XN000022-1995-03-16 — Page 5

Speaking at the Green Project Awards 1995 Prize-Presentation Ceremony, Mrs Chan said the Government had published information on environmental matters to help educate the public and to encourage them to take a wider, and more sympathetic interest in the environment.

She noted that Hong Kong, owing to rapid economic growth, faced substantial environmental problems.

To remedy the situation, comprehensive action plans have been taken to provide practical and cost effective long term solutions to the problems.

"We are making substantial investments in environmental infrastructure - a $21 billion sewage strategy, a $10 billion solid waste strategy, a $2 billion special wastes strategy," the Chief Secretary said.

"These plans, and the investments which secure them, are well underway."

Within the environmental programme area, studies are also undertaken to articulate a framework of sustainable development for Hong Kong.

The Waste Reduction Study reviews the existing waste generation and collection patterns, and will identify measures to reduce waste production and increase reuse and recycling.

"The study will help us cut down on wastes and make the best long term use of valuable waste disposal facilities."

Another pre-emptive measure, Mrs Chan pointed out, was the legal requirement for environmental impact assessments of major development projects.

"Such assessments will ensure that the potential environmental consequences of major projects are considered throughout the process of project planning, so that the negative impact caused by the projects on the environment can be minimised," she added.

Meanwhile, many government and non-government organisations are doing excellent work in raising public's environmental concern, for example, setting up green funds to support environmental activities.

Turning to the award scheme, the Chief Secretary said the number of quality green projects entries this year was encouraging, showing that public interest in the environment was growing.