Our Contribution to the Environment

Our Contribution to Strategic Decision-Making

We will contribute proactively to strategic decision-making in the government which will have an impact on the environment "

Image of Environmental quality was a key concern identified through strategic environmental assessment of the CTS3

THE EPD builds environmental considerations into the HKSAR's decision-making process by providing decision-makers with professional advice on environmental implications of policies, strategies, and planning proposals at an early stage.

In 1999, we reviewed more than 200 submissions to the Executive Council and the Public Works Sub-Committee of the Legislative Council, and advised on the environmental implications of the projects and proposals.

In October 1999, we completed the steering and management of the strategic environmental assessment for the Third Comprehensive Transport Study which identified that there would be major environmental concerns under the proposed transport strategy. In conjunction with other departments and bureaus, EPD's efforts led to a public consultation exercise on the environmental findings in 1999, an informed public discussion, and much greater awareness of the long-term environmental implications of the transport strategy. The EPD helped to establish a follow-up mechanism to monitor and audit the various factors affecting the transport strategy's environmental performance.

In the coming years, we will continue to work with other departments and bureaus to promote the incorporation of environmental considerations into decision-making processes. Before the first quarter of 2001, we will issue a study brief on the strategic environmental assessment for the upcoming Hong Kong 2030: Planning, Vision and Strategy, which will guide the future development of Hong Kong. We will also complete the management of the strategic environmental assessment for the Second Railway Development Strategy in 2000 to provide adequate environmental information for public consultation and informed decision. We will also promote the use of the Internet for project proponents to inform and involve the public in their strategic environmental assessment process.

Image of Use of railways to minimise potential air and noise pollution was a key consideration of the Second Railway Development Study
Image of Environmentally sensitive areas are protected through strategic or regional environmental studies