Received a report and recommendations from the Council for Sustainable Development on the public engagement on “Combating Climate Change: Energy Saving and Carbon Emission Reduction in Buildings”.
      - Launched the 10th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
       
  • 2011
    • 2011
      Community Awareness
      - Held the 2010 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) Awards Presentation Ceremony cum 2011 HKAEE Launching Ceremony with the Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC).
      - Organised World Environment Day events on the theme of global warming and low carbon living, which included a Global Warming and Climate Variation Seminar, the prize presentation ceremony and the screening of outstanding entries of the Low Carbon Living @ Hong Kong Video Competition.
      - Marked the EPD's 25th anniversary with a set of roving exhibitions that showcased efforts by the EPD, in partnership with the community, to enhance Hong Kong's environment and quality of life.
      - With the ECC, introduced a new series of metal waste separation bins designed by local designers and artists, under the Promotion Programme on Source Separation of Waste.
      - Jointly organised the MTR Staircase Design Competition for the ECC MTR Environmental Award for Schools 2011 with the ECC and the MTR Corporation.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Implemented the Clinical Waste Control Scheme, bringing the collection, transportation, and disposal of clinical waste under statutory control.
       
      Air
      - Introduced the $300 million Pilot Green Transport Fund to support the public transport sector and goods vehicle owners in testing out green and innovative transport technologies.
      - Saw the Motor Vehicle Idling (Fixed Penalty) Ordinance come into operation; it contains a statutory prohibition against idling vehicles with running engines.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2010 and for the first half of 2011.
         
      Energy
      - Launched the three-month consultation on restriction of sale of energy-inefficient incandescent light bulbs.
      - Fully implemented the second phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Submitted the EIA Report for the Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 1 in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance; it was subsequently endorsed by the Advisory Council on the Environment (ACE) before the end of the year.
         
      Waste
      - Announced a comprehensive strategy, "Reduce, Recycle and Proper Waste Management", to tackle Hong Kong’s waste problem.
      - Briefed the Legislative Council's Panel on Environmental Affairs on the proposed way forward for two mandatory producer responsibility schemes (PRS) – (i) extending the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags to cover all retailers, and (ii) introduce a new mandatory PRS for the proper management of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The proposals were made after consolidating the findings from two respective public consultation exercises.
      - Substantially completed the upgrade works for the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre (CWTC), which enabled it to meet the latest European Union air emission standards as well as to receive and treat clinical waste..
      - Began disposal of clinical waste at the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre (CWTC) in an environmentally sound and safe manner. Disposal of clinical waste at the CWTC is subject to a charge of about $2.7 per kilogram.
      - Held the Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony 2011.
      - Awarded the first batch of Phase 2 lots in EcoPark to five recyclers, who are recycling waste metals, waste batteries, construction wastes/ waste glass, waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and waste rubber tyres.
      - Finalised the expansion proposal of the existing mercury waste treatment facility at the CWTC to cope with an increase in demand for proper treatment of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and other mercury containing lamps and waste. The expansion will be implemented in 2012.
      - Enlisted 1791 housing estates/residential buildings and 732 commercial & industrial buildings to join the Programme on Source Separation of Waste.
      - Commenced operation of the Community Recycling Network.
       
      Water
      - Re-opened four previously closed beaches to the public on June 15 – Approach Beach, Casam Beach, Hoi Mei Wan Beach and Lido Beach – following improvements to water quality. The improvements were achieved by implementing disinfection facilities at Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works and making continued progress in connecting houses to public sewers in the beaches' hinterland.
      - Completed the statutory procedures for rezoning the proposed site of the underground biological treatment plant under Stage 2B of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Organised the Appointment Ceremony for the 2011-2013 Environmental Ambassadors of the Vehicle Repair Trade in collaboration with the two SME vehicle repair trade associations and the Hong Kong Productivity Council.
      - Produced "Guidelines on Air Pollution Control for Paper Artifacts Burning at Funeral Parlours and Other Places of Worship" to improve the environmental performance of the trade. Also organized a seminar to encourage the trade to adopt the Best Available Technology for air pollution control.
      - Launched a 5-month programme of awareness promotion activities for the promulgation of the Clinical Waste Control Scheme, which comprised 31 seminars for healthcare stakeholders, allocation of waste producer premises codes, issuance of licences, distribution of information leaflets and operation of a dedicated hotline.
      - Engaged in the Development Bureau's annual Considerate Contractors Site Award Scheme to audit participating contractors' environmental performance; and serve on the assessment panel for the Outstanding Environmental Management and Performance Award.
      - Held a technical seminar on environmental management / reporting for the Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries (HKICS) to promote corporate environmental management (CEM) and introduce the EPD's CEM tools to the target audiences.
      - Engaged in the Housing Authority's review of the Integrated Pay for Safety, Environment and Hygiene Scheme.
      - Co-organised a joint Safety, Health and Environmental Seminar to promote waste recycling services provided by EcoPark tenants to the construction industry, with CLP Power Hong Kong, the Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Highways Department.
      - Collaborated with Wong Tai Sin and Kwun Tong District Councils in conducting 91 environmental building audits under Quality Building Management Competitions.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Saw Hong Kong become a member of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40) Steering Committee, which is responsible for setting the group's direction of work.
      - Saw the Secretary for the Environment attend the C40 Summit in Sao Paulo, Brazil to share with member cities Hong Kong's strategies and experiences in tackling climate change.
      - Set up a "Hong Kong Pavilion" at the 12th China International Environmental Protection Exhibition and Conference (CIEPEC) in Beijing to support Hong Kong’s environmental service sector to showcase our environmental technologies and services. A delegation of Hong Kong's environmental industry attended the exhibition and visited the relevant Mainland environmental protection authorities.
      - Signed the "Cooperation Agreement between Hong Kong and Guangdong on Combating Climate Change" at the 14th Plenary of the Hong Kong-Guangdong Cooperation Joint Conference, which was held in Hong Kong and co-chaired by the CE and the Governor of Guangdong Province. Under the agreement, a Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Liaison Group on Combating Climate Change would be set up to promote cooperation and exchanges on greenhouse gas emission reduction activities and scientific research and technology development.
      - Jointly completed the first review of the "Mirs Bay Water Quality Regional Control Strategy" with the Human Settlements and Environment Commission of Shenzhen Municipality.
      - Jointly launched with Guangdong and Macau a three-month public consultation on initial proposals for the Regional Cooperation Plan on Building a Quality Living Area.
      - Awarded "Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partner" commendations to the third batch of Hong Kong enterprises, to recognise their efforts in pursuing cleaner production.
      - Co-organised the 6th Eco Expo Asia with the Trade and Development Council, to promote the development of the environmental industry and a low carbon economy in the region.
      - Set up a "Hong Kong Pavilion" in the 6th Eco Expo Asia to support Hong Kong's environmental service sector to showcase the environmental technologies and services of Hong Kong.
      - Joined the Chinese delegation to attend the United Nations Climate Change Conference at Durban, South Africa.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Saw the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) announce its acceptance of Hong Kong National Geopark as a member of the GGN. Subsequent to gaining membership, Hong Kong National Geopark was officially renamed Hong Kong Global Geopark of China.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development launch a public engagement process on "Combating Climate Change: Energy Saving and Carbon Emission Reduction in Buildings"
      - Approved a total of $7.3 million in grants for seven projects, in the 8th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Launched the 9th round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
       
       
  • 2010
    • 2010
      Community Awareness
      - Continued to promote the “I Love Hong Kong I Love Green” Campaign with two new Announcement of Public Interest focusing on combating climate change and low carbon living.
      - Jointly organised a 'Global Warming and Climate Variation' Seminar Series under the Combating Climate Change Campaign, with the Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC), the Polar Museum Foundation, the Hong Kong Observatory and the Hong Kong Science Museum.
      - Commemorated World Environment Day with a Global Warming and Climate Variation Seminar, co-organised with the ECC, the Polar Museum Foundation, the Hong Kong Observatory and the Hong Kong Science Museum, and the release of a set of DVDs for students that vividly illustrates the disastrous effects of global warming.
      - Launched the Climate FootPRINT Book Series with the ECC and the Climate Group (Hong Kong). The series is targeted at the general public and includes four publications on the themes of New Green Generation, Low Carbon Economy, Environmentally Friendly Households and Green City Life.
       
      Air
      - Submitted the Motor Vehicle Idling (Fixed Penalty) Bill to the Legislative Council for scrutiny, with a view to introducing a statutory requirement for drivers to switch off engines while their vehicles are stationary.
      - Amended the Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation to tighten the motor vehicle fuel standards to Euro V levels.
      - Implemented the regulatory control of specifications and labelling requirements on motor vehicle biodiesel as set out in the Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation.
      - Launched an Incentive Scheme to encourage vehicle owners to replace their Euro II diesel commercial vehicles with newer, less polluting commercial vehicles.
      - Completed a trial of local ferries using ultra low sulphur diesel.
      - Completed a stakeholder consultation on a proposal to control emissions from non-road mobile sources.
      - Further tightened emission caps for the power sector through the promulgation of the Second Technical Memorandum (TM), which sets caps 34 per cent-50 per cent below those of the First TM levels, with effect from 2015.
      - Renewed the specified process licence of Lamma Power Station and continued to impose emission caps according to the TM.
         
      Energy
      - Introduced the second phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme, which will be fully implemented in September 2011 after an 18-month grace period. The scheme covers room air-conditioners, refrigerating appliances, compact fluorescent lamps, washing machines and dehumidifiers. All these prescribed products for supply in Hong Kong are required to bear labels stating their energy efficiency performance.
      - Enacted the Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance, which mandates the compliance with codes of practice promulgated by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department concerning the energy efficiency of four types of buildings services installations and energy audits. Those installations are air-conditioning, electrical, lifts and escalators and lighting installations. The Ordinance is expected to result in energy savings of 2.8 billion kWh in its first decade for new buildings.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Approved an EIA report on Organic Waste Treatment Facilities, Phase I.
      - Approved an EIA report on Black Point Gas Supply Project.
      - Approved an EIA report on Development of a 100MW Offshore Wind Farm in Hong Kong.
      - Approved an EIA report on South Island Line (East).
         
      Waste
      - Held a public consultation on introducing a new producer responsibility scheme (PRS) for the proper management of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
      - Organised a workshop on the management of mooncake packaging to share the latest developments in green packaging and printing with the trade and promote good practices.
      - Saw the Legislative Council approve the Waste Disposal (Clinical Waste) (General) Regulation and the Waste Disposal (Charge for Disposal of Clinical Waste) Regulation to tighten control on clinical waste and enable charges to be introduced for clinical waste disposal at waste management facilities.
      - Reached the target of 80 per cent population coverage for the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste, as laid out in the Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014). 1 637 housing estates / residential buildings and 700 rural villages are enrolled in the Programme.
      - Opened a public recreation park on the restored Jordan Valley Landfill. The Jordan Valley Park features a radio-controlled model car racing circuit, horticultural centre, community garden, children's play area, elderly exercise corner and jogging track.
      - Fully commissioned a public recreation park on the restored Ngau Chi Wan Landfill (its first phase was opened in August 2009). The Ngau Chi Wan Park provides an archery field, jogging track, elderly fitness corners, children's play areas and basketball court.
      - Signed a “design, build and operate” contract for a Sludge Treatment Facility which will adopt state-of-the-art thermal incineration technology and have a design capacity of 2 000 tonnes per day.
       
