Section 1 : Introduction Kong - epd.gov.hk · non-statutory requirements which are useful and good...

Section 1 : IntroductionSection 2 : Overview of Environmental Legislation and Infrastructure in HongKong

2.1 Environmental Ordinances2.2 Lastest Regulatory Requirements2.3 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong - Sewerage Network2.4 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong - Waste Control2.5 Compliance Assistance Centre and Regional Offices

Section 3 : Environmental Legislation and Other Requirements - Generic Industries/Trades

3.1 Plan Your Business3.2 Start Your Business3.3 Manage Your Business3.4 Withdraw Your Business

Section 4 : Environmental Requirements - Specific Industries/Trades4.1 Chemical Processing Industry4.2 Clinics and Related Laboratories4.3 Construction and Building Renovation4.4 Electrical and Electronics Industry4.5 Fishery and Poultry4.6 Food and Beverage4.7 Laundry, Dry-cleaning and Garment Services4.8 Metal Products Industry4.9 Recycling Industry4.10 Textiles and Clothing Industry4.11 Vehicle Repair and Services

Section 5 : Going Beyond ComplianceSection 6 : Technical SupportSection 7 : Funding Support for Private EnterprisesSection 8 : Frequently Asked QuestionsAppendices

(A) Contacts of Environmental Protection Department(B) List of Designated Projects as Specified in the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance(C) List of Specified Processes in the Air Pollution Control Ordinance(D) Trade Effluent Surcharge and Sewage Charge(E) Environmental Checklist for Planning and Starting Your Business

(F) Environmental and Related Licence Application Time Frame(G) Interpretation of Specific Terms(H) Resource Materials

DisclaimerDownload the Whole Version in PDF Format

Section 1 Introduction

Background The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government strives tomaintain a business-friendly environment that is favorable to the growth of all typesof enterprises, whether small, medium or large. This is done by maintaining asimple, stable and low tax regime, as well as a flowing system of governmentpolicies and streamlining administrative procedures with minimum red-tape; byminimizing government intervention to the economy; and by providing an efficientinfrastructure for business and other economic activities.

Nevertheless, all business activities in Hong Kong must operate in accordance withthe statutory environmental requirements set out by the Environmental ProtectionDepartment (EPD) and other relevant departments of the Hong Kong SARGovernment. As environmental issues are increasingly important, complying withenvironmental legislation and achieving good environmental performance havebecome not only pre-requisites of operating a business but also in some cases canbe turned into business opportunities.

In Hong Kong, small and medium sized enterprises* (SMEs) are the backbone ofthe economy, comprising over 98% of business establishments and employing about48% of the working population in the private sector**. However, SMEs often havelimited resources in coping with today’s business environment, not to mention thecomplexity and technicality of environmental legislation that may impose furtherobstacles to SMEs.

Understanding SMEs’ constraints and difficulties, the Hong Kong SAR Governmenthas been, under the framework of free market economy, providing numeroussupport services to help enterprises develop their potential. These support servicescan be broadly grouped under a number of major areas, namely, (a) businessenvironment; (b) SME financing; (c) human resources; (d) technology applications;(e) market expansions; (f) information access; (g) quality support; (h) physicalinfrastructure; and (i) environmental support.

As far as environmental support is concerned, the Hong Kong SAR Government hasestablished comprehensive, clear and transparent environmental legislation andrequirements as well as has been providing state-of-the-art environmentalinfrastructure.

Even with the presence of the well-established legislation and infrastructure,business still have the important roles to play in environmental protection and theyshould be well aware of and take action to fulfill the environmental requirements. Assuch, EPD has taken the initiative to develop this user-friendly and concise guide soas to help business realize and effectively execute their environmental as well ascorporate and social responsibilities.

* According to the Trade and Industry Department, a SME means a manufacturing business which employs fewerthan 100 persons or a non-manufacturing business which employs fewer than 50 persons in Hong Kong.** Data published by the Trade and Industry Department in June 2011.

What does this Guide Aim at and How can itHelp you? The purpose of this Guide is to provide a clear explanation and consistentinterpretation of the regulatory requirements and infrastructure provision onenvironmental protection in Hong Kong. Hence, it aims to facilitate trades andindustries in ensuring that their businesses are operated in full compliance or evenbeyond compliance with the environmental legislation. By walking through thisGuide, you will learn what environmental compliance requires and how this can beintegrated into your daily business operation without causing much disturbance.

While this Guide is mainly targeted to SMEs, the information is also applicable anduseful to large organizations.

How to Use thisGuide?

Design and Structure ofthe Guide

This Guide has been prepared from the business’ perspective, with a view to helpingreaders understand the basic environmental requirements and infrastructurerelevant to the different stages of a typical business cycle.

A comprehensive overview and highlights on the key environmental information arepresented in the following Sections of this Guide:

• Section 2 provides a brief introduction to the environmental legislation andinfrastructure in Hong Kong.• Section 3 provides the generic requirements which are commonly applicable to alltrades and industries according to the phases of a typical business cycle, namelyPlan, Start, Manage and Withdraw your business in Hong Kong.• Section 4 provides the specific requirements which are applicable to specifictrades and industries only in addition to the generic requirements stated in Section3.• Section 5 provides the environmental requirements that go beyond compliance.• Section 6 provides some organizations and higher education institutions whichprovide consultancy services and technical support.• Section 7 introduces briefly some funding support for private enterprises availablefrom the Hong Kong SAR Government.• Section 8 provides some frequently asked questions.

Roadmap on Using the Guide

A roadmap illustrating on how to use this Guide is shown as follows:

Start

Read

Section 2

Overview ofEnvironmentalLegislation andInfrastructure in HongKong

ForSpecific

TradeRead

Section 3 & Section4

Key environmental laws and otherconsiderations relvevant to specifictrades:

Chemical Processing Industry(including pharmaceutical,cosmetrics and toiletries)Clinics and RelatedLaboratories (includinghospitals, clinics, dentalclinics, health care centres,etc.)Construction and BuildingRenovationElectrical and ElectronicsIndustryFishery and PoultryFood and Beverage(including food manufacturingand restaurants)Laundry, Dry-cleaning andGarment ServicesMetal Products IndustryRecycling IndustryTextiles and Clothing IndustryVehicle Repair and Services

ForAll

TradeRead

Section 3Key environmental laws and otherconsiderations relvevant to alltrades in a typical business cycle:

Plan Your BusinessStart Your BusinessManage Your BusinessWithdraw Your Business

Read

Section 5Going BeyondCompliance

Read

Section 6Technical Support

Read

Section 7Funding Support forPrivate Enterprises

Read

Section 8Frequently AskedQuestions

AppendicesContacts of Environmental ProtectionDepartmentList of Designated Projects asSpecified in the Environmental ImpactAssessment OrdinanceList of Specified Processes in the AirPollution Control OrdinanceTrade Effluent Surcharge and SewageChargeEnvironmental Checklist for Planningand Starting Your BusinessEnvironmental and Related Licence

Application Time FrameInterpretation of Specific TermsResource Materials

Disclaimer

Achieve

Compliance &Go Beyond

Navigation Tips

Appropriate visual aids are used to highlight and categorize relevant information inorder to facilitate effective reading. The following Information Boxes are adoptedthroughout the Guide to denote specific characteristics of that information:

Type of Information Box Characteristics of Information

This box type denotes statutoryrequirements that readers must beaware of and must comply with.

This box type denotesnon-statutory requirements whichare useful and good for referencepurpose. Examples of theseinformation include tips, bestpractices, Do and Don’t, etc.

This box type denotes useful factsor data for information purpose.

This box type denotes thereference documents for furtherreading which are listed inAppendix H.

How to Obtain Useful References? Supported by a comprehensive and transparent legal system in Hong Kong, tradesand industries can obtain information on environmental laws and relevant guidelinesthrough a number of channels. These include:

• Department of Justice’s On-line Bilingual Laws Information System (BLIS) of HongKong (www.legislation.gov.hk)• Guidance and reference materials published by the relevant government bureauxand departments such as Environmental Protection Department, Trade and IndustryDepartment, Planning Department, Drainage Services Department, etc.

A wide range of other support resources in relation to operating business in HongKong are also provided by various government departments and other organizationssuch as Trade and Industry Department, Invest Hong Kong, Hong Kong TradeDevelopment Council, etc.

2.1 Environmental Ordinances

2.2 Latest Regulatory Requirements

2.3 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong - Sewerage Network

2.4 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong - Waste Control

2.5 Compliance Assistance Centre Regional Offices

Section 2Overview of Environmental Legislation andInfrastructure in Hong Kong

Background

All trade and industrial activities in Hong Kong must operate in accordance with thestatutory environmental standards and requirements set out by EnvironmentalProtection Department (EPD) and other related Hong Kong SAR Governmentdepartments. The main environmental laws include:

• Air Pollution Control Ordinance• Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance• Noise Control Ordinance• Water Pollution Control Ordinance• Waste Disposal Ordinance• Dumping At Sea Ordinance• Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance• Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance• Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance

Under these ordinances, there are subsidiary regulations, technical memoranda andcodes of practices, providing controls over specific environmental issues. Thissection highlights the major ordinances concerned and the existing environmentalinfrastructure available.

Please see Sections 3 and 4 for details of legislative requirements.

2.1 Environmental OrdinancesAir Pollution Control Ordinance

This ordinance is the principal legislation for controllingemission of air pollutants and noxious odour from construction,industrial and commercial activities and other polluting sources.Subsidiary regulations of the ordinance impose control on airpollutant emissions from certain operations through the issue oflicences and permits. For example, for those 31 industrialprocesses classified as Specified Processes under theordinance (e.g. cement works, incinerators, petrochemicalworks, etc.), licences are required from EPD in advance. Incase the operators cause excessive air pollution from theirprocesses or machinery, EPD could issue Air PollutionAbatement Notice to ask them to reduce or stop their airpollutant emissions.

Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance

This ordinance prohibits the manufacturing of substances thatdeplete the ozone layer and imposes control on import, exportand recycling of these substances. Through delegated authorityfrom EPD, the Trade and Industry Department manages theimport and export licensing system. Subsidiary regulations ofthe ordinance also impose control on certain refrigerants andimport and export of the controlled products containing ozonedepleting substances.

Noise Control Ordinance

This ordinance controls the noise from construction, industrialand commercial activities. For general construction activitiesthat are carried out during the restricted hours and forpercussive piling at all times, construction noise permits arerequired from EPD in advance. EPD could issue NoiseAbatement Notice to any commercial/industrial operatorsgenerating excessive noise during their operations to ask themto reduce or stop their noise emission.

Water Pollution Control Ordinance

This ordinance controls the effluent discharged from all types ofindustrial, commercial, institutional and construction activitiesinto public sewers, rainwater drains, river courses or waterbodies. For any industries/trades generating wastewaterdischarge (except domestic sewage that is discharged intocommunal foul sewers or unpolluted water to storm drains),they are subject to licensing control by EPD.

Waste Disposal Ordinance

This ordinance controls the production, storage, collection,treatment, recycling and disposal of wastes. At present,livestock waste, clinical waste and chemical waste are subjectto specific controls whilst unlawful deposition of waste isprohibited. Import and export of waste is generally controlledthrough a permit system.

Dumping at Sea Ordinance

Any waste producers involved in marine dumping and relatedloading operations are required to obtain permits from EPD.Materials to be controlled by the permit under this ordinanceare mostly large quantities of sediment arising from dredgingworks.

Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance

This ordinance is to avoid, minimize and control the adverseenvironmental impacts from Designated Projects as specifiedin Schedule 2 of the ordinance (e.g. public utility facilities,certain large-scale industrial activities, community facilities,etc.) through the application of the environmental impactassessment process and the environmental permit system priorto their construction and operation (and decommissioning, ifapplicable), unless exempted.

Hazardous Chemicals Control Ordinance

This ordinance aims to regulate, through an activity-basedpermit system, the import, export, manufacture and use ofnon-pesticide hazardous chemicals that have potentiallyharmful or adverse effects on human health or the environment.

Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance

The Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance was passed by the Legislative Council on 10 July 2008 to provide the legislative framework for the implementation of Producer Responsibility Scheme (PRS). The first PRS under the Ordinance is the environmental levy on plastic shopping bags. The objective of the environmental levy is to provide an economic incentive for the community to reduce the indiscriminate use of plastic shopping bags. For details, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/eco_respo nsibility/

2.2 Latest Regulatory RequirementsEnvironmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags

The levy scheme which commenced on 7 July 2009 provides a direct economic incentive to discourage the indiscriminate use of plastic shopping bags. Under the scheme, prescribed retailers are required to charge customers a 50 cent environmental levy for providing a plastic shopping bag with handle. Prescribed retailers include major and chain supermarkets, convenience stores, personal health and beauty stores, and

supermarkets inside department stores.

Plastic shopping bag (PSB) charging has been fully implemented starting 1 April 2015 to promote reduction in the use of PSBs. All retailers in Hong Kong, irrespective of scale of operation and business nature, will have to charge customers not less than 50 cents for each PSB provided in retail sales of goods, save for situations where there is exemption. The PSB charge will be retained by the shops. For details, please refer to the web links: http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201503/15/P201503130854.htmhttp://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/psb_charging/en/index.htmlh

Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation

The Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation controls the VOC contents of architectural paints/coatings, painting inks and six selected categories of consumer products (air fresheners, hairsprays, multi-purpose lubricants, floor wax strippers, insecticides and insect repellents) in phases starting from 1 April 2007. This regulation was amended in October 2009 to extend the control in phases starting from 1 January 2010 to other high VOC-containing products, namely vehicle refinishing paints/coatings, vessel and pleasure craft paint/coatings, adhesives and sealants. For details, please refer to the web link: http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/prob_solutions/voc_reg.html

Ozone Layer Protection (Products Containing Schedules Substances) (Import Banning) (Amendment) Regulation

The Amendment Regulation extends the banning of the import of controlled products (including refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, and aerosol products such as metered dosed inhalers) containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons to those containing other scheduled substances including hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and bromochloromethane (BCM). The Amendment Regulation was passed on 2 December 2009 and implemented by phases starting from 1 January 2010. For details, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_ protection/wn6_info.html

Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation

The regulatory control on motor vehicle biodiesel is set out in the amendments to this Regulation with the following key elements:

(a) Biodiesel Specifications(i) pure biodiesel has to comply with the specifications stipulated in the Regulation; and(ii) biodiesel blends must be blended from pure biodiesel and motor vehicle diesel.

(b) Labelling Requirements(i) a label is required for selling diesel with biodiesel content over 5%; and(ii) the biodiesel content should not deviate from that as claimed by more than 1%.Label Sample

Motor Vehicle Biodiesel

This motor vehicle biodiesel blend contains 15% of ester content*

Not suitable for some vehiclesConsult the relevant authorized vehicle dealers before use

This motor vehicle biodiesel is the motor vehicle biodiesel within the meaning ofthe Air Pollution Control (Motor Vehicle Fuel) Regulation (Cap. 311 sub. leg. L).

(c) Penalty for Non-compliance(i) Non-compliance to (a) or to (b) will attract a maximum fine of $50,000.For details, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/prob_solutions/use_biodiesel_motor_vehicles.html

Did you know?

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel manufactured from vegetable oils, animalfats, used cooking oil, etc. It can be used to power motor vehicles inpure form or in blends with motor vehicle diesel.

Not all diesel vehicles are compatible with biodiesel or its blends withmotor vehicle diesel. Vehicle manufacturers generally accept the use ofmotor vehicle diesel containing up to 5% biodiesel to power theirvehicles.

Biodiesel is a form of renewable energy. The carbon dioxide emittedduring its combustion will be absorbed via photosynthesis by plantsproducing the feedstock for making biodiesel. The wider use ofbiodiesel in lieu of fossil diesel, which is non-renewable, is thereforeconducive to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and arresting globalclimate changes due to the rising greenhouse gas level.

For More Details of Environmental Legislation

All environmental legislation is available through:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/laws_regulations/laws_maincontent.htmlwww.legislation.gov.hk

For any update on or new environmental legislation, you may visit:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/news_events/what_new/what_new.htmlwww.gld.gov.hk/egazette

2.3 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong -Sewerage Network

The effluent discharged from most of the population in Hong Kong is collected andtransferred to sewage treatment plants for treatment before discharge. There aremore stringent requirements for discharging effluent into the area withoutgovernment sewer. The Drainage Services Department (DSD) is responsible toprovide wastewater and stormwater drainage services for Hong Kong. For moredetails of the sewerage strategy for Hong Kong, please refer to the web link of DSD:www.dsd.gov.hk/EN/Service_Enquiries/Provision_of_Drainage_Record_Plans/index.html

2.4 Environmental Infrastructure in Hong Kong -

Waste Control

In Hong Kong, various waste disposal and treatment facilities have been establishedto handle different types of wastes:

Waste Disposal / TreatmentFacilities

Type(s) of Waste Collected (seeAppendix G for interpretation ofwaste)

Permits / Registration Requiredfor Waste Producers / Collectors

Landfills(Note: Special waste isdisposed of at thedesignated landfills only)

- municipal solid waste- livestock waste- animal carcasses

-

- non-inert constructionwaste

charging scheme startedon 20.1.2006

certain types of Part AChemical Waste(hazardous waste)

register as ChemicalWaste Producers andnotify EPD prior todisposal

certain types of Part BChemical Waste

register as ChemicalWaste Producers

Chemical WasteTreatment Centre at TsingYi

Part A Chemical Waste(hazardous waste)

register as ChemicalWaste Producers andnotify EPD prior todisposal

Part B Chemical Waste register as ChemicalWaste Producers

clinical waste (collectorsshould apply for a clinicalwaste collection licencefrom EPD)

if the clinical waste is atype of Part A or Part BChemical Waste, followthe same requirements asfor Chemical Waste (seeSection 4.2)

Animal Waste CompostingPlant

animal waste -

Grease Trap WasteTreatment Facility at WestKowloonRefuse Transfer Station

grease trap waste collectors have to apply fora Grease Trap WasteVehicle RegistrationAccount with EPD

Public Fill ReceptionFacilities

inert constructionmaterials suitable forreuse in reclamation

obtain dumping licencefrom Civil Engineering andDevelopment Department

Low-level RadioactiveWaste Storage Facility atSiu A Chau

low-level radioactivewaste

get approval fromDepartment of Health

You may need to engage suitable waste collectors for proper collection, delivery anddisposal of your waste. For the list of special waste collectors, please refer to theweb link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_ref_dwc.html

2.5 Compliance Assistance Centre andRegional Offices

If you have any queries about the environmental legislation or infrastructure,please approach the Compliance Assistance Centre or the nearest RegionalOffices of Environmental Protection Department (see Appendix A for their contactdetails).

3.1 Plan Your Business

3.2 Start Your Business

3.3 Manage Your Business

3.4 Withdraw Your Business

Section 3Environmental Legislation and OtherRequirements – Generic Industries/Trades

All trade and industrial activities in Hong Kong must operate in accordance with therelevant statutory environmental requirements. Going beyond compliance, relevantnon-statutory requirements are also applicable to business activities.

Within a business life cycle, namely Plan, Start, Manage and Withdraw YourBusiness, you should identify the environmental legislation and requirementsrelevant to your business operations and subsequently implement appropriatemeasures to ensure or even exceed compliance.

This section presents environmental requirements that are generic for alltrade/industry categories. In addition to these generic requirements, somerequirements are specific to individual trade/industry categories.

You are therefore advised to read this section in conjunction with Section 4 ifyour business operation falls within the scope of Section 4.

3.1 Plan Your BusinessWhat should I Consider when I Plan My Business?

You should take into account the following 3 factors:• Location and land use zone• Neighbourhood environment• Previous usage of premises

Location and Land Use

All land in Hong Kong is designated for specific uses through stipulation of therelevant Outline Zoning Plan according to the Town Planning Ordinance [1], forexample industrial, commercial, recreational, country park, urban area, etc.Depending on the nature of your business operation, you should select anappropriate site for your business operation. This will facilitate subsequentmanagement of environmental issues and Environmental Impact Assessmentprocess if required.

Under the Building Ordinance, application should be made to the BuildingsDepartment (BD) for any changes in the use of buildings. Unless prior approval hasbeen granted by BD, no residential buildings can be used for industrial activities.

In Hong Kong, there are 3 industrial estates that are designated for industrialoperations. You may consider establishing your industrial operations within theseestates. The criteria for admission to these industrial estates are:

• The industrial activity must be of a nature which effectively

prohibits it from being carried out in an ordinary multi-storeyindustrial or commercial building available in the open market inHong Kong.

• The activity must not be classified as an offensive trade undergovernment regulations.

• The primary activity must not be storage or warehousing.

Advantages of Industrial Estates:• Located far away from residential areas and hence it is less

likely that nuisance resulting from the industrial operationscould affect local residents

• Can cope with industrial operations that are not suitable formulti-storey buildings

• Excellent transport links to urban area, airport, containerterminal and Mainland China

• Fully serviced with roads, drains, sewers, electricity and water

Locations of the Industrial Estate and Shatin FuelRestriction Area

Hong Kong Science & Technology ParksCorporationFor more details or enquiries on the industrial estates, pleasecontact the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation:Tel: (852) 2629 1818

Website: www.hkstp.org

Fuel Restriction AreaIn the Shatin Fuel Restriction Area, only gaseous fuel is legallypermitted for commercial and industrial appliances except forappliances used in construction sites or for emergency purposes.

EcoParkThe Hong Kong SAR Government has developed the EcoPark inTuen Mun Area 38, which provides long term land for localenvironmental and recycling industry. For more details, pleaserefer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/ecopark

When selecting different locations for establishing your business operations, it isalso prudent to consider the adequacy of environmental infrastructure and pollutioncontrol facilities (e.g. sewerage, waste disposal, wastewater treatment facilities, etc.)provided in those areas or premises in addition to business considerations (i.e.costs, logistics arrangement, etc.). Prioritised consideration may be given to thosepurpose-built premises which are equipped with centralized facilities (e.g. commonair duct, centralized grease trap, waste handling facilities, etc.). See Section 2 for anoverview of the environmental infrastructure in Hong Kong.

