6 Terrestrial Ecological
Impact Assessment
6.2 Relevant Legislations, Standards & Guidelines
6.3 Study Area & Ecological Sensitive Receivers
6.5 Evaluation of Past Information & Identification of
Data Gap
6.6 Methodology for Terrestrial & Freshwater Surveys
6.7 Survey Results –
Habitats & Vegetation
6.10 Identification of Ecological Impacts
6.11 Evaluation of Ecological Impacts
6.12 Recommendations & Mitigation Measures
6.13 Evaluation of Residual Impacts
6.14 Environmental Monitoring and Audit Programme
6
TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
6.1.1
This
Chapter
presents the terrestrial
ecological baseline condition within and in the vicinity
of Po Toi O through literature review and surveys. Potential construction
and operational impacts on the terrestrial ecology caused by this Project have been identified
and evaluated. Mitigation measures have been proposed to minimize the potential
impacts where necessary.
6.2
Relevant Legislations, Standards & Guidelines
6.2.1
Reference has been made to the Technical Memorandum on Environmental
Impact Assessment Process of the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance
(Cap. 499) (EIAO TM) for the criteria for evaluating ecological impacts, i.e.:
·
Annex
8 stipulates the criteria for evaluating ecological impacts
·
Annex
16 sets out the general approach and methodology for the assessment of
ecological impacts arising from a project or proposal. It also defines Recognized
Sites of Conservation Importance and Species of Conservation Importance.
6.2.2
The following EIAO guidance notes detail the temporal
considerations in arranging surveys, survey methodology at different habitat
types, data collection and requirements of impact assessment:
·
GN
6/2010 “Some Observations on Ecological Assessment from the Environmental
Impact Assessment Ordinance Perspective”
·
GN
7/2010 “Ecological Baseline Survey for Ecological Assessment”
·
GN
10/2010 “Methodologies for Terrestrial and Freshwater Ecological Baseline
Surveys”
6.2.3
Other Hong Kong ordinances and guidelines relevant to
this study for reference include:
·
Forests
and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) and its subsidiary legislation in the
Forestry Regulations, which prohibit destructive activities in the forest and
trading or keeping of rare plants;
·
Wild
Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), which protects wild mammals, avifauna,
reptiles, amphibians and insects under column 2 from hunting, possession,
trading and disturbance;
·
Country
Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208), which designates, controls and manages country
parks and special areas;
·
Protection
of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), which
regulates trading and possession of endangered species in response to
Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES);
·
Town
Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131), which stipulates the planning use of an area.
Land uses related to this chapter are conservation areas, green belts, coastal
protection areas and other specified uses that promote conservation or
protection of the environment;
·
Hong
Kong Planning Standard and Guidelines (Chapter 10), which provides principles of
conservation, policies to identify and conserve natural landscape and habitats
through legislation and administrative controls and planning.
6.2.4
This assessment made also reference to the following
international conventions where appropriate:
·
Convention
on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES);
·
IUCN
Red List;
·
United
Nations Conventions on Biological Diversity (1992).
6.3
Study Area & Ecological Sensitive Receivers
6.3.1
The
Study Area for this terrestrial
ecological impact assessment covers 500 m radius from the proposed land-based works (i.e.
sewage treatment plant (STP), sewers, rising mains, and horizontal directional drilling for submarine
outfall), as shown in Figure
6-1.
6.3.2
The
recognized sites of conservation importance as defined in Annex 16 of the
EIAO-TM are as follows:
·
Clear
Water Bay Country Park (450 m to the east of the Project Site (area
covered within the proposed work boundary as shown in Figure 1-1))
6.4.1
Baseline ecological
information had been obtained through collection
and review of past findings from relevant studies/surveys regarding the
ecological characters of the Study Area (described in Section 6.3.1). Examples of published
reference and other environmental studies carried out in vicinity of the
Project Site include:
·
Aerial
photos
·
AFCD
Newsletters
·
Website
managed by AFCD, e.g. AFCD Clearwater Bay Country Park, Hong Kong Biodiversity
Database & Hong Kong Herbarium
·
Approved
Clear Water Bay Peninsula South OZP S/SK-CWBS/2 from Town Planning Board
·
Books
and reports by Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, e.g. the Avifauna in Hong Kong
·
Past
EIA studies, e.g. South East New Territories (SENT) Landfill Extension
·
Porcupine!
by the University of Hong Kong
·
Other related field
books
6.4.2
Clear Water Bay Country Park is located on the western
side of the study boundary. Nevertheless, it is separated from the Project Site
by the bay. Plant species of conservation importance recorded in the Country Park include the Chinese New Year Flower (Enkianthus quinqueflorus), Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) and species of orchid
(Orchidaceae), such as Rattlesnake (Pholidota
chinensis), Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum
purpuratum) and Bamboo orchids (Arundina graminifolia) (Yang, Ngar & Lock 2003).
Mammals
6.4.3
Shek (2006) did not have any terrestrial mammal
record in the Study Area.
Avifauna
6.4.4
In
Hong Kong, all wild birds are protected under the Wild Animals Protection
Ordinance (Cap. 170).
6.4.5
According to a breeding bird survey conducted by
the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society (Carey et al. 2001), 11 bird species
were recorded to breed within one 1 km x 1 km or one 10 km x 10 km grids that covered the Study Area. These grids
were considered having poor to moderate species diversity.
6.4.6
Three of the bird species recorded, including Black
Kite (Milvus migrans), Pacific Swift
(Apus pacificus) and White-bellied
Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster),
are species of conservation importance (AFCD 2014a). All of them are
widely-distributed in Hong Kong. Except White-bellied Sea Eagle is uncommon,
Black Kite & Pacific Swift are common in Hong Kong (AFCD 2014a). Their
conservation statuses were summarized in Table
6-1.
Table 6-1: Conservation Statuses of Birds
with Conservation Importance and with Breeding Record in the Study
Area (Carey et al. 2001; AFCD 2014a)
|
Common
Name (Species Name) |
Conservation
Status |
|
Black
Kite (Milvus migrans) |
1.
Protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance
(Cap. 586); 2.
Listed as
“Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Pacific
Swift (Apus pacificus) |
1.