      Water
      - Commenced operation of the Advance Disinfection Facilities at Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works, under the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
      - Saw a further $7.9 billion approved for upgrading Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works and eight associated preliminary treatment works on Hong Kong Island, under HATS Stage 2A. Total funding for the project has reached $17.2 billion.
      - Began a study to review HATS Stage 2B.
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education to develop an environmental training course for Environmental Officers (EO) working at construction sites.
      - Organised a workshop for leaders and pioneers of various trades to share their experiences and practices in greening their businesses, under the Environmental Compliance Promotion Programme. Since the Programme's implementation in April 2009, nine seminars and workshops have been organised.
      - Implemented the amended Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation to extend the control of VOC content to paints/coatings for vehicle refinishes, vessels and pleasure crafts, as well as adhesives and sealants in phases.
      - Collaborated with community organisations in Tsuen Wan District to organise an environmental restaurant workshop to promote environmental compliance and address environmental concerns.
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University to develop an environmental training course for Environmental Officers (EO) working at construction sites.
      - Collaborated with the Quality Tourism Services Association & Association for HK Catering Services Management to organise the “Green Restaurants & Retailers Seminar”. The seminar promoted environmental compliance and legislative requirements for the restaurant trade and retail sector.
      - Facilitated the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants & Related Trades and Hong Kong Productivity Council to implement the “Quality Restaurant Environmental Management Scheme”, and joined the Steering Committee which provides technical advice and support to restaurants. The Scheme is funded under the Environment & Conservation Fund.
      - Collaborated with two SME vehicle repair trade associations and the Hong Kong Productivity Council to organise an Environmental Seminar for Environmental Ambassadors, trade practitioners and other stakeholders to share knowledge on vehicle repair, design and environmental legislation.
      - Shared Hong Kong's experience in pollution control enforcement with two delegations from the Bureau of Environmental Supervision, under a training programme led by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of China.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Widened coverage of the Cleaner Production Partnership Programme to also provide professional advice and technical support in the treatment and reduction of effluent discharges from Hong Kong-owned factories in the PRD region.
      - Hosted the C40 Hong Kong Workshop on Low Carbon Cities for High Quality Living.
      - Awarded "Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partner" commendations to a second batch of Hong Kong enterprises, to recognise their efforts in pursuing cleaner production.
      - Co-organised the EcoExpo Asia in Hong Kong with the Trade Development Council.
      - Completed a public consultation on “Hong Kong's climate change strategy and action agenda.”
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Saw the Legislative Council pass the Genetically Modified Organisms (Control of Release) Ordinance and its subsidiary regulation, which together control the release of genetically modified organisms into the environment and give effect to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The legislation will come into effect on 1 March 2011.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development hold Community Outreach Programme in Tsuen Wan.
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development hold the “Sustainable Business for Our Future” Conference.
      -

      Saw the Council for Sustainable Development submit its Report on the Public Engagement Process on Building Design to Foster a Quality and Sustainable Built Environment to the Government, together with its recommendations.

      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development approve a total of $5.4 million in grants for five projects in the seventh round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development launch the eighth round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Saw the Government release its response to the Council for Sustainable Development's Report on the Public Engagement Process on Building Design to Foster a Quality and Sustainable Built Environment.
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development decide to embark on a new round of public engagement on climate change-related issues in 2011-2012.
       
       
  • 2000s
    • 2009
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the $450 million Buildings Energy Efficiency Funding Schemes under the Environment and Conservation Fund.
      - Published a comic book on "Low Carbon Living" jointly with the Environmental Campaign Committee and the Environmental Protection Bureau of the Macao SAR to celebrate World Environment Day 2009.
      - Earmarked $50 million through the Environment and Conservation Fund to help schools implement on-site meal portioning.
      - Accepted applications from non-government organisations for funding support for energy conservation projects under the Environment and Conservation Fund.
       
      Air
      - Completed a consultancy study on Hong Kong's Air Quality Objectives and the development of a long-term air quality management strategy.
      - Commenced a trial of local ferries using ultra low sulphur diesel.
      - Amended the Air Pollution Control (Specified Processes) Regulations 1987 to include environmental engineers in the definition of "qualified engineer".
      - Amended the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation to extend the control of VOC content to refinishing paints/coatings for vehicle refinishes, vessels and pleasure crafts, as well as adhesives and sealants.
      - Completed a 4-month consultation to solicit public views on proposed new Air Quality Objectives and measures for achieving the new objectives.
      - Amended the Ozone Layer Protection (Products Containing Scheduled Substances) (Import Banning) Regulation to extend the ban on CFCs to include controlled products such as air-conditioners containing hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The import of CFC-containing metered dosed inhalers and fire extinguishers containing HCFCs and bromochloromethane (BCM) was also banned.
      - Renewed the specified process licences for the Castle Peak Power Station, Black Point Power Station and Penny's Bay Gas Turbine Power Station, imposing emission caps.
       
      Energy
      - Granted approval to extend CLP Power Hong Kong Limited's contract to supply electricity from Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station for another 20 years from 2014.
      - Fully implemented the initial phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme.
      - Introduced the Buildings Energy Efficiency Bill into the Legislative Council for mandatory implementation of Building Energy Codes.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw approval of the EIA report on the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link.
       
      Noise
      - Saw implementation of the expanded Designated Areas under the Noise Control Ordinance, to better protect people against construction noise.
       
      Waste
      - Funding approval by the Legislative Council Finance Committee for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
      - Implemented the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags as the first mandatory producer responsibility scheme under the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance.
      - Held the Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony 2009.
      - Completed land rezoning for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension.
      - Invited tenders for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
      - Achieved in having a total of 1 256 housing estates / residential buildings enrolled in the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste against a 2009 target of 1 140, covering some 67 per cent of the population.
      - Commenced a follow-on contract for operation and upgrading of the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre.
      - Completed the EIA study for the Organic Waste Treatment Facility Phase I and made it available for public inspection
       
      Water
      - Started construction of the Sewage Conveyance System under Stage 2A of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
      - Obtained the agreement of the Metro Planning Committee of the Town Planning Board to amend the Stonecutters Island Outline Zoning Plan so as to accommodate the underground biological treatment plant for Stage 2B of HATS, subject to certain adjustments.
      - Completed construction of the Advance Disinfection Facilities at the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works under Stage 2A of HATS.
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Supported the launch of the Hong Kong Construction Association's Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection on Construction Sites 2009.
      - Appointed Environmental Ambassadors for the vehicle repair trade associations.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Launched the Environmental Compliance Promotion Programme to enhance environmental awareness and facilitate local trades and industries in achieving compliance and even going further.
      - Extended the use of dust-proof mechanical covers in grab-mounted lorries to all public works projects.
       
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2008.
      - Joined the C40 Steering Committee on Electric Vehicles.
      - Held a capacity building seminar on the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) aimed at enterprises and the general public, with speakers from Hong Kong and the National Development and Reform Commission of the Central People's Government.
      - Signed the Environmental Cooperation Agreement between Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong to enhance cooperation and related mechanisms with a view to transforming the Pearl River Delta region into a green and quality living area.
      - Jointly launched the Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partners Recognition Scheme with the Economic & Information Commission of Guangdong Province.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for the first half of 2009.
      - Commenced a joint study with the Department of Environmental Protection of Guangdong Province on the post-2010 arrangements for air pollutant emission reduction in the Pearl River Delta region.
      - Awarded "Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partner" commendations to the first batch of Hong Kong enterprises, to recognise their efforts in pursuing cleaner production.
      - Announced the "Supplementary Notes on the Implementation of Projects under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) by Hong Kong enterprises in the Mainland".
      - Participated in the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2009 as members of the Chinese delegation to the Conference.
       
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the launch of a public engagement process on "Building Design to Foster a Quality and Sustainable Built Environment" by the Council for Sustainable Development.
       
       
       
      2008
      Community Awareness
      - Saw $1 billion injected into the Environment and Conservation Fund and new priority programme areas identified, namely minor works projects to demonstrate and promote energy efficiency and conservation and waste reduction.
      - Launched the 2008 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) to encourage green management and benchmarking by companies and organisations. The award merged three Government-initiated schemes: the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards, the Wastewi$e Scheme and the Hong Kong Energy Efficiency Awards.
      - Opened the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre, which is jointly operated by the Environmental Protection Department and the University of Hong Kong.
      - Opened an Environmental Exhibition Corner at the Kennedy Town Community Complex in Kennedy Town, as a multimedia facility to deliver green messages to the public.
      - Produced the fourth generation of 3-coloured waste separation bins jointly with the Environmental Campaign Committee.
       
      Air
      - Completed a public consultation on banning idling vehicles with running engines and formulated a proposal in light of the feedback.
      - Launched a tax incentive scheme for environment-friendly commercial vehicles.
      - Amended the Air Pollution Control Ordinance to stipulate emission caps for power plants from 2010 and facilitate emissions trading as an alternative means for achieving the caps.
      - Waived the duty for Euro V motor vehicle diesel.
      - Extended the deadline for applying for one-off grants to replace pre-Euro diesel commercial vehicles from 30 September 2008 to 31 March 2010, in line with that for Euro I diesel commercial vehicles.
      - Saw the Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) (Amendment) Regulation 2008 come into force.
      - Fully implemented the Air Pollution Control (Dry-Cleaning Machines) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation, following a seven-year specified period, to further reduce residual PCE emissions from dry-cleaning machines.
      - Promulgated the "Technical Memorandum For Allocation Of Emission Allowances In Respect Of Specified Licences", which allocates to the power plants emission allowances for three specified pollutants from 2010.
      - Renewed the specified process licence for the Lamma Power Station, incorporating a new provision to facilitate the use of emissions trading.
         
      Energy
      - Signed the new Scheme of Control Agreements with each of the two power companies.
      - Concluded a public consultation exercise on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes
      - Enacted the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Ordinance (Cap. 598).
      - Saw a Memorandum of Understanding on energy co-operation signed between the HKSAR Government and the National Energy Administration.
         
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Completed the first phase of a system that enables electronic applications to be processed under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance according to the requirements of the Electronic Transactions Ordinance.
      - Established a library of 3-D electronic images of the major findings and elements of EIA reports on the EIAO website.
      - Saw approval of the EIA reports on the Wan Chai Development Phase II / Central-Wan Chai Bypass and West Island Line.
         
      Noise
      - Saw the Legislative Council approve expanded coverage of Designated Areas under the Noise Control Ordinance, to better protect the local community against construction noise.
         
