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| No.9 September, 2010 |
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Tougher emission reductions broached |
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 Hong Kong’s efforts to tackle climate change has taken another step forward with the government proposing a target of reducing carbon intensity by up to 60% by 2020 and driving down overall carbon emissions.
The goal was outlined in a consultation paper issued (September 10) on Hong Kong's climate change strategy and action agenda. A three-month public consultation will be held on the issue.
Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau said climate change is bringing more severe weather and poses an unprecedented challenge.
"As part of the international community we should contribute to the solution. To make our city low-carbon and green is a vision shared by every one of us," Mr Yau said.
"To achieve the desired outcomes the community has to act collectively towards a common goal."
Carbon intensity is the amount of greenhouse gas or carbon emissions per unit of gross domestic product. It is usually used to measure the effectiveness of an economy's emission reduction efforts.
Mr Yau said Hong Kong needed to adopt a proactive and forward-looking strategy directed at the city's emission characteristics.
"We are a highly advanced economy and should take actions that befit our position. The low carbon measures will also help bring about a cleaner environment for all of us," he said.
The Government is proposing maximising energy efficiency, expanding environmentally-friendly transport, greater use of clean fuels and converting waste into energy.
Mr Yau said if the proposed carbon intensity reduction target was achieved by 2020, Hong Kong’s total greenhouse gas emissions would fall from 42 million tonnes in 2005 to 28-34 million tonnes in 2020, representing a reduction of up to 33 per cent. Per capita emission would also fall from 6.2 tonnes to 3.6-4.5 tonnes.
"Implementation of some of the measures will require new legislation. Some other proposed measures will also require the availability of technology and products, market acceptance as well as extensive community support," he said.
"The proposed target will befit Hong Kong's position as an international city and a highly advanced economy. It will also better reflect Hong Kong's determination and commitment to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions."
The consultation document sets the broad direction for adaptation measures for major sectors in Hong Kong that are identified as more vulnerable to climate change.
"The aim is to cushion or ameliorate the risks associated with climate change and enhance our resilience towards its possible impacts," he said.
"To chart the way forward for Hong Kong as a low carbon city, I urge the public to come forward and offer their views on our city's climate change strategy and action agenda for the coming decade."
The consultation paper can be downloaded from the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) website: www.epd.gov.hk
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