EPD continues to combat illegal import, collection, storage and handling of hazardous electronic waste (with photos)

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     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) conducted enforcement operations in September and October last year and detected that various recycling sites in North District and Yuen Long in the New Territories were involved in illegal collection, storage and handling of waste printed circuit boards (PCBs). The EPD also successfully intercepted the illegal import of hazardous electronic waste (e-waste) from Southeast Asia at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. For this round of enforcement actions, the operating companies and responsible persons of two recycling sites and three importers concerned were convicted and fined a total of $205,000 at Fanling Magistrates' Courts on April 24 and today (May 8).

     The recycling sites involved were located at Ta Kwu Ling in North District and Lau Fau Shan in Yuen Long. EPD staff conducted blitz inspections and found that the two sites illegally handled some 19 bags of PCBs which weighed about 6 tonnes with a total market value of approximately $600,000. Upon in-depth investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD initiated prosecutions against the operating companies and responsible persons of the recycling sites in accordance with the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) and the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation.

     Separately, in collaboration with the Customs and Excise Department, EPD staff intercepted two imported cargo shipments from Singapore and Malaysia at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. They were declared to contain computer parts and waste metals, but were actually loaded with hazardous e-waste including waste flat panel displays, waste batteries and waste PCBs, with a total market value of about $100,000. The cargo shipments intercepted were immediately returned to the places of origin. The EPD notified the foreign enforcement authorities concerned about the return shipments and instigated prosecution against the importers concerned in accordance with the WDO.

     An EPD spokesman stressed that dismantled or destroyed PCBs, LCD monitors and cathode ray tubes are hazardous e-waste, containing heavy metals and other toxic substances. They are classified as chemical waste and are regulated under the existing laws on chemical waste disposal. To protect the environment, the EPD is committed to combating the illegal collection, storage and handling of hazardous e-waste by recycling sites, and strictly controls the illegal import and export activities of hazardous waste.

     The spokesman reminded operators of recycling sites to strictly comply with the relevant controls on chemical waste. Importers of the waste recycling trade are also reminded not to illegally import (including import into or transshipment through Hong Kong) or export hazardous waste. First-time offenders of the WDO and the Regulation are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. For subsequent offences, offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and two years' imprisonment.

Ends/Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:55

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The Environmental Protection Department conducted enforcement operations in September and October last year in the New Territories and seized hazardous electronic waste at a recycling site in Lau Fau Shan, Yuen Long.

The Environmental Protection Department intercepted import cargo shipments at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals last September and October and seized waste printed circuit boards and waste flat panel displays.