      Waste
      - Completed a site search exercise for the first phase of the Integrated Waste Management Facilities. Two potential sites were identified for further detailed engineering and EIA studies.
      - Supported the launch of the Computer Recycling Programme by the computer trade.
      - Held the first Forum on Source Separation of Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Waste and a certificate presentation ceremony to commend over 200 C&I buildings.
      - Supported the launch of the Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Programme by the lighting trade.
      - Saw approval of an EIA report on the extension of the South East New Territories Landfill.
      - Commenced the land rezoning process for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension project.
      - Saw the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance (Cap 603) enacted by the Legislative Council.
      - Commenced operation of the Animal Waste Composting Plant, which initially treated horse stable waste from the 2008 Olympic and the Paralympic Equestrian Events.
      - Commissioned the Pilot Composting Plant at Kowloon Bay Waste Recycling Centre to treat food waste.
      - Commenced engineering and EIA studies for the first phase of the Organic Waste Treatment Facilities.
      - Held the Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony 2008.
      - Supported the launch of the Glass Container Recycling Programme for the Hotel Sector by the trade.
      - Commenced engineering and EIA studies for the first phase of the Integrated Waste Management Facilities.
      - Submitted the Product Eco-responsibility (Plastic Shopping Bags) Regulation to LegCo for positive vetting.
      - Implemented the amended Building (Refuse Storage and Material Recovery Chambers and Refuse Chutes) Regulations, which require all new domestic buildings and the domestic part of new composite buildings to be provided with refuse storage and material recovery room on every floor to facilitate source separation of waste.
      - Exhibited the Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Sludge Treatment facility for public inspection.
      - Saw 996 housing estates / residential buildings enrolled in the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste by year's end against a target of 920, covering some 53 per cent of the population.
       
      Water
      - Started construction on Advance Disinfection Facilities at the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works under the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A.
      - Began a study on co-use of land for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2B.
      - Saw approval of an EIA report on the construction and operation of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.
      - Gazetted authorization of statutory easement for the construction of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A Sewage Conveyance System.
         
         
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Saw the Hong Kong Construction Association working in partnership with EPD, promulgate the Environmental Toolbox Training Kit for the construction sector.
      - Produced a CD-ROM with updated guidance materials and technical information on green restaurants, for the restaurant trade.
      - Supported the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants & Related Trades in an SME Development Fund Project to control cooking fumes in the restaurant & catering trades, which held its closing ceremony cum technical guide press briefing this month.
      - Saw the Housing Department introduce standard contractual requirements, developed jointly with EPD, to use QPME-type generators and non-tungsten energy-saving site luminaries for all its new construction projects.
      - Launched an updated electronic version of the "Environmental Guide for Smart Business" to facilitate environmental compliance by local trades and industry.
      - Issued a Corporate Environmental Management (CEM) Resource DVD-ROM, with all published environmental management tools in one disk.
      - Organised a forum with the vehicle repair trade to enhance environmental knowledge among trade practitioners and promote communication
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Implemented the Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance to control the import, export, manufacture and use of non-pesticide hazardous chemicals, including those covered by the Stockholm Convention and Rotterdam Convention
      - Required all petrol filling stations to have a Phase II vapour recovery system to recover petrol vapour released during refueling.
         
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Released the report on the Mid-term Review of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Management Plan.
      - Commenced a comprehensive study on climate change in Hong Kong.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2007.
      - Launched the five-year Cleaner Production Partnership Programme.
      - Announced "Arrangements for the Implementation of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Projects in the HKSAR" to facilitate the commissioning of CDM projects in Hong Kong.
      - Submitted a First Effectiveness Evaluation Report, as required under the Stockholm Convention, to the Central People's Government for inclusion in its National Report for China.
      - Launched the first guidelines for conducting carbon audits at buildings in Hong Kong, and commenced the "Green Hong Kong ‧ Carbon Audit" campaign.
      - Agreed to jointly transform the Greater Pearl River Delta Region into a Green and Quality Living Area at the 11th Plenary of the Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation Joint Conference, co-chaired by the Chief Executive and the Governor of Guangdong Province, in Guangzhou.
      - Saw the extension of the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade to Hong Kong.
      - Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for the first half of 2008.
      - Established arrangement for regular meetings with the Macao government to enhance environmental cooperation between the two places.
      - Signed a "Co-operation Agreement on Cleaner Production between Hong Kong and Shenzhen" with the Shenzhen Environmental Protection Bureau.
         
      Nature Conservation
      - Saw the Chief Executive announce in his 2008-09 Policy Address that the Government will consider setting up a Geopark.
      - Opened the Lantau North (Extension) Country Park, Hong Kong's 24th country park.
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development submit its Report on the Better Air Quality Engagement Process and recommendations to the Government.
      - Approved a total of $7.28 million in grants for eight projects, in the fifth round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Held the fifth event under the Council for Sustainable Development's Community Outreach Programme in Tai Po.[Sustainable Development]
      - Launched the sixth round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
      - Saw the Government release its response to the Council for Sustainable Development's Report on the Better Air Quality Engagement Process.
       
       
       
       
      2007
      General
      - Saw the formation of the Environment Bureau arising from the re-organisation of the Government Secretariat on 1 July 2007.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Broadcast a one-hour TV show on World Environment Day 2007. The programme featured a "Cool Biz Fashion Show" to promote energy conservation and dressing-down at work.
      - Launched the "I Love Hong Kong! I Love Green!" Campaign to encourage the public to switch to a greener lifestyle.
       
      Air
      - Released a report on the monitoring results of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Network for 2006.
      - Launched a tax incentive scheme for environment-friendly petrol private cars.
      - Launched an incentive scheme to replace pre-Euro and Euro I diesel commercial vehicles with new commercial vehicles compliant with the prevailing statutory emission standards.
      - Commissioned a consultancy study to review the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) for Hong Kong and to develop a long-term air quality management strategy to meet new AQOs.
      - Renewed the Specified Process licence for the Castle Peak Power Station, with emission caps progressively tightening up to ensure timely compliance with Hong Kong's 2010 emission reduction targets.
      - Released a report on the monitoring results of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Network for the first half of 2007.
      - Organised the ninth Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Technical Seminar in Hong Kong.
      -
      Launched a consultation to ban vehicles from running their engines during idling.
      - Provided a concessionary duty rate of $0.56 per litre for Euro V diesel for two years.
      -
      Renewed the Specified Process licence for the Black Point Power Station, incorporating a new emission offsetting arrangement to provide for more emission reduction from more gas burning.
      -
      Consulted the Legislative Council's Panel on Environmental Affairs on a proposal for mandating the use of ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) or cleaner diesel fuel in industrial and commercial processes.
       
      Energy
      - Introduced the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Bill into the Legislative Council.
      - Launched a public consultation on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes.
       
      Noise
      - Consulted stakeholders on expanding the coverage of Designated Areas under the NCO to better protect the local community against construction noise.
      - Issued guidelines on driving habits and maintenance practices that reduce road traffic noise. The guidelines are for drivers, vehicle owners and vehicle repair technicians.
       
      Waste
      - Commenced the EIA study for the West New Territories Landfill Extension project.
      - Commenced landfill gas export under the off-site landfill gas utilisation scheme for the North East New Territories Landfill.
      - Awarded the first batch of tenancies in EcoPark.
      - Conducted a two-month public consultation on a proposed environmental levy on plastic shopping bags. The proposal received overwhelming public support.
      - Held a Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony.
      - Reached consensus with the computer trade to launch a voluntary recycling programme for computer equipment. 
      - Commenced the EIA study for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
      - Launched the Waste Reduction Web and Hong Kong Second-hand Exchange.
      - Released the Guideline on How to Promote Green Lunch in Schools.
      - Launched the Programme for Source Separation of Commercial and Industrial Waste.
      - Completed the EIA study for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension project.
      - Commenced revised charges prescribed in Schedules 1 and 2 to the Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Chemical Waste) Regulation (Cap.354J).
      - Reached consensus with the lighting trade to launch a voluntary recycling programme for fluorescent lamps.
      - Gazetted the "Product Eco-responsibility Bill". The Bill would provide a legal framework for implementing producer responsibility schemes in Hong Kong, with the environmental levy on plastic shopping bags as the first scheme under the Bill.
      - Enlisted 766 housing estates/residential buildings to join the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste.
       
      Water
      -

      Saw the Legislative Council agree to implement a ten-year plan to increase the sewage charge, with a view to applying the polluter pays principle to the provision of sewage services. The first annual increment will take effect on 1 April 2008.

      - Promulgated new standards, "Risk-Based Remediation Goals", for use in contaminated land assessment and remediation in Hong Kong.
      - Commenced planning and design work to upgrade Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works and preliminary treatment works under the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
      - Obtained approval of the EIA report for the construction and operation of Advanced Disinfection Facilities at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.
      - Saw the Public Works Sub-Committee of the Legislative Council agree to the funding of the Advanced Disinfection Facilities at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw the release of the first 3-D EIA visualisation tool for public access through the internet, during the statutory public inspection period of a project EIA report.
      - Assisted Planning Department in completing the strategic environmental assessment study for the Hong Kong 2030 Planning Vision and Strategy. 
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Participated in the launching ceremony of the SME Development Fund Project on Cooking Fume Control for the Restaurant & Catering Trades in Hong Kong, organised by the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants & Related Trades.
      - Collaborated with the Airport Authority to organise the 2007 Airport Environmental Best Practice – Air Quality Management Competition at the Hong Kong International Airport.
      - Organised a ceremony to mark the appointment of Environmental Ambassadors of the Vehicle Repair Trade for a new tenure.
      - Organised an environmental seminar on recent challenges related to the vehicle repair trade with the support of the Institute of Vocational Education (Lee Wai Lee) and two SME vehicle repair trade associations.
      -

      Collaborated with the Development Bureau to develop technical specifications for the use of dust proof mechanical truck covers in local settings.  

      - Launched an "Environmental Guide for Smart Business" to facilitate environmental compliance by local trades and industry, and organised promotional seminars to publicise the Guide. 
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Construction Association to launch their first "Innovative Environmental Award" for the construction industry, to encourage the trade to develop creative solutions to overcome special environmental challenges.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation which provides control on VOC content of architectural paints/coatings, printing inks and selected consumer products in phases, as well as requires reduction devices to be installed on certain printing machines.
      - Brought into operation provisions under the Waste Disposal Ordinance (Amendment) 2006 to facilitate the issuance of waste collection and disposal licences and to strengthen enforcement.
       
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation 
      - Announced the implementation framework of the Emissions Trading Pilot Scheme for Thermal Power Plants in the Pearl River Delta Region.
      - Introduced the HKSAR Implementation Plan for the Stockholm Convention at a ceremony to launch China's National Implementation Plan for the Convention which officially kick-started the Convention implementation phase in the Mainland and the HKSAR.
      - Promulgated the Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance.
      - Signed an Agreement on Co-operation to Promote Energy Efficiency, Cleaner Production and Comprehensive Utilisation of Resources to Enterprises in Hong Kong and Guangdong between the Environment Bureau of the HKSAR and the Economic & Trade Commission of Guangdong Province. 
      - Adopted the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Leaders' Declaration on "Climate Change, Energy Security and Clean Development", which was announced at the APEC Leaders' Meeting in Sydney.
      - Established an Inter-departmental Working Group on Climate Change to strengthen the
      co-ordination of efforts to tackle climate change among the relevant bureaux and departments. 
      - Joined the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group to work closely with the participating cities to combat climate change.
      - Signed an Agreement on Enhancing Co-operation on Environmental Protection between the Environmental Protection Department of the HKSAR and the Shenzhen Environmental Protection Bureau.
      - Completed the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Management Plan Mid-term Review.
      - Completed the Cleaner Production Technical Support Pilot Project to promote cleaner production technologies to Hong Kong-owned factories in the Pearl River Delta region.
       