Listed as
“Local Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
White-bellied
Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) |
1.
Protected under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance
(Cap. 586); 2.
Listed as
“Indeterminate” in China Red Data Book Status; 3.
Listed as
“Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
*All
birds are protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). ** Species listed
as “Least Concern” by IUCN Red List were not included |
|
6.4.7
Active nest of White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) – an avifauna of
conservation importance (see Table 6-1)
– was recorded in Steep Island,
about 1.8 km away
from the proposed Project Site (So & Lee 2010). Nevertheless, this Project
might still be within the forage area of White-bellied Sea Eagle, as So &
Lee (2010) mentioned that the forage area of breeding White-bellied Sea Eagle
can be up to 150 km2 (i.e. a radius of about 6.9 km assuming a
circle forage area) while non-breeding individuals may move further. However,
Tsim et al. (2003) pointed out that White-bellied Sea Eagle can tolerate a
certain level of human activities, such as both marine and terrestrial traffic.
Herpetofauna
6.4.8
Chan et al. (2005) did not have any amphibian
record in the Study Area.
6.5
Evaluation of Past Information & Identification of Data Gap
6.5.1
Information collected from literature review was
evaluated to identify any data gap. Since the literature was only able to
provide limited baseline ecological information, detailed ecological surveys
were required to obtain a comprehensive and updated baseline ecological
condition of the Study Area described in Section 6.3.1.
6.6
Methodology for Terrestrial & Freshwater Surveys
6.6.1
From February to June and
December 2014, and
April 2015, terrestrial and freshwater surveys had been carried out at
representative habitats that are likely to be affected by this Project. The
surveys have covered both dry and wet seasons for at least 4 months as per the
Study Brief. Surveyed locations (i.e. both survey transects and point count
locations) within the Study Area described in Section 6.3.1 were presented in Figure
6-1. Opportunistic observation of wildlife outside
systematic survey were also recorded.
6.6.2
Terrestrial and freshwater surveys had been
conducted in
accordance with the Environmental Impact
Assessment Ordinance, Cap. 499, GN No. 10/2010 Methodologies for Terrestrial
and Freshwater Ecological Baseline Surveys. The survey area covered the area within 500 m boundary from the proposed STP, land-based pipelines, and works area of horizontal
directional drilling for submarine outfall (see Figure 6-1).
6.6.3
Aerial
photos of the Project Site
and its surrounding have
been interpreted to identify the types
of habitat found within the Study Area.
This was
verified and
updated by ground-truthing.
6.6.4
Vegetation surveys had been conducted to identify
key vegetation communities and dominant species within the Study Area. These
were followed by plant species surveys which recorded plant species found in
different habitats within the Study Area. Surveys covered the transect (see Figure
6-1) and areas nearby. A pair of binoculars was used
to aid observation where the area is inaccessible. Any rare, protected and
threatened plant species and other species of conservation importance had been
identified with their location marked.
6.6.5
In both day- and night-time, terrestrial mammals
had been actively searched along the transect (see Figure 6-1) and identified by direct observation. Any traits
observed, such as dung, feeding signs, footprints, burrows and dens were
recorded, and tracks that were left by mammals were identified as far as
possible.
6.6.6
Transect survey and point count were adopted to
record bird species in early morning and at night. For point count, counts had
been made within fixed time period (around 5 minutes) using a pair of binoculars.
Any birds
presented within observable distance along the transect and from the counting
point were recorded and identified. Identification was also made from bird
calls. In addition, any feeding, nesting and breeding behaviours were noted.
6.6.7
Active searching had been carried out to look for
amphibians and reptiles within the Study Area during both day- and night-time along the transect.
Potential breeding ground and microhabitats, such as pools, water channels,
crevices and fallen leaves, had been searched. Any eggs and tadpoles found were
also recorded. Mating calls of frogs and toads were assisted in species
identification as well.
Butterflies
and Odonates Survey
6.6.8
Butterflies and odonates surveys had been conducted
during daytime and under fine weather when these insects are active. Transect
survey and point count had been carried out. For point count, counts had been
made within fixed time period (around 5 minutes). Any butterflies and odonates
observed along the transect and from the counting point were counted and
identified by naked eyes. A pair of binoculars had been used for assisting
counting and species identification when necessary.
Freshwater Survey
6.6.9
On selected sampling locations, a
pair of 8x binoculars had been
used to search
for and observe active swimming fish and
crustacean from bankside.
Afterwards, active searching
and direct observation had been adopted to look for freshwater fauna where the watercourse is accessible.
6.7
Survey Results – Habitats & Vegetation
6.7.1
Within the Study Area described in Section
6.3.1, terrestrial habitats identified included
shrubland, woodland, plantation, grassland, developed area, watercourse and
artificial water pond. Coastal habitats including rocky shore, sandy shore and
mudflat were also identified. A map showing the distribution of habitats in the
Study Area was presented in Figure 6-2, while the representative photos of habitats were presented in Appendix 6.1.
General
6.7.2
Excluding the Clear Water
Bay Country Park and the Clear Water Bay Golf and Country Club, the Study Area
was mostly Conservation Area, with patches of Village Type Development. The
Conservation Area was dominated by shrubland and woodland, while the Village
Type Development was dominated by developed area. Small area of Green belt
which consisted of man-made slope, and a small area of Open Space which
consisted of grassland were also found.
Woodland
6.7.3
The woodland downslope of
Tai Au Mun Road and Po Toi O Chuen Road adjacent to coastal mudflat consisted
of trees with 4-6 m in height, and was dominated by native species including Cerbera manghas, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa,
and Hibiscus tiliaceus. A mangrove
species Aegiceras corniculatum was
also found in woodland edge adjacent to marine water. As for the woodland
adjacent to developed area, the canopy was largely dominated by native Sterculia lanceolata and Psychotria asiatica in understorey.
Other commonly found tree species included Microcos
nervosa and Ficus hispida. Trees
were also 4-6 m in height but with occasionally trees reaching 8 m in height.
