Milestones in Hong Kong Environmental Protection - 2000s | Environmental Protection Department

2000s

2009
Community Awareness

Launched the $450 million Buildings Energy Efficiency Funding Schemes under the Environment and Conservation Fund.
Published a comic book on "Low Carbon Living" jointly with the Environmental Campaign Committee and the Environmental Protection Bureau of the Macao SAR to celebrate World Environment Day 2009.
Earmarked $50 million through the Environment and Conservation Fund to help schools implement on-site meal portioning.
Accepted applications from non-government organisations for funding support for energy conservation projects under the Environment and Conservation Fund.

Air

Completed a consultancy study on Hong Kong's Air Quality Objectives and the development of a long-term air quality management strategy.
Commenced a trial of local ferries using ultra low sulphur diesel.
Amended the Air Pollution Control (Specified Processes) Regulations 1987 to include environmental engineers in the definition of "qualified engineer".
Amended the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation to extend the control of VOC content to refinishing paints/coatings for vehicle refinishes, vessels and pleasure crafts, as well as adhesives and sealants.
Completed a 4-month consultation to solicit public views on proposed new Air Quality Objectives and measures for achieving the new objectives.
Amended the Ozone Layer Protection (Products Containing Scheduled Substances) (Import Banning) Regulation to extend the ban on CFCs to include controlled products such as air-conditioners containing hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The import of CFC-containing metered dosed inhalers and fire extinguishers containing HCFCs and bromochloromethane (BCM) was also banned.
Renewed the specified process licences for the Castle Peak Power Station, Black Point Power Station and Penny's Bay Gas Turbine Power Station, imposing emission caps.

Energy

Granted approval to extend CLP Power Hong Kong Limited's contract to supply electricity from Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station for another 20 years from 2014.
Fully implemented the initial phase of the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme.
Introduced the Buildings Energy Efficiency Bill into the Legislative Council for mandatory implementation of Building Energy Codes.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Saw approval of the EIA report on the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link.

Noise

Saw implementation of the expanded Designated Areas under the Noise Control Ordinance, to better protect people against construction noise.

Waste

Funding approval by the Legislative Council Finance Committee for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
Implemented the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags as the first mandatory producer responsibility scheme under the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance.
Held the Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony 2009.
Completed land rezoning for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension.
Invited tenders for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
Achieved in having a total of 1 256 housing estates / residential buildings enrolled in the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste against a 2009 target of 1 140, covering some 67 per cent of the population.
Commenced a follow-on contract for operation and upgrading of the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre.
Completed the EIA study for the Organic Waste Treatment Facility Phase I and made it available for public inspection.

Water

Started construction of the Sewage Conveyance System under Stage 2A of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
Obtained the agreement of the Metro Planning Committee of the Town Planning Board to amend the Stonecutters Island Outline Zoning Plan so as to accommodate the underground biological treatment plant for Stage 2B of HATS, subject to certain adjustments.
Completed construction of the Advance Disinfection Facilities at the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works under Stage 2A of HATS.

Customer Service and Partnership

Supported the launch of the Hong Kong Construction Association's Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection on Construction Sites 2009.
Appointed Environmental Ambassadors for the vehicle repair trade associations.

Environmental Compliance

Launched the Environmental Compliance Promotion Programme to enhance environmental awareness and facilitate local trades and industries in achieving compliance and even going further.
Extended the use of dust-proof mechanical covers in grab-mounted lorries to all public works projects.

Cross Boundary and International Co-operation

Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2008.
Joined the C40 Steering Committee on Electric Vehicles.
Held a capacity building seminar on the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) aimed at enterprises and the general public, with speakers from Hong Kong and the National Development and Reform Commission of the Central People's Government.
Signed the Environmental Cooperation Agreement between Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong to enhance cooperation and related mechanisms with a view to transforming the Pearl River Delta region into a green and quality living area.
Jointly launched the Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partners Recognition Scheme with the Economic & Information Commission of Guangdong Province.
Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for the first half of 2009.
Commenced a joint study with the Department of Environmental Protection of Guangdong Province on the post-2010 arrangements for air pollutant emission reduction in the Pearl River Delta region.
Awarded "Hong Kong - Guangdong Cleaner Production Partner" commendations to the first batch of Hong Kong enterprises, to recognise their efforts in pursuing cleaner production.
Announced the "Supplementary Notes on the Implementation of Projects under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) by Hong Kong enterprises in the Mainland".
Participated in the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2009 as members of the Chinese delegation to the Conference.

Sustainable Development

Saw the launch of a public engagement process on "Building Design to Foster a Quality and Sustainable Built Environment" by the Council for Sustainable Development.

2008
Community Awareness

Saw $1 billion injected into the Environment and Conservation Fund and new priority programme areas identified, namely minor works projects to demonstrate and promote energy efficiency and conservation and waste reduction.
Launched the 2008 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) to encourage green management and benchmarking by companies and organisations. The award merged three Government-initiated schemes: the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards, the Wastewi$e Scheme and the Hong Kong Energy Efficiency Awards.
Opened the Lung Fu Shan Environmental Education Centre, which is jointly operated by the Environmental Protection Department and the University of Hong Kong.
Opened an Environmental Exhibition Corner at the Kennedy Town Community Complex in Kennedy Town, as a multimedia facility to deliver green messages to the public.
Produced the fourth generation of 3-coloured waste separation bins jointly with the Environmental Campaign Committee.

Air

Completed a public consultation on banning idling vehicles with running engines and formulated a proposal in light of the feedback.
Launched a tax incentive scheme for environment-friendly commercial vehicles.
Amended the Air Pollution Control Ordinance to stipulate emission caps for power plants from 2010 and facilitate emissions trading as an alternative means for achieving the caps.
Waived the duty for Euro V motor vehicle diesel.
Extended the deadline for applying for one-off grants to replace pre-Euro diesel commercial vehicles from 30 September 2008 to 31 March 2010, in line with that for Euro I diesel commercial vehicles.
Saw the Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) (Amendment) Regulation 2008 come into force.
Fully implemented the Air Pollution Control (Dry-Cleaning Machines) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation, following a seven-year specified period, to further reduce residual PCE emissions from dry-cleaning machines.
Promulgated the "Technical Memorandum For Allocation Of Emission Allowances In Respect Of Specified Licences", which allocates to the power plants emission allowances for three specified pollutants from 2010.
Renewed the specified process licence for the Lamma Power Station, incorporating a new provision to facilitate the use of emissions trading.