      Nature Conservation
      - Reviewed the pilot scheme for Management Agreements for implementing the new nature conservation policy and obtained the support of the Environment and Conservation Fund Committee to continue funding the scheme. 
         
         
      Sustainable Development
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development launch the engagement process on Better Air Quality, in which the community is invited to give views on actions during high air pollution days, electronic road pricing and demand side management.
      - Saw the Council for Sustainable Development organise an Air Summit to feed back the results of the engagement process on Better Air Quality to stakeholders and consolidate the responses to its findings.
       
       
      2006
      Community Awareness
      - Adopted the theme "Be Responsible for Our Environment, I Can and So Can You" for World Environment Day 2006 to educate the public on their responsibility to reduce waste.
      - Launched the Action Blue Sky Campaign to encourage public participation in improving air quality in Hong Kong.
       
      Air
      -

      Implemented Euro IV emission standards for newly registered vehicles not more than 2.5 tonnes.

      - Saw Hong Kong's first wind power station begin commercial operation.
      - Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Emission Reduction Devices for Vehicles)(Amendment) Regulation 2005 which requires all pre-Euro diesel vehicles, except long idling ones, to be installed with approved emission reduction devices.
      - Announced that in early 2007 an 18-month comprehensive study would be commissioned to review Hong Kong's Air Quality Objectives (AQO) and develop a long-term air quality management strategy.
      - Obtained agreement in principle from the Central People's Government to extend the Beijing Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to Hong Kong.
      - Implemented Euro IV emission standards for newly registered vehicles more than 3.5 tonnes.
       
      Noise
      - Released A Draft Comprehensive Plan to Tackle Road Traffic Noise in Hong Kong for public consultation.
       
      Waste
      - Started charging for disposal of construction waste.
      -

      Invited Expressions of Interest for establishing environmental and recycling businesses in the EcoPark.

      - Launched the first "No Plastic Bag Day" on April 15. Riding on the success, major green groups continued to organise monthly "No Plastic Bag Days" between June and December with the support of the EPD. Ten major retail chains, including the three largest supermarket chains, agreed to continue the campaign in 2007 on a self-supporting basis.
      - Enacted the Waste Disposal (Amendment) Ordinance 2006 to tighten control on the disposal of imported waste, and to provide legal back up for the Basel Ban on the import of hazardous waste from developed countries.
      - Shipped the first batch of rechargeable batteries (13 tonnes) collected under the "Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme", to a recycling facility in South Korea.
      - Organised a forum for the property management sector to share successful experiences on source separation of domestic waste in housing estates, and issued the "Guidebook on Source Separation of Waste in Residential Buildings".
      - Started construction of EcoPark Phase I.
      - Awarded a contract for the provision of management services for EcoPark.
      - Launched a three-month Trial Scheme on Municipal Solid Waste Charging at 20 housing estates to examine the feasibility of introducing a variable rate charging scheme for municipal solid waste.
      - Substantially completed a consultation with stakeholders on a new set of risk-based land contamination standards for Hong Kong.
      - Saw the Environment and Conservation Fund agree to allocate $10 million for a public education programme under "A Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014)".
      - Started the tender invitation for tenancies of the first batch of Phase I lots in EcoPark for recycling designated materials.
      - Enlisted 497 housing estates/residential buildings (reaching some two million people) to join the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste.
       
      Water
      - Commenced planning, investigation and design work for the tunnel system for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
      - Commissioned an advanced treatment plant for a demonstration scheme on reclaimed water uses in North District and started supplying reclaimed water to selected users.
      - Issued a Guidance Note on "Implementation of the 1996 Protocol to the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, 1972".
      - Announced a proposal to increase sewage charges under the polluter pays principle, to provide sustainable financial support for the operation of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A and other sewerage facilities.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Issued a circular memorandum to implement a policy commitment in the Chief Executive's 2005-06 Policy Address to subject all new major government policies to environmental protection scrutiny. The circular stipulates the guidelines and procedures that all bureaux/departments should observe when formulating policy proposals with potential environmental implications.
      - Saw the release of the first 3-D EIA for a major development project to facilitate public consultation.
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - In collaboration with the Vocational Training Council, organised a series of workshops on the application of environmental spray guns with enhanced paint transfer efficiency for the vehicle repair trade.
      - Collaborated with the Airport Authority to organise the 2005/06 Airport Environmental Best Practice – Green Restaurant Competition at the Hong Kong International Airport.
      - Issued an educational CD-ROM for the restaurant trade to promote awareness of environmental legislative and licensing requirements, and practical measures on green management.
      - Saw the commissioning of an SME Development Fund Project for Mitigation and Control of Cooking Fume Emissions from the Restaurant Trade, which arose from partnership efforts with the restaurant trade associations and related stakeholders.
      - Opened a dedicated one-stop assistance centre, the Compliance Assistance Centre on 28/F, Southorn Centre, Wan Chai, where businesses can obtain updated information and advice on environmental compliance, pollution prevention and environmental management.
      - Launched a new Property Management Partnership Web site.
      - Released an information leaflet on "Smart Environmental Tips for the Vehicle Repair Workshops Trade" to promote good environmental practices.
         
      Environmental Compliance
      - Banned backyard poultry farming in Prohibition and Restriction Areas pursuant to the amendment to the Waste Disposal Ordinance, and the Public Health (Animals and Birds)(Licensing of Livestock Keeping) Regulation.
      - Launched a training course for construction site environmental officers, which was jointly developed by the EPD, Hong Kong Construction Association and Construction Industry Training Authority.
      - Introduced a new contractual condition to require the use of Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel in all public works projects.
      - Banned the use of all existing vented type dry-cleaning machines under the Air Pollution Control (Dry-Cleaning Machines) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation.
       
      Cross Boundary and International Co-operation
      - Introduced the Hazardous Chemicals Control Bill into the Legislative Council.
      - Submitted the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Implementation Plan for the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants to the Central People's Government.
      - Saw endorsement of the implementation framework of the Emissions Trading Pilot Scheme for Thermal Power Plants in the Pearl River Delta Region, jointly by Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities.
       
      Nature Conservation
      - Oversaw implementation of the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, which enables Hong Kong to fully comply with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
       
      2005
      General
      - Saw the merger of the Environmental Protection Department and the Environment Branch of the Environment, Transport and Works Bureau on April 1.
      - Saw signing of co-operation arrangement between the State Environmental Protection Administration and the Environmental Protection Department on air pollution.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Adopted "Fresh Air, Cool City" as the local theme of World Environment Day 2005 to encourage switching off idling vehicle engines and setting air-conditioning temperatures at 25.5 degrees Celsius.
      - Set aside $5 million under the Environment and Conservation Fund to support the implementation of Source Separation of Domestic Waste in private housing estates.
      - Joined the Pan Pearl River Delta Regional Environmental Protection Industry Cooperation Exhibition with the Guangdong Environmental Protection Bureau to promote regional co-operation on the environmental protection industry.
      - Organised the first Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Recycling Day and "Zero Waste" walk to echo the Environmental Protection Festival 2005.
      - Broadcast a series of one-minute TV programmes and a 30-minute TV programme to promote waste reduction.
       
      Air
      - Implemented the amended Air Pollution Control (Petrol Filling Stations) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation to require vapour recovery systems to be installed at petrol filling stations for recovering petrol vapour during vehicle refuelling.
      - Commenced a grant scheme to help owners of pre-Euro heavy diesel vehicles that need to operate on-board equipment when idling, to install particulate reduction devices.
      - Launched the "Guideline on Modelling Vehicle Emissions" and an advanced vehicle emission model that was adapted from the California Air Resource Board's EMFAC model.
      - Imposed Hong Kong's first set of emission caps on the Castle Peak Power Station of CLP Power Hong Kong Ltd. on August 1 as a condition of the Specified Process Licence renewal under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance.
      - Introduced to the Legislative Council an amendment regulation to implement Euro IV emission standards for newly registered light duty vehicles in 2006.
      - Commenced on November 30 operation of the Pearl River Delta regional air quality monitoring network jointly established by the Guangdong and HKSAR governments, and published a Regional Air Quality Index for each monitoring station.
      - Completed on December 31 an incentive scheme encouraging diesel light buses to make an early switch to clean light buses. Around 55% of the diesel public light buses have switched to use LPG.
       
      Noise
      - Launched the administrative Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment scheme to promote the use of quieter and more environmentally friendly construction equipment.
      - Applied 3-D visualisation technologies at a public consultation for noise barrier installation to enhance public understanding.
       
      Waste
      - Launched the programme on source separation of domestic waste territory-wide with the aim of having 80 per cent of the population in Hong Kong take part by 2010.
      - Launched the territory-wide Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme to recover all types of rechargeable batteries. This was a good example of tripartite collaboration between the trade, green groups and the Government in implementing a voluntary producer responsibility scheme.
      - Commissioned the Low-level Radioactive Waste Storage Facility at Siu A Chau.
      - Saw membership of the Wastewi$e Scheme exceed 1 000.
      - Published "A Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014)" which sets out a comprehensive strategy for municipal solid waste management in Hong Kong for the ten years from 2005 to 2014.
      - Commenced implementation of the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme.
       
      Water
      -

      Saw the CE announce in his policy speech that HATS Stage Two would proceed in phases with Stage 2A targeted for completion in 2013.

      - Commenced an EIA Study on advance disinfection facilities at Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works.
      - Secured additional funding of $3.3 billion for sewerage projects, of which $1.3 billion was for village sewerage.
      - Saw the new CE reaffirm the Government's intention to implement HATS Stage Two in phases with the aim of completing Stage 2A by 2013-14 and advanced disinfection by 2008-09, subject to acceptance by the community of the need for the full recurrent costs to be recovered through the sewage services charging scheme.
      - Saw the Finance Committee of LegCo approve expenditure of $166.5 million for the environmental impact assessment, investigations and tunnel conveyance system design for HATS Stage 2A.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Organised two seminars for practitioners on Strategic Environmental Assessment (June and December).
      - Received the first delegation of officials from the State Environmental Protection Administration under a formal agreement on staff exchanges with EPD.
      - Launched the web-based Strategic Environmental Assessment knowledge centre and interactive 3-D continuous public engagement in EIA.
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Organised a seminar and launched a support package on Environmental Management Information and the ISO 14001 environmental management system for SMEs in the electrical/electronic sector.
      - Issued a bilingual guideline on "Environmentally-friendly Cold Water Thawing Practice", in collaboration with the University of Hong Kong.
      - Launched a new Green Garage web site (http://www.greengarage.com.hk).
      - Organised a seminar at Central Library for the restaurant trade to share successful experiences on green restaurant and management practices.
      -

      Organised thematic workshops on "Towards Green Restaurant 2005" at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for the restaurant trade and related stakeholders, covering the development of pollution control technologies, green management policies and practices in the Mainland and overseas.

