EPD - Pollution Problems & Practical Solutions

Painting
Pollution Type
Air
Problem
Odour
Relevant Env. Control Under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance, Cap. 311, any person causing the air nuisance to the atmosphere requires the adoption of air pollution abatement measures.
Practical Solutions
Only use windows for ventilation. Keep the main door closed and seal all gaps with plastic coverings or wet towels to avoid causing nuisance to the neighbour
Use plastic sheets to cover all indoor entrances to the premises undergoing renovation works to minimize odour and dust emission.
Use plastic sheets to cover all indoor entrances to the premises undergoing renovation works to minimize odour and dust emission.
Encourage the neighbour to cover the main door with plastic sheets or seal the door gaps with wet towels
Select low-volatile organic compound (VOC) or water-based paint (Details can be found in “A Simple Guide for Architects, Home Owners and Painters to Reduce Paint VOC Emission(Text Alternative)”)
Compare the product label on the VOC content and choose product without or with low VOC
Less glossy paints have lower VOC content
Store VOC-containing products in air-tight containers
Agree with neighbour on the use of VOC products in mutually acceptable hours
Use mechanical ventilation devices such as fan and blower
Use absorbent and filter
 
   
Pollution Type
Waste & Water
Problem
-
Relevant Env. Control Identified as chemical wastes which are under the control of the Waste Disposal Ordinance, Cap.354. Discharge of these chemical wastes into storm or foul drain is an offence under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance, Cap. 358. They should be reused as far as possible. Otherwise, the contractor should register as Chemical Waste Producer and employ licensed Chemical Waste Collector to arrange for proper disposal.
Practical Solutions
Reuse residual paint and solvent as far as possible
Dry/cured paint (non-chemical waste) can be disposed of as normal refuse
Small quantity of household waste solvent or paint can be disposed with household refuse
Property management companies can consider to register as a Chemical Waste Producer and offer a value-added service to centrally collect waste solvent or solvent-based paint for subsequent collection by licensed Chemical Waste Collector