Examples of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) in Hong Kong

Case 1 - Port and Airport Development Strategy 1989

Key Environmental Outcomes or Influences

1. 350,000 people relieved from high aircraft noise through relocating the airport.
2. The finally chosen strategy (strategy B) was environmentally least damaging.
3. Environmentally sensitive areas to the east and south of the territory were conserved.
4. A framework was set out to follow up detailed issues through project EIAs.

 

Nature and Scope of the Proposal

To formulate a comprehensive airport and port strategy for Hong Kong for the Year 2011. The Study was the most complex one ever conducted in Hong Kong.

Basis of SEA Requirement

The strategic-level environmental assessment required as a pre-requisite for Government's endorsement of the strategy.

Relationship with Decision Making

The findings of SEA formed an essential input to the highest level decision making body in deciding on the location of the new airport and selection of strategies.

Noise Exposure Forecast Contour for the existing airport
(350,000 people within high noise band)

Noise Exposure Forecast Contour for the new airport (less than 500 people will be affected by high noise)

Alternative or Options Assessed

3 alternative strategies including no new airport assessed. 46 initial options and 12 shortlisted options subject to strategic environmental screening and evaluation.

Strategy A - Kai Tak Retained

Methods and Techniques

Strategic environmental screening and evaluation criteria adopted.

Strategic air, noise and water quality modelling conducted for the territory.

Direct and indirect impacts evaluated.

Strategy B - Airport Relocated to Chek Lap Kok

Latest Status

The new airport and associated projects have been completed. Environmental monitoring and audit programmes for the airport railway and the airport's operation are on-going.

Airport Core Projects

Strategy C - Airport Relocated to Western Harbour

Other Cases