6.7.4
3 plant species (Aquilaria
sinensis, Gnetum luofuense & Pavetta hongkongensis), 5 avifauna
species (Great Egret Ardea alba,
Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis,
Chinese Hwamei Garrulax canorus,
Black Kite Milvus migrans & Black-crowned
Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax), 1
butterfly species (Pale Palm Dart Telicota
colon stinga) and 1 snake species (Indo-Chinese Rat Snake Ptyas korros) of conservation importance
were recorded in woodland. 1 uncommon butterfly (Indian Palm Bob Suastus gremius gremius) and 2 uncommon avifauna species (Indian Cuckoo Cuculus micropterus & Grey-streaked
Flycatcher Muscicapa griseisticta)
were also recorded in woodland.
Shrubland
6.7.5
Shrubland was mainly
located near shores and at high altitude. The shrubland along Po Toi O Chuen
Road and the shrubland around Tai Wong Kung shared different compositions. The
shrubland along Po Toi O Chuen Road was dominated by native Gnetum luofuense, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia,
Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa, Miscanthus floridulus, Schefflera heptaphylla, and exotic Acacia confusa; while the shrubland around Tai Wong Kung was
dominated by native Mallotus paniculatus
and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa.
Nevertheless, plants in both shrublands reached at maximum 2 m in height.
6.7.6
2 plant species (Diospyros vaccinioides & Gnetum
luofuense) and 3 avifauna species (Greater Coucal Centropus
sinensis, Chinese Hwamei Garrulax
canorus & Black Kite Milvus
migrans) of
conservation importance were recorded in shrubland. 1 uncommon avifauna species
(Sooty-headed Bulbul Pycnonotus
aurigaster) was also recorded in shrubland.
Developed Area
6.7.7
Developed area was dominated by residential areas. Plants can be
occasionally found, while most plants species, such as Malvaviscus arboreus
var. penduliflorus and Platycladus orientalis, were exotic and
cultivated. 2 cultivated plant species of conservation importance (Araucaria heterophylla and Dypsis lutescens)
were found on roadside.
6.7.8
2 butterfly species of
conservation importance (Lesser Band Dart Potanthus
trachala trachala & Pale Palm Dart Telicota
colon stinga) were recorded in developed area.
Grassland
6.7.9
The grassland in Open Space
was adjacent to developed area and was artificially made. It has been managed
as recreational park and the grasses were less than 10 cm in height.
6.7.10 No species of conservation importance was recorded
in grassland.
Watercourses
6.7.11 A few watercourses were found in the Study Area.
Most of them only had seasonal water flow, including the two streams (i.e. W1 & W2, see Figure 6-2) that sandwiched the
proposed STP. Upstream of these two streams was natural with no water flow even
in wet season. The downstream section had been modified into culvert, which
collected water from the u-channel along Po Toi O Chuen Road. No wildlife was observed in W1 & W2.
6.7.12 Two streams flowed
throughout the year with higher flow rate in wet season. One was located in the
middle section of Po Toi O Chuen Road to the south of the Study Area. It was at
higher topography and away from the Project Site. The other one was near
Fairway Vista and was close to the proposed sewers (i.e. W3, see Figure 6-2). Part of W3 was natural
with stony bottom while both upstream and downstream of it were channelled
through pipes. The outfall is located near the rocky and sandy shores and the
water eventually entered the sea. The water occasionally appeared milky and
gave off odour. The bottom was lined with orange, slimy substance which
possibly be produced from iron bacteria. These observations indicate that the
water is iron rich and polluted. Nevertheless, wildlife that can tolerate poor
water quality was found in W3 (e.g. Gunther’s Frog Rana guentheri).
6.7.13 No species of conservation importance was recorded
in watercourses.
Coastal Areas
6.7.14 All natural coastal areas – rocky shore, sandy
shore and coastal mudflat – within the Study Area were Coastal Protection Area.
They were exposed and were not covered by vegetation.
6.7.15 Above the high tide level
(i.e. above the intertidal zone), only rocky shore which consisted various
sizes of rocks was identified. Only Sea slater (Ligia exotica) was recorded in rocky shore above high tide level.
6.7.16 As for the ecological
conditions of habitats in intertidal zone, they were detailed in Chapter 7 – Marine Ecological Impact
Assessment.
Clear Water Bay Country Park
6.7.17 A small part of the Study Area entered the Clear
Water Bay Country Park. This part of the Study Area consisted of shrubland
above maintenance slope, and no species of conservation importance was
recorded.
Clear Water Bay Golf and Country Club
6.7.18 The Study Area also covered a golf course which has
been managed by the Clear Water Bay Golf and Country Club. Since the golf
course is private and has restricted accessibility, ground-truthing cannot be
carried out in this area. Nevertheless, by studying aerial photos and maps,
this area was highly disturbed by human activities and was dominated by
grassland with small patches of developed area, plantation, woodland and
shrubland. Two artificial water ponds and 3 watercourses were also found.
The Project Site
6.7.19 The proposed STP will be built on a cut-slope within
Conservation Area. It was a shrubland dominated by both native and exotic herbs
and ferns with a few small shrubs and trees, such as herbs Wedelia trilobata and Miscanthus
floridulus, fern Dicranopteris pedata,
shrubs Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Asparagus cochinchinensis and Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, trees Ficus
subpisocarpa,
Rhus succedanea, and Sapium
sebiferum , and climber Gnetum
luofuense and Smilax hypoglauca.
At the base of the slope near the u-channel, moist-loving species such as Lindernia crustacean and Scoparia dulcis thrived.
6.7.20 Gravity sewers and rising mains will be laid along
the existing concrete footpath and road between village houses/villas where
mostly weeds was observed. Near where the rising mains will enter the sea to form
the submarine outfall, the rising mains will cross through the rocky shore
above high tide level. Common coastal plant Pandanus
tectorius and Scaevola taccada
were grown in these habitats.
6.7.21 Two plant species of conservation importance (Gnetum luofuense & Diospyros vaccinioides) were recorded
within or near the STP footprint. Both are native to and commonly found in Hong
Kong.
6.7.22 Gnetum luofuense is a climbing plant growing atop the vegetation from the
upper slope down to the proposed STP location. This species is threatened by
habitat loss due to clearance of lowland forest for agriculture. It is listed
as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN Red List (IUCN 2014).
