· Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) (Cap. 499) – the purpose of the EIAO is to avoid, minimise and control the adverse impact on the environment of designated projects through the application of the environmental impacts assessment process and the environmental permit system.

· Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) Annex 8 – recommends the criteria that can be used for evaluating habitat and ecological impact.

· EIAO-TM Annex 16 – sets out the general approach and methodology for assessment of ecological impacts arising from a project or proposal, to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction and evaluation of the potential ecological impacts.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 3/2010 – provides guiding principles on the approach to assess the recommended environmental mitigation measures in EIA reports.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2010 – clarifies the requirement of ecological assessments under the EIAO.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2010 – provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 10/2010 – introduces some general methodologies for terrestrial and freshwater ecological baseline surveys.

· EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2010 – introduces some general methodologies for marine ecological baseline surveys.

· Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) – provides for the designation and management of country parks and special areas. Country parks are designated for the purpose of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Special areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

· Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) – prohibits felling, cutting, burning or destroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on Government land. Related subsidiary regulations prohibit the selling or possession of listed restricted and protected plant species. The list of protected species in Hong Kong that comes under the Forestry Regulations was last amended on 11 June 1993 under the Forestry (Amendment) Regulation 1993 made under Section 3 of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance.

· Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170) – designated wild animals are protected from being hunted, whilst their nests and eggs are protected from injury destruction and removal. All birds and most mammals, including marine cetaceans, are protected under this Ordinance. The Second Schedule of the Ordinance, which lists all the animals protected, was last revised in June 1997.

· Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) – provides protection for certain plant and animal species through controlling or prohibiting trade in the species. Certain types of corals are listed in Schedule 1 of the Ordinance, including Blue coral (Heliopora coerulea), Organ pipe corals (family Tubiporidae), Black corals (order Antipatharia), Stony corals (order Scleractinia), Firecorals (family Milleporidae) and Lace corals (family Stylasteridae). Cetacean including whales, dolphins, porpoises, and rorquals are also listed under Schedules 1 & 2 of the Ordinance. The import, export and possession of scheduled corals, no matter dead or living, is restricted.

· Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131) provides for the designation of Coastal Protection Areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Conservation Area (CA), Country Park (CP), Green Belt (GB) or other specified uses that promote conservation or protection of the environment.

· Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) covers planning considerations relevant to conservation. This chapter details the principles of conservation, the conservation of natural landscape and habitats, historic buildings, archaeological sites and other heritage items. The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involved in conservation.

8.2.1.2 This section also makes reference to the following international conventions and national legislations:

· International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction. The IUCN Red List also includes information on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatened thresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specific conservation programme.

· The PRC National Protection Lists of Important Wild Animals and Plants – lists detailed Category I and Category II key protected animals and plant species under Mainland Chinese Legislation. The list was last updated in November 2002.

· The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) opened for signature at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992 with three main objectives: to conserve biodiversity, to ensure sustainable use of the components of biodiversity, and to share the benefits arising from the use of genetic resources in a fair and equitable manner. There are currently over 190 Parties to the Convention, including China. In May 2011, the CBD was formally extended to Hong Kong. The Environment Bureau and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department have embarked on an exercise to develop a city-level Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP) under the CBD.

8.3 Assessment Methodology

8.3.1 Assessment Area

8.3.1.1 The Project involved construction of a land-based sewage pumping station, and the proposed Project site is located in Sai O, adjacent to the Nai Chung coast.

8.3.1.2 In accordance with Clause 3.4.6.2 of the EIA Study Brief No. ESB-281/2014, the assessment area for the purpose of ecological impact assessment shall include areas within 500 m distance from the boundary of the Project and areas likely to be impacted by the Project.

8.3.2 Literature Review

8.3.2.1 The ecological characteristics of the assessment area were identified through a comprehensive review of the available literature. Limited literature on the assessment area was available. Nonetheless, reference was made to the literature listed below:

· Sha Tin Cavern Sewage Treatment Works – Approved Environmental Impact Assessment Report (AEIAR-202/2016) (DSD, 2016)

· 'The Explanatory Statement of the Approved Shap Sz Heung Outline Zoning Plan No. S/NE-SSH/11 (TPB, 2015)

8.3.2.2 Other relevant literature included:

· Aerial photographs from Survey and Mapping Office of Lands Department

· Hong Kong Biodiversity (AFCD Newsletter)

· Hong Kong Biodiversity Database (AFCD, 2018)

· A Field Guide to the Freshwater Fish of Hong Kong (Lee et al., 2004)

· A Field Guide to the Terrestrial Mammals of Hong Kong (Shek, 2006)

· A Field Guide to the Amphibians of Hong Kong (Chan, K.F.S. et al., 2005)

· A Field Guide to the Venomous Land Snakes of Hong Kong (Chan et al., 2006)

· The Avifauna of Hong Kong (Carey et al., 2001)

· Register of Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) (Plan D, 2016)

8.3.3 Ecological Survey Methodology

8.3.3.1 The baseline habitat and ecological surveys were conducted between March and June 2015, covering both wet and dry seasons to collect site-specific information of the assessment area, followed by a reconnaissance site visit in May 2016.

