Government welcomes SDC's report on promotion of sustainable consumption of biological resources
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"I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Chairman of the SDC, Professor Arthur Li, and SDC members, as well as the experts and stakeholders participating in the relevant support group, for their hard work. The 64 engagement events held during the 16-week public involvement helped enhance the public awareness about sustainable consumption of biological resources, and stimulated fruitful discussions through which numerous valuable views have been received," the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Wong Kam-sing, said.
"The Government is dedicated to promoting sustainable consumption of biological resources. For instance, the Government has developed and adopted green procurement guidelines for 150 items, including paper and wood products, to minimise adverse environmental impacts. Since 2013, the Government has adopted sustainability-conscious food menus under which no shark fin, bluefin tuna and black moss will be consumed in holding official entertainment functions. In addition, trawling, which is a non-selective fishing operation, has been banned in Hong Kong waters since 2012 to protect marine resources and ecosystems.
"The SDC's recommendations are consistent with our objectives, and have proposed new approaches to further promoting the sustainable consumption of biological resources. The Government will give a more detailed response after studying the SDC's recommendations, with a view to stepping up our efforts in this regard, and striving to encourage collaboration of all sectors of the community towards sustainable consumption of biological resources," Mr Wong added.
The SDC's report sets out 20 recommendations to promote sustainable consumption of biological resources under four aspects, namely fostering a culture of sustainable consumption of biological resources, facilitating smart choices for consumers, promoting best practices among businesses, and the Government setting an example in conserving and supporting biodiversity. For details, please refer to the SDC's report available on the public engagement website, www.susdev.org.hk.
Ends/Friday, June 2, 2017
Issued at HKT 12:30
Issued at HKT 12:30
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