Energy

Signed the new Scheme of Control Agreements with each of the two power companies.
Concluded a public consultation exercise on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes
Enacted the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Ordinance (Cap. 598).
Saw a Memorandum of Understanding on energy co-operation signed between the HKSAR Government and the National Energy Administration.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Completed the first phase of a system that enables electronic applications to be processed under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance according to the requirements of the Electronic Transactions Ordinance.
Established a library of 3-D electronic images of the major findings and elements of EIA reports on the EIAO website.
Saw approval of the EIA reports on the Wan Chai Development Phase II / Central-Wan Chai Bypass and West Island Line.

Noise

Saw the Legislative Council approve expanded coverage of Designated Areas under the Noise Control Ordinance, to better protect the local community against construction noise.

Waste

Completed a site search exercise for the first phase of the Integrated Waste Management Facilities. Two potential sites were identified for further detailed engineering and EIA studies.
Supported the launch of the Computer Recycling Programme by the computer trade.
Held the first Forum on Source Separation of Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Waste and a certificate presentation ceremony to commend over 200 C&I buildings.
Supported the launch of the Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Programme by the lighting trade.
Saw approval of an EIA report on the extension of the South East New Territories Landfill.
Commenced the land rezoning process for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension project.
Saw the Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance (Cap 603) enacted by the Legislative Council.
Commenced operation of the Animal Waste Composting Plant, which initially treated horse stable waste from the 2008 Olympic and the Paralympic Equestrian Events.
Commissioned the Pilot Composting Plant at Kowloon Bay Waste Recycling Centre to treat food waste.
Commenced engineering and EIA studies for the first phase of the Organic Waste Treatment Facilities.
Held the Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony 2008.
Supported the launch of the Glass Container Recycling Programme for the Hotel Sector by the trade.
Commenced engineering and EIA studies for the first phase of the Integrated Waste Management Facilities.
Submitted the Product Eco-responsibility (Plastic Shopping Bags) Regulation to LegCo for positive vetting.
Implemented the amended Building (Refuse Storage and Material Recovery Chambers and Refuse Chutes) Regulations, which require all new domestic buildings and the domestic part of new composite buildings to be provided with refuse storage and material recovery room on every floor to facilitate source separation of waste.
Exhibited the Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Sludge Treatment facility for public inspection.
Saw 996 housing estates / residential buildings enrolled in the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste by year's end against a target of 920, covering some 53 per cent of the population.

Water

Started construction on Advance Disinfection Facilities at the Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works under the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A.
Began a study on co-use of land for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2B.
Saw approval of an EIA report on the construction and operation of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.
Gazetted authorization of statutory easement for the construction of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme Stage 2A Sewage Conveyance System.

Customer Service and Partnership

Saw the Hong Kong Construction Association working in partnership with EPD, promulgate the Environmental Toolbox Training Kit for the construction sector.
Produced a CD-ROM with updated guidance materials and technical information on green restaurants, for the restaurant trade.
Supported the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants & Related Trades in an SME Development Fund Project to control cooking fumes in the restaurant & catering trades, which held its closing ceremony cum technical guide press briefing this month.
Saw the Housing Department introduce standard contractual requirements, developed jointly with EPD, to use QPME-type generators and non-tungsten energy-saving site luminaries for all its new construction projects.
Launched an updated electronic version of the "Environmental Guide for Smart Business" to facilitate environmental compliance by local trades and industry.
Issued a Corporate Environmental Management (CEM) Resource DVD-ROM, with all published environmental management tools in one disk.
Organised a forum with the vehicle repair trade to enhance environmental knowledge among trade practitioners and promote communication.

Environmental Compliance

Implemented the Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance to control the import, export, manufacture and use of non-pesticide hazardous chemicals, including those covered by the Stockholm Convention and Rotterdam Convention.
Required all petrol filling stations to have a Phase II vapour recovery system to recover petrol vapour released during refueling.

Cross Boundary and International Co-operation

Released the report on the Mid-term Review of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Management Plan.
Commenced a comprehensive study on climate change in Hong Kong.
Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for 2007.
Launched the five-year Cleaner Production Partnership Programme.
Announced "Arrangements for the Implementation of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Projects in the HKSAR" to facilitate the commissioning of CDM projects in Hong Kong.
Submitted a First Effectiveness Evaluation Report, as required under the Stockholm Convention, to the Central People's Government for inclusion in its National Report for China.
Launched the first guidelines for conducting carbon audits at buildings in Hong Kong, and commenced the "Green Hong Kong ‧ Carbon Audit" campaign.
Agreed to jointly transform the Greater Pearl River Delta Region into a Green and Quality Living Area at the 11th Plenary of the Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation Joint Conference, co-chaired by the Chief Executive and the Governor of Guangdong Province, in Guangzhou.
Saw the extension of the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade to Hong Kong.
Released the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Report for the first half of 2008.
Established arrangement for regular meetings with the Macao government to enhance environmental cooperation between the two places.
Signed a "Co-operation Agreement on Cleaner Production between Hong Kong and Shenzhen" with the Shenzhen Environmental Protection Bureau.

Nature Conservation

Saw the Chief Executive announce in his 2008-09 Policy Address that the Government will consider setting up a Geopark.
Opened the Lantau North (Extension) Country Park, Hong Kong's 24th country park.

Sustainable Development

Saw the Council for Sustainable Development submit its Report on the Better Air Quality Engagement Process and recommendations to the Government.
Approved a total of $7.28 million in grants for eight projects, in the fifth round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
Held the fifth event under the Council for Sustainable Development's Community Outreach Programme in Tai Po.[Sustainable Development]
Launched the sixth round of applications under the Sustainable Development Fund.
Saw the Government release its response to the Council for Sustainable Development's Report on the Better Air Quality Engagement Process.

2007
General

Saw the formation of the Environment Bureau arising from the re-organisation of the Government Secretariat on 1 July 2007.

Community Awareness

Broadcast a one-hour TV show on World Environment Day 2007. The programme featured a "Cool Biz Fashion Show" to promote energy conservation and dressing-down at work.
Launched the "I Love Hong Kong! I Love Green!" Campaign to encourage the public to switch to a greener lifestyle.

