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The Environment Bureau welcomes the report of the Council for Sustainable Development (SDC) and its recommendations, which were submitted to the Government today (March 29). The recommendations were drawn up based on the findings of the public engagement process entitled "Combating Climate Change: Energy Saving and Carbon Emission Reduction in Buildings" launched in August 2011.
"We are delighted to see that the public agrees with the need for a concerted effort of all sectors of the community in implementing energy saving and carbon reduction initiatives. We also share the public's view that the Government should take the lead in promoting energy saving and carbon reduction. The Government will make efforts on this front to set a good example for society, as well as enhance its education and publicity efforts with a view to encouraging the community to take part in energy saving efforts and combat climate change," said the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau.
Mr Yau added that the Government has already taken measures to promote energy saving and carbon reduction in Hong Kong. For example, in February the Government updated and tightened the energy efficiency standards as specified in the Building Energy Code to facilitate the full commencement of the relevant Ordinance this September. In addition, the Government is planning to conduct carbon audits in major Government premises and public facilities for showcasing and promotional purposes.
"The recommendations of the SDC are consistent with our work objectives. Together with the departments concerned, we will carefully study the recommendations of the SDC and provide concrete responses shortly, with a view to enhancing the impact of our efforts, striving for more concrete measures in respect of energy saving and carbon reduction, and joining with all stakeholders in promoting sustainable development in Hong Kong," Mr Yau said.
Mr Yau also expressed his gratitude to the SDC Chairman, Mr Bernard Chan, members of the SDC and its Strategy Sub-committee, and experts of the Support Group for their efforts over the past year. During the four-month public engagement process from August to December 2011, many valuable views were received from different sectors in respect of ways to enhance the demand-side management of electricity consumption with a view to combating climate change. The engagement process also deepened public awareness of climate change.
Ends/Thursday, March 29, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:01
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