6.7.23 Diospyros vaccinioides was found about 18 m to
the south of the work boundary of STP. It was a young shrub of about 40 cm
tall. This species is threatened by over-collection as ornamental plant and
therefore listed as “Critically Endangered” by the IUCN Red List (IUCN 2014).
Vegetation
6.7.24 179 plant species were recorded in the Study Area
(see Appendix 6.2). Most species recorded were native species
including Cerbera manghas, Gnetum luofuense, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia
and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa. 6 species recorded – 4 native
and 2 exotic species – were considered having conservation importance. Their
conservation statuses and locations are shown in Table 6-2 and Figure 6-3 respectively (AFCD 2014b;
IUCN 2014).
Table 6-2: Conservation
Statuses of Plants with Conservation Importance Recorded in the Study Area
(AFCD 2014b; IUCN 2014)
|
Species Name |
Origin |
Conservation
Status |
Location |
|
Aquilaria
sinensis (土沉香) |
Native |
1. Protected
under the Protection of Endangered
Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) 2. Listed
as “Near Threatened” by the Rare and Precious Plants
of Hong Kong (Status in China) 3. Listed as “Vulnerable” by the China Plant Red
Data Book 4.
Listed as
“Vulnerable” by the IUCN Red List |
Woodland near Tai Wong Kung |
|
Diospyros
vaccinioides (小果柿) |
Native |
1.
Listed as
“Critically Endangered” by the IUCN Red List |
Shrubland along Po
Toi O Chuen Road (near proposed STP) and around Tai Wong Kung |
|
Gnetum
luofuense (羅浮買麻藤) |
Native |
1.
Listed as “Near
Threatened” by the IUCN Red List |
Shrubland along Po
Toi O Chuen Road (proposed STP) and in
woodland near Tai Wong Kung |
|
Pavetta hongkongensis (香港大沙葉) |
Native |
1. Protected
under the Forests and Countryside
Ordinance (Cap. 96) |
Woodland near Tai
Wong Kung |
|
Araucaria
heterophylla (異葉南洋杉) |
Exotic |
1.
Listed as
“Vulnerable” by the IUCN Red List |
Roadside near Fairway Vista |
|
Dypsis lutescens (散尾葵) |
Exotic |
1. Listed
as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN Red List |
Roadside near Fairway Vista |
6.8.1
This section summarizes the
terrestrial fauna observed within the Study Area described in Section
6.3.1 throughout the survey period. A species list with
details on the distribution, rarity and conservation status can be found in Appendix 6.2. For the species of
conservation importance, their
locations were presented in Figure 6-3, while their photographic records can be
found in Appendix 6.3.
Terrestrial Mammal
6.8.2
No wild terrestrial mammal
was recorded in the Study Area.
Avifauna
6.8.3
47 avifauna species were recorded in the Study Area.
Commonly found species were Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis), Red-whiskered Bulbuls (Pycnonotus jocosus) and Crested Myna (Acridotheres cristatellus). Except Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia) and Black-naped Tern (Sterna sumatrana) have restricted distribution, all species
recorded are wide-spread in Hong Kong (AFCD 2014a). While except Indian Cuckoo
(Cuculus micropterus), Pacific Reef
Heron (Egretta sacra), Blue
Rock-thrush (Monticola solitarius), Grey-streaked Flycatcher (Muscicapa griseisticta) and Sooty-headed Bulbul (Pycnonotus aurigaster) are uncommon, all
species recorded are either abundant or common in Hong Kong.
6.8.4
Out of the 47 recorded
species, 11 of them – Great Egret (Ardea
alba), Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea),
Eastern Cattle Egret (Bubulcus coromandus),
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis),
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta),
Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia),
Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta sacra), Chinese
Hwamei (Garrulax canorus), Black Kite
(Milvus migrans), Black-crowned Night
Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) and
Black-naped Tern (Sterna sumatrana) –
have conservation importance (AFCD 2014a). Their conservation statuses were
listed in Table 6-3.
Table 6-3: Conservation
Statuses of Birds with Conservation Importance Recorded in the Study Area (AFCD 2014a)
|
Common Name |
Conservation Status |
|
Great Egret (Ardea
alba) |
1. Listed as “Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Grey Heron (Ardea
cinerea) |
1. Listed as “Potential Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Eastern Cattle Egret (Bubulcus coromandus) |
1. Listed as “Local
Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) |
1.
Listed as “Vulnerable” by the
China Red Data Book |
|
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) |
1. Listed as “Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia) |
1. Listed as “Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta
sacra) |
1. Listed as “Rare” by the China Red Data Book; 2.
Listed as “Local Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Chinese Hwamei (Garrulax
canorus) |
1. Protected
under the Protection of Endangered
Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) |
|
Black Kite (Milvus
migrans) |
1. Protected
under the Protection of Endangered
Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586); 2.
Listed as “Regional Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) |
1. Listed as “Local
Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
|
Black-naped Tern (Sterna sumatrana) |
1. Listed as “Local
Concern” by Fellowes et al. (2002) |
6.8.5
In the 11 species of
conservation importance (Table 6-3),
three of them – Greater Coucal (Centropus
sinensis), Chinese Hwamei (Garrulax
canorus) and Black Kite (Milvus
migrans) – were recorded in most, if not every, avifauna surveys. This
suggested that these 3 species are frequent users of the Study Area. For the
reminding 8 species, they might be occasional users of the Study Area as they
were only recorded in one or two surveys.
6.8.6
During avifauna survey,
some Black Kites were observed to fly with grasses and sticks, which possibly
were gathering materials for nest building. This suggests that Black Kite might
breed around the Study Area, although no Black Kite nest was found within the
Study Area by direct sighting.
6.8.7
Immature individuals of
Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax
nycticorax) – a species of conservation importance (Table 6-3) – were recorded in woodland next to a flowing stream on
mudflat in the Po Toi O bay.
6.8.8
Most herons observed foraged on the mudflat exposed during low tide.
Herpetofauna
6.8.9
2 amphibian species – Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) and
Gunther's Frog (Hylarana guentheri) –
were recorded in the Study Area. Both species are widely distributed in Hong
Kong, and have no conservation status (AFCD 2014a).