Air

Released a report on the monitoring results of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Network for 2006.
Launched a tax incentive scheme for environment-friendly petrol private cars.
Launched an incentive scheme to replace pre-Euro and Euro I diesel commercial vehicles with new commercial vehicles compliant with the prevailing statutory emission standards.
Commissioned a consultancy study to review the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) for Hong Kong and to develop a long-term air quality management strategy to meet new AQOs.
Renewed the Specified Process licence for the Castle Peak Power Station, with emission caps progressively tightening up to ensure timely compliance with Hong Kong's 2010 emission reduction targets.
Released a report on the monitoring results of the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Network for the first half of 2007.
Organised the ninth Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Monitoring Technical Seminar in Hong Kong.
Launched a consultation to ban vehicles from running their engines during idling.
Provided a concessionary duty rate of $0.56 per litre for Euro V diesel for two years.
Renewed the Specified Process licence for the Black Point Power Station, incorporating a new emission offsetting arrangement to provide for more emission reduction from more gas burning.
Consulted the Legislative Council's Panel on Environmental Affairs on a proposal for mandating the use of ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) or cleaner diesel fuel in industrial and commercial processes.

Energy

Introduced the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Bill into the Legislative Council.
Launched a public consultation on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes.

Noise

Consulted stakeholders on expanding the coverage of Designated Areas under the NCO to better protect the local community against construction noise.
Issued guidelines on driving habits and maintenance practices that reduce road traffic noise. The guidelines are for drivers, vehicle owners and vehicle repair technicians.

Waste

Commenced the EIA study for the West New Territories Landfill Extension project.
Commenced landfill gas export under the off-site landfill gas utilisation scheme for the North East New Territories Landfill.
Awarded the first batch of tenancies in EcoPark.
Conducted a two-month public consultation on a proposed environmental levy on plastic shopping bags. The proposal received overwhelming public support.
Held a Forum on Source Separation of Waste cum Award Presentation Ceremony.
Reached consensus with the computer trade to launch a voluntary recycling programme for computer equipment.
Commenced the EIA study for the Sludge Treatment Facilities.
Launched the Waste Reduction Web and Hong Kong Second-hand Exchange.
Released the Guideline on How to Promote Green Lunch in Schools.
Launched the Programme for Source Separation of Commercial and Industrial Waste.
Completed the EIA study for the North East New Territories Landfill Extension project.
Commenced revised charges prescribed in Schedules 1 and 2 to the Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Chemical Waste) Regulation (Cap.354J).
Reached consensus with the lighting trade to launch a voluntary recycling programme for fluorescent lamps.
Gazetted the "Product Eco-responsibility Bill". The Bill would provide a legal framework for implementing producer responsibility schemes in Hong Kong, with the environmental levy on plastic shopping bags as the first scheme under the Bill.
Enlisted 766 housing estates/residential buildings to join the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste.

Water

Saw the Legislative Council agree to implement a ten-year plan to increase the sewage charge, with a view to applying the polluter pays principle to the provision of sewage services. The first annual increment will take effect on 1 April 2008.
Promulgated new standards, "Risk-Based Remediation Goals", for use in contaminated land assessment and remediation in Hong Kong.
Commenced planning and design work to upgrade Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works and preliminary treatment works under the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
Obtained approval of the EIA report for the construction and operation of Advanced Disinfection Facilities at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.
Saw the Public Works Sub-Committee of the Legislative Council agree to the funding of the Advanced Disinfection Facilities at Stonecutters Island sewage treatment works.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Saw the release of the first 3-D EIA visualisation tool for public access through the internet, during the statutory public inspection period of a project EIA report.
Assisted Planning Department in completing the strategic environmental assessment study for the Hong Kong 2030 Planning Vision and Strategy.

Customer Service and Partnership

Participated in the launching ceremony of the SME Development Fund Project on Cooking Fume Control for the Restaurant & Catering Trades in Hong Kong, organised by the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants & Related Trades.
Collaborated with the Airport Authority to organise the 2007 Airport Environmental Best Practice – Air Quality Management Competition at the Hong Kong International Airport.
Organised a ceremony to mark the appointment of Environmental Ambassadors of the Vehicle Repair Trade for a new tenure.
Organised an environmental seminar on recent challenges related to the vehicle repair trade with the support of the Institute of Vocational Education (Lee Wai Lee) and two SME vehicle repair trade associations.
Collaborated with the Development Bureau to develop technical specifications for the use of dust proof mechanical truck covers in local settings.
Launched an "Environmental Guide for Smart Business" to facilitate environmental compliance by local trades and industry, and organised promotional seminars to publicise the Guide.
Collaborated with the Hong Kong Construction Association to launch their first "Innovative Environmental Award" for the construction industry, to encourage the trade to develop creative solutions to overcome special environmental challenges.

Environmental Compliance

Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation which provides control on VOC content of architectural paints/coatings, printing inks and selected consumer products in phases, as well as requires reduction devices to be installed on certain printing machines.
Brought into operation provisions under the Waste Disposal Ordinance (Amendment) 2006 to facilitate the issuance of waste collection and disposal licences and to strengthen enforcement.

Cross Boundary and International Co-operation

Announced the implementation framework of the Emissions Trading Pilot Scheme for Thermal Power Plants in the Pearl River Delta Region.
Introduced the HKSAR Implementation Plan for the Stockholm Convention at a ceremony to launch China's National Implementation Plan for the Convention which officially kick-started the Convention implementation phase in the Mainland and the HKSAR.
Promulgated the Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance
Signed an Agreement on Co-operation to Promote Energy Efficiency, Cleaner Production and Comprehensive Utilisation of Resources to Enterprises in Hong Kong and Guangdong between the Environment Bureau of the HKSAR and the Economic & Trade Commission of Guangdong Province.
Adopted the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Leaders' Declaration on "Climate Change, Energy Security and Clean Development", which was announced at the APEC Leaders' Meeting in Sydney.
Established an Inter-departmental Working Group on Climate Change to strengthen the co-ordination of efforts to tackle climate change among the relevant bureaux and departments.
Joined the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group to work closely with the participating cities to combat climate change.
Signed an Agreement on Enhancing Co-operation on Environmental Protection between the Environmental Protection Department of the HKSAR and the Shenzhen Environmental Protection Bureau.
Completed the Pearl River Delta Regional Air Quality Management Plan Mid-term Review.
Completed the Cleaner Production Technical Support Pilot Project to promote cleaner production technologies to Hong Kong-owned factories in the Pearl River Delta region.