Example of Site Selection – Land Cost vsEnvironmental CostA food manufacturer decided to build its factory in a remote areadue to its cheaper land costs. However, no sewerage is providedin that area. As a consequence, the manufacturer had to installextra wastewater treatment facilities to treat its effluent in order tofulfill the relevant legal standards.

Neighbourhood Environment

Considerations should also be given to the characteristics of neighbourhoodenvironment and the sensitivity of other nearby premises to environmental nuisance,e.g. dust, odour, noise. This may affect the likelihood of triggering environmentalcomplaints in the future. Such considerations include:

• Are there any environment-sensitive premises, e.g. residentialbuildings, schools, hospitals, etc., close to the planned site of yourcompany?

• Are there any environment-sensitive tenants (e.g. elderly tenantsundertaking activities requiring quiet environment, etc.) within thebuilding that your company plans to move in?

If your answer to any of the above questions is yes, you will need to exercise extracare in planning and designing your operation processes and facilities or evenconsider the use of suitable environmental control systems. Otherwise, it is likelythat your future operation would attract environmental complaints.

Previous Usage of Premises

You should look into the past usage of thepremises that you intend to use before makingyour decision. This is because there may becontamination to the land [2,3] (e.g.oil-contaminated land) or damages to thebuilding (e.g. severely corroded wastewaterpipes) caused by the previous operations. Andthis will in turn incur additional costs for you toclean up the land or restore the building prior tomoving into the premises.

Example of LandContamination

In particular, the premises that had been used for any of the following operationscould have land contamination issues:

• Oil installations, e.g. oil depots, petrol filling stations• Gas works• Power plants• Chemical manufacturing / processing plants• Metal workshops• Car repairing/dismantling workshops• Shipyards/boatyards

3.2 Start Your BusinessCommon Legislative Requirements at a Glance

Application for EnvironmentalLicences/Permits

If your business is classifiedas DesignatedProjects(includingdecommissioning of certainworks)

You are required to gothrough the statutory EIAprocess & obtain anEnvironmental Permitprior to workscommencement

If your business is classifiedas a Specified Process

You are required to obtaina Specified ProcessLicence prior to theoperation

If your business involvesinstallation of or alteration tofurnaces, ovens andchimneys

You are required to obtaina Certificate of Approval inadvance

If your business dischargeswastewater (exceptdomestics sewagedischarged into communualsewers and unpolluted water)

You are required to obtainan Effluent DischargeLicence

If your business generatesPart A/ Part B chemicalwaste

You are required to registeras Chemical WasteProducer

If your business requiresconstruction of relatedfacilities

You are required to ensureyour appointedconstruction/ renovationcontractors have obtainedthe Effluent DischargeLicence, ConstructionNoise Permit and thechemical/ solid wastedisposal requirements arefulfilled where appropriate

If your business imports,exports, manufactures oruses the scheduledchemicals

You are required to obtainan activity-based permit

Taking into Account of EnvironmentalCosts

If your businessproduces wastewaterthat is connected topublic sewers

You are required to pay theSewage Charge

If your businessproduces trade effluentwith a strength higherthan that of domesticsewage

You are required to pay the TradeEffluent Surcharge

If your businessdisposes of chemicalwaste at the ChemicalWaste TreatmentCentre

You are required to pay thecharges for disposal of chemicalwaste

If your businessdisposes ofconstruction anddemolition waste duringconstruction of therelated facilities

You are required to pay thecharges for disposal ofconstruction and demolition waste

What should I Consider when I Start My Business?

The major focus of this phase is to plan and design the operations and, if necessary,construct related facilities in accordance with the relevant legal and otherrequirements with a view to protecting the environment. A comprehensive way ofdoing this is to perform an assessment of the potential environmental impacts that

will arise from your future operation and hence devising the proper pollutionprevention and control measures to avoid or reduce the adverse impacts.

To begin with, it is necessary to determine if your planned business belongs to anyof the Designated Projects as defined under the Environmental ImpactAssessment Ordinance [4,5]. There are altogether 17 categories of DesignatedProjects covering most infrastructure projects, public utilities, large-scale industrialactivities, waste disposal facilities, etc. (see Appendix B). If your planned operationhappens to be a Designated Project, then you must follow the statutoryEnvironmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process in order to obtain anEnvironmental Permit before you can proceed to construct the facilities or to startyour operation.

Flowchart Illustrating Major Steps of the Statutory EIAProcess

Designated Project

Prepare &SubmitProject

Profile toEPD

PublicInspectionof Project

Profile

Apply for EnvironmentalPermit Directly from EPD

Go To:Apply for EIA Study Brief

Prepare & Submit EIAReport to EPD

Review of EIA Report byEPD

PublicConsulationof the EIA

Report

Approve EIA Report byEPD

Approved EIA Report

Go To:Issue Environmental Permit by EPD

Even if your business does not belong to any of the Designated Projects, it makesgood business sense to incorporate at the outset environmental protectionconsideration in your business operations, and if necessary, construct relatedfacilities with due consideration of the relevant environmental legislativerequirements and good environment practices, which should cover the following keyareas:

• Air pollution• Noise• Water resources and pollution• Waste management• Energy use

• Material storage

Air Pollution

Under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance [6],there are two major regulations providinglicensing controls on air pollutant emissions:

Installation and Alteration of Furnaces, Ovens andChimneysBefore undertaking to install or make alterations to a furnace,oven, chimney or flue on your premises, you must seek prior

approval from EPD. [7]

Specified ProcessesIf you carry out any of the processes listed under Specified

Processes (see Appendix C ), you have to comply with the

following requirements:

• Obtain a licence from EPD before you can operate yourprocess.

• Comply with the licence conditions and use the BestPracticable Means for preventing the emission of noxious oroffensive emissions.

It is important to plan in advance the approach to fulfilling the legislativerequirements, and adopting cost-effective and best available technology for airpollution control and allowing sufficient space for installing appropriate pollutioncontrol equipment.

Smart TipsEven though your operation is not under the aforementionedlicensing control, you should examine whether appropriate airpollution control system is needed during the planning stage inorder to minimize potential nuisance and hence environmentalcomplaints in future operation, e.g. air pollution control equipmentis usually required for paint spraying process though it is notclassified as a Specified Processes.

You should also consider the following in planning and designing your facilities:

• location and positioning of fresh air intake and exhaust outlets• temporary storage of solid waste to minimize dust or odour nuisance

Do:✔ Direct your exhaust outlets to open areas for effective

dispersion

✔ Position your fresh air intake in an open environment to avoidnearby air pollutant sources as far as practicable

✔ Provide shelter/cover for your solid waste storage to minimizeair nuisance

Don't:✘ Exhaust outlets close to nearby residential buildings or other

neighbouring premises

✘ Exhaust outlets close to street level

✘ Fresh air intake close to exhausts from your own premises orother premises

✘ Solid waste storage at public places without any cover orshelter

Exhaust Outlet Close to Nearby Buildings Shouldbe Avoided

During construction of related facilities of your business, air nuisance arising fromactivities such as site excavation, renovation, handling and storage of constructionmaterials and vehicle movements of construction activities is controlled under the AirPollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation. Your appointed construction /renovation contractor must notify EPD before carrying out Notifiable Works andfollow the legislative dust control measures. More details are presented in Section4.3.

Legislative Control on the Use of AsbestosIf use of asbestos is required in your future operation, you shouldnote that some asbestos e.g. amosite and crocidolite are bannedfrom importing and sale in Hong Kong.

Requirements Related to Use of FuelUnder the Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulation, fuelsused by commercial and industrial appliances must comply withthe following requirements:

• In the Shatin Fuel Restriction Area (see Section 3.1), only

gaseous fuel is permitted except for appliances used inconstruction sites or for emergency purposes.

• In all other areas, permitted fuels are: (a) gaseous fuels; (b)conventional solid fuel with sulphur content not exceeding 1%by weight; and (c) liquid fuel with a sulphur content notexceeding 0.005% by weight and a viscosity of not more than 6centistokes at 40℃, such as Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel ("ULSD")

According to the Regulation [64] , all diesel powered equipmentmust use ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) from 1 October 2008onwards. For details, please refer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/

guide_fuel_restriction.html

Ozone Layer ProtectionUnder the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance, the Hong KongSAR Government has been implementing a phase-outprogramme for ozone depleting substances, which are commonlyused in various operations, e.g. refrigerants in air-conditioningsystems, fire-fighting installation, blowing agents for foammanufacturing, electronics cleaning agent, etc. As a result, the

following should be noted (or see the guidebooks [6,7,8,9,10] for

more details):

• You should consider using non-ozone depleting substances foryour operations, where appropriate.

• If "controlled" refrigerants are used in your operations offacilities, you should use approved equipment for recoveringand recycling during maintenance.

• If you need to import or export any "scheduled" ozone depletingsubstances, registration with the Trade and industryDepartment and application for an import or export licence arerequired.

If you are an importer, you should note that products including airconditioners and fire extinguishers containing ozone depletingsubstances are being phased out starting from 1 Jan 2010.

For the list of scheduled ozone depleting substances, please referto web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/application_for_licences/guidance/wn6_licen1_1.html

For the phase-out schedule of products containing ozonedepleting substances, please refer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/wn6_info.html

Air Pollution Control (VolatileOrganic Compounds) Regulation [63]You are subject to control under theRegulation if you are:

(a) an importer introducing any of theregulated products for sale or use inHong Kong;

Consumer ProductsContaining VolatileOrganic Compounds

(b) a manufacturer in Hong Kongmanufacturing any of the regulatedproducts for sale or use in Hong Kong; or

(c) an owner of a lithographic heatset webprinting machine in Hong Kong.

For the control equipments, please refer tothe web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/prob_solutions/voc_reg.html#point_3

What are the regulated products under theRegulation?Regulated products under Stage I include: (effective inphases from 1 April 2007 to 1 January 2011)

• 51 types of architectural paints/coatings• 7 types of printing inks• 6 broad categories of consumer products (i.e.hairsprays, air fresheners, multi-purpose lubricants, floorwax strippers, insecticides and insect repellent)

Regulated products under Stage II include: (effective inphases from 1 January 2010 to 1 April 2012)

• 14 types of vehicle refinishing paints / coating• 36 types of vessel paints / coatings and pleasure craftpaints / coatings• 47 types of adhesives and seal

Noise

To avoid or minimize generation of excessivenoise in your future operation, you shouldconsider the following in planning anddesigning your facilities [11]:

• layout of the facilities to screen off or isolateany noisyequipment or operations• selection of less noisy equipment oroperations• installation of appropriate noise reductionequipment/measure for noisy equipment or operations[12,13,14]

Noise BarrierInstalled to ReducePotential Nuisanceto NeighbouringAreas

During construction of related facilities of your business, your appointedconstruction/ renovation contractor must apply for a Construction Noise Permitprior to undertaking specific works during the restricted hours (see Section 4.3 formore details).

Smart TipsPrimary consideration in noise reduction is to control at source.It is important and effective to select quiet construction methodsand machinery.

Water Resources

In addition to water charges, companies thatdischarge wastewater are also required to pay theSewage Charge and/or Trade Effluent Surchargeaccording to the Sewage Services Ordinance.

The Sewage Charge is levied on all water accountholders whose premises are connected to a publicsewerage and applies to all businesses. The chargein Year 2012 is HK$1.87 per cubic meter of waterused. It is then gradually increased by 9.3% per yearuntil HK$2.92 per cubic metre of water supplied. 27trades and industries (see Appendix D) that producetrade effluents with a strength higher than that ofdomestic sewage are required to pay the TradeEffluent Surcharge in addition to the SewageCharge.

Smart TipsIt is wise to plan for water conservation through design and use ofappropriate water-saving equipment and/or processes. This willnot only cut down your water bills but also reduce your SewageCharge and/or Trade Effluent Surcharge.

Sewage Charges CalculationFor a number of specific trades, businesses or manufacturers

(see Appendix D ), the Sewage Charge is calculated based on

portion of the volume of water used, other than water suppliedspecifically for flushing purposes.

What is “unpolluted water”?

It generally means:– Rain water from any part of a building;– Water which does not contain any poisonous, noxious orpolluting matters.

Water Pollution

All discharges, except discharge of domesticsewage into communal sewers and unpollutedwater, are subject to a licensing control systemaccording to the Water Pollution ControlOrdinance [15]. These discharges include alltypes of industrial manufacturing, commercial,institutional and construction activities anddischarge from sewage treatment facilities.

For any discharges subject to control, thedischarger should apply for a licence from EPDand comply with its terms and conditions [16]. Itis wise to plan in advance to make provisionsfor wastewater treatment facilities whennecessary, e.g. allowing sufficient space forinstallation of wastewater treatment facilities,design of proper drainage, etc.

If wastewater treatment facility is required, submission ofthe relevant design information and drawings to EPD for approvalprior to installation is required.

How to apply for an effluent discharge licence?You must submit an application form to EPD [15] . If you wish to

change any of the conditions of the licence, you must apply toEPD for approval.

Where should you connect your sewers?Under the Water Pollution Control (Sewerage) Regulation, EPDmay serve a notice on the owner of the premises, (located withinunsewered areas) requiring connection to public sewers whenthey are available in the vincity.

Did you know?Terms and conditions of the effluent discharge licence mayinclude:

• discharge location• provision of wastewater treatment facilities• maximum allowable discharge quantity• effluent discharge standards• self-monitoring requirements• record keeping requirements

Waste Management

You are advised to design proper solid waste storage facilities to suit your futureoperational needs. The key considerations include:

• Sufficient space should be designated for solid waste handling and storage.• The designated waste storage area should be located away from public places andprovidedwith shelter/cover to avoid causing nuisance to your neighbours.• If necessary, use of odour control measures should be considered.

Apart from solid waste, your future operation may also generate chemical waste,which refers to any substance being scrap material, effluent, an unwantedsubstance or byproduct or containing any substance specified in Schedule 1 of theWaste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation.The Schedule categorizes the substances into Part A and Part B:

Part A Chemical Waste: particularly hazardous chemicals, e.g. asbestos, antibiotics,pesticides, etc.Part B Chemical Waste: majority of chemical waste, e.g. spent lube oil, acids,alkalis, organic solvents, etc.

If any chemical waste (Part A or Part B) is generated from your business operation,you must register as a Chemical Waste Producer with EPD and comply with therelevant requirements [17]. For more details, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc_list.html

If you need to construct the related facilities for your planned business, yourappointed construction / renovation contractor should take note of the above solidwaste storage consideration, and follow the chemical waste registration / notificationrequirements as well.

How to register as Chemical Waste Producer?You must complete a registration form and submit to EPD [18] . If

you wish to make subsequent changes, you must inform EPD.Upon receipt of all the necessary information, EPD will issue aregistration document stating the waste that you are legallyregistered to produce. For details, please refer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc.html

What should I do regarding packaging, labelling, storageand disposal of my chemical waste?

Chemical Waste Producers must arrange for proper packaging, labelling and

storage of chemical waste (Part A and Part B) prior to disposal [19]. Considerationsshould therefore be given to make provision for proper chemical waste storageduring planning and design phase.

For the first example of proper chemical waste storage facilities, details include:Storage of incompatible wastes in different areas.Impermeable floor made of suitable material to withstand normal abrasion andchemical action of the stored chemical waste.Impervious wall/partition made of suitable material.Bund (max. 220mm height) to retain potential leakage of the capacity of thelargest container or 20% of the storage capactity whichever is the greater.

For the second example of proper chemical waste storage facilities, details include:

Drip tray to contain leakage.Vent holes.Storage of incompatible waste in separate areas.Impermeable sill to contain leakage or spillage.

Smart Tips• Charges are imposed for disposal of chemical waste at the

Chemical Waste Treatment Centre (seewww.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/prob_solutions/

chemical_fees.html) and construction waste at related Government facilities (seeSection 4.3).

• The Hong Kong SAR Government is considering imposing acharge for disposal of municipal solid waste. It makes goodbusiness sense to plan and design suitable waste reductionmeasures, e.g. providing enough space and facilities forsegregation of waste for recycling.

What you must know:If your chemical waste is classified as dangerous goods (DG),you need to obtain a licence from the Fire Services Departmentfor storing such waste.

Energy Use

It is wise to consider energy use in planning yourbusiness and premises because good energyefficiency always leads to financial savings. Youmay consider the followings:

1. Adopt good practices in energy use during design and planningphase

2. Install window fins for shading in order to reduce heat gain fromdirect sunlight in order to cut air-conditioning costs

3. Divide the premises into different lighting/air-conditioning zonesso that lighting/air-conditioning can be controlled separately inindividual zones to suit different needs

4. Design lighting/air-conditioning systems to achieve optimallighting/comfort level (e.g. avoid excessive lighting or over-sizingof air-conditioning system)

5. Install energy-saving lightings, e.g. T-5 fluorescent tubes,electronic ballast, etc.

6. Set the air-conditioning temperature at 25.5℃ to save energy

7. Use water-cooled air-conditioning system which can reduce up to30% of electricity consumption comparing with air-cooled system

Material Storage

If your business involves manufacturing, storageand/or use of dangerous goods (DG), you needto obtain relevant licences before commencingthe operations in accordance with the DangerousGoods Ordinance (except that the quantity ofdangerous goods is below the exempted quantityas specified in the Ordinance). It is thereforeimportant to plan in advance to make provisionsfor the appropriate facilities (e.g. DG store) incompliance with the licence requirements.

DG includes all explosives, compressed gases, petroleum and other substancesgiving off inflammable vapours, substances giving off poisonous gas or vapour,corrosive substances, substances which become dangerous by interaction withwater or air, substances liable to spontaneous combustion or of a readilycombustible nature. Examples include diesel, strong acid, strong alkali, etc. There

are altogether 10 DG Categories [20] as defined in the Ordinance.

What you must know:• Storing over 2,500 litres of diesel requires a DG storage

licence.

• If you use container larger than 450 litres for storing chemicalwaste, prior EPD’s approval is required.

Licensing Authorities of DGDG Category Licensing Authority

Category 1 (i.e. explosives andblasting agents)

Commissioner of Mines,Civil Engineering and

Development DepartmentCategory 2 to 10 excluding

liquefied petroleum gasFire Services Department

Smart Tips• If your chemical waste is classified as DG, e.g. spent strong acid,

you must comply with the legal requirements for both chemicalwaste and DG.

• Even for chemicals such as cleaning products, pesticides andherbicides which are not classified as DG but can be potentiallyharmful to the environment, proper facilities should be provided fortheir storage and handling in order to avoid leakage and spillage.

• Emergency response procedures and spill kits should be in placeto deal with any accidental leakage or spillage of DG or hazardouschemicals.

• Relevant personnel should be trained to handle chemical leakage /spillage.

Hazardous Chemicals

Activities involving import, export, manufacture or use of certain non-pesticidehazardous chemicals require an activity-based permit issued under the HazardousChemicals Control Ordinance (HCCO). Currently, the following hazardous chemicals(scheduled chemicals), which are covered in the Stockholm Convention andRotterdam Convention, are subject to the control of this Ordinance:

Type 1 Chemicals• Hexachlorobenzene (HCB)• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)

Type 2 ChemicalsAsbestos• Actinolite•Anthophyllite• Amosite• Crocidolite• Tremolite

Polybrominated biphenyls(PBB)• Hexabromobiphenyl• Octabromobiphenyl• Decabromobiphenyl

Polychlorinated terphenyls(PCT)Tetraethyl leadTetramethyl leadTris(2,3-dibromopropyl)phosphate

Manufactured products using these chemicals except PCB are exempt from control.Hence, PCB containing equipments (e.g. transformer, capacitors) is regulated.Import / export of these chemicals also requires a consignment-based import /export lisence issued under the Import and Export Ordinance.

Did You Know?Tetraethyl lead and tetramethyl lead are Cat. 4 DG and theirstorage requires a licence issued under the Dangerous GoodsOrdinance. Import of amosite and crocidolite is banned under theAir Pollution Control Ordinance unless authorized by the EPD.

Smart Tips

Each HCCO permit generally lasts for 12 months. Applicants willneed to demonstrate a genuine need to involve the scheduledchemicals in their activities. Their import and export are banned /restricted and subject to the prior consent of the importing andexporting countries. As the scheduled chemicals are beingphased out internationally, activities involving them should beavoided or minimized.

Foreseeable Legislative Requirements

New legislative requirements on the following areas are proposed or planned.Updated information on the enactment schedule and detailed requirements can beobtained from EPD’s Webpage or Compliance Assistance Centre.

Charges for Disposal of Municipal Solid Waste: In addition to theexisting charging schemes for disposal of construction waste andchemical waste, the Hong Kong SAR Government is considering toimpose a charge for disposal of municipal solid waste.

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/msw/htm_en/ch05/main.htm#setting

New Producer Responsibility Scheme for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE): An environmental levy will be introduced for WEEE which is identified as a target for a mandatory producer responsibility scheme. The requirements on how to provide proper treatment for WEEE, how to manage its flow and how to share the cost of the scheme will be specified. Introduction: http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201503/12/P201503120327.htm

Consultation Document:http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/policy/files/weee_consultation_eng.pdf

Extend the Ban in Import and Sale of Asbestos: To extend theBan in Import and Sale of Brown and Blue Asbestos to All OtherForms of Asbestos Including White Asbestos and to Ban Supplyand New Use of All Forms of Asbestos.

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/pub_consult/files/ConAbs-eng.pdf

A Quick Summary

Prevention is always better than cure. Taking environmentalconsiderations into your early business planning process is ableto help you both ensure legal compliance and bring financialsaving on subsequent costs for pollution control and resourcesconsumption. It helps build up corporate image as anenvironmentally friendly company.