6.8.10 2 lizard species – Chinese
Gecko (Gekko chinensis) and a skink (Scincidae) species – were recorded in the Study Area.
Chinese Gecko (Gekko chinensis) is widely distributed in Hong Kong (AFCD 2014a). One skink with blue tail was found in shrubland, Tai Wong Kung.
Nevertheless, it cannot be identified to species level, as it escaped before
detail observation could be made.
6.8.11 An Indo-Chinese Rat Snake (Ptyas
korros) was recorded in woodland near Po Toi O Village. Although it is
widely distributed in Hong Kong, it is listed as “Endangered” and “Potential
Global Concern” by the China Red Data Book and Fellowes et al. (2002) respectively
(AFCD 2014a).
6.8.12 1 turtle species –
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta
elegans) – was recorded in watercourse W3. This species is widely distributed in Hong Kong, and has no
conservation status.
6.8.13 No breeding behaviour or immature individual was
recorded in the Study Area.
Butterfly
6.8.14 A total of 41 butterfly species were recorded in
the Study Area.
All recorded species are widely distributed in Hong Kong (AFCD 2014a).
38 of them, such as Lemon Emigrant (Catopsilia
pomona pomona) and Common Mormon (Papilio
polytes polytes), are either very common or common in Hong Kong. 1 species
recorded – Indian Palm Bob (Suastus
gremius gremius) – is uncommon, while 2 species recorded – Lesser Band Dart
(Potanthus trachala trachala) and
Pale Palm Dart (Telicota colon stinga)
– are rare in Hong Kong. Except the Pale Palm Dart is listed as “Local Concern”
by Fellowes et al. (2002), no species recorded has conservation status (AFCD
2014a).
6.8.15 Both rare Lesser Band Dart (Potanthus trachala trachala) and Pale Palm Dart (Telicota colon stinga) are considered to
have conservation importance. The Lesser Band Dart was recorded in developed
area, while the Pale Palm Dart was recorded in both woodland and developed
area. Both were feeding on nectar of flowering plants.
6.8.16 No breeding behaviour, larva or pupa was recorded
in the Study Area.
Odonate
6.8.17 A total of 3 odonate species – Common Blue Skimmer
(Orthetrum glaucum), Wandering Glider
(Pantala flavescens) and Scarlet
Basker (Urothemis signata signata) –
were recorded in the Study Area. All species recorded are widespread in Hong
Kong, and all of them are either abundant or common in Hong Kong (AFCD 2014a).
No species of conservation importance had been recorded.
6.8.18 No breeding behaviour or naiads was recorded in the
Study Area.
Freshwater Fauna
6.8.19 Except the herpetofauna species mentioned in Section 6.8.9 – 6.8.13, no other freshwater fauna (e.g. fish or crustacean) was
found in recent surveys.
6.9.1
The
ecological value of the habitats have
been evaluated in accordance with
EIAO-TM Annex 8 Table 2.
Nevertheless, due to the restricted accessibility to the habitats in the Clear Water Bay Golf and
Country Club (i.e.
Grassland, Plantation & Artificial Water Pond), the ecological value of
those habitats cannot be evaluated.
Table 6-4: Ecological
Value of Shrubland
|
Criteria |
Shrubland |
|
Naturalness |
Natural |
|
Size |
~ 26.0 ha |
|
Diversity |
Low – Moderate
flora and fauna diversity |
|
Rarity |
Habitat: Fairly common in countryside Species: Two plant species of conservation importance –Diospyros vaccinioides, & Gnetum
luofuense – were found. |
|
Recreatability |
Recreatable
(those with soil), Non-recreatable
(those with bedrock) |
|
Fragmentation |
Fragmented
by road |
|
Ecological
linkage |
Connected
to Clear Water Bay
Country Park, and surrounding
woodlands in Conservation
Area & Coastal Protection Area |
|
Potential
value |
Moderate, potentially become woodland under succession if
undisturbed |
|
Nursery
ground |
No Nursery ground identified |
|
Age |
Unknown (Undisturbed Area) ~10 years (Maintenance slope) |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
Low – Moderate |
|
Ecological
value |
Low – Moderate |
Table 6-5: Ecological
Value of Woodland
|
Criteria |
Woodland |
|
Naturalness |
Natural |
|
Size |
~ 14.3 ha |
|
Diversity |
Low – Moderate flora and
fauna diversity |
|
Rarity |
Habitat: Fairly common in countryside Species: Three plant
species of conservation importance – Aquilaria sinensis, Gnetum luofuense, & Pavetta hongkongensis – were found. |
|
Recreatability |
Recreatable
but take time |
|
Fragmentation |
Low – Moderate |
|
Ecological linkage |
Directly connected to surrounding shrubland on Conservation
Area, and have linkage with the Coastal Protection Area |
|
Potential value |
Moderate – High |
|
Nursery ground |
Immature Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax
nycticorax) was recorded |
|
Age |
About 30 years |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
Low – Moderate |
|
Ecological value |
Moderate |
Table 6-6: Ecological
Value of Developed Area
|
Criteria |
Developed Area |
|
Naturalness |
Man-made |
|
Size |
~ 2.8 ha |
|
Diversity |
Low flora and fauna
diversity |
|
Rarity |
Habitat: Common in Hong
Kong Species: Species of
conservation importance recorded included two rare
butterflies Lesser Band
Dart Potanthus trachala trachala
& Pale Palm Dart (Telicota colon
stinga), and two plants Araucaria
heterophylla and Dypsis lutescens (cultivated). |
|
Recreatability |
Recreateable |
|
Fragmentation |
Moderate |
|
Ecological linkage |
No significant ecological
linkage to surrounding was identified |
|
Potential value |
Low |
|
Nursery ground |
No Nursery ground
identified |
|
Age |
The oldest building is
about ~ 300 years |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
Low |
|
Ecological value |
Very Low |
Table 6-7: Ecological
Value of Grassland
|
Criteria |
Grassland |
|
Naturalness |
Semi-natural |
|
Size |
~ 0.05 ha |
|
Diversity |
Low flora and fauna
diversity with no species of conservation importance |
|
Rarity |
Common in Hong Kong |
|
Recreatability |
Recreateable |
|
Fragmentation |
Not fragmented |
|
Ecological linkage |
No significant ecological linkage
to surrounding was identified |
|
Potential value |
Moderate, depending on the
management method |
|
Nursery ground |
No Nursery ground
identified |
|
Age |
~ 2 years |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
Very Low |
|
Ecological value |
Very Low |