      - Held an appointment ceremony for Environmental Ambassadors and paint spraying seminar for the vehicle repairing trade.
      - Issued a promotional video CD for the restaurant trade, to promote environmental awareness, legislative requirements and compliance assistance service.
      - Launched a revamped "Green Restaurant Website" .
      - Updated the environmental management system support packages for SMEs in the construction and electrical/electronic sectors to ISO14001:2004 version.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Launched a "Pay for Environment Scheme" to introduce comprehensive contractual requirements and to provide financial incentives for implementing enhanced pollution abatement measures in all future public construction projects.
       
      Nature Conservation
      - Introduced the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Bill to the Legislative Council. The bill will enable Hong Kong to fully comply with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
      - Disseminated the Life Cycle Energy Analysis software tool to appraise the life cycle costs and life cycle environmental performance of building materials and components in promoting the concept of sustainable construction.
      - Saw the Environment and Conservation Fund Committee approve the granting of $4,620,000 to three non-governmental organisations to implement pilot conservation management agreement projects in Fung Yuen and Long Valley, to enhance conservation of ecologically important sites under private ownership.
       
      2004
      Community Awareness
      - Completed the territory-wide "Wait Green, Engine Off" Campaign covering 18 districts.
      - Implemented the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VIII), in which 1 420 housing estates participated.
      - Honoured seven pre-schools with an "Outstanding Award" under the First Green Pre-school Award.
      - Organised an Open Day on Organic Farms in the City to promote waste reduction by organic composting.
      - Organised a series of education and publicity programmes in the weekends of June to celebrate Hong Kong World Environment Day 2004 with the theme "Polluter Pays Principle".
      - Launched an environmental education programme on the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
      - Collaborated with the State Environmental Protection Administration of China to organise a Nation-wide Environmental Competition for Youths of Mainland China and Hong Kong featuring "Caring for Our Water Resources".
      - Organised the "Rendezvous with Nature" and Environmental Protection Exhibition with China Polar Museum Foundation and Soka Gakkai International of Hong Kong.
      - Co-organised a briefing session on Source Separation of Waste with the Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies Ltd.
      - Celebrated the 5th anniversary of the Hong Kong Green School Award.
       
      Air
      - Saw the governments of Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong Province start working together to establish a Pearl River Delta region joint air monitoring network and the associated quality assurance & control manuals, and to arrange routine quality management meetings.
      - Completed a grant scheme to help heavy pre-Euro diesel vehicles install particulate removal devices.
       
      Noise
      - Brought into effect an amendment to the Noise Control Ordinance holding company directors liable for repeated noise offences.
      - Gazetted two Codes of Practice on good management practice to prevent violation of the Noise Control Ordinance.
       
      Waste
      - Signed a Supplemental Agreement with the contractor of NENT Landfill on the export of landfill gas for beneficial uses.
      - Opened the Sai Tso Wan Recreation Ground for use by the public - the first permanent recreational facility built on a restored landfill in Hong Kong.
      - Saw the Legislative Council approve the Waste Disposal (Amendment) Bill No.2 2003 to enable charging for disposal of construction waste at waste disposal facilities and to enhance control of illegal dumping of waste.
      - Launched a pilot programme on source separation of waste, which aims to facilitate residents in separating waste at source by providing waste separation facilities on each floor. The programme also broadens the types of recyclables recovered in order to further increase the waste recovery rate and reduce waste.
      - Saw the Wastewi$e Scheme enter its fifth year as one of the key initiatives to promote voluntary waste reduction and recycling in the private sector. This year the number of Wastewi$e Logo recipients exceeded 200 for the first time, reaching 203. More than 90 000 tonnes of waste have been reduced and recycled by Wastewi$e Logo recipients, resulting in substantial savings in landfill space and disposal cost.
      - Commissioned a detailed feasibility study to investigate sludge treatment facilities in Hong Kong.
       
      Water
      - Initiated a bioindicator monitoring programme for assessing the effects of pollutants on the ecological health of the marine environment in Hong Kong.
      - Proceeded with public consultation on the Way Forward for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
      - Initiated a toxic substances monitoring programme for Hong Kong's marine environment.
      - Saw ratification by China of the Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) with extension to Hong Kong.
      - Commenced the first review of the Deep Bay Water Pollution Control Joint Implementation Programme.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Held a joint seminar to launch a new policy on Continuous Public Involvement in EIA and the world's first 3-D EIA public engagement tool. The seminar was attended by about 250 stakeholders.
      - Launched a Cyber Helpdesk for environmental performance reports to help government bureaux and departments improve the quality of their reports.
      - Held the first staff exchange between EPD and the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA), focusing on the EIA process.
      - Completed a study on ISO 14001 environmental management systems for small and medium enterprises (SME) in the construction and electrical/electronic sectors.
      - Organised a seminar and launched a support package on Environmental Management Information and ISO 14001 EMS for SMEs in the construction sector.
      - Cooperated with SEPA in organising China's first international forum on EIA in BoAo, Hainan.
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Launched an enhanced home page with improved organisation and structure to facilitate the public to more readily locate information, together with a PDA version for selected web pages.
      - Launched the Green Garage Election 2004 for the first time to give recognition to environmentally responsible garages. An award presentation ceremony was held at East Point City on 15 May 2004. The election was co-organised with the Hong Kong Vehicle Repair Merchants Association Ltd. and the Environmental Vehicle Repairers Association Ltd.
      - Enhanced the Environmental Protection Interactive Centre (EPIC) system to enable users to apply, pay for and receive licences/permits/authorisations through the system in year 2005.
      - Launched the Help Desk for the business community - a one-stop telephone service on environmental standards, legislation and practical guides for reference.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Changed the name of the Local Control Division to Environmental Compliance Division (ECD) on 24 July 2004, in recognition of the growing importance of partnerships. The ECD also took over from other divisions the responsibility for enforcing territory-wide issues from other divisions, such as dumping at sea, asbestos control and import and export of waste.
      - Expanded the Central Prosecution Section to form the Central Prosecution Unit (CPU), with a view to taking over all prosecution work of the department to ensure a clear separation from the investigation work.
       
      2003
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Environmental Essays Competition, on the theme "Safeguarding Our Heritage: A Clean Victoria Harbour", jointly organised with the Lions Club and the Association of English Medium Secondary Schools.
      - Completed the Green Leader Programme, which trained 10 000 stakeholders as green leaders.
      - Implemented the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VII), with the participation of 1 333 housing estates.
      - Launched the Native Tree Planting Competition to promote waste reduction by organic composting and care for native trees.
      - Organised World Environment Day 2003 celebrations on the theme, "Walking for a Green and Healthy Hong Kong". About 100 000 people participated.
      - Launched The First Hong Kong Green Pre-school Award, aimed at promoting environmental management in schools, with more than 110 pre-schools participating.
      - Organised the "Organic Farms in the City" competition for primary and secondary school students, to promote organic farming and farm design from waste materials.
      - Opened the Fanling Environmental Resource Centre.
      - Launched the Jiminy Cricket's Environmentality Challenge jointly with Hong Kong Disneyland.
      - Launched slogan and logo design competitions for students and the general public to encourage the use of rechargeable batteries.
      - Organised the "Hong Kong Environmental Protection Festival 2003 - Forum on SMEs in Environmental Protection Industry" to promote the waste recovery and recycling industries.
      - Launched a territory-wide "Wait Green, Engine Off" Campaign covering 18 districts.
      - Launched the "Green School Website" to provide support to schools on environmental management in schools.
      - Celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Wan Chai Environmental Resource Centre.
       
      Air
      - Saw the extension of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region by the Central People's Government.
      - Commenced the Indoor Air Quality Certification Scheme for Offices and Public Places.
      - Saw endorsement of the Regional Air Quality Management Plan for the Pearl River Delta Region by the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environment Protection.
      - Introduced a mandatory requirement that pre-Euro diesel vehicles not more than four tonnes be retrofitted with emission reduction devices.
       
      Noise
      - Began consultation on the Codes of Practice to prevent violations of the Noise Control Ordinance, with emphasis on good management practices.
      - Issued guidelines on "What Property Managers can Consider in Dealing with Noise from Renovation Work".
       
      Waste
      - Launched a trial recovery programme for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and computers, which resulted in 25 000 units of WEEE, computers and computer peripherals being recovered for reuse or recycling over 12 months.
      - Launched a pilot programme to recycle waste tyres, recycling about 230 tonnes per month for the production of a lightweight geo-construction material to be used as filling material for road sub-base and slopes.
      - Commenced a study on Environmental Impact Assessment and Landuse Rezoning for Development of Recovery Park in Tuen Mun Area 38.
       
      Water
      - Completed the Mirs Bay Water Quality Regional Control Strategy Joint Study and formulated a regional water quality management strategy for Mirs Bay, in collaboration with Shenzhen authorities.
      - Completed a study on the development of a biological indicator system for monitoring marine pollution in Hong Kong.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Prepared an interim version of the EPD's Strategic Environmental Assessment Manual (SEA) with a view to promoting the importance of SEA in the region.
       
      Customer Service and Partnership
      - Distributed 2003 desktop calendars, which included educational material, to owners, operators and managers of the restaurant trade and their major stakeholders.
      - Launched the Green Property Website for the Environmental Property Management Programme.
      - Launched the "Green Construction Example" and "Green Construction Equipment" website, supported by the Business and Services Promotion Unit (BSPU).
      - Held an environmental workshop on "Planning & Supervision Towards a Green Construction", jointly organised with the Hong Kong Construction Association.
      - Extended the scope of the one-stop "Restaurant Help Desk Service" to cover dedicated modular training for the restaurant trade, a meet-the-adviser service and the development of standards and criteria for green restaurants.
      - Collaborated with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University to organise a short course, the "Certificate of Environmental Protection in Construction Industry".
      - Launched a trial "Mooncake Containers Recovery Programme" with support from the trade associations, property management companies, Radio Hong Kong One and the Agency for Volunteer Service, over the two weekends following the Mid-Autumn festival. About 25 000 containers were collected.
      - Held an environmental workshop on "Green Construction Practices - Everybody's Responsibility", jointly organised with the Hong Kong Construction Association.
      - Launched a six-month "Water Saving Project" with the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute, with the aim of helping the restaurant trade save water.
      - Hosted the Environmental Property Management Programme - 2003 Experience Sharing Forum.
      - Published the "Environmental Guidebook for Vehicle Repair Trade" (together with a VCD), to promote the vehicle repair workshop partnership scheme to trade associations and assist operators in complying with the legislative requirements.
      - Implemented 14-day Fast-track Processing of Construction Noise Permit Applications.
       