A checklist is presented in Appendix E , summarizing relevant

legislative requirements and other environmental considerationsthat you should consider during the phases when you Plan andStart Your Business. Moreover, a table summarizing the timeframe required for application of the relevant environmental

licences is also given in Appendix F for easy reference.

3.3 Manage your BusinessCommon Legislative Requirements at a Glance

Compliance with EnvironmetalLicences/Permits

If your business is classifiedas Designated Project

You are required to complywith the terms and

(including decommissioningof certain works) and holdan Environmental Permit

conditions of theEnvironmental Permit

If your business is classifiedas a Specified Processand hold a SpecifiedProcess Licence

You are required to complywith the terms andconditions of the SpecifiedProcess Licence

If your business dischargeswastewater (exceptdomestic sewagedischarged into communalsewer and unpolluted water)and hold an EffluentDischarge Licence

You are required to complywith the terms andconditions of the EffluentDischarge Licence

If your business generatesPart A chemical waste andis registered as a chemicalwaste producer

You are required toimplement appropriatepractice on packaging,labelling and storage of thechemical waste, notify EPDprior to disposal of thewaste, and then engage alicensed collector to collectfor disposal

If your business generatesPart B chemical waste andis registered as a chemicalwaste producer

You are required toimplement appropriatepractice on packaging,labelling and storage of thechemical waste, notify EPDprior to disposal of thewaste, and then engage alicensed collector to collectfor disposal

If your business will conductan activity (import, export,manufacture or use)involving a scheduledchemical in the coming 12months

You are required to apply foran activity-based permit fromthe EPD according to needs,and, for import / export of thescheduled chemical, to applyfor a consignment-basedlicence under the import andExport Ordinance from theEPD for every shipment ofthe scheduled chemical(s) ifappropriate

What should I Consider when I Manage My Business?

The types and extent of environmental nuisances generated from businessoperations depend on the nature and scale of your work. This section outlines thegeneric environmental requirements. You are advised to identify the legislationrelevant to your business operations so as to comply with the environmentalrequirements in a cost-effective way.

Do:✔ Obtain all relevant approvals / permits / licences.

✔ Take prompt actions to abate environmental nuisance.

✔ Check if the environmental facilities are constructed and arrangedproperly.

✔ Liaise closely with the contractors (including construction andrenovation) to make sure all measures are taken to minimizeenvironmental nuisance.

✔ Make sure all the staff understand and implement the plannedenvironmental measures.

✔ Plan for emergency procedures to cater for accidents e.g. leakageand spillage of hazardous substances, and perform drills regularly.

Air Pollution

If you have obtained the Specified Process licence for your operation or theapproval for installing furnaces, ovens, chimneys or flue during the planning anddesign phase (see Section 3.2), you must ensure compliance with the legalrequirements as specified in the licence/approval document throughout theoperation phase.

In case your operation causes air nuisance to your neighbouring environment, EPDmay issue an Air Pollution Abatement Notice (APAN)[21] to require you to eitherstop the operation that causes the nuisance or take measures to abate the nuisancewithin specified time frame. Failure to comply with the abatement notice is liable toprosecution by EPD.

There are also a number of subsidiary regulations, which you may need to take noteof during your operation.

Dark Smoke RequirementsUnder the Air Pollution Control (Smoke) Regulations, dark smokeemissions from any chimney or relevant plant must not exceed:

• 6 minutes in any period of 4 hours; or

• 3 minutes continuously at any one time. [22]

Dust and Grit RequirementsUnder the Air Pollution Control (Dust and Grit Emission)Regulations, you must provide a dust and / or grit emissionsampling point according to EPD’s specifications, if requested.

[23]

Open Burning RequirementsUnder the Air Pollution Control (Open Burning) Regulation, youneed to apply for a permit if you intend to burn any materials inopen areas. However, burning of construction waste, tyres,

cables and metal salvage is prohibited. [24]

Noise

If noise emitted from your operation is found to be not in compliance with theAcceptable Noise Levels [25] or is found to be a source of annoyance, EPD mayissue a Noise Abatement Notice (NAN) to require you to abate the noise thatexceeds the noise limits or causes the annoyance within a specified time frame.Failure to comply with the abatement notice is liable to prosecution by EPD.

Smart Tips• Not to carry out noisy operations in open areas which could causedisturbance to nearby sensitive receivers.• Check for abnormal noise (e.g. high frequency tonal noise due tofailure or malfunction of certain components of a ventilation system)and conduct immediate repair / improvement.• Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of equipment to avoidgeneration of unnecessary noise.• Conduct regular inspection and maintenance of noise controlfacilities to ensure their effectiveness.

Did you know?The Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance,administered by the Labour Department, provides statutorycontrol over occupational noise that may affect employeesworking in factories and other industrial undertakings.

Water Pollution

Throughout the operation phase, you are required to ensure compliance with thedischarge standards and conditions as specified in the effluent discharge licenceobtained during the planning and design phase (see Section 3.2). As such, EPDmay require the licencee to undertake regular monitoring of the discharged effluentand submit the analysis results to EPD.

Did you know?EPD may pay unscheduled visits to your premises to take effluentsamples for analysis in order to check if they comply with thedischarge standards. Should the analysis results demonstrateany non-compliance, EPD may take actions to prosecute thelicence holder or discharger.

Smart Tips• Carefully control the water consumption, it not only saves your

water bills and Sewage Charges, but also reduces wastewatergeneration and hence saves the in-house wastewater treatmentcosts, if any.

• Differentiate storm drains from foul sewers.

• Install appropriate screening systems to avoid solid waste fromblocking the drains.

• Appoint experienced contractors / your trained staff to take care ofthe wastewater treatment system, if any, as well as the wastewaterdrainage system.

Can I ask for a reduction of my Sewage Charge and TradeEffluent Surcharge?

Yes IF:

• You can demonstrate that the volume of your discharge into publicsewer system is not more than 85% of the volume of water used.

• You conduct a re-assessment of the “pollution strength” of youreffluent so as to reduce the Trade Effluent Surcharge.

The sample analysis work to support the above applications should normally bedone by laboratories accredited under the Hong Kong Laboratory AccreditationScheme (HOKLAS). A list of such laboratories can be found at the webpage:www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/hoklas/directory/directory.htm

Further enquiries may be made to the office of Drainage Authority via the hotline2834 9432 or on line:http://www.dsd.gov.hk/EN/Sewage_Services_Charging_Scheme/

Enquiry/index.html

Are there any requirements related to operation of ships?If your business involves operation of ships or transport of oil, noxious liquidsubstances by ships, you are required to adopt preventive measures to preventpollution from ships and minimize accidental discharge of harmful substancesaccording to the Shipping and Port Control Ordinance, Merchant Shipping(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Ordinance and the International Conventionfor the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

Waste Management

Solid waste produced in the course of operation must be properly handled, storedand disposed. Similarly, if you have registered with EPD as a Chemical WasteProducer, you need to ensure proper packaging, labelling, storage and disposal ofthe generated chemical waste (Part A and Part B).

EPD has imposed the trip-ticket system to control chemical waste from its source ofgeneration to its final disposal point. All chemical waste should be collected by

licensed waste collectors for disposal at the licensed waste disposal facilities.

For disposal of Part A chemical waste, you must make prior notification to EPD inaccordance with the Waste Disposal Ordinance[17] .

Who are the waste collectors?A list of the licensed chemical collectors can be found inEPD’s webpage:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_ref_dwc.html

Some waste collectors are engaged in collecting certaintypes of solid waste (e.g. waste paper) and chemical waste(e.g. spent lube oil) for recovery or recycling.

It is recommended to implement a waste management plan and to establishsegregation system to separate recyclable waste materials such as paper, metalsand plastic materials for recycling. The Government’s Policy Framework for theManagement of Municipal Solid Waste (2005-2014) provides suggestions on howdifferent sectors can incorporate various waste reduction measures into theireveryday life or business practices. The Hong Kong SAR Government isconsidering to impose a charging scheme for disposal of municipal solid waste [26], which includes domestic, commercial and industrial waste.

Smart TipsCutting the amount of waste your business produces, recyclingyour waste materials and reducing your use of raw materials areall good for the environment and can also save your operationcosts.

Hazardous Chemicals

If you have already obtained a permit issued under the Hazardous Chemicals

Control Ordinance for your activity involving the scheduled chemical(s), you mustensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the permits and, if you want tochange the essential part of your permitted activity during the permit period, youshould apply for variation of the or apply for a new one. Also, under the permit youwill be required to report the details of your activity in a specified form to the EPDregularly and it is important that you keep the relevant record. Failure to meet thepermit terms and conditions is liable to suspension or cancellation of the permit orprosecution.

3.4 Withdraw Your BusinessWhat should I Consider when I Withdraw My Business?

If demolition of facilities is involved during the de-commissioning work, you shouldensure your appointed contractor follows the relevant environmental requirementsduring the demolition work, which are very similar to those highlighted for theconstruction work in Section 3.2. Prior to demolition of any buildings or electricaland mechanical facilities, any hazardous materials must be identified and properlydealt with [2] . In particular, hazardous materials containing asbestos [27] or

polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) [28] must be handled and disposed of inaccordance with the corresponding Codes of Practice. The following is required for

demolition work involving asbestos containing material [6] :

• Employ a registered consultant to conduct an investigation• Submit an investigation report• Submit an asbestos abatement plan• Employ a registered asbestos contractor to carry out asbestos abatement workwhich is supervised by a registered consultant• Register with EPD as a Chemical Waste Producer prior to disposal of asbestoswaste

Asbestos and Polychlorinated Biphenyl WasteAsbestos and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) waste is classifiedas Part A chemical wastes. Various aspects (e.g. handling anddisposing the wastes) are subject to control under a number ofordinances/regulations including the Waste Disposal (ChemicalWaste) (General) Regulation, Air Pollution Control Ordinance andFactories and Industrial Undertakings (Asbestos) Regulation.

In case your operation has caused contamination to the land or damages to thebuilding, you are advised to take remedial actions to clean up the contamination orrestore the damaged facilities of the building before moving out.

Decommissioning of certain works is classified as Designated Projects inaccordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance and is subject tothe statutory environmental impact assessment process (see Section 3.2). SeeAppendix B for the List of Designated Projects.

[1] Hong Kong Planning Standard and Guidelines

[2] Guidance Notes for Contaminated Land Assessment and Remediation

[3] Guidance Notes for Investigation and Remediation of Contaminated Sites of Petrol Filling Stations, Boatyards, and Car Repair/Dismantling Workshops

[4] Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process

[5] A Guide to Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance

[6] A Concise Guide to the Air Pollution Control Ordinance

[7] A Guide to the Air Pollution Control (Furnace, Ovens and Chimneys)(Installationand Alteration) Regulations

[8] A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection (Controlled Refrigerants) Regulation

[9] Air-Conditioning Refrigerants - A Time for Change (ProPECC PN 4/94)

[10] A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance

[11] A Concise Guide to the Noise Control Ordinance

[12] Good Practices on Pumping System Noise Control

[13] Good Practices on Ventilation System Noise Control

[14] Noise Annoyance Prevention - Design of Pump Room and Ventilation System(PNAP 228)

[15] A Guide to the Water Pollution Control Ordinance

[16] Technical Memorandum – Standards for Effluents Discharged into Drainage and Sewerage Systems, Inland and Coastal Waters

[17] A Guide to the Chemical Waste Control Scheme

[18] A Guide to the Registration of Chemical Waste Producers

[19] Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes

[20] Fire Protection Notice No. 4 Dangerous Goods General

[21] Technical Memorandum for Issuing Air Pollution Abatement Notices to ControlAir Pollution from Stationery Polluting Processes

[22] An Introduction to the Air Pollution Control (Smoke) Regulations

[23] Cut Down Construction Dust

[24] A Guide to the Air Pollution Control (Open Burning) Regulation

[25] Technical Memorandum for the Assessment of Noise from Places other than Domestic Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites

[26] Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste (2005 – 2014)

[27] Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation and Disposal Asbestos Waste

[28] Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation an Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) Waste

[63] A Guide to the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation

[64] A Guide to Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulation and its Amendment of 2008

[67] Guidiance Note for Recovery and Minimizing the Release of HCFCs Refrigerant

4.1 Chemical Processing Industry4.7 Laundry, Dry-cleaning and Garment Services

4.2 Clinics and Related Laboratories 4.8 Metal Products Industry

4.3 Construction and Building Renovation

4.9 Recycling Industry

4.4 Electrical and Electronics Industry

4.10 Textiles and Clothing Industry

4.5 Fishery and Poultry 4.11 Vehicle Repair and Services

4.6 Food and Beverage

Section 4Environmental Requirements – SpecificIndustries/Trades

This Section focuses on those environmental requirements that are specificallyapplicable for a number of individual trade/industry categories.

Hence, in addition to the environmental legislation and requirements applicable forgeneric trades as detailed in Section 3 of this Guide, you should also be aware ofthe requirements presented in this Section if part or all of your businessinvolves any of the following trade/industry categories:

1. Chemical Processing Industry (including pharmaceutical, cosmeticsand toiletries)

2. Clinics and Related Laboratories (including hospitals, clinics, dentalclinics, health care centres, etc)

3. Construction and Building Renovation4. Electrical and Electronics Industry5. Fishery and Poultry6. Food and Beverage (including food manufacturing and restaurants)7. Laundry, Dry-cleaning and Garment Services

8. Metal Products Industry9. Recycling Industry10. Textiles and Clothing Industry11. Vehicle Repair and Services

Please see Section 3 for generic legislative requirements.

4.1 Chemical Processing IndustryIf your business involves in processing of chemicals and relatedworks such as mineral or petrochemical works, chemicalincineration works, manufacturing of pharmaceutical, cosmetic andtoiletries, analysis of the scheduled chemicals, etc., you need tocomply with the following requirements and good practices in addition tothose mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.

Specific / Additional Statutory Requirements

If your operationinvolves SpecifiedProcess (e.g. OrganicChemical Works,Sulphuric Acid Works,etc) (see Appendix C forthe full list of SpecifiedProcesses)

Then you are required to apply fora licence from EPD prior tooperation (see Section 3.2 or theGuidance Notes [29])

If you carry out in-housereprocessing, recycling,treatment and/ordisposal of chemicalwaste arising from youroperation with treatmentcapacity of

Then you are required to

(i) Apply for a Waste DisposalLicence from EPD prior tooperation (see Section 3.2 orthe EPD guidebook [17] )

(ii) Small-scale disposal facilitieswith capacity below this amount

(i) over 1,000 litres orkilograms per day(ii) below 1,000 litres orkilograms per day

will not noramally be issued aWaste Disposal Licence.However, some criteria fromEPD must be satisfied (see theEPD guidebook[17] )

If your activityconcerned (import,export, manufacture oruse) involves ascheduled chemical tobe conducted in thecoming 12 months

Then you are required to apply foran activity-based permit from theEPD according to needs, and, forimport/export of a scheduledchemical, to apply for aconsignment-based licence underthe Import and Export Ordinancefrom the EPD for every shipment ofthe scheduled chemical(s) ifappropriatewww.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/international

_conventions/pops/hcco3.html

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)(for Designated Projects ONLY)If your project isclassified asDesignated Project(see Appendix B)


• Obtain an Environmental Permit

• Implement mitigation measures asidentified in the relevant EnvironmentalPermit and Environmental Monitoringand Audit (EM&A) Manual [4,5]

For details about Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning, please refer tothe web links:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.htmlwww.epd.gov.hk/eia/index.html

4.2 Clinics and Related LaboratoriesIf your business involves in the operation of private clinics, healthcare centres, private medical laboratories, pathological laboratoriesin academic institutions, etc., you should follow the requirements andgood practices listed below in addition to those mentioned in Sections 2and 3.


If you produce clinical waste

Then you should

• Comply with the legalrequirements of the WasteDisposal Ordinance (Cap.354)and the Waste Disposal(Clinical Waste) (General)Regulation

• Follow the guidance in theCode of Practice for theManagement of Clinical Waste[65,66]

• Fulfill responsibilities under theClinical Waste ControlScheme. For details, pleaserefer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/

if your activity concerned(import, export, manufactureor use) involves a scheduledchemical to be conducted in

Then you should apply anactivity-base permit from theEPD according to needs, and, forimport/export of a scheduled

the coming 12 months

chemical, to apply for aconsignment-based licenceunder the Import and ExportOrdinance from the EPD forevery shipment of the scheduledchemical(s) if appropriate

For details about the good practices and management of clinical waste, please refer to the web link: http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/en/practice.html

ReminderIf you produce chemical waste such as unwanted or expiredpharmaceutical products or medicines, you must register withEPD. Chemical waste such as dangerous drugs, part 1 poisonsand antibiotics is further classified as Part A chemical waste, youmust also notify EPD prior to disposal. See Section 3.2 or the

EPD guidebook [17] for details of requirements.

Latest Regulatory Requirements

The legislation on specifying the operational requirements for clinical wasteproducers, collectors and disposal facility operator has become effective since 1stAugust 2011. Clinical waste producers will have to follow the legislativerequirements for handling and consigning the clinical waste to licensed clinicalwaste collectors. A charge will be levied on disposing of clinical waste at theChemical Waste Treatment Centre for disposal.

For details about clinical waste, please refer to the web link :www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste

4.3 Construction and Building RenovationIf your business involves in site formation, construction, building,

renovation or demolition, etc., or you are the contractor responsiblefor the work site, you need to comply with the following requirementsand good practices in addition to those mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.


Air Pollution Control

If you need to carry out NotifiableWorks (see Appendix G forinterpretation)

Then you are required to notifyEPD in advance andimplement a series of dustcontrol measures [23]according to the Air PollutionControl (Construction Dust)Regulation

If you need to carry outRegulatory Works or off-sitestorage of dusty materialsassociated with Excluded Works(see Appendix G forinterpretation)

Then you are required toimplement a series of dustcontrol measures [23]according to the Air PollutionControl (Construction Dust)Regulation

If your operation involvesSpecified Processes (e.g.operating a concrete batchingplant or a bitumen plantexceeding the throughput limits)(see Appendix C for the full list ofSpecified Processes)

Then you are required to applyfor a licence from EPD prior tooperation (see Section 3.2 orthe Guidance Notes [29])

If you need to remove asbestoscontaining materials in premises,or you need to carry out any workwhich involves the use orhandling of asbestos containingmaterials

Then you are required toappoint registered asbestosprofessionals to carry out suchwork and notify EPD [27] (alsosee Section 3.4).

For the list of registers of asbestos professionals, please refer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/air_guidelines.html

Smart TipsIn carrying out work involving paint spraying, varnishing, bitumensurfacing or process that would generate offensive smell, it isrecommended to install a proper exhaust system with effectiveodour control device in order to avoid causing odour nuisance.

Don’tIt is an offence to dispose of construction waste or site clearanceby open burning.

Noise ControlIf you carry out one of thefollowing works from 7pm to7am on weekdays or at any timeon a general holiday includingSunday:

1. General works (i.e.construction work other thanpercussive piling) usingpowered mechanicalequipment

2. Works within a DesignatedArea [30] using specifiedpowered mechanicalequipment

3. Prescribed ConstructionWorks (see Appendix G forinterpretation)

4. Percussive Piling [31]

Then you are required to applyfor a Construction Noise Permitfrom EPD prior to thecommencement of theconstruction works[32,33,34,35]

If

1. You use hand-held breakershaving a mass of above 10kg or air compressor capableof supplying compressed airat 500 kPa or above

2. The above equipment in youruse bears no Noise EmissionLabel


1. Make sure such equipmenthas been provided with validNoise Emission Labelswww.epd.gov.hk/epd/

english/application_for_

licences/guidance/

nel_363.html

2. Submit application to EPDand get the Noise EmissionLabel for such equipment

Internal and external building renovation works are also classifiedas construction works and therefore the permit system alsoapplies. Besides, appropriate noise control measures should also

be considered during renovation works [36] .

Designated AreaMost of the built-up residential areas are Designated Area (DA)where tightened controls on construction noise are imposed. DA

Plans are available at EPD’s Regional Offices (see Appendix A ).

DA maps can also be viewed on EPD’s webpage:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/noise/help_corner/da.html

Water Pollution Control

If your operationdischarges effluent


• Be aware that the discharge is subject tolicensing control by EPD (see Section 3.2)

• Comply with the discharge standard [16]and the terms and conditions of theDischarge Licence

• Connect proper site drainage [37] forcollecting wastewater

Common Construction Activities GeneratingWastewater1. Excavation / bore piling works2. Dust control activities e.g. surface watering, vehicle wheelwashing, etc3. Site facilities e.g. canteen, toilet, etc4. Surface run-off

Wastewater TreatmentSystem Installed at a

Construction Site

Toilet WastewaterTreatment System

Installed in a ConstructionSite

Waste DisposalIf you dispose ofconstruction waste atgovernment waste disposal

Then you are required to open abilling account with EPD and pay forthe Construction Waste Disposal

facilities Charge

For details about disposal of construction waste, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/cdm/index.htmFor details about application for a public fill dumping licence, please refer to the weblink:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/cdm/management1.htm

ReminderFor construction contract with value HK$1 million or above,application for billing account shall be made to EPD within 21days after the contract is awarded.

ReminderIf your site works generate waste such as spent lubrication oil,paint, organic solvent, acid, alkali and asbestos, which areclassified as Chemical Waste, you must register with EPD asChemical Waste Producers and follow the specific

requirements (see Section 3.2 or the EPD guidebook [17] ).

Construction Waste Disposal ChargeGovernment wastedisposal facilities

Type of construction wasteaccepted

Charge per tonne

Public fill receptionfacilities

Consisting entirely ofinert constructionwaste++

$27

Sorting facilities Containing more than50% by weight of inertconstruction waste++

$100

Landfills Containing not more than50% by weight of inertconstruction waste++

$125

Outlying IslandsTransfer Facilities

Containing anypercentageof inert constructionwaste++

$125

Note:

++ Inert construction waste means rock, rubble, boulder, earth, soil, sand, concrete,asphalt, brick, tile, masonry or used bentonite.

