ENG-2011 — Page 349

The Environment 301

Floating Refuse in the Harbour

The Marine Department deploys a fleet of about 70 contractors' vessels to collect floating refuse and refuse from vessels. In 2011, 15 400 tonnes were collected. In addition to law enforcement, the Government also uses publicity and education to tackle the floating refuse problem.

Marine Dumping

The EPD maintains strict control over marine dumping operations via a permit system under the Dumping at Sea Ordinance. These operations follow the requirements of the London Convention to which Hong Kong is a Contracting Party.

All marine dumping vessels operating under permits issued by EPD have to be equipped with an automatic self-monitoring device that transmits real-time data to the EPD Control Centre to allow the authorities to trace any illegal dumping. The department's inspectors conduct frequent patrols of Hong Kong waters to prevent illegal dumping.

Monitoring and Investigation

Assessing the progress made in achieving policy goals is one of the EPD's key activities. The results gained from routine monitoring and special investigations form the basis for much of the department's strategic planning, provision of facilities and statutory controls. The department has 94 sampling stations in marine waters including enclosed bays and typhoon shelters, and another 82 stations for inland waters. It also monitors 41 bathing beaches.

The water quality monitoring programme provides a comprehensive record of the physiochemical and microbiological condition of Hong Kong waters. Annual reports of monitoring data are available on the EPD's website. Water quality of the major marine and river stations is published monthly on the website and gradings of water quality of bathing beaches are published weekly in the media and updated on the department's website and hotline during the bathing season.

Sustainable Development

The Council for Sustainable Development was appointed by the Chief Executive in March 2003 to promote sustainable development in Hong Kong. The council addressed six key sustainability issues solid waste management, renewable energy, urban living space, population policy, better air quality and building design to foster a quality and sustainable built environment since launching its first public engagement exercise to consult stakeholders in 2004. For the public engagement on 'Combating Climate Change: Energy Saving And Carbon Emission Reduction In Buildings' launched in August 2011, the council is preparing its report with recommendations which will be submitted to the Government in 2012 for its consideration.

Since 2003 the council has invited nine rounds of applications from organisations and individuals for grants from the Sustainable Development Fund to carry out work related to sustainable development. Forty-five projects were approved