***********************************************************
The Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing, today (June 17) chaired the second meeting of the Steering Group on the Modification of Recycling and Refuse Collection Facilities in Public Places (the Steering Group) to review the provision and design of recycling and refuse collection facilities in public places to facilitate waste reduction and resource recovery in the community.
Mr Wong said that the Government is committed to introducing municipal solid waste (MSW) charging in Hong Kong as a key policy tool to drive behavioural changes in waste reduction, and has been undertaking preparatory work on various fronts. After establishing the Steering Group in February this year, a consultancy study has also been commissioned to underpin the work of the Steering Group.
Mr Wong said, "At the meeting today, members discussed the study plan prepared by the consultant, as well as the current provision of recycling facilities and litter containers in public places. The consultant is expected to provide recommendations to the Steering Group later this year. Based on the recommendations by the consultant, the Steering Group will formulate its recommendations on the number and distribution as well as the key parameters for the design of the relevant facilities."
Mr Wong added, "The proposed modification of recycling and refuse collection facilities will form an integral part of the implementation plan of MSW charging. We will further engage different stakeholders and consult the Legislative Council on the proposed implementation arrangements before introducing the enabling legislation on MSW charging in the 2016-17 legislative session."
The Steering Group noted that publicity and public education have been key to successful implementation of MSW charging in overseas countries. Mr Wong said, "The Government will launch extensive publicity and public education activities to promote public awareness and prepare the community for the implementation of MSW charging."
Ends/Friday, June 17, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:45
NNNN