For details about the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme, please referto the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/cdm/scheme.htm

Smart Tips• In order to save your disposal cost, you are encouraged to

reduce and recycle construction waste as far as practicable;sort and dispose of inert and non-inert construction materials atappropriate facilities [38,39,40,41] .

• It is recommended that a waste management plan [46] isprepared prior to commencement of construction works. Moredetails are provided at:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/cdm/index.htm

Dumping at Sea

If you undertake marinedumping of materials (e.g.sediment arising fromdredging works) and relatedloading operations


• Apply for a permit from EPD priorto the operations [43,44,45]

• Equip all dumping vessels withautomatic self-monitoring systemsto record their positions as well asloading and dumping operations

For details about dumping at sea, please refer to the web link:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/application_for_licences/guidance/application_maincontent35.html

Smart TipsMarine dumping should be considered as the last resort fordisposal of substances provided no land based disposal optionsare available and the substances to be disposed of cannot befurther reused or recycled.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)(for Designated Projects ONLY)

If your project is classified asDesignated Projects (see Appendix B)

Then you are required to• Obtain an EnvironmentalPermit• Implement mitigationmeasures asidentified in the relevantEnvironmental PermitandEnvironmentalMonitoring and Audit(EM&A) Manual [4,5]

For details about Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning, please refer tothe web links :www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.htmlwww.epd.gov.hk/eia/index.html

You may also refer to the guidance notes [46,47,48]

issued by different departments for choosing and implementingappropriate control measures to avoid and minimizeenvironmental nuisance for construction works. Other relevant

websites are available at:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/greenconstruction (Partnership

with the Construction Industry) and

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/env_management_sme (Support

Website on Environmental Management Information and ISO14001 EMS for Construction Sector SMEs).

Other Environmental ConsiderationsQuality Powered Mechanical Equipment (QPME)

Quality Powered Mechanical Equipment (QPME) items are construction equipmentitems that are notably quieter, more environmentally friendly and efficient.

QPME system is an Administrative System developed by the EPD to reflect thestate-of-the-art construction equipment, to facilitate the Construction Noise Permit(CNP) application process, and at the same time supports the "Pay for Environment"concept of the Works Branch of the Development Bureau. As from April 2008, thecapital expenditure on QPME can be deducted from Profits Tax.

For more details, please refer to the web link :www.ird.gov.hk/eng/ppr/archives/08042601.htm

Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection onConstruction Sites

EPD offered technical assistance to Hong Kong Construction Association to prepareand edit the "Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection on ConstructionSites". This publication provided essential and practical guidance for contractors toimplement effective environmental protection and management works in theconstruction industry.

For more details, please refer to the web link :www.hkca.com.hk/front/20090306bpg.pdf

Use of Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD)

You need to use ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) as the fuel for the diesel poweredequipment according to Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction)(Amendment)Regulation [64].

Smart TipsGood practices to help ensure proper diesel fuel :

• Main contractor to require

(a) all diesel powered equipment be delivered to site with anempty fuel tank and fill them up with ULSD upon arrival; or

(b) subcontractors using their own fuel to provide documentaryproof of ULSD purchase (e.g. sales and delivery receipt);

• Keep sales and delivery receipts on-site of the purchase ofULSD for at least 2 years; and

• Arrange regular self-sampling and testing.

4.4 Electrical and Electronics Industry

If your business involves in processing, manufacturing or recycling ofelectrical and electronic equipment, components and parts, etc., youneed to comply with the following requirements and good practices inaddition to those mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.

Specific / Additional Statutory RequirementsIf you import or export electrical and electronicwaste consisting of the material that is

• not specified in the 6th Schedule of theWaste Disposal Ordinance (e.g. commonexamples of 6th Schedule wastes are metalwaste and scrap, printed circuit boards,electronic components, wire,etc.); or

• contaminated; or

Then you arerequired to applyfor a permit fromEPD in advance

• not for the purpose of reuse, reprocessing,recycling or recovery

Smart TipsManufacturers are encouraged to design and produce electricaland electronic equipment by taking into account the possibility ofdismantling and recovery of the components and materials.

Other Environmental ConsiderationsA New Producer Responsibilitiy Scheme for WasteElectrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

An environmental levy will be introduced for WEEE which is identified as a target fora mandatory producer responsibility scheme. The requirements on how to provideproper treatment for WEEE, how to manage its flow and how to share the cost of thescheme will be specified. For details, please refer to the web link:

Introduction:www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201503/12/P201503120327.htmConsultation Document:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/policy/files/weee_consultation_eng.pdf

European Union Directive on the Restriction of the Useof Certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in Electricaland Electronic Equipment

Under this Directive, new electrical and electronic equipment to be launched onEuropean Union market should not contain certain hazardous substances exceedingthe permitted levels:

• 0.01% of cadmium; and

• 0.1% of mercury, lead, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) andpolybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE)

European Union Directive on Waste Electrical andElectronic Equipment (WEEE)

This Directive aims to reduce environmental damage and health risk resulted fromdisposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The Directive requiresproducers to share responsibility, e.g. incorporation of eco-design elements intoproduct development process, financing of the cost for treatment, recovery and/orrecycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment, etc.

For details about the RoHS Directive and WEEE Directive, please refer to the weblink:http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/weee/index_en.htm

Products covered by the RoHS Directive and theWEEE Directive:

1. Large household appliances2. Small household appliances3. IT and telecommunications equipment4. Consumer equipment5. Lighting equipment6. Electrical and electronic tools (except large-scale stationaryand industrial tools)7. Toys, leisure and sports equipment8. Medical devices9. Monitoring and control instruments including industrialmonitoring and control instruments10. Automatic dispensers11. Other EEE not covered by any of the categories above

(covered by RoHS Directive)

European Union Directive on Establishing a Frameworkfor the setting of Ecodesign Requirements for Energy-related Products

This Ecodesign Directive provides a framework for the setting of ecodesignrequirements for energy-related products. The Directive defines the policy andprinciples to be followed in developing specific implementation measures relating toeco-design, which means the integration of environmental considerations into theproduct design.

For details about the Ecodesign Directive, please refer to the web link:ec.europa.eu/enterprise/policies/sustainable-business/ecodesign/index_en.htm

European Union Directive on Batteries andAccumulators and Waste Batteries and Accumulators

This Directive imposes restriction on concentration ofmercury or cadmium contained in certain batteries andaccumulators. In addition, the battery-poweredequipment should be designed in such a way thatbatteries and accumulators can be readily removed byconsumers, and labelled with separate collection,recycling and chemical symbol for the metal concerned.

For details about the Battery Directive, please refer tothe web link:http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/batteries/

Regulation in Mainland China – Restriction of the Use ofCertain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in Electronic

Information ProductsThe Mainland China Government has imposed this Regulation, similar to theEuropean Union RoHS Directive, to restrict the use of hazardous substances inelectronic information products. The Regulation also provides the control onnon-toxic, biodegradable and recyclable packaging and requires producers tofinance recycling.For details about the Regulation, please refer to the web links:english.mofcom.gov.cn/aarticle/policyrelease/domesticpolicy/200605/20060502132549.html(English Version)www.miit.gov.cn/n11293472/n11294912/n11296542/12165064.htm(Simplified Chinese Version)

You may also refer to the Support Website on EnvironmentalManagement Information and ISO 14001 EMS for E&E SectorSMEs at:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/env_management_sme/eng/um_main1.htm

4.5 Fishery and Poultry

If your business involves in capture fishery, aquaculture operationsand livestock keeping activities for selling purpose, you need tocomply with the following requirements and good practices in addition tothose mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.


If you intend tokeep livestock inthe Control Area

Then you are required to apply for alicence from the Agriculture, Fisheriesand Conservation Department (AFCD) in

[49]advance, and comply with the conditionsand terms of the licence

If you intend tokeep livestock inthe ProhibitionArea [49]

Then you are required to be aware thatlivestock keeping is banned in this area

If you intend tokeep livestock inthe RestrictionArea [49]


• Be aware that only existing livestockkeeping activities either licensed byAFCD or authorized by EPD andcomplying with the Regulation [49] areallowed; and

• Be aware that no new livestockkeeping is allowed in this area.

If you need todispose of livestockwaste

Then you are required to dispose of thelivestock waste in accordance with theCode of Practice: Livestock WasteManagement [50]


If your Project isclassified asDesignated Projects(see Appendix B)



• Implement mitigation measure asidentified in the relevant EnvironmentalPermit and Environmental Monitoringand Audit (EM&A) Manual [4,5]

For details about Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning, please refer tothe web links:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.htmlwww.epd.gov.hk/eia/hb/content/index.htm

Smart Tips• You are highly recommended to adopt practices that generate

very little wastewater for disposal, and which do not need todischarge any wastewater apart from using a properly designedsoakaway-pit.

• You should adopt practices to minimize the odour or preventfrom causing any objectionable odour noticeable at anysensitive receptors in the vicinity wherever you keep livestock.

Livestock keepers should adopt appropriate systems totreat their livestock waste and make sure that suchfacilities are properly constructed and maintained insuch a manner that there is no risk of pollution. EPD hasissued guidance notes on several waste treatmentoptions. [51,52,53,54,55]

Other Environmental ConsiderationsAccredited Fish Farm SchemeThe voluntary Accredited Fish Farm Scheme has beenlaunched by the HKSAR Government to assist local fishfarmers for providing quality and safe aquacultureproducts to the public. Participating fish farms need tomeet a set of good aquaculture practices and hygienestandards, and to follow a predefined managementregime.

For details about Accredited Fish Farm Scheme, pleaserefer to the web link:www.hkaffs.org/en/index.html

4.6 Food and Beverage

If your business involves in (i) Food and Beverage Processing whichincludes production and processing of all kinds of food and drinks andsupermarkets, etc., and (ii) Restaurants and Hotels which include allkinds of food catering businesses and all kinds of hotels, hostels andboarding houses, etc., where food and beverage are processed, youneed to comply with the following requirements and good practices inaddition to those mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.


If your operation involvesSpecified Process (e.g. lardproduction) (see Appendix Cfor the full list of SpecifiedProcesses)

Then you are required to apply fora licence from EPD prior tooperation (see Section 3.2 or theGuidance Notes [29])

If your operation dischargeseffluent


• Be aware that the discharge issubject to licensing control byEPD (see Section 3.2)

• Comply with the dischargestandard [16] and the terms andconditions of the DischargeLicence

• Install proper wastewatertreatment facilities (e.g. greasetrap [56] ), if necessary

If you install or alterfuel-burning equipment orchimney on premises withtotal fuel consumptioncapacity exceeding thespecified limits [7]

Then you are required to getapproval from EPD prior tooperation (see Section 3.2“Requirements Related toInstallation and Alteration ofFurnaces, Ovens and Chimneys”)

Smart Tips• You should take appropriate measures or install appropriate air

pollution control device (e.g. electrostatic precipitator, hydroventhood) to minimize the emissions of oily fume and cookingodour. [57]

• For more information on mitigation and control of cooking fumeemissions from the restaurant trade, please refer to the reportof a study by The Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants andRelated Trades (HKFORT) which was supported by the SMEDevelopment Fund. For details, please refer to the web link:

www.hkfort.org.hk/project/soot/Technical_Guide.pdf

Other Environmental Considerations

Guidelines on the Filtration and Disinfection Facilities forFish Tank WaterWith effect from 1 August 2010, the law forbids any persons to extract, supply,deliver or use seawater from specified prohibited areas for keeping live fish or shellfish for human consumption in the course of food business.

For details, please refer to the web link:www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pleasant_environment/library/fish_tank/fish_tank.pdf

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)HACCP is a methodology to systematically identify, evaluate and control riskelements (hazards) resulting from the services or products that your organizationprovides, affecting consumables to market or consumers. It addresses physical,chemical and biological hazards as a means of prevention rather than finishedproduct inspection.

ISO 22000

The ISO 22000 Standard [58] specifies requirements for a food safety managementsystem where an organization in the food chain needs to demonstrate its ability tocontrol food safety hazards in order to ensure that food is safe at the time of humanconsumption. The ISO 22000 Standard, like the ISO 9001, requires that the processapproach be taken as an explicit requirement. The key elements of the Standardinclude interactive communication, system management and hazard control. TheStandard is applicable to all types of organizations within the food chain, forexample, food manufacturers, feed producers, transport operators, retail outlets andother relevant trades such as manufacturing of equipment, packaging materials,cleaning agents, additives and ingredients.

Grease Trap Waste Disposal ControlFor small grease traps (eg. those installed under individual sinks), the grease trap waste could be removed manually by scooping it into watertight plastic bags and disposed of together with other kitchen refuse. For large grease traps, the restaurants and food processing factories should employ reputable collectors to collect their grease trap waste for proper disposal. For reference by the trades and interested parties, a list of grease trap waste collectors can be found in the EPD web link:http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/sites/default/files/epd/tc_chi/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/files/lorc.pdfThe new Grease Trap Waste Treatment Facility (GTWTF) housed within the WestKowloon Transfer station is now in service. It has come into operation to replace theInterim Grease Trap Waste Treatment Facility at the West New Territories Landfill inTuen Mun.

Grease trap waste collectors are welcome to use the GTWTF now by filling theapplication form for registration purpose. An oily by-product, called "Lipofit" would berecovered from the grease trap waste. Lipofit can be reused as raw material forbiodiesel, an additive to energy resources or raw material in other manufacturingprocesses.

Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping BagsThe levy scheme which commenced on 7 July 2009 provides a direct economic incentive to discourage the indiscriminate use of plastic shopping bags. Under the scheme, prescribed retailers are required to charge customers a 50 cent environmental levy for providing a plastic shopping bag with handle. Prescribed retailers include major and chain supermarkets, convenience stores, personal health and beauty stores, and supermarkets inside department stores.

Use of Environmentally Friendly Food Containersand BagsYou may choose to use biodegradable food containers and bagsto give a helping hand in protecting our environment. Forreferences in selecting suitable degradable products, please refer

Plastic shopping bag (PSB) charging has been fully implemented starting 1 April 2015 to promote reduction in the use of PSBs. All retailers in Hong Kong, irrespective of scale of operation and business nature, will have to charge customers not less than 50 cents for each PSB provided in retail sales of goods, save for situations where there is exemption. The PSB charge will be retained by the shops. For details, please refer to the web links: http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201503/15/P201503130854.htmhttp://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/psb_charging/en/index.html

to the web link:

https://www.wastereduction.gov.hk/en/workplace/degradableplastic.htm

For details about the best practices for food and beverage establishments andrestaurants, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/greenrestaurant/

4.7 Laundry, Dry-cleaning and GarmentServicesIf your business involves in operations such as laundries, drycleaning shops, etc., you need to comply with the followingrequirements and good practices in addition to those mentioned inSections 2 and 3.


If

1. You intend to usedry-cleaningmachines

2. Your dry-cleaningmachines are NOTon the list ofApproved Machines


1. Ensure such machines are on thelist of Approved Machines

2. Stop operating such machines afterthe specified periods; or else modifythe machines and obtain aprescribed certificate signed bycompetent examiner for display onthe respective machines (see theEPD guidebook [59] )

If your dry-cleaningmachine usesperchloroethylene (PCE)as a dry-cleaning agent

Then you are required to equip yourmachine with a vapour recoverysystem to meet the stipulated emissionstandard (see the EPD guidebook [59])

For the list of Approved Dry-Cleaning Machines, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/dc_applist.html

Phasing Out of Sub-Standard Dry-CleaningMachinesThe sub-standard vented type and non-vented type dry-cleaningmachines were phased out from 1 Nov 2006 and 1 Nov 2008,respectively.

4.8 Metal Products Industry

If your business involves in processing, manufacturing, plating,anodizing and recycling of metal products, galvanizing, etc., youneed to comply with the following requirements and good practices inaddition to those mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.

Specific / Additional Statutory RequirementsIf your operation involves SpecifiedProcess (e.g. Iron and Steel Works,Aluminium (Secondary) Works,Copper Works, etc.) (see Appendix Cfor the full list of Specified Processes)

Then you are required toapply for a licence fromEPD prior to operation(see Section 3.2 or theGuidance Notes [29])

If your project isclassified asDesigned Projects(see Appendix B)



• Implement mitigation measures asidentified in the relevant EnvironmentalPermit and Environmental Monitoringand Audit (EM&A) Manual [4,5]

For details about Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning, please refer tothe web links:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.htmlwww.epd.gov.hk/eia/index.html

ReminderIf you produce waste materials containing heavy metals(cadmium, mercury, lead, etc), spent lube oil, paint, organicsolvent, etc., which are classified as chemical waste, you mustregister with EPD as Chemical Waste Producers and follow thespecific requirements (see Section 3.2 or the EPD guidebook

[17] ).

4.9 Recycling IndustryIf your business involves in the activity of recovery and recycling ofwaste, e.g. metal waste, paper waste, plastic waste, waste glassbottles, vehicle tyres, etc., you need to comply with the followingrequirements and good practices in addition to those mentioned inSections 2 and 3.

Specific / Additional Statutory RequirementsIf your operation involves SpecifiedProcesses (e.g. Metal Recovery Workswhere scrap metals are treated in anytype of furnace for recovery of metal)(see Appendix C for the full list ofSpecified Processes)

Then you are requiredto apply for a licencefrom EPD prior tooperation (see Section3.2 or the GuidanceNotes [29])

If you import or export electrical andelectronic waste consisting of thematerial that is

Then you are requiredto apply for a permitfrom EPD in advance

• not specified in the 6th Schedule of theWaste Disposal Ordinance; or

• contaminated; or

• not for the purpose of reuse,reprocessing, recycling or recovery

Waste Type Covered by the 6th Schedule• Common examples of recyclable waste materials covered by

the 6th Schedule are waste/ scrap of certain types of metal andtheir alloys, solid plastic waste, paper waste, textiles waste, etc.

• Common examples of hazardous wastes (non-6th Schedulewastes) are clinical waste, waste Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT) incomputer monitors or television sets, and waste batteries.

Smart TipsApplicant of Waste Disposal Licence has to satisfy EPD on atleast one of the following criteria:

• The facility will reduce the harmful impact of chemical waste onthe environment by disposing it on site and avoiding themovement of such chemical waste;

• The facility is capable of disposing the waste in a mannerbeneficial to the environment; or

• Reprocessing and recycling activities are to be carried out in anenvironmentally acceptable manner.

If you carry out in-housereprocessing, recycling,treatment and/ordisposal of chemical

Then you are required to apply for aWaste Disposal Licence from EPD priorto operation (see Section 3.2 or theEPD guidebook [17])

waste arising from youroperation with capacityof over 1,000 litres orkilograms per day (seesection 4.1)

If your project isclassified as DesignatedProject (see Appendix B)



• Implement mitigation measures asidentified in the relevantEnvironmental Permit andEnvironmental Monitoring andAudit (EM&A) Manual [4,5]

If your operation involvesshipments of hazardous,contaminated,non-recyclable or othercontrolled waste

Then you are required to notify allcountries concerned (countries ofexport, import and transit) and getconsents from those countries prior tothe shipment. EPD will not issue permitfor shipment of hazardous waste ornon-recyclable from developed

countries listed in the 9th Schedule ofthe Waste Disposal Ordinance (e.g.European Union, USA, Canada,Australia, Japan, South Korea, etc.) [60]

For details about Environmental Impact Assessment and Planning, please refer tothe web links:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.htmlwww.epd.gov.hk/eia/index.html


EcoPark

Located in Tuen Mun Area 38, EcoPark issolely developed for use by the environmentaland recycling industries. The area is beingleased out for encouraging and promoting thereuse, recovery and recycling of local wasteresources and turning them into raw materialsor products. For details about the EcoPark,please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/ecopark

Short Term Tenancy

The government is also providing short term tenancy sites as affordable landresources to support the local recycling trade.

4.10 Textiles and Clothing Industry

If your business involves in manufacturing and processing of textiles,leather, clothing, utilizing textiles and leather in products etc., youneed to comply with the following requirements and good practices inaddition to those mentioned in Sections 2 and 3.


If your operationdischargeseffluent


• Be aware that the discharge is subject tolicensing control by EPD (see Section 3.2)

• Comply with the discharge standard [16]and the terms and conditions of theDischarge Licence

• Install proper wastewater treatment facilities(e.g. chemical or biological treatment,membrane technology, etc.), if necessary


European Union Directive – Controls of CertainAzo-dyes and the “Blue Colourant”

This Directive prohibits marketing, use and preparations of certain dangeroussubstances and certain azo-colourants (e.g. aromatic amines, blue colourant,chromium, formaldehyde, pentachlorophenol, etc.) in the products made of textilesand leather placed on the EU market.

The blue colourant, which is commonly released into wastewaterduring the dyeing process, has a high aquatic toxicity.

The Directive specifies a non-exhaustive list ofproducts:

• Clothing, bedding, towels, hairpieces, wigs, hats,nappies, and other sanitary items, sleeping bags;

• Footwear, gloves, wristwatch straps, handbags,purses/wallets, briefcases, chair covers, pursesworn around the neck;

• Textile or leather toys, and toys which includetextile or leather garments; and

• Yarn and fabrics intended for use by the finalconsumer.

For details about the Directive, please refer to the web link:http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/chemicals/documents/reach/archives/market-restrictions/adaptations_en.htm

4.11 Vehicle Repair and Services

If your business involves in servicing, repairing and dismantlingworks for motor vehicles, you need to comply with the followingrequirements and good practices in addition to those mentioned inSections 2 and 3.


If you want to recover orrecycle the controlledrefrigerants[8,9,10], [67]

Then you required to

• Use the equipment approved byEPD

• Operate the equipment accordingto the instructions issued by theequipment’s manufacturer

For the list of approved refrigerant recovery equipment, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/wn6_info_equipment.html#B

Some Prohibited Activities:× Deliberate venting of the controlled refrigerants [8] from motor

vehicle air-conditioners or refrigeration equipment that hasover 50 kg of controlled refrigerant charge, unless underemergency conditions.

