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The Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing, and a Hong Kong delegation started their itinerary in Taipei today (June 6) to learn about the city's efforts in waste management and community recycling.
The delegation, led by Mr Wong, comprises about 50 representatives from the Advisory Council on the Environment, the Council for Sustainable Development (including its Support Group on Municipal Solid Waste Charging), the Food Wise Hong Kong Steering Committee (including its Sub-committees) and the Environmental Campaign Committee.
Mr Wong said that Hong Kong and Taipei share various similarities in terms of climate, culture and urban context. Both cities can thus learn from each other in environmental protection efforts, and the experience gained from the visit can help in the implementation of environmental policies in Hong Kong in the future.
The Beitou Refuse Incinerator Plant in Taipei was the first stop for Mr Wong and the delegation, where they saw for themselves the collection of municipal solid waste and recyclable resources. The Beitou Refuse Incinerator Plant is a waste-to-energy compound with ancillary facilities such as a revolving restaurant on the incinerator stack, community facilities and sports areas. At present, combustible waste is being incinerated in Taipei City - a process that is very effective in relieving the pressure on landfills.
Afterwards, they toured the residential area at Duen Hwa North Green Court to learn about its community recycling facilities. The area provides local residents with facilities for effective separation and collection of waste and recyclables in daily life.
The party later joined a welcome dinner hosted by the Taipei City Mayor, Mr Hau Lung-bin.
Mr Wong and the delegation will attend a Hong Kong-Taipei inter-city forum tomorrow morning (June 7). Mr Wong will be the guest speaker of a panel discussion on the topic "Greening the City, Protecting the Environment". The group will continue their itinerary in the afternoon. They will conclude their visit and return to Hong Kong tomorrow night.
Ends/Thursday, June 6, 2013
Issued at HKT 18:25
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