Nature Conservation

Reviewed the pilot scheme for Management Agreements for implementing the new nature conservation policy and obtained the support of the Environment and Conservation Fund Committee to continue funding the scheme.

Sustainable Development

Saw the Council for Sustainable Development launch the engagement process on Better Air Quality, in which the community is invited to give views on actions during high air pollution days, electronic road pricing and demand side management.
Saw the Council for Sustainable Development organise an Air Summit to feed back the results of the engagement process on Better Air Quality to stakeholders and consolidate the responses to its findings.

2006
Community Awareness

Adopted the theme "Be Responsible for Our Environment, I Can and So Can You" for World Environment Day 2006 to educate the public on their responsibility to reduce waste.
Launched the Action Blue Sky Campaign to encourage public participation in improving air quality in Hong Kong.

Air

Implemented Euro IV emission standards for newly registered vehicles not more than 2.5 tonnes.
Saw Hong Kong's first wind power station begin commercial operation.
Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Emission Reduction Devices for Vehicles)(Amendment) Regulation 2005 which requires all pre-Euro diesel vehicles, except long idling ones, to be installed with approved emission reduction devices.
Announced that in early 2007 an 18-month comprehensive study would be commissioned to review Hong Kong's Air Quality Objectives (AQO) and develop a long-term air quality management strategy.
Obtained agreement in principle from the Central People's Government to extend the Beijing Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to Hong Kong.
Implemented Euro IV emission standards for newly registered vehicles more than 3.5 tonnes.

Noise

Released A Draft Comprehensive Plan to Tackle Road Traffic Noise in Hong Kong for public consultation.

Waste

Started charging for disposal of construction waste.
Invited Expressions of Interest for establishing environmental and recycling businesses in the EcoPark.
Launched the first "No Plastic Bag Day" on April 15. Riding on the success, major green groups continued to organise monthly "No Plastic Bag Days" between June and December with the support of the EPD. Ten major retail chains, including the three largest supermarket chains, agreed to continue the campaign in 2007 on a self-supporting basis.
Enacted the Waste Disposal (Amendment) Ordinance 2006 to tighten control on the disposal of imported waste, and to provide legal back up for the Basel Ban on the import of hazardous waste from developed countries.
Shipped the first batch of rechargeable batteries (13 tonnes) collected under the "Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme", to a recycling facility in South Korea.
Organised a forum for the property management sector to share successful experiences on source separation of domestic waste in housing estates, and issued the "Guidebook on Source Separation of Waste in Residential Buildings".
Started construction of EcoPark Phase I.
Awarded a contract for the provision of management services for EcoPark.
Launched a three-month Trial Scheme on Municipal Solid Waste Charging at 20 housing estates to examine the feasibility of introducing a variable rate charging scheme for municipal solid waste.
Substantially completed a consultation with stakeholders on a new set of risk-based land contamination standards for Hong Kong.
Saw the Environment and Conservation Fund agree to allocate $10 million for a public education programme under "A Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014)".
Started the tender invitation for tenancies of the first batch of Phase I lots in EcoPark for recycling designated materials.
Enlisted 497 housing estates/residential buildings (reaching some two million people) to join the Programme on Source Separation of Domestic Waste.

Water

Commenced planning, investigation and design work for the tunnel system for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A.
Commissioned an advanced treatment plant for a demonstration scheme on reclaimed water uses in North District and started supplying reclaimed water to selected users.
Issued a Guidance Note on "Implementation of the 1996 Protocol to the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, 1972".
Announced a proposal to increase sewage charges under the polluter pays principle, to provide sustainable financial support for the operation of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) Stage 2A and other sewerage facilities.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Issued a circular memorandum to implement a policy commitment in the Chief Executive's 2005-06 Policy Address to subject all new major government policies to environmental protection scrutiny. The circular stipulates the guidelines and procedures that all bureaux/departments should observe when formulating policy proposals with potential environmental implications.
Saw the release of the first 3-D EIA for a major development project to facilitate public consultation.

Customer Service and Partnership

In collaboration with the Vocational Training Council, organised a series of workshops on the application of environmental spray guns with enhanced paint transfer efficiency for the vehicle repair trade.
Collaborated with the Airport Authority to organise the 2005/06 Airport Environmental Best Practice – Green Restaurant Competition at the Hong Kong International Airport.
Issued an educational CD-ROM for the restaurant trade to promote awareness of environmental legislative and licensing requirements, and practical measures on green management.
Saw the commissioning of an SME Development Fund Project for Mitigation and Control of Cooking Fume Emissions from the Restaurant Trade, which arose from partnership efforts with the restaurant trade associations and related stakeholders.
Opened a dedicated one-stop assistance centre, the Compliance Assistance Centre on 28/F, Southorn Centre, Wan Chai, where businesses can obtain updated information and advice on environmental compliance, pollution prevention and environmental management.
Launched a new Property Management Partnership Web site.
Released an information leaflet on "Smart Environmental Tips for the Vehicle Repair Workshops Trade" to promote good environmental practices.

Environmental Compliance

Banned backyard poultry farming in Prohibition and Restriction Areas pursuant to the amendment to the Waste Disposal Ordinance, and the Public Health (Animals and Birds)(Licensing of Livestock Keeping) Regulation.
Launched a training course for construction site environmental officers, which was jointly developed by the EPD, Hong Kong Construction Association and Construction Industry Training Authority.
Introduced a new contractual condition to require the use of Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel in all public works projects.
Banned the use of all existing vented type dry-cleaning machines under the Air Pollution Control (Dry-Cleaning Machines) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation.

Cross Boundary and International Co-operation

Introduced the Hazardous Chemicals Control Bill into the Legislative Council.
Submitted the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Implementation Plan for the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants to the Central People's Government.
Saw endorsement of the implementation framework of the Emissions Trading Pilot Scheme for Thermal Power Plants in the Pearl River Delta Region, jointly by Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities.