× Disposal of waste tyres by open burning.

Reminder• If you produce waste, such as spent lubrication oil, paint,

organic solvents, acid and alkali, asbestos, etc., which are

classified as chemical waste, you must register with EPD asChemical Waste Producers and follow the specificrequirements (see Section 3.2 or the EPD guidebook [17] ).

• If your works involves removing asbestos brake linings, whichare classified as Part A chemical waste, you must register withEPD as Chemical Waste Producers, notify EPD beforedisposal of such material and follow the specific requirements(see the EPD guidebooks[17,27]).

Do• Install appropriate air pollution control equipment in the

workshop to abate the emission of pollutants such as volatileorganic compounds, paint mist, welding fumes, dust andsuspended particulates, during the vehicle maintenance work,e.g. paint spraying, vehicle body polishing, welding, cutting andrepair, etc.

• Avoid carrying out paint spraying inside non-industrial buildings.

For more details about Vehicle Repair and Service Trade, please refer to the weblink:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/greengarage

Other Environmental ConsiderationsOzone Layer Production (Products ContainingScheduled Substances) (Import Banning) (Amendment)RegulationThe Amendment Regulation extends the banning of the import of controlledproducts (including refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment) containingchlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons to those containing other scheduledsubstances including hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by phases starting from 1

January 2010. The banning covers air-conditioner or heat pump designed to coolthe drivers or passengers’ compartment of a motor vehicle.For more details, please refer to the web link :www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/wn6_info.html

Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds)RegulationThe Volatile Organic Compound Regulation controls the VOC contents ofarchitectural paints/coatings, printing inks, and six selected categories of consumerproducts in phases starting from 1 April 2007. The Regulation was extended inOctober 2009 to control in phases other high VOC-containing products including 14types of regulated vehicle refinishing paints starting from 1 October 2011.

For more details, please refer to the web link :

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/prob_solutions/voc_reg.html

[4] Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process[5] A Guide to Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance[7] A Guide to the Air Pollution Control (Furnace, Ovens and Chimneys)(Installation and Alteration) Regulations[8] A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection (Controlled Refrigerants) Regulation[9] Air-Conditioning Refrigerants - A Time for Change (ProPECC PN 4/94)[10] A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance

[16] Technical Memorandum Standards for Effluents Discharged into Drainage and Sewerage Systems, Inland and Coastal Waters[17] A Guide to the Chemical Waste Control Scheme[23] Cut Down Construction Dust[27] Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation and Disposal of Asbestos Waste[29] Guidance Notes on Best Practicable Means for Specified Processes[30] Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work in Designated Areas[31] Technical Memorandum on Noise from Percussive Piling[32] Noise from Construction Activities – Statutory (ProPECC PN 1/93)[33] Noise from Construction Activities – Non-statutory (ProPECC PN 2/93)[34] Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work other than Percussive Piling[35] Use of Quiet Construction Equipment for Road Opening Works during Non-Sociable Hours (ProPECC PN 1/96)[36] What the Property Management can consider in dealing with Noise from Renovation Work[37] Construction Site Drainage (ProPECC PN 1/94)[38] Site Practice for Waste Reduction in Construction Industry[39] Management of Construction and Demolition Materials Including Rock (ETWB TCW 33/2002)[40] Construction and Demolition Waste (PNAP 243)[41] Fill Management (WBTC 12/2000)[43] Industrial activity which involves marine dumping of dredged mud[44] Management Framework for Disposal of Dredged/Excavated Sediment (PNAP252)[45] Management of Dredged/Excavated Sediment (ETWB TCW 34/2002)[46] Environmental Management on Construction Sites (ETWB TCW 19/2005)[47] Control of Environmental Nuisance from Construction Sites (PNRC17)[48] Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction Contracts[49] A Guide to the Livestock Waste Control Scheme[50] Code of Practice: Livestock Waste Management[51] Guidelines for Free-range Poultry Keeping[52] Guidelines on Litter Bedding Method[53] Guidelines for Dry Muck Out[54] Guidelines for Wet Muck Out[55] Guidelines for Soakaway System[56] Grease Traps for Restaurants and Food Processors[57] Control of Oil Fume and Cooking Odour from Restaurants and Food Business[58] ISO22000:2005 Food Safety Management Systems – Requirements for Any Organisation in the Food Chain

[59] A Guide to the Air Pollution Control (Dry-cleaning Machines) (Vapour Recovery) Regulation[60] A Guide to the Control on Import and Export of Waste[64] A Guide to Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulation and its Amendment of 2008[65] Code of Practice for the Management of Clinical Waste - Major Clinical Waste Producers and Waste Collectors[66] Code of Practice for the Management of Clinical Waste - Small Clinical Waste Producers[67] Guidance Note for Recovery and Minimizing the Release of HCFCs Requirement

Section 5Going Beyond Compliance

In addition to legal compliance, it is beneficial for trades and industries to seek forcontinual improvement and to go beyond legal compliance. To achieve this, thereare a number of environmental best practices, tools, schemes and standardsavailable locally and overseas that are all on a voluntary basis and not mandatoryunder the Hong Kong legislation. You are encouraged to consider adopting thepractices appropriate to your operations, which will in return bring the followingadded values to your business.

Provide Cost-effective Control Over Environmental Issues:Having good environmental practices in place, environmental issues associated withyour operations can be identified at early stage and reviewed regularly and henceenvironmental impacts can be prevented and minimized.

Improve Efficiency and Achieve Cost Savings:Through both theidentification and control of environmental issues of your operations, goodenvironmental practices may provide opportunities to conserve materials and energyinputs, to reduce waste and to improve process efficiency. Cost savings andimproved productivity may then be realized.

Reduce Environmental Incidents and Liability: A systematicapproach and good environmental practices for managing environmental issues canhelp reduce environmental incidents, breaches to legislation, and the negativeimpacts to business and environment. Consequently, environmental liability andassociated expense of recovery can be reduced.

Strengthen the Competitiveness and Improve MarketOpportunities: Business operations, in particular manufacturing sectors,suppliers/contractors are increasingly required by their customers/clients todemonstrate good environmental performance. Adopting good environmentalpractices and hence achieving good environmental performance and going beyondcompliance will certainly increase competitiveness in the market.

Enhance Corporate Image: It is evident that there are increasing concernsover environmental protection world-wide. Demonstrating good environmentalperformance through implementing effective practices will definitely improvecorporate image to stakeholders, community and the general public at large.

The various environmental best practices/standards applicable to both generic andspecific trades/industries are highlighted in this section.

Environmental Best Practices/Standards forGeneric Trades and Industries

Environmental Management System

Rather than dealing with existing and potential environmental impacts andmanagement issues in an ad hoc manner, organizations are realizing the benefits ofa planned and formalized management system to manage and even improve theirenvironmental performance. Among various standards of environmentalmanagement system (EMS), the ISO 14001 [61] has become the most prevalentand internationally recognized one. In essence, an ISO 14001 EMS operates inmuch the same Plan-Do-Check-Act principles as quality management systems do.An ISO 14001 EMS facilitates the management or control of all potential "significant"environmental aspects resulting from an organization's activities, operations, andservices and provides a system to facilitate continual improvement. For details,please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/how_help/tools_ems/overview.html

Environmental Auditing

Environmental auditing is a systematic, documented, periodic and objective processin assessing organizations' performance in relation to compliance with legal andother requirements applicable to the organization. Conducting an environmentalaudit is no longer an option but a sound precaution and a proactive measure intoday's regulated environment. Indeed, evidence suggests that environmental

auditing has a valuable role to play in encouraging systematic incorporation ofenvironmental perspectives into many aspects of an organization's overall operation.Benefits of conducting environmental auditing include:• Understanding organizations' environmental performance levels;• Facilitating management of environmental practices;• Monitoring compliance with environmental legislation and requirements;• Promoting good environmental management;• Maintaining credibility with the public;• Enhancing staff awareness; and• Exploring improvement opportunities.

For more information, please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/how_help/tools_ea/tools_ea.html

OHSAS 18001

The Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS) 18001 [62] whichshares the same management model as the ISO 14001 EMS Standard, provides aframework for managing occupational health and safety responsibilities so that theybecome integrated into the everyday business functions. Similar to other ISOstandards, organizations may also seek certification to the OHSAS 18001 from anumber of certification bodies. For more information about the OHSAS 18001,please contact the relevant certification bodies. You may contact the Hong KongAccreditation Service (www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/about.htm) for contact detailsof certification bodies.

Sustainability Reporting

Sustainability reporting is a public presentation of information about anorganization's sustainability performance – environmental, economic and social –over a specified period. Nowadays, release of a corporate sustainability report isrecognized as an important mechanism to demonstrate commitments, transparencyand accountability. Such corporate reporting may be voluntary or mandatoryrequirements depending on government policies. For local reporting guidelines,please refer to the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/how_help/tools_epr/tools_epr.html

One of the most popular overseas reporting guidelines is the SustainabilityReporting Guidelines published by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) (www.globalreporting.org).

Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MEELS)

To facilitate the public in choosing energy efficiency appliances and raise awarenesson energy saving, the Government introduced a Mandatory Energy EfficiencyLabelling Scheme (MEELS) under the Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products)Ordinance.

Under the MEELS, energy labels are required to be shown on prescribed productsfor supply in Hong Kong to inform consumers of their energy efficiency performance.Three types of prescribed products covered in the first phase of the MEELS areroom air conditioners, refrigerating appliances and compact fluorescent lamps. Thesecond phase extends the coverage to two more electrical appliances, namelywashing machines and dehumidifiers. For details, please refer to the web link:www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eels_mandate.shtml

Labelling and Award Schemes

There are a number of voluntary environmental labelling and award schemescurrently available for various trades and industries to adopt. One of the majorobjectives of these schemes is to provide recognition to those trades/industries/products demonstrated with good environmental performance as well as incentive

and momentum for achieving continual improvement. Some of the commonschemes are highlighted below:

Name of theScheme

Outline of the Scheme Where to Find MoreInformation?

Hong Kong Awardfor EnvironmentalExcellence

This award is led by theEnvironmental CampaignCommittee alongside theEnvironmental ProtectionDepartment and with nineorganizations to promoteenvironmental awareness in thecommunity.

www.hkaee.org.hk

Quality RestaurantEnvironmentalManagementScheme (QREMS)

This scheme is the first voluntaryaccreditation scheme assessing onthe environmental performance offood and beverage trade in HongKong. It is jointly planned by theHong Kong Federation ofRestaurants and Related Tradesand the Hong Kong ProductivityCouncil and supported by theEnvironment and ConservationFund.

www.qrems.hk

Hong Kong EnergyEfficiencyRegistrationScheme forBuildings

This scheme is organized by theElectrical and Mechanical ServicesDepartment to promote theapplication of the five BuildingEnergy Codes. A registrationcertificate and "energy efficientbuilding logo" will be issued to abuilding that successfully meets theCodes.

www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eersb.shtml

Energy EfficiencyLabelling Scheme

Operated by the Electrical andMechanical Services Department,this is a labelling scheme whichhelps the public choose energyefficient household appliances,office equipment and vehicles.

www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pee/eels_vlntry.shtml

Hong Kong BuildingEnvironmentalAssessment Method(HK-BEAM)

This scheme aims to measure,improve, certify and label theenvironmental sustainability ofbuildings throughout its entire lifecycle.

www.beamsociety.org.hk

Indoor Air QualityCertificationScheme for Officesand Public Places

This scheme is operated by EPD torecognize good indoor air quality(IAQ) management practices andto provide incentives for owners ofpremises/buildings or propertymanagement companies to pursuethe best level of IAQ. IAQcertificates will be issued if the IAQobjectives are complied with.

www.iaq.gov.hk/index_eng.asp

Overseas GreenLabelling Schemes

There are a number of green labelsfor a wide range of productsadopted in various countriesaround the world. Examplesinclude the Germany's Blue Angel,the Canada's EnvironmentalChoice Program, Japan's Ecomark,the White Swan in 5 NordicCountries, New Zealand'sEnvironmental Choice, EuropeanCommunity's Eco-label AwardScheme, China's Green LabellingScheme, etc.

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/how_help/green_procure/green_procure4.html

Local EnvironmentalAwards

In Hong Kong, there are a numberof environmental awards

www.eeawards.emsd.gov.hk/en/index.htm

established for the purpose ofrecognizing organizations'commitments and achievements inenvironmental protection. Theseawards include

• Hong Kong Energy Efficency andConservation Competition

Environmental Best Practices/Standards forSpecific Trades and Industries

ISO 22000

The ISO 22000 [58] is an international standard on the requirements for a foodsafety management system aiming to ensure that food is safe at the time of humanconsumption. The Standard is applicable to all types of organizations within the foodchain for example, food manufacturers, feed producers, transport operators, retailoutlets and other relevant trades such as manufacturing of equipment, packagingmaterials, cleaning agents, additives and ingredients.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)

HACCP is a methodology to systematically identify, evaluate and control riskelements (hazards) resulting from the services or products that your organizationprovides, affecting consumables to market or consumers. While HACCP isparticularly useful for the food sector, it can also be applied to other sectors ofindustry where risk is critical.

Accredited Fish Farm Scheme

The Accredited Fish Farm Scheme is a voluntary scheme launched by theAgriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department to assist local fish farmers toprovide quality and safe aquaculture products to the public.For details, please refer to the web link:

www.hkaffs.org/en/index.html

Good Manufacturing Practice (Drugs and FinishedPharmaceuticals)

This Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) requires manufacturers, processors, andpackagers of drugs, pharmaceutical products, medical devices, etc. take proactivesteps to ensure that their products are safe, pure, and effective.

5-S Practice

The 5–S Practice is used to establish and maintain quality environment in anorganization. The 5-S techniques have been widely practised by qualityorganizations world-wide. The 5-S activities are all directed at reducing waste andeffecting continuous improvement in the workplace. The 5 "S"s refer to:

Structurise — Organization

Systemise — Neatness

Sanitise — Cleaning

Standardise — Standardisation

Self-discipline — Discipline

Cleaner Production Partnership Programme (CPPP)

The five-year CPPP is one of the key measures taken by the Government to supportHong Kong enterprises in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region to help them reduceemission and enhance energy efficiency. Under the CPPP, practical guidelines forindustries to adopt cleaner production technologies and processes are developed.For details, please refer to the web link:www.cleanerproduction.hk

Cleaner Production Partnership Programme - Support ofEffluent Reduction and Control

The Government intended to provide support to Hong Kong enterprises in the

treatment and reduction of effluent discharge. With consultation and support fromthe Legislative Council Panel on Environmental Affairs, the coverage of theProgramme has been revised to include the area of effluent reduction and control.Please refer to the web links for details:www.cleanerproduction.hkwww.legco.gov.hk/yr09-10/english/panels/ea/papers/ea0121cb1-896-3-e.pdf

[58] ISO 22000:2005 Food Safety Management Systems – Requirements for Any Organization in the Food Chain[61] ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management Systems – Requirements with Guidance for Use[62] OHSAS 18001:1999 Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems – Specification

Section 6Technical Support

There are a number of institutions and environmental service providers in HongKong that provide technical support to help the industry to fulfill environmentalrequirements. Some of them are highlighted below:

Hong Kong Productivity CouncilBusiness Environment Council LtdThe Chinese University of Hong KongCity University of Hong KongHong Kong Baptist UniversityTheHong Kong Polytechnic UniversityTheHong Kong University of Science and TechnologyLingnan UniversityThe OpenUniversity of Hong KongThe University ofHong KongHong Kong Institute ofVocational EducationEnvironmental TestingLaboratoriesHong Kong Research andDevelopment CentresOther EnvironmentalConsultants

Hong Kong Productivity Council

Consultancy services are provided by the Environmental ManagementDivision of Hong Kong Productivity Council on the abatement of air, water

and noise pollution, waste management/ disposal, waste minimization,recycling and resource recovery, energy management, cleaner productiontechnology development, environmental impact assessment,environmental audit and environmental management systemdevelopment. In addition, they also provide environmental trainingservices as well as operate a fully accredited Environmental Laboratorycapable for analyzing most environmental parameters. For enquiries,please contact:

Environmental Management DivisionHong Kong Productivity CouncilHKPC Building, 78 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon

Tel: 2788 5656Email: [email protected]

Fax: 2788 5608Homepage: www.hkpc.org

Business Environment Council Ltd.

Business Environment Council (BEC) is an independent cross-sectorbusiness association in Hong Kong advocating environmental andsustainable development. BEC offers a wide range of consultancyservices including waste reduction, Environmental Management Systemauditing, pollution prevention, cleaner production, energy efficiency andgreen building assessment. BEC also runs training programmes forprofessionals, ranging from the basics of regulatory compliance andauditing to best practices in performance evaluation, pollution control andmanagement systems. Comprehensive environmental, technical,economic and market research services for private and public sectorclients are also provided. For enquiries, please contact:

Business Environment CouncilRoom 201, 2/FJockey Club Environmental Building77 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon


Fax: 2784 6699Homepage: www.bec.org.hk

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

The Centre for Environmental Policy and Resource Management of theChinese University of Hong Kong, aims to facilitate and coordinate multi-disciplinary researches and consultancy studies on environmental policy,pollution monitoring, environmental impact assessment, environmentalplanning and resource management. The Centre has also undertakenmulti-stakeholders surveys and forums and provided training seminarsand workshops on environmental and resource management topics usingthe Geographical Information System facilities and resources in theDepartment of Geography and Resource Management. For enquiries,please contact:

The Centre for Environmental Policy and ResourceManagementDepartment of Geography and Resource Management2/F.,Wong Foo Yuan BuildingThe Chinese University of Hong KongShatin, N.T.


Fax: 2603 5174Homepage:ceprm.grm.cuhk.edu.hk

City University of Hong Kong

The City University of Hong Kong provides consultancy services onenvironmental issues. It specializes in the detection, quantification andrisk assessment of trace contaminants (e.g. heavy metals and organiccontaminants related to RoHS, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons,organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominateddiphenyl ethers, perfluorinated compounds and dioxin-like compounds)using advanced analytical techniques. There is also expertise in thedetection and assessment of human health risk due to various additivesand toxins (e.g. Microcystins, Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning toxins, Okadaicacid, Domoic acid, Malachite Green) in contaminated drinking water andfood. For enquiries, please contact:

City University of Hong Kong83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon


Fax: 2628 2802Homepage:www.cityu.edu.hk/cao/cps.htm

Hong Kong Baptist University

The Dioxin Analysis Laboratory of Hong Kong Baptist University is thesole academic dioxin analysis laboratory in Hong Kong. It supportsresearch related to dioxins and provides analytical service to the society.The laboratory has been accredited by HOKLAS for testing of dioxins,dioxin-like PCBs, PAHs, PBDEs and triclosan. For enquiries, pleasecontact:

Dioxin Analysis LabW700, OEN Hall WestHong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon

Tel: 3411 2369E-mail:[email protected]

Fax: 3411 2367Homepage:www.hkbu.edu.hk/~dioxin/

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

PolyU Technology & Consultancy Co. Ltd. provides a wide range ofconsultancy services on environmental issues, including indoor air qualityassessment and control; odour generation and control; control of airpollution; noise control; water quality assessment; wastewater treatment;waste management and land contamination; energy saving andmanagement; recycling technology; Environmental Impact Assessment,etc. For enquiries, please contact:

PolyU Technology & Consultancy Co. Ltd.QR 603, QR CoreThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom

Tel: 3400 2711Email:[email protected]

Fax: 2356 7583Homepage: www.ptec.com.hk

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The University’s Environmental Central Facility (ENVF) conductsenvironmental research projects in conjunction with the academicdepartments in source abatement, micrometeorology, dispersionmodeling, coastal marine pollution and sediment studies, removal ofnutrients and trace metals by biological systems, solid, liquid, industrialand toxic waste abatement and treatment, and eco-economic modeling.The ENVF also provides technical services to industry in these areas. TheENVF co-ordinates environmental research and development and relatesthe university environmental programme to the needs of the local industryand the Government. For enquiries, please contact:

Environmental Central FacilityThe Hong Kong University of Science and TechnologyClear Water Bay


Fax: 2358 1582Homepage: envf.ust.hk

Lingnan University

The University offers courses in relation to environmental studies (e.g.comparative environmental policy, global warming and climate change)and is actively involved in research on a host of environmental issues. Forenquiries, please contact:

Office of Institutional Advancement and PublicLingnan UniversityTuen Mun, N.T.


