Chapter 6   Sustainability at EPD – Environmental Impacts

The EPD is committed to minimising the environmental impacts of our policies, programmes and operations, and seeking environmental improvements wherever possible. Our performance in sustaining this commitment in 2006 is described in detail in Chapter 6 - Parts A and B. Below are highlights from the year:

• The Action Blue Sky Campaign was launched in July 2006 to encourage public participation in improving air quality in Hong Kong.
• An 18-month comprehensive study was announced to review Hong Kong's Air Quality Objectives (AQO) and develop a long-term air quality management strategy.
• The implementation framework for an emissions trading pilot scheme for thermal power plants in the Pearl River Delta region was completed.
• Charges were introduced for the disposal of construction waste on 20 January 2006.
• A Trial Scheme on Municipal Solid Waste Charging was launched in November 2006 to examine the logistical arrangements for waste recovery and disposal in different housing settings. The information will be used in devising options for a variable rate charging scheme, on which the public will be consulted.
• 497 residential estates and buildings, covering two million people, joined the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste.
• A proposal for higher sewage charges was announced to implement the polluter pays principle and provide sustainable financial support for the operating costs of HATS Stage 2A and other sewerage facilities.
• A Draft Comprehensive Plan to Tackle Road Traffic Noise in Hong Kong was launched for public consultation.
• The Compliance Assistance Centre was opened to provide businesses with updated information and advice on environmental compliance, pollution prevention and environmental management, all in one place.
• Paper consumption in EPD offices was reduced by five per cent and electricity consumption by 1.7 per cent.

Chapter 6 - Part A Environmental Impacts of Policies and Programmes
Chapter 6 - Part B Environmental Impacts of Internal Operations