ENG-2009 — Page 335

Chapter 14

The Environment

The Environment Bureau and the Environmental Protection Department are committed to enhancing the quality of the environment. During 2009, priority areas included combating air pollution, implementing a solid waste management policy, improving harbour water quality, promoting energy efficiency and conservation, and tackling climate change.

Hong Kong, with only 1 104 square kilometres of land, is home to some 7 million people. But it is also one of the world's largest trading economies. Its steep mountains allow it only 225 square kilometres on which to put up buildings for people to live and work in. Strict control over urban development is, therefore, imperative. Over 400 square kilometres of the remaining land that is not built on are designated as 'protected areas'. These include country parks, special areas and conservation zones. Inevitably, the heavy concentration of people and activities in a small area strains the environment, particularly the air. Hong Kong is also increasingly affected by air pollution in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region.

Environmental protection is a major policy area for the third term of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. The policy initiative is important for the building of a quality city and a quality life for local citizens. Tackling air pollution, stepping up action to improve water quality in Victoria Harbour, better managing municipal solid waste, promoting energy efficiency and further strengthening regional co-operation continue to be Government priorities. Through 'I Love Hong Kong! I Love GREEN!' campaign activities, the public is encouraged to make a change in various aspects of daily living and to nurture a greener and more environment-friendly lifestyle.

Administrative Framework

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD), under the Environment Bureau, has overall responsibility for protecting the environment, including nature conservation. It executes environmental policies, vets environmental planning and assessment findings, enforces and reviews environmental laws, plans and develops facilities for liquid and solid waste disposal, and promotes environmental

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