Table 6-8: Ecological
Value of Watercourses W1, W2 & W3
|
Criteria |
Watercourses |
|
|
W1 & W2 |
W3 |
|
|
Naturalness |
Semi-natural |
Semi-natural |
|
Size (Length) |
W1: ~ 160 m W2: ~ 140 m |
~ 230 m |
|
Diversity |
N.A. (No species found) |
Very Low |
|
Rarity |
Habitat: Fairly common in
countryside Species: No species found |
Habitat: Fairly common in
countryside Species: No species of
conservation importance |
|
Recreatability |
Recreatable |
Recreatable |
|
Fragmentation |
Downstream fragmented by
Po Toi O Chuen Road |
Fragmented by Fairway
Vista |
|
Ecological linkage |
No significant ecological
linkage to surrounding was identified |
No significant ecological
linkage to surrounding was identified |
|
Potential value |
Low |
Low |
|
Nursery ground |
No Nursery ground
identified |
No Nursery ground
identified |
|
Age |
Unknown |
Unknown |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
NIL. |
Very Low |
|
Ecological value |
Very Low |
Low |
Table 6-9: Ecological Value of Rocky Shore (Above High Tide Level)
|
Criteria |
Rocky Shore (Above High Tide Level) |
|
Naturalness |
Natural |
|
Size |
≈ 2.3 km |
|
Diversity |
Low in fauna diversity |
|
Rarity |
Habitat: Fairly common in
Hong Kong Species: No species of
conservation importance was recorded |
|
Recreatability |
Recreatable |
|
Fragmentation |
Low |
|
Ecological linkage |
Connected to intertidal area |
|
Potential value |
Low |
|
Nursery ground |
No Nursery ground
identified |
|
Age |
N/A |
|
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife |
Very Low |
|
Ecological value |
Low |
6.10
Identification of
Ecological Impacts
6.10.1 The proposed STP will be built on a cut-slope within
Conservation Area. New footpath and public parking spaces (collectively called
“road facilities”) will be provided in front of the STP. The gravity sewers and rising mains will be
constructed along the existing footpath, woodland and rocky shore above high tide level.
6.10.2 The pipeline of submarine outfall will be drilled underground by
horizontal directional drilling (HDD) without damaging the intertidal area.
Nevertheless, certain area of rocky shore above high tide level will be
impacted directly due to the HDD construction method.
Construction
Phase - Direct Impact
Sewage Treatment Plant
6.10.3
There will be a
permanent loss of 893 m2
of shrubland on the cut slope, where the STP, retaining structures and the road
facilities will be located on. The works area will be confined within the
permanent loss area and thus there will be no additional loss due to temporary
use. Vegetation within the work boundary will be cleared, including four trees
growing within the STP and pipe alignment. Two plant species of conservation importance: a young shrub
Diospyros vaccinioides and climber Gnetum luofuense were
found on the cut slope.
6.10.4
One individual
of Gnetum luofuense is grown within
the STP footprint and will be directly affected by the construction of STP.
Although transplanting this climber was considered, the possibility of
successful transplanting is considered to be low due to its locality and growth
form. As the Gnetum luofuense grows
on the man-made cut slope, it is not feasible to form a root ball for transplantation.
In addition, since it climbs across the shrubland and entangles other
vegetation, it will be very difficult to separate it out for transplantation.
Therefore, this Gnetum luofuense
individual will be removed during construction. Nevertheless, since it is
common in Hong Kong and was recorded in other areas in the Study Area (described in Section
6.3.1), the loss is considered to be minor.
6.10.5
Diospyros
vaccinioides is grown about 18 m away from the work boundary. Therefore no direct impact
is anticipated. However, bright colour fencing shall be erected around the
shrub to remind the workers not to damage it.
Gravity Sewers and Rising Mains
6.10.6
Establishment of gravity sewers
and rising mains will lead to a temporary loss of habitats. As the temporary
work boundary will be around 1.5 m on both sides of the pipes, temporary loss of about 2,100 m2 in
developed area, 350 m2 in woodland where Pandanus tectorius is dominated will be expected in construction phase.
Submarine Outfall
6.10.7
The HDD method for
constructing the pipeline of submarine outfall will result a temporary loss of
rocky shore. An entry pit of 7 m depth will be excavated within cofferdam for inserting the drill head
of the HDD drill rig. Other equipment (generator, bentonite mud pump and crane)
and construction materials (drill pipe and casing) will be placed on the rocky
shore. The work area is assumed to cover the whole rocky shore above high water
mark where the pipe alignment goes and the excavated area for HDD are located,
which measured about 750 m2 (Figure 1-1B refers). Vegetation, including 23 trees, within this area may be
affected and removed depending on the practice of the contractor. Although
rocks will be temporarily removed, they will be reinstated once the
construction work is finished.
6.10.8
The following table
summarizes the habitat loss:
Table 6-10: Summary of
Habitat Loss
|
Habitats |
Impacted Area |
|
|
Permanent |
Temporary |
|
|
Shrubland |
893 m2 |
- |
|
Developed
Area |
- |
2,100 m2 |
|
Woodland |
- |
350 m2 |
|
Rocky Shore |
- |
750 m2 |
|
Total |
893 m2 |
3,200 m2 |
Construction
Phase - Indirect Impact
Water Quality Impact
6.10.9
Due to the proximity of the construction area
to the coast and stream, major indirect impact will be water quality impact
from surface runoff into watercourses
and sea, and accidental
spillage of chemicals during construction phase. Mitigation
measures proposed in Chapter 5 – Water
Quality Impact Assessment and Section
6.12 shall be implemented to minimize water quality impact, such as
provision of channel or sand bag to prevent flowing of surface runoff,
treatment of wastewater before discharge and storage of materials away from the
shore and watercourses. Special attention should be paid during the pipe laying
work near W3 as it flows all year round. Also, part of the pipes will run very
close to the shore. Sandbags shall be placed on a flat land to prevent dropping
of excavated materials into the stream/sea.
