THE ENVIRONMENT
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was burnt in incinerators! It has become increasingly necessary to seek alternative means of waste disposal which are both cost effective and environmentally acceptable. More incinerators are considered undesirable because of their high cost and air pollution problems, and there is a shortage of suitable land for more controlled tips. With this in mind, a composting plant at Chai Wan and a high density rubbish baling plant at Sai Tso Wan began operating during the year.
The disposal of agricultural waste - especially pig manure continues to pose a major problem. During the year, the New Territories Services Department ran a pilot scheme for the collection and disposal of agricultural waste. This entailed the waste being collected in baskets and taken by lorry to a tip for disposal. Although the amounts collected were small, the scheme was generally successful and it is hoped to expand it.
Air Pollution
The Air Pollution Control Division of the Labour Department administers the Clean Air Ordinance, the Clean Air (Furnaces, Ovens and Chimneys) (Installation and Alteration) Regulations and the Clean Air (Restriction and Measurement of Smoke Emission) Regulations. The division is responsible for the control of air pollution by stationary sources, such as fuel-using plants and factories using non-combustion processes.
The division requires that plans for the installation or modification of furnaces, ovens, chimneys or flues be submitted to it to ensure that the design is up to anti-pollution standards. It organises inspections, investigates complaints, gives technical advice to polluters and takes legal action against persistent offenders. By monitoring and keeping under surveillance major air polluters, it helps to prevent the deterioration of air quality. During the year, the division was strengthened by the addition of eight smoke inspectors. Amendments were made to the Clean Air Ordinance and its subsidiary regulations to streamline administrative procedures and this has resulted in more efficient enforcement.
In 1979, the division investigated 975 air pollution complaints from the public. There were 58 prosecutions under the Clean Air Ordinance and its subsidiary regulations against persistent offenders, resulting in 58 convictions with fines ranging from $200 to $2,700. Four daily monitoring stations were operated to monitor atmospheric pollution levels. Readings at Queen Elizabeth Hospital showed a slight increase in sulphur dioxide con- centrations, registering about one 14th of the maximum permitted level of 1,310 ug/m3. The 12-month mean average of sulphur dioxide readings at Hung Hom, Sham Shui Po and Central Market stations were 57 ug/m3, 33 ug/m3 and 32 ug/m3, respectively. The smoke density readings at Hung Hom, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Sham Shui Po and Central Market stations were 28 ug/m3, 37 ug/m3, 96 ug/m3 and 46 ug/m3, respec- tively.
Beginning in June, staff of the division and students of the University of Hong Kong jointly conducted a nine-week survey of air pollution levels. Concentrations of sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide and lead particulates were monitored at different altitudes in busy streets and in industrial areas.
Conservation and Countryside Management
Hong Kong's hilly topography has ensured the survival of a relatively large expanse of countryside, much of which is scenically very attractive. Steep and rugged slopes rise from sea-level to 600 and 900 metres and feature rocky crags, wooded ravines with rushing streams, and open hillsides. Some 20 freshwater reservoirs of various sizes nestle among the hills, giving additional charm to the scenery.