      Environmental Compliance
      - Participated in the Team Clean operation and undertook joint efforts with other government departments to improve environmental hygiene in the community, with particular emphasis on flytipping of waste, broken pipes and discharges in backlanes, illegal connections to stormwater drains and improperly maintained septic tanks.
      - Received the Special Achievement in GIS Awards at the 23rd Annual ESRI International Users Conference held in July 2003 in San Diego, USA, for our GIS-based Pollution Complaint Management database.
      - Published "The Statement of Prosecution Policy for the Environmental Protection Department". The purpose is to ensure there is fair and consistent decision-making amongst the departmental prosecutors responsible for environmental prosecutions, and to make the process more understandable and transparent to the public.
       
      2002
      General
      - Participated in the First APEC Ocean-related Ministerial Meeting.
      - Celebrated World Environment Day, with events organised jointly with counterparts in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Macao, Dongguan and Zhongshan.
      - Launched the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards 2002 with four categories of awards: Green Office Award (Large Organisations), Green Office Award (SMEs), Green Property Management Award (Private Housing) and Green Innovative Practice Award.
      - Held a three-day exhibition celebrating 25 years of environmental protection in Hong Kong, organised by EPD.
      - Held a symposium on Smart Growth and Ecosystem Management and Planning for Urban Centres, organised by Environment Canada, EPD and the State Environmental Protection Administration of China. The symposium was held in Shandong province.
      - Saw attendance by a Hong Kong SAR Government team, including EPD, at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa.
      - Participated in the regional meeting of the project "Regionally Based Assessment of Persistent Toxic Substances", organised by the United Nations Environment Programme.
      - Celebrated the Environmental Protection Festival on the themes "Waste Reduction, Clean Air for You and Me, and Protect Our Water Resources".
       
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Third Hong Kong Green School Award which recruited 178 schools.
      - Launched the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VI), with the participation of 1 200 public and private housing estates covering some 1.5 million households, and co-operation with community groups to launch waste recovery schemes.
      - Opened the Environmental Education and Information Counter to help schools and community groups organise green activities.
      - Held the first "Environmental Campaign Committee MTR Environmental Leadership Summer Camp" in which outstanding environmental ambassadors from local schools and from six cities in the Pearl River Delta joined Junior Police Call, Scouts and Girl Guides ambassadors for five days of intensive environmental leadership training.
      - Completed the "Hong Kong Green School Award Self-Assessment Manual", in collaboration with the Education & Manpower Bureau, Hong Kong Productivity Council and Hong Kong Institute of Education. The manual helps local schools assess their performance in environmental management and environmental education.
      - Launched the Lions International Youth Exchange 2003 Qualifying Competition with the theme "Safeguarding our Heritage: A Clean Victoria Harbour".
      - Launched the Waste Separation Scheme for Pre-schools, providing child-size waste separation bins to pre-schools for teaching purposes.
       
      Air
      - Commenced the chassis dynamometer test for heavy vehicles emitting smoke, after it was earlier made mandatory for lighter vehicles.
      - Organised the Clean Air Exhibition, which attracted 21 000 visitors in one day.
      - Completed a report on air quality in the Pearl River Delta region, through the Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection.
      - Introduced a mandatory requirement that petrol stations supply only ultra-low sulphur diesel.
      - Saw approval by the Finance Committee of $600 million to help vehicle owners retrofit particulate removal devices in pre-Euro heavy diesel vehicles that are not required to undertake long idling duties.
      - Commenced grants to help public light buses switch to LPG or electric vehicles.
      - Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the California Air Resources Board to collaborate on air quality management.
      - Held a regional workshop, Better Air Quality 2002, organised by EPD, the California Air Resources Board, Clean Air Initiative for Asian Cities and Air Pollution in Mega Cities in Asia. The workshop was held in Hong Kong.
      - Commenced grants to help heavy pre-Euro diesel vehicles install particulate removal devices.
       
      Noise
      - Amended the Noise Control Ordinance to explicitly hold corporate management liable for noise offences committed by their companies.
      - Commenced amended vehicle noise regulations to tighten the noise emission standards.
      - Launched an educational package on environmental noise, featuring a web site and CD-ROMs.
       
      Waste
      - Launched a mobile phone battery recycling programme with the mobile phone industry.
      - Co-operated with community groups to launch waste recovery schemes.
      - Invited expressions of interest for the development of waste management and waste treatment facilities.
      - Completed consultations on the control of clinical waste.
      - Invited tenders to build a storage facility for low-level radioactive waste on Siu A Chau.
      - Opened the North West New Territories refuse transfer station.
      - Launched district-based waste recovery campaigns with 12 District Councils.
      - Commenced a plastic bags recovery trial in eight housing estates and 109 convenience stores and supermarkets.
      - Held a Joint Workshop on Waste Management and Contaminated Land, organised with Environment Canada.
       
      Water
      - Launched a consultation on water criteria for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Launched a Cyber Help Bench for EIAs.
      - Held the first EIAO Users Liaison Groups Congress organised by EPD for the four major EIA stakeholder groups. Participants included project proponents, consultants, contractors, green groups, academics and ACE members.
      - Established the EIAO Support Section to help government works departments improve their understanding of the EIA mechanism.
      - Launched the EIA Training and Capacity Building Programme for all government works departments.
      - Commenced the use of webcams, under the EIAO, at selected major work sites to enhance transparency and encourage compliance.
      - Held a joint conference on "Reshaping Environmental Assessment Tools for Sustainability", organised by the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Mainland's Nankai University and fully supported by EPD. Officials and experts from Hong Kong, the Mainland, Europe, North America, the World Bank, and the United Nations Environment Programme participated in the conference.
      - Completed a benchmarking tool to help bureaux and departments improve the quality of their future environmental performance reports.
       
      Enforcement
      - Launched an Environment Helpdesk for the restaurant trade.
      - Held an Environmental Exhibition and Conference for the Food and Restaurant Trade, organised by EPD and the main food and restaurant organisations.
      - Held a free vehicle emissions testing day, organised by EPD, the vehicle repair trade associations and the Kowloon City District Council.
      - Opened the Customer Service Centre to enhance the handling of pollution complaints and enquiries.
      - Held a joint conference on "Partnership for Green Construction: A New Era of Hong Kong's Development", organised by EPD and the Hong Kong Construction Association and supported by the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers.
      - Completed the first stage of the Shing Mun River Environmental Improvement Work.
      - Completed a train-the-trainer package and workshop on environmental issues encountered in property management.
       
      2001
      Air
      - Introduced Euro III emission standards for newly registered vehicles.
      - Tightened motor vehicle fuel requirements to meet Euro III emission standards.
      - Introduced a requirement that newly-registered taxis be fuelled by LPG or petrol.
      - Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Dry Cleaning Machines)(Vapour Recovery) Regulation to reduce perchloroethylene emissions from dry-cleaning operations.
      - Opened the Indoor Air Quality Information Centre.
      - Launched the Ozone Depleting Substances Control Awareness Campaign at border control points.
       
      Noise
      - Implemented tighter construction noise controls at new Noise Control Designated Areas in the territory.
       
      Waste
      - Saw the announcement by the Secretary for the Environment and Food of seven major initiatives to enhance the prevention, separation and recycling of domestic waste.
      - Commissioned the North West New Territories Refuse Transfer Station.
      - Commenced construction of a new refuse transfer facility at Ma Wan, as part of the Outlying Islands Transfer Facilities.
      - Held the International Forum on Food Waste Composting, organised with the Hong Kong Baptist University.
       
      Water
      - Saw full commissioning of Stage One of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) [formerly known as the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme (SSDS)].
      - Saw the issuing of a government response to the Report of the International Review Panel on Sewage Treatment for the Harbour Area.
      - Commenced Phase One of the improvement works at Shing Mun River, involving the first application of bioremediation in Hong Kong.
      - Commenced the year-round release of beach water quality gradings for all gazetted open beaches.
      - Commenced a study to develop a biological indicator system for monitoring marine pollution in Hong Kong.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Launched the web-based Environmental Monitoring & Audit results on the environmental performance of EIA projects.
      - Launched an on-line electronic application system for environmental permits and licences.
       
      Enforcement
      - Formed the Central Prosecution Section within the Local Control Division.
      - Launched a partnership programme with the property management sector.
       
      2000
      General
      - Launched the Clean Air Campaign, jointly organised with the Macao Environmental Committee and the Environmental Protection Bureaux of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Zhuhai.
      - Published EPD's first Environmental Performance Report.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the First Hong Kong Green School Award, aimed at encouraging local schools to implement comprehensive green school management.
       
      Air
      - Commenced a one-off grant to help diesel taxi operators replace their vehicles with LPG taxis.
      - Commenced a preferential fuel duty to make ultra-low sulphur diesel the only diesel on sale in all petrol filling stations.
      - Implemented a programme to retrofit pre-Euro diesel vehicles (up to four tonnes) with particulate traps or diesel oxidation catalysts.
      - Stepped up enforcement against smoky vehicles by the EPD and the Police.
      - Introduced emission checks in vehicle roadworthiness tests for petrol and LPG vehicles.
      - Increased the fixed penalty fine against smoky vehicles from $450 to $1,000.
       
      Noise
      - Saw endorsement by the Executive Council of a new policy to redress noise impacts from existing roads by means of engineering and non-engineering measures where practicable.
       
      Waste
      - Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Environmental Protection Administration and the Environmental Protection Department on hazardous waste import and export control.
      - Commissioned a study to extend the capacities of existing landfills and to search for new waste disposal sites.
      - Saw ISO 14001 Certification of the Waste Facilities Business Unit.
      - Held the International Solid Waste Association's (ISWA) International Symposium and Exhibition on Waste Management in Asia Cities, co-organised by the EPD, ISWA and other parties.
       
      Water
      - Participated in the Second National Marine Pollution Baseline Survey, which will be the basis for formulating the Mainland's marine environment protection strategies in the 21 century.
      - Presented findings and recommendations by the International Review Panel on the future of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (formerly known as the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme).
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Held the 20th Annual Conference of International Association for Impact Association, organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Environmental Impact Assessment and supported by the EPD.
       
      Enforcement
      - Launched a programme to promote more effective pollution control in restaurants, with a view to establishing a partnership programme with the restaurant trade.
      - Launched a partnership programme between EPD and the Hong Kong Vehicle Repair Merchants Association.
       
  • 1990s
    • 1999
      General
      - Placed emphasis in the Chief Executive's Policy Address on "Quality People, Quality Home" and sustainable development.
      - Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Vienna and the Hong Kong SAR on Environmental Collaboration.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the "Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards" to recognise green corporations and the Wastewi$e Scheme to encourage businesses to reduce and avoid waste.
      - Published a new environmental education pack, "Environmental Explorer", distributed to all secondary schools, tertiary institutes and public libraries.
       
      Air
      - Introduced more stringent emission standards for diesel vehicles and new evaporative emission standards for petrol vehicles under the Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) Regulations.
      - Commissioned a joint study with the Guangdong Authorities on the extent of cross-boundary air pollution in the Pearl River Delta region.
      - Introduced an advanced smoke test method (with the aid of a chassis dynamometer) for diesel vehicles below 5.5 tonnes.
       