Nature Conservation

Oversaw implementation of the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, which enables Hong Kong to fully comply with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

2005
General

Saw the merger of the Environmental Protection Department and the Environment Branch of the Environment, Transport and Works Bureau on April 1.
Saw signing of co-operation arrangement between the State Environmental Protection Administration and the Environmental Protection Department on air pollution.

Community Awareness

Adopted "Fresh Air, Cool City" as the local theme of World Environment Day 2005 to encourage switching off idling vehicle engines and setting air-conditioning temperatures at 25.5 degrees Celsius.
Set aside $5 million under the Environment and Conservation Fund to support the implementation of Source Separation of Domestic Waste in private housing estates.
Joined the Pan Pearl River Delta Regional Environmental Protection Industry Cooperation Exhibition with the Guangdong Environmental Protection Bureau to promote regional co-operation on the environmental protection industry.
Organised the first Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Recycling Day and "Zero Waste" walk to echo the Environmental Protection Festival 2005.
Broadcast a series of one-minute TV programmes and a 30-minute TV programme to promote waste reduction.

Air

Implemented the amended Air Pollution Control (Petrol Filling Stations) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation to require vapour recovery systems to be installed at petrol filling stations for recovering petrol vapour during vehicle refuelling.
Commenced a grant scheme to help owners of pre-Euro heavy diesel vehicles that need to operate on-board equipment when idling, to install particulate reduction devices.
Launched the "Guideline on Modelling Vehicle Emissions" and an advanced vehicle emission model that was adapted from the California Air Resource Board's EMFAC model.
Imposed Hong Kong's first set of emission caps on the Castle Peak Power Station of CLP Power Hong Kong Ltd. on August 1 as a condition of the Specified Process Licence renewal under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance.
Introduced to the Legislative Council an amendment regulation to implement Euro IV emission standards for newly registered light duty vehicles in 2006.
Commenced on November 30 operation of the Pearl River Delta regional air quality monitoring network jointly established by the Guangdong and HKSAR governments, and published a Regional Air Quality Index for each monitoring station.
Completed on December 31 an incentive scheme encouraging diesel light buses to make an early switch to clean light buses. Around 55% of the diesel public light buses have switched to use LPG.

Noise

Launched the administrative Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment scheme to promote the use of quieter and more environmentally friendly construction equipment.
Applied 3-D visualisation technologies at a public consultation for noise barrier installation to enhance public understanding.

Waste

Launched the programme on source separation of domestic waste territory-wide with the aim of having 80 per cent of the population in Hong Kong take part by 2010.
Launched the territory-wide Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme to recover all types of rechargeable batteries. This was a good example of tripartite collaboration between the trade, green groups and the Government in implementing a voluntary producer responsibility scheme.
Commissioned the Low-level Radioactive Waste Storage Facility at Siu A Chau.
Saw membership of the Wastewi$e Scheme exceed 1 000.
Published "A Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014)" which sets out a comprehensive strategy for municipal solid waste management in Hong Kong for the ten years from 2005 to 2014.
Commenced implementation of the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme.

Water

Saw the CE announce in his policy speech that HATS Stage Two would proceed in phases with Stage 2A targeted for completion in 2013.
Commenced an EIA Study on advance disinfection facilities at Stonecutters Island Sewage Treatment Works.
Secured additional funding of $3.3 billion for sewerage projects, of which $1.3 billion was for village sewerage.
Saw the new CE reaffirm the Government's intention to implement HATS Stage Two in phases with the aim of completing Stage 2A by 2013-14 and advanced disinfection by 2008-09, subject to acceptance by the community of the need for the full recurrent costs to be recovered through the sewage services charging scheme.
Saw the Finance Committee of LegCo approve expenditure of $166.5 million for the environmental impact assessment, investigations and tunnel conveyance system design for HATS Stage 2A.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Organised two seminars for practitioners on Strategic Environmental Assessment (June and December).
Received the first delegation of officials from the State Environmental Protection Administration under a formal agreement on staff exchanges with EPD.
Launched the web-based Strategic Environmental Assessment knowledge centre and interactive 3-D continuous public engagement in EIA.

Customer Service and Partnership

Organised a seminar and launched a support package on Environmental Management Information and the ISO 14001 environmental management system for SMEs in the electrical/electronic sector.
Issued a bilingual guideline on "Environmentally-friendly Cold Water Thawing Practice", in collaboration with the University of Hong Kong.
Launched a new Green Garage web site (http://www.greengarage.com.hk).
Organised a seminar at Central Library for the restaurant trade to share successful experiences on green restaurant and management practices.
Organised thematic workshops on "Towards Green Restaurant 2005" at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for the restaurant trade and related stakeholders, covering the development of pollution control technologies, green management policies and practices in the Mainland and overseas.
Held an appointment ceremony for Environmental Ambassadors and paint spraying seminar for the vehicle repairing trade.
Issued a promotional video CD for the restaurant trade, to promote environmental awareness, legislative requirements and compliance assistance service.
Launched a revamped "Green Restaurant Website" .
Updated the environmental management system support packages for SMEs in the construction and electrical/electronic sectors to ISO14001:2004 version.

Environmental Compliance

Launched a "Pay for Environment Scheme" to introduce comprehensive contractual requirements and to provide financial incentives for implementing enhanced pollution abatement measures in all future public construction projects.

Nature Conservation

Introduced the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Bill to the Legislative Council. The bill will enable Hong Kong to fully comply with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Disseminated the Life Cycle Energy Analysis software tool to appraise the life cycle costs and life cycle environmental performance of building materials and components in promoting the concept of sustainable construction.
Saw the Environment and Conservation Fund Committee approve the granting of $4,620,000 to three non-governmental organisations to implement pilot conservation management agreement projects in Fung Yuen and Long Valley, to enhance conservation of ecologically important sites under private ownership.

2004
Community Awareness

Completed the territory-wide "Wait Green, Engine Off" Campaign covering 18 districts.
Implemented the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VIII), in which 1 420 housing estates participated.
Honoured seven pre-schools with an "Outstanding Award" under the First Green Pre-school Award.
Organised an Open Day on Organic Farms in the City to promote waste reduction by organic composting.
Organised a series of education and publicity programmes in the weekends of June to celebrate Hong Kong World Environment Day 2004 with the theme "Polluter Pays Principle".
Launched an environmental education programme on the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
Collaborated with the State Environmental Protection Administration of China to organise a Nation-wide Environmental Competition for Youths of Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong featuring "Caring for Our Water Resources".
Organised the "Rendezvous with Nature" and Environmental Protection Exhibition with China Polar Museum Foundation and Soka Gakkai International of Hong Kong.
Co-organised a briefing session on Source Separation of Waste with the Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies Ltd.
Celebrated the 5th anniversary of the Hong Kong Green School Award.