Fax: 2838 1601Homepage: www.ln.edu.hk

The Open University of Hong Kong

The University offers educational programmes in relation to environmentalcontrol; environmental monitoring and modeling; environmentalmanagement; EIA; safety; occupational health; and best environmentalpractices for services in public and business sectors. For enquiries,please contact:

School of Science and TechnologyThe Open University of Hong Kong30 Good Shepherd StreetHo Man Tin, Kowloon


Fax: 2789 1170Homepage: www.ouhk.edu.hk

The University of Hong Kong

The University offers courses in relation to pollution monitoring and controland environmental impact assessment. The University also providesprofessional services to alleviate environmental problems, for example:environmental impact assessment; environmental noise impact study andresearch; air dispersion modeling; microbiological testing and analysis ofsoil and water; environmental control on air and effluent; application ofadvanced biotechnology in industrial and municipal wastewater treatment;solid waste management engineering; water quality analysis andmodeling; sewerage and drainage systems; water treatment andpurification; design of field monitoring programmes; etc. For enquiries,please contact:

Vice-Chancellor’s OfficeThe University of Hong KongPokfulam Road, Hong Kong


Fax: 2858 9436Homepage: hku.hk/

Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education

Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education offers higher diplomaprogrammes with courses in relation to environmental resourcesmanagement, environmental protection and management, environmentalengineering and energy management, intelligent building technology andautomation engineering, etc. For enquiries, please contact:

Department of Applied ScienceHong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (Chai Wan)

30 Shing Tai Road, Chai Wan


Fax: 2505 0571Homepage: ascw.vtc.edu.hk

Environmental Testing Laboratories

A directory of all the laboratories in Hong Kong that have been accreditedby the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) can befound at the webpage:

•www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/hoklas/laboratory_no.htm

Hong Kong Research and Development Centres

The Research and Development (R&D) Centre Programme, which hasbeen set up by the Hong Kong SAR Government, provides a one-stopshop for technology transfer and commercialization. It provides anenvironment for research bodies and industry to work together to exploitintellectual property in their chosen field for commercialization. The R&Dcentres are:

Automotive Parts and Accessory Systems R&DCentre

Tel: 2788 5333Fax: 2788 5680E-mail:[email protected]:www.apas.hk

Hong Kong R&D Centre for Information andCommunications Technologies

Tel: 3406 2800Fax : 3406 2801Email :[email protected]:www.astri.org

Hong Kong R&D Centre for Logistics andSupplyChain Management Enabling Technologies

Tel : 2299 0551Fax : 2299 0552Email : [email protected]:

www.lscm.hk

Nano and Advanced Materials Centre Tel: 2358 8407 /23585762Fax: 2358 8113 /3521 0618Email:[email protected]:www.nami.org.hk

Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles andApparel

Tel: 2627 0180Fax: 2364 2727E-mail:[email protected]:www.hkrita.com

For more information, please contact the Innovation and TechnologyCommission or the relevant R&D Centres: www.itc.gov.hk orwww.rdc.gov.hk

Other Environmental Consultants

The EPD website maintains a directory of environmental consultantsproviding consultancy services:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/business_job/business_opp/directory_ec.html

The information provided above is not an exhaustive list and you may wish to seekother technical support.

Section 7Funding Support for Private Enterprises

This section introduces the funding support from the Government available forprivate enterprises.

SME Funding Schemes

There are two SME funding schemes administered by the Trade and IndustryDepartment that are tailored for application by SMEs in Hong Kong:

SME Export Marketing Fund

Who may Apply Any business legally registered in Hong Kong which employs:• fewer than 100 persons in Hong Kong for manufacturingbusiness; or• fewer than 50 persons in Hong Kong for non-manufacturingbusiness.

Objective/Scopeof the Fund

Aims at helping small and medium enterprises expand theirbusinesses through participation in export promotional activities.Such export promotional activities must comply with the criteriaset by the Trade and Industry Department. For details, please visittheir website.

Amount ofGrant

• The maximum amount of grant for each successful applicationwill be equivalent to 50% of the total approved expendituresincurred by the applicant or HK$50,000, whichever is the less.• The mazimum cumulative amount of grant that an SME mayobtain from the Fund is HK$150,000.

How to Apply SMEs should submit the application within 60 calendar days afterthe completion date of the concerned activity to the Trade andIndustry Department.

Where to FindMore Details

www.smefund.tid.gov.hk/eindex.html

Enquiries Tel: 2398 5127 / 2398 5125Fax: 2391 2646 / 3525 0329

Email:[email protected]

SME Loan Guarantee Scheme

Who may Apply Any business legally registered in Hong Kong which employs:• fewer than 100 persons in Hong Kong for manufacturingbusiness; or• fewer than 50 persons in Hong Kong for non-manufacturingbusiness.

Objective/Scopeof the Scheme

To help SMEs secure loans from the participating lendinginstitutions (which include banks and finance institutions in HongKong)There are two types of loans under the Scheme:• Business Installations and Equipment Loans – used foracquiring installations and equipment relating to the applicant'sbusiness operations;• Working Capital Loans – used for meeting working capitalneeds of general business uses of SMEs.

Amount ofGuarantee

• The maximum amount of the loan guarantee offered to eachSME is HK$6 million, or 50% of the loan approved by theparticipating lending institution concerned, whichever is the less.• The guarantee period is up to a maximum of five years, countingfrom the first drawdown date of the loan.

How to Apply SMEs must apply for the loans through the participating lendinginstitutions. Please contact the Participating Lending Institutionsas listed in the website of Trade and Industry Department.


www.smefund.tid.gov.hk/eindex.html

Enquiries Tel: 2398 5129Fax: 2396 5067Email:

[email protected]

Innovation and Technology Fund

There are five funding programmes administered by the Innovation and Technology

Commission that can help private companies upgrade their technological level andintroduce innovative ideas to their business. These funding programmes areoutlined below:

Small Entrepreneur Research Assistance Programme

Who may Apply Technology entrepreneurs of an incorporated company in HongKong with less than 100 employees.

Objective/Scopeof theProgramme

It is a technology entrepreneurship programme for pre-venturecapital stage financing of technology entrepreneurs to start-up,carry out R&D work, and to conduct market validation.

Amount ofGrant

The maximum of the grant for each approved project isHK$6,000,000, which will be provided on a dollar-for-dollarmatching basis. The grant will be recouped if the project is able toattract follow on investment or generate revenue.

How to Apply • Application form can be downloaded from the web link:www.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/Forms.asp• At the website, the applicant will be required to register thecompany and its relevant personnel with the Innovation andTechnology Commission Funding Administrative System.• The registered personnel will be responsible for submitting theapplication proposal through the system.


www.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/SERAP.asp

Enquiries Tel: 2737 2409Fax: 2199 7004Email: [email protected]

University-Industry Collaboration Programme

Who may Apply Any private companies that are legally registered in Hong Kongand have substantial connection to Hong Kong as the applicanttogether with any universities in Hong Kong as the partner.

Objective/Scopeof the Fund

The Programme aims to stimulate private sector interested in R&Dthrough leveraging the knowledge and resources of universities.The emphasis is on close collaboration between privatecompanies and universities in Hong Kong.There are three Schemes under this Programme:

• Teaching Company Scheme – to foster university-industrypartnership by supporting local companies to take on graduatestudents from local universities to assist in proprietary R&D work;• Matching Grant for Joint Research – to foster privatecompanies to collaborate with local universities in proprietary R&Dprojects;• Industrial Research Chair Scheme – to assist local universitiesand industry to develop research efforts in the natural science orengineering fields that respond to industrial needs and not yetdeveloped in Hong Kong but for which there is good developmentpotential in the longer term.

Form ofFundingSupport

Teaching Company Scheme• It covers 50% of the studentship of the graduate students. Themaximum contribution to the monthly studentship for eachgraduate student amounts to HK$7,500. As the project should lastno more than two years, the maximum funding for the studentshipfor each student would be HK$180,000.Matching Grant for Joint Research and Industrial ResearchChair Scheme• Funding support is given to R&D activities only and not to anybusiness development or service expenses incurred by theapplicant company. The support is given as a grant, subject tocash contribution by the company amounting to no less than 50%of the project cost.

How to Apply • Interested companies should first identify a university as partnerand agree on the project details, the expected deliverables, theappropriate funding scheme for the project, and, if necessary, theroyalty arrangement, etc.• The applicant company and the participating university shouldcomplete the application form, available through the website:www.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/Forms.asp• At the website, the applicant will be required to register thecompany and then its relevant personnel with the Innovation andTechnology Commission Funding Administrative System.• The registered personnel will be responsible for submitting theapplication proposal through this system.


www.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/UICP.asp


Patent Application Grant

Who may Apply Any locally incorporated companies in Hong Kong or Hong Kongpermanent residents or Hong Kong residents permitted to remainin Hong Kong for not less than 7 years who have never ownedany patents in any countries or territories before:• For applicant company, the inventor(s) of the invention shall be adirectly related party/parties to the applicant company, e.g. owner,shareholder, director, or staff.• For individual applicant, the applicant shall be the sole inventoror one of the joint inventors of the invention.

Objective/Scopeof the Scheme

To assist local companies and inventors to apply for patents oftheir own inventions, and hence encouraging them to capitalizetheir intellectual work through patent registration.

Amount ofGuarantee

The maximum amount of the grant for each approved applicationis HK$150,000 or 90% of the total cost of the patent application,whichever is the lower. The grant will only be released to theimplementation agent of the Scheme, i.e. Hong Kong ProductivityCouncil, through which the patent application is processed. Theapproved grant is non-transferable and will be valid for 3 yearsfrom the date of approval of the application.

How to Apply Applicants should submit the application form together with detailsof their idea or inventions to the implementation agent, Hong KongProductivity Council. All applications will be processed on aconfidential basis.


www.itc.gov.hk/en/funding/pag.htmwww.ipsc.org.hk

Enquiries Tel: 2737 2278 (ITC) / 2788 5958 (HKPC)Fax: 2957 8726 (ITC) / 2788 6045 (HKPC)Email: [email protected] /[email protected]

Innovation and Technology Support Programme

Under the Support Programme, 5 R&D Centres have been set up to undertakeindustry oriented research in different technology areas, namely,• Automotive Parts and Accessory Systems R&D Centre;• Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute;• Hong Kong R&D Centre for Logistics and Supply Chain Management EnablingTechnologies;• Nano and Advanced Materials Centre;• Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel.

Through the Centres, private companies in collaboration with local researchinstitutes may apply for funding support under their Collaborative ResearchScheme to conduct R&D works that are within the technology focus areas ofindividual Centres. The funding support could be up to 50% of the total project cost.For more information about the Centres, please refer to the web link:www.itc.gov.hk/en/rdcentre/rdcentre.htm or approach the individual Centres (seeSection 6 for contact details).

Guangdong-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme

Objective/Scope ofthe Scheme

The Schemes aims to enhance the level of collaboration onResearch and Development between organizations in HongKong, Guangdong Province and Shenzhen. For details on thecategories of projects, please visit the website of Innovationand Technology Commission.


www.itf.gov.hkwww.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/TCFS.asp


Training Support Funding Programmes

There are two funding programmes where employees can obtain financial supportfor attending training courses. These two funding programmes are outlined below:

New Technology Training Scheme

Who may Apply Any persons who are:• permanent residents in Hong Kong; and• sponsored by their employers and have the necessarybackground/ experience to benefit from the training. However,their employers must not be any government subventedorganizations in Hong Kong.

Objective/Scope ofthe Scheme

The Scheme aims to provide assistance to companies that wishto have their staff trained in a new technology that would beuseful to their business. It applies to:• Overseas training courses or working attachments• Pre-approved local training courses• Tailor made training courses for individual companies

Amount ofGuarantee

The grant is up to 50% of the training costs/fees.

How to Apply Employers should submit the application to the TechnologistTraining Unit of Vocational Training Council beforecommencement of the training.


www.vtc.edu.hk/html/en


Continuing Education Fund

Who may Apply Any persons who:• are Hong Kong residents who have the right to abodeor the right to land or to remain in Hong Kong withoutrestriction. Holders of one-way permits from MainlandChina may also apply;• have enrolled in and paid the tuition fee for areimbursable course before the course commences;and• are aged from 18 to 65 at the time of application andon seeking reimbursement of their fees.

Objective/Scope of theFund

This Fund is to subsidize adults with learningaspirations to pursue continuing education and trainingcourses. It only applies to those reimbursable trainingcourses approved by the Secretary for labour andWelfare. Information on the reimbursable courses canbe obtained from the Office of the Continuing EducationFund and downloaded from the web link:www.sfaa.gov.hk/cef/course.htm

Amount of Grant Eligible applicants will be reimbursed 80% of the coursefees, subject to a maximum sum of HK$10,000, onsuccessful completion of a reimbursable course. Thefees for more than one reimbursable course may bereimbursed, subject to the maximum ceiling ofHK$10,000 per applicant.

How to Apply Applicants should submit the application form, availablethrough the website below, together with the necessarysupporting documents to the Office of the ContinuingEducation Fund. Applications must be made beforecommencement of the course.

Where to Find MoreDetails

www.sfaa.gov.hk/cef

Enquiries Tel: 3142 2277Email: [email protected]

The following summarizes the above government funding supports available forprivate enterprises.

Funding SupportsKey Purpose/ Scope of theFund

Ceiling of the Fund

SME Funding Programmes

SME ExportMarketing Fund

To help SMEs to expand theirbusinesses throughparticipation in exportpromotional activities.

50% of the totalapprovedexpenses, subject tomaximum ofHK$50,000

per application andcumulative maximum ofHK$150,000 per SME

SME LoanGuarantee Scheme

To support SMEs to secureloans for:(a) acquiring businessinstallations and equipment;(b) meeting working capitalneeds of general businessuses of SMEs..

50% of the loan subjectto maximum ofHK$6,000,000

For more information, please refer to the weblink:www.smefund.tid.gov.hk/eindex.html

Innovation and Technology Fund

Small EntrepreneurResearch AssistanceProgramme

To provide pre-venture capitalstage financing for smallcompanies to start-up, carryout research and development(R&D) work, and to conductmarket validation .

50% of the project cost,subject to maximum ofHK$6,000,000

University-IndustryCollaboration Programme

To support companies tocollaborate with universities inconducting technology R&Dworks through the followingschemes:(a) Teaching CompanyScheme(b) Matching Grant for JointResearch(c) Industrial Research ChairScheme

(a) 50% of thestudentship of thegraduate students,subject to maximum ofHK$180,000(b) 50% of the projectcost(c) 50% of the projectcost

Patent Application Grant To support companies orindividuals to apply for patentsof their own inventions

90% of the total cost ofpatent application,subject to maximum ofHK$150,000

Innovation andTechnology SupportProgramme

Under the Programme, 5 R&DCentres have beenestablished, which can supportcompanies in conductingrelevant R&D works undertheir respective CollaborativeResearch Schemes.

50% of the project cost

Guangdong-Hong KongTechnology CooperationFunding Scheme

To support the collaboration onresearch and developmentwork between companies inHong Kong, GuangdongProvince and Shenzhen.

Please refer to thewebsite of Informationand Technology Fund

For more information, please refer to the web link: www.itf.gov.hk OR www.itf.gov.hk/l-eng/about.asp


New TechnologyTraining Scheme

To support companies to train theirstaff in new technology areas thatwould be useful to their business.

50% of the training costs/fees

ContinuingEducation Fund

To support individuals to pursuecontinuing education and trainingcourses.

80% of the training coursefees, subject to maximumof HK$10,000

For more information, please refer to the web links:www.vtc.edu.hk/html/en ORwww.sfaa.gov.hk/cef

Other Funding Support

Tax Deduction on Environmental Facilities


Objective/ Scope The Government has introduced accelerated tax deductionfor environment-friendly facilities in an effort to encouragethe business community to use them. This will allow a100% profits tax deduction for capital expenditure oncertain environment-friendly machinery and equipment in

the year of purchase and to shorten the depreciationperiod for environment-friendly installations mainlyancillary to buildings from the usual 25 years to 5 years.The proposal has come into force since the year ofassessment 2008-09.


http://www.ird.gov.hk/eng/tax/bus_pft.htm#a06

Enquiries Tel: 187 8088

Energy Efficiency Projects

Objective/ Scope To encourage existing building owners to carry outalteration, addition or improvement works to upgrade theenergy efficiency performance of building servicesinstallations for communal use in residential, commercial,industrial buildings or composite buildings comprising anytwo of these three types of establishments. Buildingservices installations covered in the Programme includelighting, electrial, air conditioning and lift and escalatorinstallations. Funds will be granted on matching basis. Alimit of 50% of the approved total actual expenfiture will bereimbursed subject to a maximum of HK $500,000 perbuilding application.


www.ecf.gov.hk/en/application/index.html


Note:Funding support from the Government for industry support organizations,industrial/trade associations, professional bodies, research institutes, academicinstitutions and non-profit making organizations are not covered here.

Section 8Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Business

1.Can I choose any locations/sites in Hong Kong for establishing my plannedbusiness?All land in Hong Kong is designated for specific uses through stipulation of therelevant Outline Zoning Plan according to the Town Planning Ordinance, e.g.indcustrial, commercial, recreational, country park, urban area, etc. You shouldtherefore select a site within a suitable location to match the nature of yourplanned business.

2.Are there any sites in Hong Kong that are dedicated for specific types ofbusiness?There are purpose-built premises in Hong Kong where pollution preventionfacilities are provided such as centralized grease traps, common air ducts,recyclables storage area, etc.

For industrial operations in general, there are 3 industrial estates in Hong Kongthat are designated for such activities (see Section 3.1).

For environmental and recycling industries, the Hong Kong SAR Governmenthas been establishing the EcoPark in Tuen Mun Area 38, which is solelydeveloped for use by such activities, please refer to the web link for details:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/ecopark

3.What environmental factors should I consider when selecting sites for myplanned business?You should consider the following environmental factors:

• Location and land use – if the site is suitable to your business nature

• Neighbourhood environment – if there are any nearby environment-sensitivepremises

• Previous usage of premises – if there are any land contamination or damagesto the premises caused by past users (see Section 3.1)

Start Your Business

4. Where can I find the legal requirements of the prevailing environmentallegislation in Hong Kong?All the environmental legislation in Hong Kong is available through:

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/laws_regulations/laws_maincontent.html

www.legislation.gov.hk/eng/index.htm

For any update on or new environmental legislation, please refer to the web linkfor details:

www.gld.gov.hk/egazette

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/news_events/what_new/what_new.html

5. Is it mandatory to conduct an environmental impact assessment for myplanned operation?If your planned operation belongs to any of the Designated Projects as definedunder the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (see Appendix B), youmust undergo the statutory environmental impact assessment process for theproject according to the Ordinance before commencement of the project (seeSection 3.2).

6. How can I know whether my intended operation is classified as a SpecifiedProcess?

You may refer to Appendix C for the list of such Processes or Schedule 1 of theAir Pollution Control Ordinance via the webpagewww.legislation.gov.hk/eng/index.htm for the definitions of the Processes.

7. Do I need to apply for any environmental permits or licences before I canstart my new business?Depending on the nature of your planned business activities, you may need toapply for the following environmental permits or licences from EPD in advance:

For Construction/Renovation WorksInvolving

SpecificEnvironmentalRequirements


Designated Projects (Appendix B)

Environmental Permit Section 3.2

Specified Processes (Appendix C)

Specified ProcessLicence

Section 3.2

Installation of or alterationsto furnaces, ovens, chimneysor flues

Approval for Installationor Alteration

Section 3.2

Discharge of wastewater(except discharge ofdomestic sewage intocommunal sewers andunpolluted water)

Water Pollution ControlOrdinance Licence (i.e.effluent dischargelicence)

Section 3.2

Generation of any chemicalwaste (Part A or Part B)

Registration asChemical WasteProducer, and to notifyEPD prior to disposal ofany Part A chemicalwaste

Section 3.2

Import or export of any waste(except for certain types ofuncontaminated waste thatare for the purpose of reuse,reprocessing,recycling or recovery)

Permit for import orexport of waste

Section 4.9

Reprocessing, recyclingand/or treatment of over

Waste DisposalLicence

Section 4.9

1,000 litres orkilograms of chemical wasteper day

For the time frame required for application of the above licences/permits, seeAppendix F.

8. In case I need to construct related facilities for my planned business, arethere any environmental permits or licences relevant to theconstruction/renovation works?Depending on the types of construction / renovation activities involved, you oryour appointed construction / renovation contractor may need to apply for thefollowing environmental licences or permits and comply with the associatedrequirements:

For Construction/Renovation WorksInvolving

SpecificEnvironmentalRequirements


Designated Projects(Appendix B)

Comply with therequirements asspecified in theEnvironmental Permit

Section 4.3

Concrete batching plant withtotal silo capacity (includingcement and PFA silos)exceeding 50 tonnes orbitumen plant with capacityexceeding 250 kg per hour

Apply for the SpecifiedProcess Licence fromEPD before operatingthe plant and complywith the Licencerequirements

Section 4.3

Notifiable Works Notify EPD beforecommencement of thework and implementthe relevant dustcontrol measures asspecified in the AirPollution Control

Section 4.3

(Construction Dust)Regulation

Use of powered mechanicalequipment/carrying outPrescribed Works duringrestricted hours or withinDesignated Areas

Apply for ConstructionNoise Permit fromEPD before the worksand to comply with thePermit conditions

Section 4.3

Percussive Piling Apply for ConstructionNoise Permit fromEPD before the workand comply with thepermit conditions

Section 4.3

Use of hand-held percussivebreakers or air compressors

Ensure the breakers/compressors are withvalid Noise EmissionLabels issued by EPDbefore use

Section 4.3

Marine dumping of materialsand related loadingoperations

Apply for MarineDumping Permit fromEPD before the workand comply with thePermit conditions

Section 4.3

Removal of asbestoscontaining materials inpremises, or any work whichinvolves the use or handlingof asbestos containingmaterials

Appoint registeredasbestos professionalsto carry out such work(see Section 3.4) andregister with EPD as aChemical WasteProducer prior todisposing of asbestoswaste

Section 3.4 or 4.3

For the time frame required for application of the above licences/permits, seeAppendix F.

9. Do I need to plan for installation of any pollution control equipment orfacilities for my future operation?Depending on the environmental permits or licences (see the answers to theabove 2 questions), you or your appointed contractor may need to plan forinstallation of suitable pollution control systems in order to comply with the termsand conditions of the permits/licences. For technical assistance in the design andinstallation of such systems, see Section 6.

10. How can I find the allowable air pollutant emission standards orwastewater discharge standards relating to my operation?

Air PollutantEmissionStandards

For the operations classified as SpecifiedProcesses , EPD has published relevantGuidance Notes on Best Practicable Meanswhich stipulate the environmental standards to befulfilled by the operators before a licence isgranted from EPD. Please visit EPD's webpagefor the full list of such guidance notes:


For operations not classified as SpecifiedProcesses, the operators should approach EPDfor the emission standards on a case-by-casebasis.