6.10.10
Also,
excavation works will be carried out on the shore where outfall of W3 is
located. Therefore, water at the outfall of W3 is proposed to be collected and
diverted away from the work boundary. The water will ultimately flow back into
the sea a few meters north of the current flow direction. As no freshwater
wildlife was observed in this downstream section of W3, no significant impact
is expected.
Noise Impact
6.10.11
Noise emitted from Powered
Mechanical Equipment (PME) and increased human activities will be a
nuisance to wildlife. While mitigation measures proposed in Chapter 4 – Noise Impact Assessment (e.g.
erection of noise barrier, semi-enclosure) shall be implemented to minimize the
noise transmission, the residual noise will inevitably deter wildlife to
utilize the nearby areas for feeding or breeding. The impact will be
significant if there is any breeding activity nearby (e.g. potential breeding
activity observed for Black Kite). Nevertheless, as major work is concentrated
at the small area of the slope and the rocky shore where the HDD equipment will
be located, the noise source will be localized. Also noise generation is
temporary in nature, it will be ceased once the construction of STP is
completed.
Cumulative
Impact
6.10.12
Currently, there are two planned projects
within the Study Area:
(1) construction of roundabout near existing minibus stop in Po Toi O; and (2) maintenance dredging of Po Toi O
Fish Culture Zone. However, there
is no solid plan on when these works will be carried out. Therefore, it is
assumed that they will not be carried out concurrently with the construction
work of the STP.
Operational
Phase - Direct Impact
6.10.13
There will be
loss of 893 m2
of shrubland on the cut slope where the STP and new road facilities will be located
on. Other affected area (e.g. small area in developed area, woodland and rocky
shore above high tide level where the gravity sewers and rising mains located) will be
reinstated.
Operational
Phase - Indirect Impact
6.10.14
Noise impact from sewage treatment works on terrestrial
ecology will be limited. It is because most plant equipment will be placed
underground and enclosed within the STP building, while pipes will be placed
underground.
6.11
Evaluation of Ecological
Impacts
6.11.1
The significance of ecological impacts on habitats identified within the Study
Area (described
in Section 6.3.1) have been evaluated in
accordance with EIAO-TM
Annex 8 Table 1. Nevertheless,
due to the restricted accessibility to the habitats in the Clear Water Bay Golf and Country Club (i.e.
Grassland, Plantation & Artificial Water Pond), the ecological value, and hence the ecological impacts, of those
habitats cannot be evaluated.
Table 6-11: Evaluation of the Significance of Ecological
Impact on Shrubland
|
Criteria |
Shrubland |
|
Habitat quality |
Low – Moderate |
|
Species |
2 plant
species and 3 avifauna species of conservation importance were found 1 uncommon
avifauna species was also found |
|
Impact
Size/Abundance |
Very small in size
within the Study Area (i.e. ≈ 893 m2,
which is about 0.3% of Shrubland in the Study Area). Low number of
fauna. |
|
Impact Duration |
Permanent loss of
existing habitat of STP footprint (≈ 893 m2) Indirect impact
will only in construction phase |
|
Impact
Reversibility |
Irreversible for the STP footprint, reversible for
temporary work area |
|
Impact Magnitude |
About 0.3% of
Shrubland in the Study Area will be loss
permanently. It might also be affected by indirect impact (e.g. noise, water
runoff & accidental spillage). Only 1 plant
species of conservation importance (Gnetum luofuense) will be impacted directly. All fauna species
of conservation importance will be impacted by minor noise impact and
insignificant water quality impact in construction phase, while only limited
noise nuisance is expected
in operational phase. |
|
Overall Impact |
Minor |
Table 6-12: Evaluation of the Significance of Ecological
Impact on Woodland
|
Criteria |
Woodland |
|
Habitat quality |
Moderate |
|
Species |
3 plant species, 5
avifauna species, 1 butterfly species, and 1 snake species of conservation importance were found 1 uncommon
butterfly species and 2 uncommon avifauna species were also found |
|
Impact
Size/Abundance |
Very small in size
within the Study Area (i.e. work boundary ≈ 350m2, which is about
0.25% of Woodland in the Study Area). Low number of
fauna. |
|
Impact Duration |
Only in
construction phase |
|
Impact
Reversibility |
Reversible |
|
Impact Magnitude |
Very small area of
direct impact (i.e. habitat loss), where Pandanus
tectorius was dominated, during construction phase is expected. It might
also be affected by indirect impact (e.g. water runoff & accidental
spillage). No species of
conservation importance will be impacted directly. All fauna species
of conservation importance will be impacted by minor noise impact and
insignificant water quality impact in construction phase. No indirect impact is expected in operational phase. |
|
Overall Impact |
Minor |
Table 6-13: Evaluation of the Significance of Ecological
Impact on Developed Area
|
Criteria |
Developed Area |
|
Habitat quality |
Very Low |
|
Species |
2 plant
(cultivated) and 2 butterfly species of conservation importance were found |
|
Impact
Size/Abundance |
Small in size
within the Study Area (i.e. ≈ 700 m in length x 3 m work boundary ≈ 2100 m2
which is about 7.5% of Developed Area in the Study Area). Very low number of
fauna. |
|
Impact Duration |
Only in
construction phase |
|
Impact
Reversibility |
Reversible |
|
Impact Magnitude |
Small area of direct
impact (i.e. habitat loss) is expected. It might also be affected by indirect
impact (e.g. water runoff & accidental spillage). No species of
conservation importance will be impacted directly. All butterfly
species of conservation importance will be impacted by minor noise impact and
insignificant water quality impact in construction phase. No indirect impact is expected in operational phase. |
|
Overall Impact |
Negligible |
Table 6-14: Evaluation of the Significance of Ecological
Impact on Grassland
|
Criteria |
Grassland |
|
Habitat quality |
Very Low |
|
Species |
No species of
conservation importance was recorded |
|
Impact
Size/Abundance |
Not directly
affected. Very low number of
fauna. |
|
Impact Duration |
Only in
construction phase |
|
Impact
Reversibility |
Reversible |
|
Impact Magnitude |
No direct impact
(i.e. no habitat loss) is expected. Nevertheless it might be affected by