      Noise
      - Completed the Quiet Road Surface Programme for high speed roads, benefiting over 15 000 dwellings.
      - Completed the phasing out of noisy piling hammers in built-up areas.
      - Completed the School Insulation Programme for schools affected by transport noise, benefiting a total of 514 000 students.
       
      Waste
      - Launched the "Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase III)" to promote recycling of waste paper, aluminium cans and plastic bottles.
      - Established the Waste Reduction Committee and targeted task forces to advise the government on waste reduction measures. Set up a dedicated web-site for public access.
      - Opened the golf driving range at Shuen Wan Landfill in Tai Po, which is the first project to make beneficial use of a restored landfill.
      - Saw successful implementation of the first project to utilise landfill gas by the Hong Kong and China Gas Company.
       
      Water
      - Signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the South China Sea Branch of the State Oceanic Administration of the Mainland, marking the HKSAR's participation in the Second National Marine Pollution Baseline Survey.
      - Provided a dedicated hotline and dedicated web pages on beach water quality. The web pages also provide public access to summary data on marine and river water quality.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw the Planning, Environment and Lands Bureau issue a General Circular to Controlling Officers on the preparation and publishing of environmental reports.
      - Issued the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Amendment of Schedule 2) Order 1999 to include theme parks or amusement parks with a site area of more than 20 hectares as designated projects.
       
      Enforcement
      - Launched an electronic complaint service for lodging pollution complaints by e-mail at all Local Control Offices.
      - Introduced Integrated Enforcement at Local Control Offices, with site inspections performed by multi-skilled enforcement teams in a single inspection.
      - Launched the construction partnership programme with the Hong Kong Construction Association to strengthen the working relationship and develop common interests for promoting environmental awareness in the industry.
       
      1998
      General
      - Adopted "Sustainable Development" as the theme for World Environment Day 1998.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Green Living Campaign and training programmes for "Environmental Protection Volunteers" and Instructors of "Scout Environmental Protection Ambassadors".
       
      Air
      - Introduced more stringent emission standards for diesel private cars to restrict them from registration and for light duty diesel vehicles, other than taxis, under the Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) Regulation.
      - Enhanced the Air Pollution Index system and introduced a new Roadside Air Pollution Index.
      - Approved a consultancy to study the air quality in the Pearl River Delta Region.
      - Successfully completed the liquefied petroleum gas taxis pilot scheme launched in 1997.
       
      Waste
      - Launched the "Waste Recycling Competition in Housing Estates" to promote waste reduction and recycling in public and private estates.
      - Banned the import of hazardous waste from developed countries to tie in with the latest requirement of the Basel Convention.
       
      Water
      - Commissioned a study to investigate the feasibility of Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme Stages III/IV.
      - Saw agreement in the Hong Kong - Guangdong Environmental Protection Liaison Group to work towards removing all effluent from the Deep Bay catchment as a long term goal.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Uploaded Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports exhibited under the EIA Ordinance onto a dedicated Internet home page to facilitate public access.
      - Saw announcement by the Chief Executive's Policy Address that all policy secretaries and directors of bureaux and departments have to provide environmental reports for their organisations starting in 2000.
       
      Enforcement
      - Extended the comprehensive one-stop-shop service to all Local Control Offices, Southorn Centre, Revenue Tower and World Trade Square. The service provides public access to information, application forms and advice on licensing and pollution control activities.
      - Issued on-site records of inspections to polluters - a service improvement to enhance the transparency of enforcement work and improve communication with polluters.
       
      1997
      Community Awareness
      - Opened the second Environmental Resource Centre at Tak Wah Park in Tsuen Wan - funded by the Environment and Conservation Fund and the Woo Wheelock Green Fund.
       
      Air
      - Tightened vehicle emission standards for all newly registered diesel vehicles over four tonnes to Euro II Standards under the Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) Regulations.
      - Reduced the sulphur content of auto diesel from 0.2% to 0.05% under the Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation.
      - Launched the liquefied petroleum gas taxis pilot scheme to reduce air pollution.
      - Introduced the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation to cut down dust emissions from construction activities.
      - Implemented a new control under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance which allows only registered asbestos professionals to carry out work involving asbestos.
       
      Noise
      - Introduced controls on noise from vehicle burglar alarms.
       
      Waste
      - Produced a promotional video on "Green Families" to encourage public participation in household waste separation and recovery.
      - Implemented the final phase of the Livestock Waste Control Scheme on July 1.
       
      Water
      - Commissioned a new chemically-enhanced primary sewage treatment plant on Stonecutters Island as part of the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Enacted the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance to set out the framework for controlling environmental impacts of major development projects.
      - Saw approval of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process by the Legislative Council, setting out clear guidelines and criteria for carrying out EIAs.
       
      Enforcement
      - Introduced one-stop-shop service counters at six EPD Local Control Offices to accept applications for environmental licences or permits relating to construction sites, irrespective of location.
       
      1996
      General
      - Established EPD's home page in the World Wide Web to provide the public with easy access to environmental information conducive to an informed and environmentally aware community.
      - Celebrated the 10th anniversary of the EPD.
      - Saw the appointment of Mr Robert J.S. Law as the new director of the EPD.
      - Published the EPD's Green Management Policy.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Set up a mobile environmental resource centre to provide the public with easy access to information on environmental protection.
       
      Air
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control (Open Burning) Regulation to bring open burning activities under control.
      - Banned the import of five groups of ozone depleting substances - CFCs, other CFSs, methyl chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and HBFCs. HCFCs subjected to import licensing and quota controls.
      - Prohibited the sale and import of amosite and crocidolite asbestos under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance.
      - Gazetted the Air Pollution Control (Specified Processes) (Removal of Exemption) Order 1996 to remove exemptions granted to existing organic chemical works (i.e. oil terminals and organic chemical plants) and rendering works (i.e. lard boiling factories).
       
      Noise
      - Required all vehicles, including motorcycles, applying for first registration in Hong Kong to meet stringent noise emission standards.
      - Implemented new controls on the use of particularly noisy construction equipment, and on carrying out certain noisy manual construction activities, in populated areas during nighttime and holidays.
       
      Waste
      - Extended the controls on livestock waste to Tuen Mun, Kam Tin River and part of Yuen Long area.
      - Commissioned a door-to-door livestock waste collection contract to assist farm operators in disposing of livestock waste properly.
      - Introduced a permit control on the import and export of waste under the Waste Disposal Ordinance in accordance with the Basel Convention.
       
      Water
      - Declared April 1 the First Appointed Day for the Victoria Harbour Water Control Zone (Phase III), thereby extending water pollution control to the whole territory.
       
      1995
      Community Awareness
      - Launched the Student Environmental Protection Ambassador Scheme.
       
      Air
      - Introduced cleaner diesel fuel with sulphur content not exceeding 0.2 per cent under the Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation. Introduced stringent diesel vehicle emission standards under the Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) Regulations.
      - Launched Hong Kong's first Air Pollution Index (API) to inform the community of the status of air pollution in Hong Kong.
       
      Waste
      - Commissioned the North East New Territories (NENT) Landfill, Hong Kong's third strategic landfill.
      - Introduced a charging scheme for the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre (CWTC) to recover the running costs from its users.
      - Opened the Construction Waste Recycling Facility at SENT Landfill.
      - Introduced charges for MARPOL waste at the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre.
      - Implemented the newly localised Dumping at Sea Ordinance.
      - Introduced phased control of livestock farms in the North and Tuen Mun districts under legislation requiring them to meet environmental requirements.
      - Celebrated the first anniversary of the "Use Less Plastic Bags Campaign", which saw 35 million fewer plastic bags used during the year.
       
      Water
      - Opened a new sewage treatment works at Stanley - the first in Asia built in a rock cavern.
      - Declared the Victoria Harbour Water Control Zone Phase II to control discharges from Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon City, Yau Tsim Mong, Sham Shui Po and a small part of Sha Tin.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw endorsement by the Advisory Council on the Environment of the first transboundary EIA study jointly undertaken by Hong Kong and Guangdong for the Shenzhen River Regulation Project.
       
      Enforcement
      - Established a new Local Control Office (Urban East) to serve the communities of Sham Shui Po, Yau Tsim Mong and Kowloon City.
      - Extended the 24-hour pollution complaint hotline service to six local hotlines to handle complaints on a district basis.
       
      1994
      General
      - Expanded the Environmental Pollution Advisory Committee's (EPCOM) advisory role on pollution control to sustainability of the environment; EPCOM renamed the Advisory Council on the Environment (ACE).
      - Published the first Performance Pledge of EPD.
      - Opened the EPD's Visitors Centre in Revenue Tower, Wan Chai to complement the Wan Chai Environmental Resource Centre. These are the gateways to environmental information for the community.
       
      Air
      - Banned the import of halons and introduced controls on 3,4-hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC), 3,4 hydrobromo-fluorocarbons (HBFC), and methyl bromide under the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance, fulfilling our global obligation in environmental protection.
      - Introduced a Technical Memoranda specifying Air Quality Objectives for Hong Kong.
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation to require the use of better quality automotive diesel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.2%.
       
      Noise
      - Amended the Noise Control Ordinance to tighten controls on noisy construction equipment and noisy manual construction work during restricted hours in densely populated areas, and to double the maximum fines for noise offences.
       
      Waste
      - Launched the first territory-wide action-oriented waste reduction programme - the year-long "Use Less Plastic Bags Campaign".
      - Amended the Waste Disposal Ordinance to provide comprehensive control of livestock waste, introduce stiffer penalties for illegal dumping of waste and define an offence for breaching waste collection and disposal licence conditions.
      - Commissioned the South East New Territories (SENT) Landfill, Hong Kong's second strategic landfill.
      - Commissioned the Sha Tin Refuse Transfer Station, Hong Kong's third refuse transfer station.
      - Decommissioned the Mui Wo incineration plant.
       
      Water
      - Enacted the Water Pollution Control (Sewerage) Regulation to require proper connection of wastewater from premises to the public sewerage system and proper maintenance and operation of private wastewater treatment facilities.
      - Enacted the Water Pollution Control (General) (Amendment) Regulation to improve enforcement efficiency.
      - Declared the Victoria Harbour (Phase One) Water Control Zone with effect from November 1.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Began quarterly release of the list of environmental impact assessments (EIAs) to the media.
      - Established the EIA Subcommittee under the Advisory Council on the Environment (ACE) to consider EIAs.
      - Organised the Canada / Hong Kong Joint EIA Seminar in Hong Kong, under the Canada / Hong Kong Memorandum of Understanding.
      - Saw endorsement of the overall framework of the EIA Bill by the ACE and the joint Environmental Affairs / Lands and Works Panels of LegCo.
       
      1993
      General
      - Published the Second Review of the 1989 White Paper.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Opened the first Environmental Resource Centre at the old Wan Chai Post Office.
       
