A local importer, Shun Xi Electronics Company Limited, illegally imported hazardous electronic waste (e-waste) from Chongqing and was fined $42,000 at Fanling Magistrates' Courts today (October 30) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO). The company was also fined $36,000 for importing hazardous e-waste from Chongqing in September this year.
      
     With the assistance of the Customs and Excise Department, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) staff intercepted an imported container from Chongqing at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals in May this year. The container was claimed to contain computer parts, but upon inspection it was found to be loaded with hazardous e-waste comprising waste printed circuit boards (PCBs), waste batteries and waste flat panel displays (FPDs), with a total weight of about 1 tonne. The intercepted container was immediately returned to the place of origin. The EPD also notified the relevant department of the Mainland for follow-up and instigated prosecution against the importer in accordance with the WDO.  
      
     An EPD spokesman stressed that waste PCBs, waste batteries and waste FPDs are hazardous e-waste, containing various heavy metals and other toxic chemical substances. They are classified as chemical waste and are regulated under the existing laws on chemical waste disposal. To protect the environment, the EPD rigorously combats the illegal import and export activities of hazardous waste.
      
     The spokesman reminded importers of the waste recycling trade not to illegally import (including import into or transshipment through Hong Kong) or export hazardous waste. According to the WDO, it is an offence for anyone to import or export hazardous waste without obtaining a valid permit beforehand. First-time offenders 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.
      
     Members of the public may visit the EPD's website for more information about the control of chemical waste: www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_cwc.html.

Ends/Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Issued at HKT 16:35

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