TNAG-2920-FCO40-4195-Visits-and-proposed-visits-by-Alastair-Goodlad--Minister-of--1993 — Page 69

CONFIDENTIAL

BRIEF FOR VISIT OF MR ALASTAIR GOODLAD

Hong Kong's Environment

Synopsis

1.

2.

3.

Hong Kong, like nost cities, has substantial environmental

problems.

Unlike some cities it has practical and cost

effective solutions

Action Plans.

These Action Plans are published June 1989 White Paper

and December 1989 Waste Disposal Plan; 1991 White Paper

Review; Environmental Protection Department Annual Reports

all show we have expedited a broad programme

improvements.

of

The thrust of these programmes environmentally acceptable

but cost-effective waste disposal facilities; a determined

attack on air pollution; a substantial programme, of sewage

treatment and disposal facilities; a broad programme of

legislation (and enforcement); a campaign to raise Hong

Kong's environmental awareness; and a determination to make

Hong Kong a quieter city and not to repeat the planning

mistakes of the past.

Sewage Strategy

Over 2 million m3 of domestic sewage and industrial

waste waters are discharged daily into the Harbour. Half of this

receives no treatment while only 10% receives full secondary

In 1989, Government adopted а sewage strategy

requiring effluents discharged to meet new water quality

objectives.

treatment.

This programme will require 10 years and $17.8 billion to complete. Between now and early 1997, the Government

will complete a 'High Priority Programme of $7.3 billion to

CONFIDENTIAL

2