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The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Paul Tang, visited the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (April 17) to learn more about the work of the department and to take the opportunity to meet its staff.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Raymond Wong, Mr Tang first met with the Permanent Secretary for the Environment/Director of Environmental Protection, Ms Anissa Wong, and the directorate staff. He was pleased to learn that the EPD is committed to increasing public awareness on environmental protection, energy, conservation and sustainable development as well as engaging public support for its work.
Mr Tang also visited the Sludge Treatment Facility (STF) located at Nim Wan in Tuen Mun. The STF operates on the principles of "waste to energy" and "reuse of resources". Thermal energy generated from sludge incineration is converted into electricity by the power generation plant for internal consumption. There are also facilities to produce both potable water and process water for internal use, and to treat the wastewater arising from the facility for reuse on-site. Through briefings on the STF and observations through closed-circuit television, Mr Tang had a better understanding of the whole project and the operation of the plant.
The facility incorporates an Environmental Education Centre in which the public can learn about environmental messages on sustainable waste management, the design and operation of a sludge incineration facility and other relevant environmental information so as to raise the awareness of the public to lead a green and healthy life. Apart from having an exhibition area, a lecture theatre and a visitors' gallery, the facility will feature three 100-square-metre indoor spa pools and an outdoor foot bath for public enjoyment on commencement.
During his visit, Mr Tang met with staff representatives of various grades at a tea gathering to exchange views on relevant issues. He encouraged the staff members to continue to provide high-quality, efficient and professional services to the public.
Ends/Friday, April 17, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:58
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