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The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme, the first voluntary producer responsibility scheme in Hong Kong, has been delivering encouraging results since its launch in April 2005.
Speaking today (May 16) at the fourth anniversary ceremony of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Programme, the Under Secretary for the Environment, Dr Kitty Poon, said she was pleased with the programme's achievements.
"Our last two-year target to recover 80-100 tonnes of used rechargeable batteries has been achieved. In 2007 and 2008, the programme recovered a total of 108 tonnes. We aim to recover 110-140 tonnes of rechargeable batteries in the next two years," Dr Poon said.
Since 2005, about 170 tonnes of rechargeable batteries, equivalent to 880,000 pieces, have been collected and shipped to a designated treatment facility in South Korea for recycling.
"This voluntary producer responsibility programme clearly demonstrates the environmental commitment of the trade in recycling rechargeable batteries. I am glad to see that two more companies - Lifetrons International Ltd and Newstar Communication Co Ltd - joined the programme this year," Dr Poon said.
Dr Poon thanked the 37 participating companies for providing funding and the 10 supporting organisations for setting up collection points for the programme. The collection network is very convenient with more than 2,200 points for the public to return their used rechargeable batteries.
"People can help to reduce the number of batteries discarded annually by using rechargeable batteries whenever possible and save money at the same time,' Dr Poon said.
To enhance public awareness of and participation in the programme, a lucky draw will be held from May 16 to May 27. Participants can get a lucky draw entry by returning a rechargeable battery for recycling at designated venues.
People can browse the Hong Kong Waste Reduction Website on www.wastereduction.gov.hk or call 2838 3111 for details of the recycling programme.
Ends/Saturday, May 16, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:59
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