Air

Saw the governments of Hong Kong SAR and Guangdong Province start working together to establish a Pearl River Delta region joint air monitoring network and the associated quality assurance & control manuals, and to arrange routine quality management meetings.
Completed a grant scheme to help heavy pre-Euro diesel vehicles install particulate removal devices.

Noise

Brought into effect an amendment to the Noise Control Ordinance holding company directors liable for repeated noise offences.
Gazetted two Codes of Practice on good management practice to prevent violation of the Noise Control Ordinance.

Waste

Signed a Supplemental Agreement with the contractor of NENT Landfill on the export of landfill gas for beneficial uses.
Opened the Sai Tso Wan Recreation Ground for use by the public - the first permanent recreational facility built on a restored landfill in Hong Kong.
Saw the Legislative Council approve the Waste Disposal (Amendment) Bill No.2 2003 to enable charging for disposal of construction waste at waste disposal facilities and to enhance control of illegal dumping of waste.
Launched a pilot programme on source separation of waste, which aims to facilitate residents in separating waste at source by providing waste separation facilities on each floor. The programme also broadens the types of recyclables recovered in order to further increase the waste recovery rate and reduce waste.
Saw the Wastewi$e Scheme enter its fifth year as one of the key initiatives to promote voluntary waste reduction and recycling in the private sector. This year the number of Wastewi$e Logo recipients exceeded 200 for the first time, reaching 203. More than 90 000 tonnes of waste have been reduced and recycled by Wastewi$e Logo recipients, resulting in substantial savings in landfill space and disposal cost.
Commissioned a detailed feasibility study to investigate sludge treatment facilities in Hong Kong.

Water

Initiated a bioindicator monitoring programme for assessing the effects of pollutants on the ecological health of the marine environment in Hong Kong.
Proceeded with public consultation on the Way Forward for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS).
Initiated a toxic substances monitoring programme for Hong Kong's marine environment.
Saw ratification by China of the Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) with extension to Hong Kong.
Commenced the first review of the Deep Bay Water Pollution Control Joint Implementation Programme.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Held a joint seminar to launch a new policy on Continuous Public Involvement in EIA and the world's first 3-D EIA public engagement tool. The seminar was attended by about 250 stakeholders.
Launched a Cyber Helpdesk for environmental performance reports to help government bureaux and departments improve the quality of their reports.
Held the first staff exchange between EPD and the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA), focusing on the EIA process.
Completed a study on ISO 14001 environmental management systems for small and medium enterprises (SME) in the construction and electrical/electronic sectors.
Organised a seminar and launched a support package on Environmental Management Information and ISO 14001 EMS for SMEs in the construction sector.
Cooperated with SEPA in organising China's first international forum on EIA in BoAo, Hainan.

Customer Service and Partnership

Launched an enhanced home page with improved organisation and structure to facilitate the public to more readily locate information, together with a PDA version for selected web pages.
Launched the Green Garage Election 2004 for the first time to give recognition to environmentally responsible garages. An award presentation ceremony was held at East Point City on 15 May 2004. The election was co-organised with the Hong Kong Vehicle Repair Merchants Association Ltd. and the Environmental Vehicle Repairers Association Ltd.
Enhanced the Environmental Protection Interactive Centre (EPIC) system to enable users to apply, pay for and receive licences/permits/authorisations through the system in year 2005.
Launched the Help Desk for the business community - a one-stop telephone service on environmental standards, legislation and practical guides for reference.

Environmental Compliance

Changed the name of the Local Control Division to Environmental Compliance Division (ECD) on 24 July 2004, in recognition of the growing importance of partnerships. The ECD also took over from other divisions the responsibility for enforcing territory-wide issues from other divisions, such as dumping at sea, asbestos control and import and export of waste.
Expanded the Central Prosecution Section to form the Central Prosecution Unit (CPU), with a view to taking over all prosecution work of the department to ensure a clear separation from the investigation work.

2003
Community Awareness

Launched the Environmental Essays Competition, on the theme "Safeguarding Our Heritage: A Clean Victoria Harbour", jointly organised with the Lions Club and the Association of English Medium Secondary Schools.
Completed the Green Leader Programme, which trained 10 000 stakeholders as green leaders.
Implemented the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VII), with the participation of 1 333 housing estates.
Launched the Native Tree Planting Competition to promote waste reduction by organic composting and care for native trees.
Organised World Environment Day 2003 celebrations on the theme, "Walking for a Green and Healthy Hong Kong". About 100 000 people participated.
Launched The First Hong Kong Green Pre-school Award, aimed at promoting environmental management in schools, with more than 110 pre-schools participating.
Organised the "Organic Farms in the City" competition for primary and secondary school students, to promote organic farming and farm design from waste materials.
Opened the Fanling Environmental Resource Centre.
Launched the Jiminy Cricket's Environmentality Challenge jointly with Hong Kong Disneyland.
Launched slogan and logo design competitions for students and the general public to encourage the use of rechargeable batteries.
Organised the "Hong Kong Environmental Protection Festival 2003 - Forum on SMEs in Environmental Protection Industry" to promote the waste recovery and recycling industries.
Launched a territory-wide "Wait Green, Engine Off" Campaign covering 18 districts.
Launched the "Green School Website" to provide support to schools on environmental management in schools.
Celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Wan Chai Environmental Resource Centre.

Air

Saw the extension of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region by the Central People's Government.
Commenced the Indoor Air Quality Certification Scheme for Offices and Public Places.
Saw endorsement of the Regional Air Quality Management Plan for the Pearl River Delta Region by the Hong Kong-Guangdong Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environment Protection.
Introduced a mandatory requirement that pre-Euro diesel vehicles not more than four tonnes be retrofitted with emission reduction devices.

Noise

Began consultation on the Codes of Practice to prevent violations of the Noise Control Ordinance, with emphasis on good management practices.
Issued guidelines on "What Property Managers can Consider in Dealing with Noise from Renovation Work".