      Air
      - Amended the Air Pollution Control Ordinance to remove exemptions from licensing control previously allowed for certain specified processes, and to extend control to environmental asbestos.
      - Enacted the Ozone Layer Protection (Products Containing Scheduled Substances) (Import Banning) Regulation to prohibit the import of products containing CFCs or halons from countries which are non-parties to the Montreal Protocol.
      - Commissioned Hong Kong's first flue gas desulphurisation system at Hong Kong Electric's Co. Ltd.'s Lamma Power Station.
      - Commissioned Hong Kong's first low nitrogen oxide burners at China Light and Power's Tap Shek Kok Power Station.
       
      Noise
      - Saw the launch of the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation's $500m programme to reduce the effects of noise from its operations.
       
      Waste
      - Commissioned the comprehensive Chemical Waste Treatment Centre - the first in South East Asia, with a capacity to treat 100 000 tonnes of chemical waste per annum, most of which had previously been dumped in the harbour.
      - Phased out the Kennedy Town Incinerator.
      - Commissioned the West New Territories (WENT) Landfill, the first of three strategic landfills in Hong Kong.
       
      Water
      - Declared June 1 the First Appointed Day for the Eastern and Western Buffer Water Control Zones.
      - Amended the Water Pollution Control Ordinance to provide powers to require existing premises to connect to new sewers.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw the introduction in the Governor's Address to the Legislative Council of a requirement that all government departments appoint a "Green Manager".
       
      Enforcement
      - Opened three new Local Control Offices in the EPD bringing the total to five.
       
      1992
      General
      - Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Hong Kong and Canada on Environmental Collaboration.
      - Amended the Road Traffic Ordinance to empower the Commissioner for Transport to direct traffic on environmental grounds.
       
      Noise
      - Completed Hong Kong's first "over-road" noise barrier at Tate's Cairn Tunnel approach roads to protect adjacent high rise dwellings from road traffic noise.
       
      Waste
      - Commissioned the Island East Refuse Transfer Station.
      - Enacted regulations under the Waste Disposal Ordinance for the control of chemical wastes.
       
      Water
      - Declared April 1 the First Appointed Day for the North Western Water Control Zone.
      - Completed the North West Kowloon sewage treatment and disposal project.
      - Launched the Dr Catherine Lam - the EPD's new marine environment monitoring vessel.
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Saw an announcement in the Governor's Address to the Legislative Council that all Executive Council policy and project papers contain an Environmental Implications paragraph.
      - Introduced a requirement for an Environmental Implications paragraph in all Public Works Sub-Committee and Finance Committee papers.
       
      1991
      General
      - Published the 1 Review of the 1989 White Paper.
       
      Air
      - Introduced unleaded petrol on April 1 to reduce harmful lead pollution.
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control (Vehicle Design Standards) (Emission) Regulations to require all new vehicles up to 2.5 tonnes to comply with stringent emission standards, and for all new vehicles with petrol engines to operate only on unleaded petrol, as from 1 January 1992.
       
      Noise
      - Enacted the Noise Control (Air-Compressors) Regulations 1991 and the Noise Control (Hand Held Percussive Breakers) Regulations to require the equipment to comply with prescribed noise standards and to be affixed with a noise emission label before they could be used in Hong Kong.
       
      Waste
      - Launched the Marine Dumping Action Plan to strengthen control over marine dumping operations and to deter marine dumping offences.
      - Commissioned the Sha Ling Livestock Waste Composting Plant.
       
      Enforcement
      - Established the first two Local Control Offices (LCOs) to improve pollution control, services and liaison with the community.
       
      1990
      General
      - Saw the first meeting of the Hong Kong / Guangdong Environmental Protection Liaison Group on July 11.
       
      Community Awareness
      - Saw the launch of the first Environmental Protection Festival by the newly established Environmental Campaign Committee (ECC).
       
      Air
      - Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulations to limit the sulphur content and viscosity of fuel oils. Significant improvement was seen in ambient sulphur dioxide levels.
       
      Waste
      - Commissioned Hong Kong's first Refuse Transfer Station (RTS) at Kowloon Bay.
      - Phased out the Lai Chi Kok incinerator and Jordan Valley landfill.
       
      Water
      - Declared December 1 the First Appointed Day for the Deep Bay and Mirs Bay Water Control Zones.
      - Introduced major amendments to the Water Pollution Control Ordinance to eliminate exemption for existing dischargers and to introduce a Technical Memorandum on discharge limits.
       
  • 1980s
    • 1989
      General
      - Published the White Paper on "Pollution: A Time to Act" laying down a comprehensive 10-year plan to fight pollution.
       
      Air
      - Enacted the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance (1989) to comply with the requirements of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer.
      - Banned the use of solid and liquid fuels in industrial and commercial plants in Sha Tin.
      - Declared eight additional Air Control Zones to cover the whole Territory.
       
      Noise
      - Implemented major provisions under the Noise Control Ordinance on the control of noise from construction work during nighttime and holidays, and from industrial and commercial activities.
      - Saw endorsement by the Executive Council of the general principle of using acoustic insulation for institutional buildings affected by increased noise from new roads.
      - Enacted the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Noise) (Limitation on Operation of Engines and Auxiliary Power Units) Regulation and the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Noise) Notice to limit the noise from aircraft operations from both air and ground activities.
       
      Waste
      - Published the statutory Waste Disposal Plan under the Waste Disposal Ordinance to set out a 10-year plan for developing new facilities and closing old ones.
       
      Water
      - Formulated the Sewage Disposal Strategy for Hong Kong.
      - Declared August 1 the First Appointed Day for the Port Shelter and Junk Bay Water Control Zones.
       
      1988
      General
      - Established the Planning, Environment and Lands Branch as the policy branch for the environmental programme area.
       
      Noise
      - Enacted the Noise Control Ordinance to provide statutory powers for the control of noise from domestic and public places, construction sites, industrial and commercial premises and noisy products.
       
      Waste
      - Implemented the Livestock Waste Control Scheme.
       
      Water
      - Declared August 1 the First Appointed Day for the Southern Water Control Zone.
       
      1987
      Air
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control (Specified Processes) Regulations to bring potential major emitters known as Specified Processes under control.
      - Established Statutory Air Quality Objectives for declared Air Control Zones.
       
      Noise
      - Enacted the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Noise) (Certification) Regulations and the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Classes) Notice to prohibit those Hong Kong registered aircraft which do not possess a noise certificate, from operating in and out of Hong Kong.
       
      Water
      - Declared the first water control zone (WCZ) at Tolo Harbour.
      - Commenced the Sewerage Master Plan (SMP) programme to provide a blue print for the sewerage infrastructure required to collect sewage on a catchment-basis.
       
      1986
      General
      - Established the Environmental Protection Department on April 1, bringing the majority of pollution prevention and control activities under one umbrella.
       
      Air
      - Declared the Harbour and Tsuen Wan - Kwai Chung Air Control Zones.
       
      Noise
      - Enacted the Civil Aviation (Aircraft Noise) Ordinance to provide the statutory powers required for the control of noise from aircraft.
      - Saw endorsement by the Executive Council of the general principle of providing equitable redress to persons affected by new roads, in the form of direct technical remedies such as barriers and enclosures.
       
      Water
      - Enacted Water Pollution Control Regulations under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (1980).
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Issued a government circular on the Environmental Review of major public sector development projects.
       
      1985
      General
      - Launched Hong Kong's first international conference on "Pollution in the Metropolitan Environment: POLMET '85".
       
      Environmental Assessment & Planning
      - Included an "Environment" Chapter in the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines.
       
      1984
      General
      - Revived the Environmental Pollution Advisory Committee and disbanded the Special Committees on Land and Water, Air and Noise.
       
      1983
      General
      - Hosted first visit of a delegation from the Guangdong Environmental Protection Bureau, led by Director Jin Yang, to Hong Kong in January.
       
      Air
      - Enacted the Air Pollution Control Ordinance which introduced air control zones and air quality objectives in respect of these zones and designated the Commissioner for Labour as the Control Authority.
       
      1982
      General
      - Made the Health and Social Welfare Branch responsible for the environmental programme area, instead of the Home Affairs Branch.
       
      Water
      - Declared Tolo Harbour the first Water Control Zone.
       
      1981
      General
      - Separated the Environmental Protection Unit from the Government Secretariat to form the Environmental Protection Agency.
      - Dissolved the Environment Branch, with the Home Affairs Branch becoming the policy branch for the environmental programme area.
      - Published the first issue of "Environment Hong Kong" describing all government activities on pollution prevention and control.
       
      1980
      Waste
      - Enacted the Waste Disposal Ordinance to provide statutory powers over waste collection and disposal.
       
      Water
      - Enacted the Water Pollution Control Ordinance to provide statutory powers over the control of effluents to the aquatic environment.
       
  • 1950s - 1970s
    • 1978
      General
      - Replaced the 1974 Advisory Committee on Environmental Pollution with an Environmental Protection Advisory Committee supported by three Special Committees: Land and Water, Air and Noise.
       
      Noise
      - Enacted the Summary Offences (Night Work) Regulations to provide for the general banning of the use of powered mechanical equipment for works between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. and on general holidays.
       
      1977
      General
      - Established the Environmental Protection Unit (EPU), within the Environment Branch (based on ERL's preliminary report), as a small unit responsible for developing policy and formulating legislation on environmental protection.
      - Completed ERL study and submission of proposals for noise abatement, waste disposal, water pollution control, air pollution control and environmental impact ordinances.
       
      1976
      Noise
      - Enacted the Public Health and Urban Services (Minor Amendments) Ordinance to prescribe control of air conditioner noise.
       
      1975
      General
      - Established the Environment Branch as the policy branch for the land, transport and environmental programme areas.
      - Enacted the Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution) Ordinance to make oil pollution liability insurance mandatory for all cargo-carrying vessels.
       
      1974
      General
      - Consolidated Advisory Committees on Land, Water, Air and Noise to form a new more broadly-based committee: the Advisory Committee on Environmental Pollution.
      - Commissioned Environmental Resources Ltd. (ERL) to undertake a comprehensive investigation into the growing need for environmental controls in Hong Kong.
       
      Air
      - Declared the whole Territory as a smoke control area.
      - Enacted the Clean Air (Restriction and Measurement of Smoke) Regulations to impose emission limits on combustion plants.
       
      1973
      Noise
      - Banned aircraft movements between midnight and 7 a.m.
       
      1972
      Noise
      - Enacted the Summary Offences (Noise at Hong Kong Airport) (Exemption) Order 1972 to require all aircraft movements and engine run-ups between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. to conform with specified conditions.
      - Amended the Summary Offences Ordinance to provide for the control of general noise at night between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. and the banning of use of pile-drivers between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. on public holidays.
      - Enacted the Summary Offences (Night Work) Regulations to restrict works other than piling between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. through a permit system.
       
      1970
      Air
      - Established Air Pollution Control Unit in Labour Department.
      - Required Hok Yuen Power Station to burn low sulphur fuel oil in order to reduce air pollution during adverse meteorological conditions.
       
      1962
      Air
      - Declared Shatin the first smoke control area.
       
      1959
      Air
      - Enacted Clean Air Ordinance to control dark smoke emissions from fossil fuel burning installations.
       
 

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