WastewaterDischargeStandards

EPD sets out the wastewater discharge standardsfor individual operations in accordance with theTechnical Memorandum – Standards for EffluentsDischarged into Drainage and SewerageSystems, Inland and Coastal Waters, which isavailable from the web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_standards/statutory/esg_stat.html

11. Are there any pollution charges that I need to take into account whenstarting my business?At present, the following statutory pollution charges have been imposed tobusinesses:

Pollution Charges Applicable to Where to FindMore Details

Sewage Charge All water account holderswhose premises areconnected to a publicsewerage (virtually allbusinesses)

Section 3.2

Trade Effluent Surcharge 27 trades and industries (Appendix D) that producetrade effluents with astrength higher than that ofdomestic sewage

Section 3.2

Charges for disposal ofchemical waste

Chemical WasteProducers that requiredisposal of chemical wasteat the Chemical WasteTreatment Centre

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/

environmentinhk/waste/prob_solutions/

chemical_fees.html

Charges for disposal ofconstruction waste

Construction wasteproducers (e.g.construction contractors)

Section 4.3

Charges for disposal ofclinical waste

Clinical waste producers Section 4.2

It is under planning to impose charges for disposal of municipal solid wastegenerated by industrial and commercial activities.

12. When planning for waste or material storage facilities, are there anyspecific environmental requirements that I need to comply with?

For storage Statutory Requirement Where to FindMore Details

Chemical waste Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste)(General) Regulation

Section 3.2

Materialsclassified asDangerousGoods

Dangerous Goods Ordinance Section 3.2

Chemical wasteclassified asDangerousGoods

Both of the above legal requirements See both of theabove

13. Is there any legal control on the types of fuel that I need to take intoaccount when starting my business?The Air Pollution Control (Fuel Restriction) Regulation exercises legal control onthe types of fuels allowable for use by commercial and industrial appliances(see Section 3.2). In the Shatin Fuel Restriction Area, only gaseous fuel islegally permitted for commercial and industrial appliances except for appliancesused in construction sites or for emergency purposes.

14. Is there any legal control on ozone-depleting substances (ODS) that I needto take into account when starting my business?While you can use materials containing ODS, you are advised to use non-ODSsubstitutes for your operation where appropriate (see Section 3.2). The HongKong SAR Government has been implementing a phase-out programme forODS, which are commonly used in various operations, e.g. refrigerants inair-conditioning systems, fire-fighting installation, blowing agents for foammanufacturing, electronics cleaning agent, etc. In addition, if you are using

refrigerants containing controlled ODS, you are required to use approvedequipment for recovering and recycling the refrigerants during maintenance. Fordetails, see "A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection (ControlledRefrigerants) Regulation"www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/air_guidelines.html

15. What could I do to reduce my company's future water/energy costs whenstarting my business?See Section 3.2 for the tips on saving water and energy costs respectively.

Manage Your Business

16. I have received an air pollution or noise abatement notice from EPD. Whatshould I do then?Receipt of an abatement notice from EPD indicates that your operation hascaused air or noise nuisance to your neighbouring environment. Therefore, youare required to either stop the operation that has caused the nuisance or takemeasures to abate the nuisance within the time frame as specified in theabatement notice. Failure to comply with the abatement notice is liable toprosecution by EPD.

17. Having obtained the effluent discharge licence from EPD, does this meanthat my company can legally discharge any wastewater?After you have obtained the effluent discharge licence, you are required toensure that the effluent from your company is in compliance with the terms andconditions of the licence, which will include maximum allowable quantity ofdischarge, discharge standards, discharge location, etc. Failure to comply withthe licence requirements may be liable to prosecution by EPD (see Section 3.3).

18. I have received a warning letter from EPD saying that the effluentdischarge from my company breached the discharge licence conditions.

What should I do then?Upon receipt of the warning letter, you should immediately identify the causes ofbreaching the discharge licence conditions, e.g. failure of the treatmentsystems, improper operation of the treatment system, and then take thenecessary actions to rectify the problems as soon as possible. Furtherbreaching of the discharge licence conditions may be liable to prosecution byEPD.

19. Having registered with EPD as a chemical waste producer, does this meanthat my company can legally dispose of any waste?Registration with EPD as a Chemical Waste Producer is only the first step forchemical waste control. After the registration, you must check if any of yourproduced waste falls into the category of Part A chemical waste which isparticularly hazardous, e.g. asbestos, antibiotics, pesticides. If yes, you need tonotify EPD under the Waste Disposal Ordinance prior to disposal of such waste.In addition, you must ensure proper packaging, labelling, storage and disposalof any chemical waste (Part A or Part B) generated by your company accordingto the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation, and theassociated trip-ticket system administered by EPD. Failure to comply with thelegal requirements may be liable to prosecution by EPD. See Section 3.3 or thefollowing web link:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc_list.html

20. Where can I find suitable contractors for collection and disposal of mycompany's waste?A list of the suitable waste collectors can be found in EPD's webpage:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/waste_maincontent.html

21. Is it allowable to import or export my company's waste materials to orfrom other places?

You must obtain a permit from EPD if you intend to import or export any waste,except for certain types of uncontaminated waste that are for the purpose ofreuse, reprocessing, recycling or recovery (see Section 4.9).

22. Are there any special environmental requirements for handling and disposal of clinical waste?You need to follow the good practices in handling clinical waste (more details via: http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/en/practice.html) and consign waste to clinical waste collectors. The Waste Disposal (Clinical Waste) (General) Regulation and Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Clinical Waste) Regulation have been developed to provide legislative control of clinical waste (see Section 4.2).

23. Are there any special environmental requirements for handling anddisposal of livestock waste?Solid livestock waste must be disposed of in accordance with the Code ofPractice: Livestock Waste Management (see Section 4.5).

24. Is it legal to use materials containing ozone-depleting substances (ODS)?Refer to the answer of question 14.

25. Is my company required to carry out any regular environmentalmonitoring works during the operation? If yes, where can I get some help?Depending the environmental permits or licences that you have obtained, youmay be required to conduct regular environmental monitoring for youroperations. Below are the permits or licences that could contain mandatorymonitoring requirements:

• Environmental Permit issued for Designated Projects (Appendix B)

• Specified Process Licence

• Water Pollution Control Ordinance Licence (i.e. effluent discharge licence)

• Construction Noise Permit

Even if you are not required by law to perform any regular environmentalmonitoring, it is worth considering doing so for your own benefits. This isbecause regular monitoring can help identify:

• Possible areas for environmental improvement, which could in return bringfinancial benefits; and

• Any potential environmental nuisance from your operation so that earlyremedial actions could be taken to avoid receiving complaints.(see Section 6 for technical assistance in environmental monitoring works)

26. Can I apply for reducing my company's sewage charges/trade effluentsurcharges?You may make enquiry to Drainage Services Department for re-assessment ofyour sewage charges/trade effluent surcharges. To substantiate yourapplications, you should employ laboratories accredited under the Hong KongLaboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) to conduct the necessary sampleanalysis work (see Section 3.3).

Withdraw Your Business

27. What are the environmental requirements specific to de-commissioningwork that I need to comply with?If your de-commissioning work involves demolition of buildings, you shouldensure your appointed contractor has complied with the relevant environmentalrequirements, which are very similar to those described for the constructionwork (see Section 4.3). Prior to demolition of any buildings or electrical andmechanical facilities, any hazardous materials must be identified and properlydealt with. In particular, hazardous materials containing asbestos orpolychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) must be handled and disposed of in accordancewith the corresponding Codes of Practice. For demolition work involvingasbestos containing material, the relevant requirements of the Air PollutionControl Ordinance must be followed (see Section 3.4).

28. Do I need to clean up or restore the site during de-commissioning work?Mandatory requirements to clean up or restore the site duringde-commissioning may be included in the Environmental Permits issued forDesignated Projects (Appendix B) or in the land lease. Even if you are notlegally required to clean up or restore the site, you are advised to do so in caseyour operation did cause contamination to the land or damages to the building.

The interpretation of specific terms used in this Guide is given in Appendix G.

(A) Contacts of Environmental Protection Department

(B) List of Designated Projects as Specified in the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance

(C) List of Specified Processes in the Air Pollution Control Ordinance

(D) Trade Effluent Surcharge and Sewage Charge

(E) Environmental Checklist for Planning and Starting Your Business

(F) Environmental and Related Licence Application Time Frame

(G) Interpretation of Specific Terms

(H) Resource Materials

Appendix A: Contacts of EnvironmentalProtection Department

Environmental Protection Department Customer Services Counter Offices

Office Address Telephone Fax

Revenue TowerOffice

33/F., Revenue Tower, 5Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, HongKong

2824 3773 2838 2155

Southorn CentreOffice

28/F, Southorn Centre, 130Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, HongKong

2573 7746 2114 0139

Territorial Control Office


AsbestosManagement andControl Hotline

24/F, Southorn Centre, 130Hennessy Road, Wanchai, HK

2755 3554 2834 9960

Clinical Waste Room 3404, 24/F., Hopewell Hotline 183 Queen's Rd East, Wanchai, HK

2835 1055 2116 4209

Import/Export ofWaste Hotline

28/F, Southorn Centre, 130Hennessy Road, Wanchai, HK

2755 5462 2305 0453

Regional Offices

RegionalOffices


RegionalOffice(East)

Kwun Tong, Wong TaiSin, Sai Kung &Kowloon City

5/F., Nam FungCommercialCentre, 19 Lam LokStreet,Kowloon Bay,Kowloon

2755 5518 27568588

Yau Tsim Mong 8/F, Cheung Sha WanGovernment Offices,303 Cheung Sha WanRoad, Kowloon

2402 5200 24028272

RegionalOffice(South)

Hong Kong Island &Islands

2/F, ChinachemExchange Square,1 Hoi Wan Street,Quarry Bay, HongKong

2516 1718 29601760

RegionalOffice(West)

Tuen Mun, TsuenWan, Kwai Tsing &Sham Shui Po

8/F, Tsuen WanGovernment Offices,38 Sai Lau Kok Road,Tsuen Wan,New Territories

2417 6116 24113073

RegionalOffice(North)

Yuen Long, Shatin,Tai Po & North

10/F, Sha TinGovernment Offices,1 Sheung Wo CheRoad,Sha Tin, NewTerritories

2158 5757 26851133

Appendix B: List of Designated Projects asSpecified in the Environmental Impact

Assessment OrdinanceA–

Roads, Railways and DepotsJ –

Mineral Extraction

B–

Airports and Port Facilities K–

Industrial Activities

C–

Reclamation, Hydraulic and MarineFacilities, Dredging and Dumping

L – Storage, Transfer and Trans-Shipment of Fuels

D–

Energy Supply M–

Agriculture and FisheriesActivities

E–

Water Extraction and Water Supply N–

Community Facilities

F–

Sewage Collection, Treatment, Disposaland Reuse

O–

Tourist and RecreationalDevelopments

G–

Waste Storage, Transfer and DisposalFacilities

P–

Residential and OtherDevelopments

H–

Utility Pipelines, Transmission Pipelinesand Substations

Q–

Miscellaneous

I – Waterways and Drainage Works R–

Decommissioning Projects

For details of Designated Projects under the above categories, visit the followingwebpage or the Cyber Help Bench for the Environmental Impact AssessmentOrdinance:www.epd.gov.hk/eia/www.epd.gov.hk/eia/hb/content/index.htm

Appendix C: List of Specified Processes in theAir Pollution Control Ordinance

1. Acrylates Works 17. Lead Works

2. Aluminium Works 18. Amines Works

3. Cement Works 19. Asbestos Works

4. Ceramic Works 20. Chemical Incineration Works

5. Chlorine Works 21. Hydrochloric Acid Works

6. Copper Works 22. Hydrogen Cyanide Works

7. Electricity Works 23. Sulphide Works

8. Gas Works 24. Pathological Waste Incinerators*

9. Iron and Steel Works 25. Organic Chemical Works

10. Metal Recovery Works 26. Petroleum Works

11. Mineral Works 27. Zinc Galvanising Works

12. Incinerators 28. Rendering Works

13. Petrochemical Works 29. Non-ferrous Metallurgical Works

14. Sulphuric Acid Works 30. Glass Works

15. Tar and Bitument Works 31. Paint Works**

16. Frit Works

Note: *Exemption removal is pending** Not yet in operation

For details of the above Specified Processes, you may refer to the Guidance Noteson Best Practicable Means for Specified Processes or the EPD webpage:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/air_guidelines.html

Appendix D: Trade Effluent Surcharge andSewage Charge

Trade Effluent SurchargeThe following trades, businesses or manufactures are required to pay the TradeEffluent Surcharge (TES). For details of the TES rates, please refer to the web link:www.dsd.gov.hk/EN/Sewage_Services_Charging_Scheme/index.html

No. Trade, Business or Manufacture 1. 2.*3. 4. 5.*6. 7. 8. 9.*10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Yarn SizingWashing New Garments, excluding LaundriesBleaching and Dyeing of GarmentsBleaching and Dyeing of Knitted FabricBleaching and Dyeing of Woven FabricTextile Stenciling and PrintingKnit OuterwearWearing Apparel other than Knit OuterwearSpinning CottonLaundriesSoap and Cleaning Preparations, Perfumes and CosmeticsMedicinesPaints, Varnishes and LacquersBasic Industrial ChemicalsTanneries and Leather FinishingPulp, Paper and PaperboardSoft Drinks and Carbonated Waters IndustriesBreweries and Manufacture of Malt LiquorDistilling, Rectifying and Blending SpiritsCocoa, Chocolate and Sugar ConfectioneryVermicelli, Noodles and Similar Farinaceous ProductsBakery ProductsGrain Mill ProductsVegetable Oil, Peanut Oil, Peppermint Oil and Aniseed OilCanning, Preserving and Processing of Fish and CrustaceansCanning and Preserving Fruit and VegetablesDairy ProductsSlaughtering, Preparing and Preserving MeatSoy and other SaucesRestaurants

*With effect from 1.8.2008, the operators of "Bleaching and dyeing of garments","Textile stencilling and printing" or "Laundries" trades are no longer required to paythe TES.

For a trade, business or manufacture listed in the following Table, the amount ofTES shall be 80% of the volume of potable metered water supplied, other than thatfor flushing purposes, multiplied by the corresponding rates.No. Trade, Business or Manufacture1.2.3.4.5.6.7.

Bleaching and Dyeing of Knitted FabricBleaching and Dyeing of Woven FabricKnit OuterwearSoft Drinks and Carbonated Waters IndustriesBreweries and Manufacture of Malt LiquorDistilling, Rectifying and Blending SpiritsRestaurants

Sewage ChargeFor a trade, business or manufacture listed in the following Table, the SewageCharge shall be equal to 70% of the volume of water supplied, other than watersupplied specially for flushing purposes, multiplied by the current charge rate.

No. Trade, Business or Manufacture1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.

Bleaching and Dyeing of GarmentsBleaching and Dyeing of Knitted FabricBleaching and Dyeing of Woven FabricBleaching and Dyeing of YarnKnit OuterwearSoft Drinks and Carbonated Waters IndustriesBreweries and Manufacture of Malt LiquorDistilling, Rectifying and Blending SpiritsRestaurantsIce-making Factory

Appendix E: Environmental Checklist forPlanning and Starting Your Business

Items forConsideration

Ref. in theGuide

Yes/No

Plan Your Business

Location &Land Use

1. Is the planned land use of your intended site(commercial, industrial, urban, recreational,etc.)suitable for your business nature?

Section 3.1

2. Have you considered establishing yourbusiness in the industrial estates or theEcoPark or those purpose-built premiseswhere centralized facilities are provided (e.g.air duct, grease trap, waste handlingfacilities, etc.)?

Section 3.1

3. Is your intended site located within theShatin Fuel Restriction Area? If yes, are youaware that only gaseous fuel is legallypermitted for use in that Area?

Section 3.1

4. When comparing the pros and cons ofdifferent sites,have you also taken intoaccount the cost for complyingenvironmental legislation and requirements?

Section 3.1Section 3.2

NeighbouringEnvironment

5. Are there any environment-sensitivepremises, e.g. residential buildings, schools,hospitals, etc., close to your intended site?

Section 3.1

6. Are there any environment-sensitive tenantswithin the building that you intend to movein?

Section 3.1

PreviousUsage ofPremises

7. Are you aware of the past usage of thepremises that you intend to use?

Section 3.1

8. Are there any signs of potentialcontamination to the land or damages to thebuilding caused by the previous operations?

Section 3.1

Start Your Business

EnvironmentalAssessment

9. Does your planned business involve any ofthe Designated Projects? If yes, are youaware that you are required to undergo thestatutory environmental impact assessmentprocess for your planned business?

Section 3.2

Appendix B

Air Pollution 10. Does your planned business involve theuse of any furnace, oven, chimney or flue?If yes, are you aware that you are requiredby law to seek prior approval from EPD toinstall the furnace, oven, chimney or flue?

Section 3.2

11. Does your planned business involve any ofthe Specified Processes? If yes, are youaware that you are required by law to applyfor a licence from EPD prior to commencingyour operation?

Section 3.2

Appendix C

12. Have you considered appropriatemeasures to avoid causing potential airnuisance to your neighbours when planningand designing your facilities (e.g. locationsof exhaust outlets)?

Section 3.2

13. Will your planned business emit any airpollutants that may cause nuisance tosurrounding environment? If yes, have youconsidered the needs for installation ofappropriate air pollution control system?

Section 3.2

14. Will your planned business involve the useof any ozone depleting substances? If yes,• are you aware that the import, export anduse of such ozone depleting substancesare subject to legal control?• have you considered substituting thosesubstances with alternatives that do not

Section 3.2

contain any ozone depleting substances?

15. Will you need to construct related facilitiesfor your planned business? If yes, are youaware that your appointedconstruction/renovation contractor isrequired to:• implement the legislative dust controlmeasures for certain works?• apply for a licence from EPD in advancein case some of the works are classified asthe Specified Processes(e.g. cementworks)?

Section 3.2

Noise 16. Have you considered appropriatemeasures to avoid causing potential noisenuisance to your neighbours when planningand designing your facilities (e.g. selectionof quiet equipment and methods, locationand orientation of noisy equipment)?

Section 3.2

17. Have you considered applying noisereduction measures (e.g. noise barrier) toabate potential noise nuisance from noisyequipment?

Section 3.2

18. Will you construct related facilities for yourplanned business? If yes, are you awarethat your appointed construction/renovationcontractor may need to apply for theConstruction Noise Permits for their works?

Section 3.2

WaterResources &Pollution

19. Are you aware that the Sewage Charge, inaddition to water charge, will apply to thefuture operation of your planned business?

Section 3.2

20. Does your planned business involve any ofthe 27 trades that are required to pay theTrade Effluent Surcharge on top of theSewage Charge?

Section 3.2

Appendix D

21. Have you considered the use of water-saving equipment and/or processes in yourplanned business to cut your water bills aswell as the Sewage Charge/Trade EffluentSurcharge?


22. Will your planned business generatewastewater from the operations? If yes,• are you aware that you should apply for alicence from EPD for the effluent dischargeand must then comply with the dischargestandards and conditions of the licence?• have you considered the need to designand install wastewater treatment facilitiessuch as grease trap?If needed:– are you aware that you should, submitthe design of the treatment facilities to EPDfor approval?– have you made suitable provisions, e.g.sufficient space, for future installation of thetreatment facilities?

Section 3.2

23. Will you construct related facilities for yourplanned business? If yes, are you awarethat your appointed construction contractorshould apply for a licence from EPD for anyeffluent discharge from the constructionwork, and if necessary, implementwastewater treatement facilities at theconstruction site?

Section 3.2

WasteManagement

24. Have you made proper provisions, e.g.sufficient space, for future solid wastehandling and storage?

Section 3.2

25. Have you considered the design of suitablesolid waste reduction measures to saveoperational cost and future disposalcharge, e.g. providing enough space andfacilities for segregation of waste forrecycling?

Section 3.2

26. Will your planned business generate anychemical waste (e.g. spent lube oil,solvents)? If yes,• are you aware that you are required bylaw to register with EPD as a chemicalwaste producer?• are you aware that you are required bylaw to, properly package, label, store anddispose of your generated chemical waste(Part A and Part B) and notify EPD prior tothe disposal of Part A chemical waste?• are you aware that you need to pay fordisposal of your generated chemical wasteby outside parties?• have you considered employing licensedcontractors for collection of your generatedchemical waste for recovery or recycling?• will there be any chemical waste that isclassified as dangerous goods (e.g. spentacid)? If yes,- are you aware that you are required bylaw to Management apply for dangerousgoods licence for storage of such chemicalwaste, unless its amount is below theexempted quantity?- have you made provisions for the

Section 3.2

appropriate dangerous goods storagefacilities for storing such chemical waste incompliance with the licence requirements?

27. Will you need to construct related facilitiesfor your planned business? If yes, are youaware that your appointed constructioncontractor must:• follow the above chemical wasteregistration/notification requirements in case anychemical wasteis generated from the construction work?• pay charges for any generatedconstruction waste?


Energy Use 28. Have you considered the design of suitableenergy saving measures (e.g. use ofenergy saving lightings) to cut your energybills?

Section 3.2

MaterialStorage

29. Will your planned business involvemanufacturing, storage and/or use ofdangerous goods (e.g. diesel, strong acids,strong alkalis)? If yes,• are you aware that you are required bylaw to apply for licences from the relevantauthorities before commencing theoperations (unless the quantities ofdangerous goods are below the statutoryexempted quantities)?• have you made provisions for theappropriate facilities (e.g. dangerous goodsstore) in compliance with the licencerequirements?

Section 3.2

• have you considered the provision ofemergency response procedures and spillkits to deal with any accidental leakage orspillage of the dangerous goods?

30. Will your planned business involvemanufacturing, storage and/or use ofchemicals (e.g. pesticides) that arepotentially harmful to environment? If yes,• have you considered the design of properfacilities for handling and storage of thechemicals to avoid their leakage andspillage?• have you considered the need foremergency response procedures and spillkits to deal with any accidental leakage orspillage of the chemicals?