Waste

Launched a trial recovery programme for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and computers, which resulted in 25 000 units of WEEE, computers and computer peripherals being recovered for reuse or recycling over 12 months.
Launched a pilot programme to recycle waste tyres, recycling about 230 tonnes per month for the production of a lightweight geo-construction material to be used as filling material for road sub-base and slopes.
Commenced a study on Environmental Impact Assessment and Landuse Rezoning for Development of Recovery Park in Tuen Mun Area 38.

Water

Completed the Mirs Bay Water Quality Regional Control Strategy Joint Study and formulated a regional water quality management strategy for Mirs Bay, in collaboration with Shenzhen authorities.
Completed a study on the development of a biological indicator system for monitoring marine pollution in Hong Kong.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Prepared an interim version of the EPD's Strategic Environmental Assessment Manual (SEA) with a view to promoting the importance of SEA in the region.

Customer Service and Partnership

Distributed 2003 desktop calendars, which included educational material, to owners, operators and managers of the restaurant trade and their major stakeholders.
Launched the Green Property Website for the Environmental Property Management Programme.
Launched the "Green Construction Example" and "Green Construction Equipment" website, supported by the Business and Services Promotion Unit (BSPU).
Held an environmental workshop on "Planning & Supervision Towards a Green Construction", jointly organised with the Hong Kong Construction Association.
Extended the scope of the one-stop "Restaurant Help Desk Service" to cover dedicated modular training for the restaurant trade, a meet-the-adviser service and the development of standards and criteria for green restaurants.
Collaborated with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University to organise a short course, the "Certificate of Environmental Protection in Construction Industry".
Launched a trial "Mooncake Containers Recovery Programme" with support from the trade associations, property management companies, Radio Hong Kong One and the Agency for Volunteer Service, over the two weekends following the Mid-Autumn festival. About 25 000 containers were collected.
Held an environmental workshop on "Green Construction Practices - Everybody's Responsibility", jointly organised with the Hong Kong Construction Association.
Launched a six-month "Water Saving Project" with the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute, with the aim of helping the restaurant trade save water.
Hosted the Environmental Property Management Programme - 2003 Experience Sharing Forum.
Published the "Environmental Guidebook for Vehicle Repair Trade" (together with a VCD), to promote the vehicle repair workshop partnership scheme to trade associations and assist operators in complying with the legislative requirements.
Implemented 14-day Fast-track Processing of Construction Noise Permit Applications.

Environmental Compliance

Participated in the Team Clean operation and undertook joint efforts with other government departments to improve environmental hygiene in the community, with particular emphasis on flytipping of waste, broken pipes and discharges in backlanes, illegal connections to stormwater drains and improperly maintained septic tanks.
Received the Special Achievement in GIS Awards at the 23rd Annual ESRI International Users Conference held in July 2003 in San Diego, USA, for our GIS-based Pollution Complaint Management database.
Published "The Statement of Prosecution Policy for the Environmental Protection Department". The purpose is to ensure there is fair and consistent decision-making amongst the departmental prosecutors responsible for environmental prosecutions, and to make the process more understandable and transparent to the public.

2002
General

Participated in the First APEC Ocean-related Ministerial Meeting.
Celebrated World Environment Day, with events organised jointly with counterparts in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Macao, Dongguan and Zhongshan.
Launched the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards 2002 with four categories of awards: Green Office Award (Large Organisations), Green Office Award (SMEs), Green Property Management Award (Private Housing) and Green Innovative Practice Award.
Held a three-day exhibition celebrating 25 years of environmental protection in Hong Kong, organised by EPD.
Held a symposium on Smart Growth and Ecosystem Management and Planning for Urban Centres, organised by Environment Canada, EPD and the State Environmental Protection Administration of China. The symposium was held in Shandong province.
Saw attendance by a Hong Kong SAR Government team, including EPD, at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Participated in the regional meeting of the project "Regionally Based Assessment of Persistent Toxic Substances", organised by the United Nations Environment Programme.
Celebrated the Environmental Protection Festival on the themes "Waste Reduction, Clean Air for You and Me, and Protect Our Water Resources".

Community Awareness

Launched the Third Hong Kong Green School Award which recruited 178 schools.
Launched the Waste Recycling Campaign in Housing Estates (Phase VI), with the participation of 1 200 public and private housing estates covering some 1.5 million households, and co-operation with community groups to launch waste recovery schemes.
Opened the Environmental Education and Information Counter to help schools and community groups organise green activities.
Held the first "Environmental Campaign Committee MTR Environmental Leadership Summer Camp" in which outstanding environmental ambassadors from local schools and from six cities in the Pearl River Delta joined Junior Police Call, Scouts and Girl Guides ambassadors for five days of intensive environmental leadership training.
Completed the "Hong Kong Green School Award Self-Assessment Manual", in collaboration with the Education & Manpower Bureau, Hong Kong Productivity Council and Hong Kong Institute of Education. The manual helps local schools assess their performance in environmental management and environmental education.
Launched the Lions International Youth Exchange 2003 Qualifying Competition with the theme "Safeguarding our Heritage: A Clean Victoria Harbour".
Launched the Waste Separation Scheme for Pre-schools, providing child-size waste separation bins to pre-schools for teaching purposes.

Air

Commenced the chassis dynamometer test for heavy vehicles emitting smoke, after it was earlier made mandatory for lighter vehicles.
Organised the Clean Air Exhibition, which attracted 21 000 visitors in one day.
Completed a report on air quality in the Pearl River Delta region, through the Joint Working Group on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection.
Introduced a mandatory requirement that petrol stations supply only ultra-low sulphur diesel.
Saw approval by the Finance Committee of $600 million to help vehicle owners retrofit particulate removal devices in pre-Euro heavy diesel vehicles that are not required to undertake long idling duties.
Commenced grants to help public light buses switch to LPG or electric vehicles.
Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the California Air Resources Board to collaborate on air quality management.
Held a regional workshop, Better Air Quality 2002, organised by EPD, the California Air Resources Board, Clean Air Initiative for Asian Cities and Air Pollution in Mega Cities in Asia. The workshop was held in Hong Kong.
Commenced grants to help heavy pre-Euro diesel vehicles install particulate removal devices.