indirect impact (e.g. noise, water runoff & accidental spillage). |
|
Overall Impact |
Very Minor |
Table 6-15: Evaluation of the Significance of Ecological
Impact on Watercourses W1, W2 & W3
|
Criteria |
Watercourses W1, W2 & W3 |
|
Habitat quality |
Very Low / Low |
|
Species |
No species of
conservation importance was recorded |
|
Impact
Size/Abundance |
Not directly
affected. No fauna observed
in W1 and W2. Very low number of fauna in W3. |
|
Impact Duration |
Only in
construction phase |
|
Impact
Reversibility |
Reversible |
|
Impact Magnitude |
No direct impact
(i.e. no habitat loss) is expected. Nevertheless it might be affected by
indirect impact (e.g. water runoff & accidental spillage). |
|
Overall Impact |
Very Minor |
Table 6-16: Evaluation of the
Significance of Ecological Impact on Rocky Shore (Above High Tide Level)
|
Criteria |
Rocky Shore (Above High Tide Level) |
|
Habitat quality |
Low |
|
Species |
No species of conservation importance was recorded |
|
Impact Size/Abundance |
Small in size (i.e. ≈ 750 m2
which is about 1.8% of Rocky Shore (Above High Tide Level in the Study Area) Low number of fauna. |
|
Impact Duration |
Temporary loss of work area (≈ 750 m2); & Indirect impact will only in construction phase |
|
Impact Reversibility |
Reversible |
|
Impact Magnitude |
750 m2 of rocky shore will be temporarily loss in
construction phase; & Indirect impact will be temporary in construction phase. |
|
Overall Impact |
Minor |
6.12
Recommendations &
Mitigation Measures
6.12.1
The location of STP, and the alignment of sewer and
rising mains have undergone several rounds of site selection to minimize the ecological
impacts. Recommendations
and mitigation measures have been proposed to minimize the ecological impact to
acceptable levels based on the following hierarchy: avoidance, minimization and
compensation.
6.12.2
Avoidance
·
Avoiding natural / undisturbed habitat,
the STP is located on a cut slope which has already been modified by human.
·
Avoid affecting sensitive habitats and
land-use (e.g. woodland in Conservation Area)
·
Avoiding the damage of terrestrial
habitat, trenchless method will be adopt on where excavation deep underground
is required
6.12.3
Minimization
·
The STP, sewer and rising mains were
designed to locate away from
watercourses and coast as far as possible to minimize water quality impact
during construction phase
·
Construct most of the interior of the STP
underground
·
Erection of
hoarding, fencing or provision of clear demarcation of work zones to remind
workers not to damage area outside the work boundary
·
Designate areas
for placement of equipment, building materials and wastes away from the natural
environment
·
Adopt good site practices to minimize dust
emission (e.g. covering of stockpile) (Section
3.8), noise emission and transmission (e.g. use of QPME and erection of
noise barrier) (Section 4.7) and
prevent water pollution (e.g. placement of sandbags along watercourse near
Fairway Vista and rocky shore where excavation will be carried out) (Section 5.8).
·
Erect bright colour fencing along the boundary of
the undisturbed region of the shrubland and woodland, and around Diospyros
vaccinioides, a plant species of conservation
importance, near the
work boundary to remind workers not to trespass or occupy the area, and to be
careful during operation of equipment.
·
Place
sandbag around the section of W3 next to Fairway Vista and along the shore
during open cut excavation for laying of gravity sewer nearby to prevent the
excavated materials from falling into the water and being carried into the sea.
·
Temporarily
divert the water from outfall of W3 away from excavation area.
·
Install
cofferdam around the proposed excavation area for entry pit of HDD work to
prevent falling of debris into the sea.
·
Provide
container underneath bentonite recycling system to prevent flowing of leaked
bentonite/mud into the sea.
·
Reinstate
the disturbed rocky shore with the rocks temporarily removed.
·
The woodland which will be subject to temporary
loss will be reinstated. Tree preservation and compensatory tree planting will
be carried out in accordance with DEVB TCW No. 7/2015.
6.13
Evaluation of Residual
Impacts
6.13.1
With proper
implementation of mitigation measures, the residual impact is anticipated to be
acceptable during construction and operational phases.
6.14
Environmental Monitoring
and Audit Programme
6.14.1
Regular site audit shall be carried out in
construction phase to ensure that the proposed mitigation measures are
implemented properly, and to monitor the effectiveness of the mitigation
measures.
6.15.1
Ecological sensitive areas recorded in the
Study Area (described
in Section 6.3.1) included
the Clear Water Bay Country Park. 3 avifauna species of conservation importance were recorded in past studies, while 6
plant, 11 avifauna, 1 snake and 2 butterfly species of conservation importance were recorded in recent surveys.
6.15.2
A small area of shrubland (893 m2)
on Conservation Area will be impacted directly due to the establishment of
sewage treatment plant (STP) and road facilities (footpath and public parking
spaces). One individual of a common plant species of conservation importance (Gnetum
luofuense) growing on this shrubland is also expected to be impacted
directly. However, since the shrubland has low – moderate ecological value, the
impact is anticipated to be minor.
6.15.3
Small area of woodland in Conservation
Area and developed area (350 m2 & 2,100 m2
respectively) will also be lost temporarily for the establishment of associated
land-based pipes. In addition, 750 m2 of rocky shore (above high
tide level) on Coastal Protection Area will be lost temporarily for
constructing the pipeline of submarine outfall. Nevertheless, direct impact
caused by the establishment of associated land-based pipes and pipeline of
submarine outfall would be reversible.
6.15.4
In construction phase, construction
activities may bring indirect water quality and/or noise impacts on the
surrounding habitats and wildlife. As
for operational phase, noise impact from sewage treatment works will be
limited.
6.15.5
With proper implementation of mitigation
measures, residual impact is expected to be acceptable. Regular site audit
would only be required in construction phase.
6.15.6
The overall impact on terrestrial ecology
is considered as acceptable.
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