Court convictions secured in two cases of illegal waste disposal
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From December last year to January this year, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) successfully seized offenders, including a driver and a recycling company, based on intelligence gathered through reports from members of the public and surveillance camera systems. The two cases of illegal disposal of commercial and industrial (C&I) waste as well as construction waste occurred in public places on Kwai Hei Street in Kwai Chung, and a private lot adjacent to Wo Yi Hop Village and Shing Mun Road. The waste disposed of was mainly construction waste. The waste deposited not only created obstructions in passages, but also caused environmental hygiene problems in the areas nearby. After gathering evidence, the EPD prosecuted the person and the company involved in accordance with the WDO.
A spokesman for the EPD reminded all members of the renovation, construction, transportation and recycling sectors, including persons-in-charge of construction and recycling sites, workers and drivers as well as owners of goods vehicles, that they must properly deliver construction waste and C&I waste to government waste management facilities in accordance with the law. It is unlawful to dispose of waste in public places and on the roadside. Those who dispose of construction waste on a private lot also commit an offence unless written permission from the relevant land owner is obtained and a confirmation from the EPD is received. Under the WDO, first-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $500,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.
The spokesman urged members of the public to make reports to the department if they witness any illegal disposal of waste. They can record videos or take photos and call the EPD hotline at 2838 3111.
Ends/Tuesday, July 2, 2019
Issued at HKT 18:20
Issued at HKT 18:20
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