Noise

Amended the Noise Control Ordinance to explicitly hold corporate management liable for noise offences committed by their companies.
Commenced amended vehicle noise regulations to tighten the noise emission standards.
Launched an educational package on environmental noise, featuring a web site and CD-ROMs.

Waste

Launched a mobile phone battery recycling programme with the mobile phone industry.
Co-operated with community groups to launch waste recovery schemes.
Invited expressions of interest for the development of waste management and waste treatment facilities.
Completed consultations on the control of clinical waste.
Invited tenders to build a storage facility for low-level radioactive waste on Siu A Chau.
Opened the North West New Territories refuse transfer station.
Launched district-based waste recovery campaigns with 12 District Councils.
Commenced a plastic bags recovery trial in eight housing estates and 109 convenience stores and supermarkets.
Held a Joint Workshop on Waste Management and Contaminated Land, organised with Environment Canada.

Water

Launched a consultation on water criteria for the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Launched a Cyber Help Bench for EIAs.
Held the first EIAO Users Liaison Groups Congress organised by EPD for the four major EIA stakeholder groups. Participants included project proponents, consultants, contractors, green groups, academics and ACE members.
Established the EIAO Support Section to help government works departments improve their understanding of the EIA mechanism.
Launched the EIA Training and Capacity Building Programme for all government works departments.
Commenced the use of webcams, under the EIAO, at selected major work sites to enhance transparency and encourage compliance.
Held a joint conference on "Reshaping Environmental Assessment Tools for Sustainability", organised by the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Mainland's Nankai University and fully supported by EPD. Officials and experts from Hong Kong, the Mainland, Europe, North America, the World Bank, and the United Nations Environment Programme participated in the conference.
Completed a benchmarking tool to help bureaux and departments improve the quality of their future environmental performance reports.

Enforcement

Launched an Environment Helpdesk for the restaurant trade.
Held an Environmental Exhibition and Conference for the Food and Restaurant Trade, organised by EPD and the main food and restaurant organisations.
Held a free vehicle emissions testing day, organised by EPD, the vehicle repair trade associations and the Kowloon City District Council.
Opened the Customer Service Centre to enhance the handling of pollution complaints and enquiries.
Held a joint conference on "Partnership for Green Construction: A New Era of Hong Kong's Development", organised by EPD and the Hong Kong Construction Association and supported by the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers.
Completed the first stage of the Shing Mun River Environmental Improvement Work.
Completed a train-the-trainer package and workshop on environmental issues encountered in property management.

2001
Air

Introduced Euro III emission standards for newly registered vehicles.
Tightened motor vehicle fuel requirements to meet Euro III emission standards.
Introduced a requirement that newly-registered taxis be fuelled by LPG or petrol.
Implemented the Air Pollution Control (Dry Cleaning Machines)(Vapour Recovery) Regulation to reduce perchloroethylene emissions from dry-cleaning operations.
Opened the Indoor Air Quality Information Centre.
Launched the Ozone Depleting Substances Control Awareness Campaign at border control points.

Noise

Implemented tighter construction noise controls at new Noise Control Designated Areas in the territory.

Waste

Saw the announcement by the Secretary for the Environment and Food of seven major initiatives to enhance the prevention, separation and recycling of domestic waste.
Commissioned the North West New Territories Refuse Transfer Station.
Commenced construction of a new refuse transfer facility at Ma Wan, as part of the Outlying Islands Transfer Facilities.
Held the International Forum on Food Waste Composting, organised with the Hong Kong Baptist University.

Water

Saw full commissioning of Stage One of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) [formerly known as the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme (SSDS)].
Saw the issuing of a government response to the Report of the International Review Panel on Sewage Treatment for the Harbour Area.
Commenced Phase One of the improvement works at Shing Mun River, involving the first application of bioremediation in Hong Kong.
Commenced the year-round release of beach water quality gradings for all gazetted open beaches.
Commenced a study to develop a biological indicator system for monitoring marine pollution in Hong Kong.

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Launched the web-based Environmental Monitoring & Audit results on the environmental performance of EIA projects.
Launched an on-line electronic application system for environmental permits and licences.

Enforcement

Formed the Central Prosecution Section within the Local Control Division.
Launched a partnership programme with the property management sector.

2000
General

Launched the Clean Air Campaign, jointly organised with the Macao Environmental Committee and the Environmental Protection Bureaux of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Zhuhai.
Published EPD's first Environmental Performance Report.

Community Awareness

Launched the First Hong Kong Green School Award, aimed at encouraging local schools to implement comprehensive green school management.

Air

Commenced a one-off grant to help diesel taxi operators replace their vehicles with LPG taxis.
Commenced a preferential fuel duty to make ultra-low sulphur diesel the only diesel on sale in all petrol filling stations.
Implemented a programme to retrofit pre-Euro diesel vehicles (up to four tonnes) with particulate traps or diesel oxidation catalysts.
Stepped up enforcement against smoky vehicles by the EPD and the Police.
Introduced emission checks in vehicle roadworthiness tests for petrol and LPG vehicles.
Increased the fixed penalty fine against smoky vehicles from $450 to $1,000.

Noise

Saw endorsement by the Executive Council of a new policy to redress noise impacts from existing roads by means of engineering and non-engineering measures where practicable.

Waste

Saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Environmental Protection Administration and the Environmental Protection Department on hazardous waste import and export control.
Commissioned a study to extend the capacities of existing landfills and to search for new waste disposal sites.
Saw ISO 14001 Certification of the Waste Facilities Business Unit.
Held the International Solid Waste Association's (ISWA) International Symposium and Exhibition on Waste Management in Asia Cities, co-organised by the EPD, ISWA and other parties.

Water

Participated in the Second National Marine Pollution Baseline Survey, which will be the basis for formulating the Mainland's marine environment protection strategies in the 21 century.
Presented findings and recommendations by the International Review Panel on the future of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (formerly known as the Strategic Sewage Disposal Scheme).

Environmental Assessment & Planning

Held the 20th Annual Conference of International Association for Impact Association, organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Environmental Impact Assessment and supported by the EPD.

Enforcement

Launched a programme to promote more effective pollution control in restaurants, with a view to establishing a partnership programme with the restaurant trade.
Launched a partnership programme between EPD and the Hong Kong Vehicle Repair Merchants Association.