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THE ENVIRONMENT
to this activity. Only through such research will it be possible to avoid the error of adopting pollution control measures which may have worked elsewhere, but may be quite in- appropriate for Hong Kong.
Protecting the Environment
In 1979, much effort was devoted to the assessment of new projects which could have a substantial adverse effect on the environment. The objective was to ensure that adequate control measures were incorporated at the design stage.
Detailed environmental impact statements were prepared by the relevant companies for Hong Kong's two new power stations. They are Kowloon Electricity Supply Company's new plant at Tap Shek Kok in Castle Peak, to be operated by China Light and Power, and Hong Kong Electric's plant at Po Lo Tsui on Lamma Island. An environmental impact statement was also compiled for a cement manufacturing plant to be built adjacent to the Tap Shek Kok power station.
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Each study analysed in considerable detail the potential effect of its development on the marine environment; air pollution and noise levels in the locality; the disposal of waste materials generated, such as pulverised fuel ash in the case of the coal-fired power stations; and the visual impact. The studies also contained proposals for reducing the adverse effects to acceptable levels.
The reports were studied by the relevant government departments, by the Environmental Protection Unit and finally by the Environmental Protection Advisory Committee (EPCOM). Recommendations made have led to improved environmental measures. On Lamma Island, the electricity transmission system is to be placed underground to minimise the visual impact upon the countryside, and at Tap Shek Kok improved electrostatic precipitators will help reduce dust emissions at the power plant.
Both the Lamma Island and Tap Shek Kok power plants are incorporating facilities for treating sewage generated on their sites, relocating heated water outfalls to minimise effects on marine life, and landscaping their surroundings. The Tap Shek Kok power plant is to increase its chimney height to improve the dispersion of combustion gases.
Consultations with Industry
The main avenue for consultation on environmental matters is the Environmental Protec- tion Advisory Committee (EPCOM). In the 10 years since it was formed, EPCOM has evolved to meet the changing needs and circumstances of Hong Kong. Reconstituted in 1979, EPCOM has a membership of 13, comprising senior government officials, prominent citizens and representatives of three major industrial organisations: the Chinese Manu- facturers' Association of Hong Kong, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries and the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. In addition, there are a number of EPCOM special committees that give detailed attention to specific areas of concern.
In the past year, EPCOM has considered more than 60 reports ranging from the environmental impact statements on the new power stations and cement plant through to drafts of the environmental protection bills and proposals for automated pollution moni- toring networks. In each case, the committee has made recommendations to the Secretary for Environment on areas it feels need improvement.
It has become the practice in developing the new environmental protection ordinances and their regulations to consult with organisations whose members may be affected by the new provisions. Discussions have taken place with the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, the Federation of