Section 3.2

Appendix F: Environmental and Related LicenceApplication Timeframe

Items RelevantLegislation

LicensingAuthority

Timeframe forProcessing byRelevantAuthority*

Air Pollution

1. Application forapproval oninstallation of oralternations to afurnace, oven,chimney or flue

Air Pollution Control(Furnaces, Ovensand Chimneys)Regulation

EnvironmentalProtectionDepartment

90% in 16 days

2. Application for theSpecified Process

Air Pollution Control(Specified

EnvironmentalProtection

Depending verymuch on the

Licence Processes)Regulation

Department nature andcomplexity ofindividualapplications.

Noise

3. Application for theConstruction NoisePermit

Noise ControlOrdinance


90% in 18 days

4. Noise EmissionLabel

Noise Control(Hand HeldPercussiveBreakers) and (AirCompressors)Regulations


90% in 15 days

Water Pollution

5. Application for theEffluent DischargeLicence

Water PollutionControl Ordinance


95% in 14 daysafter receipt ofpayment (fordischarge madedirectly into HongKong waters, 40days afterpublication ofapplication noticein newspaperwould normally brrequired.)

Waste Management

6. Application forregistration aschemical wasteproducer

Waste Disposal(Chemical Waste)(General)Regulation


98% in 30 days

7. Application for the Dangerous Goods Fire Services 28 working days

licence for storageof dangerous goodsif some of yourchemical wastebelongs todangerous goods(Categories 2 to 10excluding liquefiedpetroleum gas andCategory 9A[combustiblegoods])

Ordinance Department for issuance of firesafetyrequirements+ 6 working daysupon confirmationof fullcompliance withthe safetyrequirements.

8. Application for theWaste DisposalLicence if you opt tocarry out in-housereprocessing,recycling and/ortreatment of over1,000 liters or kg perday of yourgenerated chemicalwaste

Waste Disposal(Chemical Waste)(General)Regulation


Depending verymuch on thenature andcomplexity ofindividualapplications.

9. Application for theMarine DumpingPermit

Dumping at SeaOrdinance


90% in 18 days

Material Storage

10. Application for thelicence for storageof dangerousgoods belonging toCategories 2 to 10(excluding liquefiedpetroleum gas and

Dangerous GoodsOrdinance

Fire ServicesDepartment

28 working daysfor issuance of firesafetyrequirements+ 6 working daysupon confirmationof full compliance

Category 9A[combustiblegoods])

with the safetyrequirements.

Statutory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)Process for Designated Projects Only

11. Application for EIAstudy brief

EnvironmentalImpact AssessmentOrdinance


45 days (including14 days for publicinspection ofproject profile)

12. Application forpermission toapply directly foran EnvironmentalPermit



45 days (including14 days for publicinspection ofproject profile)

13. Review of EIAreport



60 days

14. Approval orrejection of EIAreport



30 days after the60-day period ofpublic consultationof EIA report orreceipt of furtherinformation asmay be requiredduring theconsultation period

15. Issuance ofEnvironmentalPermit



30 days

16. Application for apermit to import,export,manufacture or

HazardousChemicals ControlOrdinance


Depending on thecomplexity andnature of theapplication but itshould be

use of scheduledchemicals

submitted not laterthan 15 workingdays before theplanned activitystarts.

17. Application for animport or exportlicencefor a shipment ofthe scheduledchemicals

Import and ExportOrdinance


Depending on thecomplexity andnature of theapplication but itshould besubmitted not laterthen 2 workingdays before theshipmentarrives or departsas appropriate withexplicit con-sent from theomporting andexprtoing countryandthe relevant permitissued under theHazardousChemicals ControlOrdinance.

Electronic form submissions for applying some of the EPD's licences and permitsare available at the Environmental Protection Interactive Centre viawww.epd.gov.hk/epd/epic/english/licence.html*Notes:All the timeframes specified above are based on:1. the performance pledge of relevant licensing authorities; and2. the assumption that all the relevant documents and necessary informationsupporting the applications have been received in full by the licensing authorities.

Appendix G: Interpretation of Specific Terms

Animal Carcassmeans animal dead body (intact, or parts); offal; and condemned meat.

Best Practicable Means for Specified Processesrefer to the provision, use and efficient maintenance of relevant facilities (e.g.pollution control facilities, production facilities, etc.) adequate for preventing airpollutant emissions from premises. (see the website link to Guidance Notes on BestPracticable Means for Specified Processes in Appendix H).

Chemical Wasteis defined as any substance being scrap material, effluent, an unwanted substanceor byproduct arising from any operation or containing any substance specified inSchedule 1 of the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation. TheSchedule categorizes the substances into Part A and Part B. Chemical wastecontaining substances listed in Part A is usually more toxic or hazardous, e.g.asbestos, antibiotics, pesticides. Disposal of Part A chemical waste requires priornotification to EPD under the Waste Disposal Ordinance. Part B of the Schedulecovers the majority of chemical waste, e.g. spent lube oil, acids, alkalis, organicsolvents, etc.

Clinical Wasteis waste arising from practice or research for dental, medical, nursing, veterinary,pathological/laboratory testing or pharmaceutical purposes. It includes mainly usedor contaminated sharps like syringes/needles, laboratory wastes, human and animaltissues/organs, infectious materials from patients, and surgical dressings, but it doesnot include chemical waste and radioactive waste.

Dangerous Goods (DG)includes all explosives, compressed gases, petroleum and other substances givingoff inflammable vapours, substances giving off poisonous gas or vapour, corrosivesubstances, substances which become dangerous by interaction with water or air,

substances liable to spontaneous combustion or of a readily combustible nature.Examples include diesel, strong acid, strong alkali, etc.

Designated Projectsrefer to those projects that are defined under the Environmental Impact AssessmentOrdinance (EIAO). Before commencing any of the Designated Projects, it is requiredto undergo the statutory environmental impact assessment process in order toobtain an Environmental Permit. There are 17 categories of Designated Projects(see Appendix B) covering most infrastructure projects, public utilities, large-scaleindustrial activities, waste disposal facilities, etc. (also see the website link to EIAOCyber Help Bench in Appendix H)

Excluded Workmeans, as defined under the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation,(a) renovation, maintenance and alteration work carried out entirely within theexternal walls and under the roof of a building; (b) work carried out exclusively forasbestos investigation, abatement and removal; (c) any Specified Process; (d) workcarried out entirely within a tunnel (except work carried out in any part of the tunnelthat is within 100 m of any exit to the open air); (e) work carried out entirely underwater; (f) repair work (including cleansing and inspection) to an underground sewer,drain, culvert or other pipeline that is carried out entirely within the confines of suchsewer, drain, culvert or pipeline; (g) paint brushing and patch repairs carried out onthe outer surface of the external wall or the upper surface of the roof of a building;(h) work carried out in a quarry including any associated rehabilitation of theexcavated surface; or (i) farming or archaeological activities.

Grease Trap Wasteis oil and grease intercepted by grease traps installed at restaurants or foodprocessing establishments.

Inert Construction Wasteis waste generated from such activities as construction, renovation, demolition andland excavation that is suitable for land reclamation and site formation. It comprisesrock, rubble, boulder, earth, soil, sand, concrete, asphalt, brick, tile, masonry andused bentonite.

Livestock Wasteis solid or liquid waste produced by livestock.

Low-level Radioactive Wasteis waste producing no detectable heat output and of low radioactive level.

Municipal Solid Wasteis waste arising from households, commercial and industrial establishments.

Non-inert Construction Wasteis waste generated from such activities as construction, renovation, demolition andland excavation that is not suitable for land reclamation and site formation, e.g.bamboo, timber, etc.

Notifiable Workmeans, as defined under the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation,(a) site formation; (b) reclamation; (c) demolition of a building; (d) work carried out inany part of a tunnel that is within 100 m of any exit to the open air; (e) constructionof the foundation of a building; (f) construction of the superstructure of a building; or(g) road construction work, but does not include any emergency work, excludedwork or regulatory work.

Prescribed Construction Workmeans the construction work prescribed by the Noise Control (Construction Work)Regulation and includes (a) erection or dismantling of formwork or scaffolding; (b)loading, unloading or handling of rubble, wooden boards, steel bars, wood orscaffolding material; and (c) hammering.

Regulatory Workmeans, as defined under the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation,(a) renovation carried out on the outer surface of the external wall or the uppersurface of the roof of a building; (b) road opening or resurfacing work; (c) slopestabilization work; or (d) any work involving stockpiling of dusty materials; transfer of

dusty materials using a belt conveyor system; use of vehicles; pneumatic or power-driven drilling, cutting and polishing; debris handling; excavation or earth moving;concrete production; site clearance; or blasting.

Sewage Chargeis a charge levied on all water account holders whose premises are connected to apublic sewerage in accordance with the Sewage Services Ordinance.

Specified Processesrefer to those processes, as defined under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance,requiring a licence from EPD before such operations (see Appendix C for the list ofSpecified Processes).

Trade Effluent Surchargeis a charge levied on 30 trades and industries that produce trade effluents with astrength higher than that of domestic sewage in accordance with the SewageServices Ordinance. The charging rates vary for different trades and industries (seeAppendix D).

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)are found in a lot of products such as solvent-based paints, printing inks, organicsolvents and many consumer products. The use of VOC-containing productsreleases VOCs that eventually cause air pollution and smog.

Appendix H: Resource Materials

List of Useful References

Note: Whilst this business guide endeavours to ensure the accuracy of thefollowing information, the webpage links may be subject to change and readersmay wish to find the resource materials from the homepage of relevant governmentbureaux and departments.

Title Source Ref.No.

Planning

Hong Kong PlanningStandard and Guidelines

www.pland.gov.hk/pland_en/tech_doc/hkpsg/index.html

1

Guidance Notes forContaminated LandAssessment andRemediation

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/files/GN_for_land_contamination_e.pdf

2

Practice Guide forInvestigation andRemediation ofContaminated Land

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/files/pg_conland_eng_2011.pdf

3

Technical Memorandumon Environmental ImpactAssessment Process

www.epd.gov.hk/eia/english/legis/ 4

A Guide to EnvironmentalImpact AssessmentOrdinance

www.epd.gov.hk/eia/english/guid/5

Air

A Concise Guide to theAir Pollution ControlOrdinance


6

A Guide to the AirPollution Control(Furnaces, Ovens andChimneys) (Installationand Alteration)Regulations

7

A Concise Guide to theOzone Layer Protection(Controlled Refrigerants)

8

Regulation

A Concise Guide to theOzone Layer ProtectionOrdinance

10

An Introduction to the AirPollution Control (Smoke)Regulations

22

Cut Down ConstructionDust

23

A Guide to the AirPollution Control (OpenBurning) Regulation

24

Guidance Notes on BestPracticable Means forSpecified Processes

29

Control of Oil Fume andCooking Odour fromRestaurants and FoodBusiness

57

A Guide to the AirPollution Control(Dry-cleaning Machines)(Vapour Recovery)Regulation

59

Guidelines on Applicationfor Installation ofEmergency Generators

-

Air-ConditioningRefrigerants – A Time forChange (ProPECC PN4/94)

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/publications/pub_propeccpns.html

9

Technical Memorandumfor Issuing Air PollutionAbatement Notices toControl Air Pollution fromStationary PollutingProcesses

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_standards/statutory/esg_stat.html

21

A Guide to the AirPollution Control (VolatileOrganic Compounds)Regulation

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/prob_solutions/voc_reg.html

63

A Guide to Air PollutionControl (Fuel Restriction)Regulation and itsAmendment of 2008

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/guide_fuel_restriction.html

64

Guidance Note forRecovery and Minimizingthe Release of HCFCsRefrigerant

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/files/HCFC_Booklet_Eng.pdf

67

Noise

A Concise Guide to theNoise Contro Ordinance

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/noise/guide_ref/noise_guidelines.html

11

Good Practices onPumping System NoiseControl

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_standards/non_statutory/esg_non_stat.html

12

Good Practices onVentilation System NoiseControl

13

Noise AnnoyancePrevention – Design ofPump Room andVentilation System (PNAP228)

www.bd.gov.hk/english/documents/index_pnap.html

14

Technical Memorandumfor the Assessment of


25

Noise from Places otherthan Domestic Premises,Public Places orConstruction Sites

Technical Memorandumon Noise fromConstruction Work inDesignated Areas

30

Technical Memorandumon Noise from PercussivePiling

31

Noise from ConstructionActivities – Statutory(ProPECC PN 1/93)


32

Noise from ConstructionActivities – Non-statutory(ProPECC PN 2/93)

33

Technical Memorandumon Noise fromConstruction Work otherthan Percussive Piling


34

Use of Quiet ConstructionEquipment for RoadOpening Works duringNon-Sociable Hours(ProPECC PN 1/96)


35

What the PropertyManagement canconsider in dealing withNoise from RenovationWork

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/noise/guide_ref/noise_guidelines.html

36

Water

A Guide to the WaterPollution Control

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/water/guide_ref/water_guidelines.html

15

Ordinance

Technical Memorandum–Standards for EffluentsDischarged into Drainageand Sewerage Systems,Inland and CoastalWaters


16

Construction SiteDrainage (ProPECC PN1/94)


37

Grease Traps forRestaurants and FoodProcessors

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/water/guide_ref/guide_wpc_gt.html

56

Technical Memorandumon Procedures andMethods for SamplingandAnalysis of TradeEffluentfor the Trade EffluentSurcharge Scheme

www.dsd.gov.hk/FileManager/EN/Files/sewage_charges/ordinances_regulation/TM-2007%20(Eng).doc

-

Waste

A Guide to the Control onImport and Export ofWaste

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_wiec.html

60

Municipal Waste

Policy Framework for theManagement of MunicipalSolid Waste (2005 –2014)

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/msw/ 26

Construction Waste

Site Practice for WasteReduction in ConstructionIndustry


38

Management ofConstruction andDemolition MaterialsIncluding Rock(ETWB TCW No.33/2002)

www.devb-wb.gov.hk/fileManager/technicalcirculars/en/upload/125/1/c-2002-33-0-1.pdf

39

Construction andDemolition Waste (PNAP243)


40

Fill Management (WBTC12/2000)

www.devb.gov.hk/filemanager/technicalcirculars/en/upload/177/1/wb1200.pdf

41

Industrial Activity whichInvolves Marine Dumpingof Dredged Mud

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/application_for_licences/guidance/ia_351.html

43

Management FrameworkforDisposal ofDredged/ExcavatedSediment (PNAP 252)


44

Management of Dredged/Excavated Sediment(ETWB TCW No.34/2002)

www.devb.gov.hk/fileManager/technicalcirculars/en/upload/124/1/c-2002-34-0-1.pdf

45

Guidelines for AdmissionTicket System


-

Trip Ticket System forDisposalof Construction &Demolition Materials(ETWB TCW 31/2004)

www.devb.gov.hk/filemanager/technicalcirculars/en/upload/44/1/C-2004-31-0-1.pdf

-

Chemical Waste

A Guide to the ChemicalWaste Control Scheme

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc_list.html

17

A Guide to theRegistration of ChemicalWaste Producers

18

Code of Practice on thePackaging, Labelling andStorage of ChemicalWastes

19

Livestock Waste

A Guide to the LivestockWaste Control Scheme

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_lwc.html

49

Code of Practice:Livestock WasteManagement

50

Guidelines for Free-rangePoultry Keeping

51

Guidelines on LitterBedding Method

52

Guidelines for Dry MuckOut

53

Guidelines for Wet MuckOut

54

Guidelines for SoakawaySystem

55

Special Waste

Code of Practice on theHandling, TransportationandDisposal of AsbestosWaste

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc.html

27

Code of Practice on the28

Handling, Transportationand Disposal ofPolychlorinated Biphenyl(PCB) Waste

Handling of AsbestosContaining Materials inBuildings (Practice NotePN 2/97)


-

Code of Practice for theHandling, Storage,Packaging,Transportation andDisposal of RadioactiveWaste

www.info.gov.hk/dh-rhu/english/html/english_publications.htm

-

Code of Practice for theManagement of ClinicalWaste - Major ClinicalWaste Producers andWaste Collectors

http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/file/doc07_en.pdf

65

Code of Practice for theManagement of ClinicalWaste - Small ClinicalWaste Producers

http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/file/doc06_en.pdf 66

Material Storage

Fire Protection Notice No.4 Dangerous GoodsGeneral

www.hkfsd.gov.hk/home/eng/source/notices/fire_protection_notice_no_4.pdf

20

International Standards

21 CFR Part 210 –Current GoodManufacturing Practice inManufacturing,Processing, Packing orHolding of Drugs

www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=210&showFR=1

-

21 CFR Part 211 –Current GoodManufacturing PracticeFor FinishedPharmaceuticals

-

EU Directive on theRestriction of the Use ofCertain HazardousSubstances in Electricaland Electronic Equipment(2002/95/EC)

ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/weee/index_en.htm

-

EU Directive on WasteElectrical and ElectronicEquipment (2002/96/EC)

-

ISO22000:2005 FoodSafety ManagementSystems – Requirementsfor Any Organization inthe Food Chain

On-line purchase is available viawww.iso.org/iso/en/prods-services/ISOstore/store.htmlorcontact the Hong Kong Accreditation Servicewww.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/about.htm

58

ISO 14001:2004EnvironmentalManagement Systems –Requirements withGuidance for Use

61

OHSAS 18001:1999Occupational Health andSafety ManagementSystems – Specification

Contact the Hong Kong Accreditation Service

www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/about.htm62

EU Directive onEstablishing aFramework for the Settingof EcodesignRequirements forEnergy-using Products

ec.europa.eu/enterprise/eco_design/index_en.htm

-

EU Directive on Batteriesand AccumulatorsContaining CertainDangerous Substances(91/157/EEC)

ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/batteries/index.htm

-

China RoHS(ChineseVersion Only)

www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2007/content_564130.htm

-

Hazardous Chemicals

Guidelines on Applicationfor Permit to Import,Permit to Export andPermit toTransship/TransitScheduled Chemicals

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/international_conventions/

pops/files/hcc123e.pdf

-

Guidelines on Applicationfor Permit to ManufactureScheduled Chemicals

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/international_conventions/pops/files/hcc4e.pdf

-

Guidelines on Applicationfor Permit to UseScheduled Chemicals

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/international_conventions/pops/files/hcc5e.pdf

-

Other

EnvironmentalManagement onConstruction Sites(ETWB TCW 19/2005)

www.devb.gov.hk/filemanager/technicalcirculars/en/upload/19/1/C-2005-19-0-1.pdf

46

Control of EnvironmentalNuisance fromConstruction Sites (PNRC17)

www.bd.gov.hk/english/documents/index_pnrc.html

47

Recommended PollutionControl Clauses forConstruction Contracts

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.html

48

For other useful references, please refer to the website of Environmental ProtectionDepartment:www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/envir_standards/esg_maincontent.html ORwww.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/resources_pub/publications/publications.html

List of Useful WebsitesInformation Description Website

For General Trades/Industries

Environment Bureau www.enb.gov.hk/

Environmental ProtectionDepartment

www.epd.gov.hk

EPD – Partnership withTrade and Industry

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/compliance_ass/ass_maincontent.html

EPD – ComplianceAssistance Centre (CAC)

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/cac

EPD – EnvironmentalProtection InteractiveCentre

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/epic/english/epichome.html

Development Bureau –Works Branch

www.devb.gov.hk

Buildings Department www.bd.gov.hk/

Drainage ServicesDepartment

www.dsd.gov.hk

Food and Health Bureau www.fhb.gov.hk/

Agriculture, Fisheries andConservation Department

www.afcd.gov.hk/

Food and EnvironmentalHygiene Department

www.fehd.gov.hk/

Fire Services Department www.hkfsd.gov.hk

Trade and IndustryDepartment

www.tid.gov.hk

Invest Hong Kong www.investhk.gov.hk

Hong Kong TradeDevelopment Council

www.tdctrade.com

Environmental Legislationin Hong Kong

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/laws_regulations/envir_legislation/laws_maincontent_el.html

Legislation in Hong Kong www.legislation.gov.hk

Update on Legislation inHong Kong

www.gld.gov.hk/egazette

GovHK www.gov.hk

Cyber Help Bench forEnvironmental ImpactAssessment Ordinance

www.epd.gov.hk/eia/hb/content/index.htm

List of laboratoriesaccredited under theHong Kong LaboratoryAccreditationScheme(HOKLAS)

www.itc.gov.hk/en/quality/hkas/hoklas/directory/directory.htm

List of special wastecollectors

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_ref_dwc.html

Hong Kong Science &Technology Parks

www.hkstp.org

For Specific Trades/Industries

Handling Clinical Waste http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/clinicalwaste/file/doc06_en.pdf

EnvironmentalManagement InformationandISO 14001 EMS forConstruction Sector SMEs

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/env_management_sme/

Designated Area Plan www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/noise/help_corner/da.html

Construction Waste

Construction WasteManagement Plan

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/cdm/

EnvironmentalAssessment and Planning

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/eia_planning/guide_ref/eia_guidelines.html

EnvironmentalManagement Informationand ISO 14001 EMS forE&E Sector SMEs

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/misc/env_management_sme/e_e/

Accredited Fish FarmScheme

www.hkaffs.org/en/index.html

Quality SeawaterAssurance Scheme

www.hkpc.org/qsas

Green Restaurant www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/greenrestaurant

Green Garage website www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/greengarage

Registers of AsbestosProfessionals

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/guide_ref/reg_asbestos.html

Approved Dry-cleaningMachine Models


Approved Equipment forRecovering and RecyclingControlled Refrigerants

www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/air/ozone_layer_protection/wn6_ae_rrcr.html

EcoPark www.epd.gov.hk/epd/ecopark

Registration Scheme forDegradable Containersand Bags

https://www.wastereduction.gov.hk/en/materials/info/container/Register.pdf

Section 1 : Introduction Kong - epd.gov.hk · non-statutory requirements which are useful and good...

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