EPD detects illegal import, collection, storage and handling of hazardous electronic waste (with photos)

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     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) detected that two recycling sites in North District and Yuen Long in the New Territories were involved in illegal collection, storage and handling of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs). The EPD also successfully intercepted two cases of illegal hazardous electronic waste (e-waste) import from Turkey and Singapore at the Hong Kong International Airport and the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. The operating companies and responsible persons of the two recycling sites and two importers concerned were convicted and fined a total of $144,000 at Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (April 17).

EPD staff conducted blitz inspections in September last year at two recycling sites at Hung Lung Hang in North District and Kai Pak Ling Road in Yuen Long. It was found that the two sites illegally handled some 70 bags of PCBs which weighed about 23 tonnes, with a total market value of approximately $2.25 million. Upon in-depth investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD initiated prosecutions against the operating companies and responsible persons of the recycling sites in accordance with the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) and the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation.

     Separately, in September and October last year, the EPD, in collaboration with the Customs and Excise Department, intercepted five imported air cargo shipments and two marine containers at the Hong Kong International Airport and the Kwai Chung Container Terminals respectively. They were declared to contain computer parts, but were actually loaded with hazardous e-waste including waste flat panel displays (FPDs), waste batteries and waste PCBs, with a total market value of about $200,000. The hazardous e-waste intercepted was immediately returned to the places of origin. The EPD notified the foreign enforcement authorities concerned about the return shipments and instigated prosecution against the importers concerned in accordance with the WDO.

     An EPD spokesman stressed that dismantled or destroyed PCBs, LCD monitors and cathode ray tubes are hazardous e-waste, containing heavy metals and other toxic substances. They are classified as chemical waste and are regulated under the existing laws on chemical waste disposal. To protect the environment, the EPD is committed to combating the illegal collection, storage and handling of hazardous e-waste by recycling sites, and strictly controls the illegal import and export activities of hazardous waste.

     The spokesman reminded operators of recycling sites to strictly comply with the relevant controls on chemical waste. Importers of the waste recycling trade are also reminded not to illegally import (including import into or transshipment through Hong Kong), or export hazardous waste.

     First-time offenders of the WDO and the Regulation are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. For subsequent offences, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and two years' imprisonment.

     Members of the public may visit the EPD's website for more information about the control of chemical waste: www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc.html.

Ends/Tuesday, April 17, 2018
Issued at HKT 19:00

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Waste printed circuit boards were seized by Environmental Protection Department staff at a recycling site at Hung Lung Hang in North District in September last year.

Waste printed circuit boards were seized by Environmental Protection Department staff at a recycling site at Kai Pak Ling Road in Yuen Long in September last year.