288 The Environment
concentration of the main pollutants in the region. To strengthen this collaboration further, the two sides are undertaking a joint study on the emission reduction arrangements for the next phase in the PRD region.
In April 2008, the two sides launched a five-year Cleaner Production Partnership Programme to encourage and help more than 56 000 Hong Kong owned factories in the PRD region to adopt cleaner production technologies and practices. By improving energy efficiency and implementing emission reduction measures, Hong Kong-owned factories can make a positive contribution to improving the region's environmental quality. Up to the end of 2011, over 1 700 funding applications had been approved. In addition, the two sides jointly launched the Hong Kong- Guangdong Cleaner Production Partners Recognition Scheme in August 2009 to commend the efforts of Hong Kong owned enterprises in pursuing cleaner production. As at end-2011, a total of 234 enterprises had received the commendation.
In August 2008, the two sides reached a consensus to map out a strategy to transform the PRD region into a green and quality living area. Together with Macao, the three governments jointly launched a public consultation on September 1, 2011 on the initial proposals for the Regional Co-operation Plan on Building a Quality Living Area. These cover the areas of environment and ecology; low-carbon development; culture and social living; spatial planning; and transportation systems. The three governments will finalise the co-operation plan taking account of views and feedback received.
Hong Kong and Shenzhen are jointly implementing action programmes to reduce pollution of the adjoining water bodies, including Deep Bay and Mirs Bay. Both sides have completed the joint review of the regional water quality control strategy for Mirs Bay. Meanwhile, Hong Kong and Guangdong are undertaking a joint study to evaluate the pollution load carrying capacity of the Pearl River Estuary. This will provide the two governments with solid scientific bases for devising water quality management plans and strategies for the Pearl River Estuary.
The two sides are also working together closely to encourage the adoption of cleaner production practices by Hong Kong-owned factories in Shenzhen. Both sides will also enhance co-operation in the areas of promoting development of clean energy, green transportation and environmental service business.
In addition, exchanges between Hong Kong and Macao are taking place in areas such as environmental impact assessment, air and water quality monitoring, management of special waste and public awareness programmes.
To capitalise on environmental business opportunities in the Mainland, in June 2011 the Government organised a Hong Kong delegation to participate in the 12th China International Environmental Protection Exhibition and Conference held in Beijing. The delegation also visited the relevant ministries of the Central People's Government to gain a better understanding of the Mainland's policy on environmental protection and a green economy under the National 12th Five-Year Plan. In October 2011, the Government also supported the participation of the local