ASB Biodiesel, based at Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate, which again discharged sub-standard wastewater into a communal sewer, was fined $15,000 by Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts today (January 18) for contravening the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO).

     During an inspection at a biodiesel plant last June, Environmental Protection Department (EPD) staff found that the plant had discharged blackish wastewater which was suspected to be not properly treated. The EPD staff took wastewater samples for analysis and the results showed that oil and grease, chemical oxygen demand, suspended solids, biological oxygen demand and total phosphorus exceeded the limits specified in the wastewater discharge licence. After investigation and collection of evidence, the EPD subsequently initiated prosecution against the factory in accordance with the WPCO.

     ASB Biodiesel has been convicted three times in the past three years for discharge of sub-standard wastewater. The EPD stepped up its monitoring and demanded the management of ASB Biodiesel to enhance their daily operation. An EPD spokesman said that, according to the WPCO, the wastewater generated during commercial/industrial and construction activities must comply with the requirements specified in the wastewater discharge licence. The EPD will continue to closely monitor ASB Biodiesel.

     Under the WPCO, it is an offence for a licensee to discharge wastewater which exceeds the standard of the discharge licence into the communal drainage system. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment.

Ends/Thursday, January 18, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:53

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