8.3.3.2 Since completion of the ecological surveys, there have been some major construction activities undergoing along Sai Sha Road. In view of the degree of habitat changes within the assessment area, verification surveys were conducted from August 2018 to May 2019.

8.3.3.3 This report presents the results of the latest surveys, supplemented with those significant findings recorded in 2015-2016 surveys. Brief comparison between the findings from the two surveys were made for discussion, where necessary. Assessment were conducted largely based on the recent survey results, taking the key findings from the previous survey into account.

8.3.3.4 The methodologies of the ecological surveys are discussed below, and the survey locations are presented in Figure 8.1. The ecological survey schedule is given in Appendix 8.1.

Habitat Mapping and Vegetation Survey

8.3.3.5 Terrestrial habitats within the assessment area were identified, sized and mapped. Ecological characteristics of each habitat type, including size, vegetation types, species present, dominant species found, species diversity and abundance, community structure, ecological value and inter-dependence of the habitats and species, and presence of any features of ecological importance were defined and characterised. Representative photographs of the habitat types and / or any important ecological features identified were taken. A habitat map of suitable scale (1:1000 to 1:5000) showing types and locations of terrestrial habitats within the assessment area was prepared from aerial photographs. The habitat map was checked during ground truthing.

8.3.3.6 Vegetation surveys were conducted by direct observation to record diversity and dominance of plant species present in different habitat types. The location of any plant species of conservation importance was recorded. Identification of flora species and status in Hong Kong would be made with reference to Corlett et al. (2000), Hu et al. (2003), Hong Kong Herbarium (2012), and Hong Kong Herbarium (2019a) and South China Botanical Gardens (2007; 2008; 2009; 2011).

Avifauna Survey

8.3.3.7 The presence and abundance of avifauna species at various habitats were recorded visually and aurally. Avifauna within the assessment area was surveyed quantitatively using transect count method. The location of any avifauna species of conservation importance encountered was recorded, along with notable behaviour (e.g. breeding behaviour such as nesting and presence of recently fledged juveniles, roosting, and feeding activities). Ornithological nomenclature in this report follows Carey et al. (2001), Viney et al. (2005) and the most recently updated list from the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society.

Butterfly and Odonate Survey

8.3.3.8 Butterflies and odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) within the assessment area were surveyed. Attention was given to their potential habitats. Relative abundance of butterfly, dragonfly and damselfly was recorded. Nomenclature of butterfly follows Lo and Hui (2010) and nomenclature of dragonfly and damselfly follows Tam et al. (2011).

Herpetofauna Survey

8.3.3.9 Herpetofauna within the assessment area was surveyed quantitatively during both daytime and night-time. Potential microhabitats (e.g. leaf litter, underneath of rotten logs) were searched. All reptiles and amphibians sighted were recorded.

8.3.3.10 Amphibian survey was conducted whenever possible on evening following or during periods of rainfall, focusing on areas suitable for amphibians (e.g. forests, shrublands, grasslands, streams, catchwaters, fishponds and marshes, if any). Records of calling amphibians formed the bulk of the data collected, but this was also supplemented when possible by visual observation of eggs, tadpoles and frogs and toads.

8.3.3.11 During reptile surveys, careful searches of appropriate microhabitats and refugia (e.g. stones, pond bunds, crevices, leaf litter / debris, rotten log) were undertaken. All reptiles observed were identified. In addition to active searching, individuals that are basking, foraging or exposed to view was recorded, if any.

8.3.3.12 Nomenclature of amphibian and reptile follows Chan, K.F.S. et al. (2005) and Karsen et al. (1998) and Chan et al. (2006), respectively.

Terrestrial Mammal Survey

8.3.3.13 Surveys were conducted in areas which might potentially be utilised by terrestrial mammals during day and night time. The surveys focused on searching for field signs such as droppings, footprints, diggings or burrows left by larger terrestrial mammals. Mammal identification was made as accurate as possible from the field signs encountered. In addition, any mammal directly observed was identified. Nomenclature of mammal follows Shek (2006).

8.3.3.14 Flying mammals (e.g. bat species) were also taken into account during the mammal survey. Bat surveys were undertaken with an ultrasonic bat detector. A digital MP3 recorded was employed to record all bat calls for later analysis. The bat species was also located by direct sighting and field observation (e.g. their behaviours, such as flying pattern and height, size of bat species, nearby habitats, etc.) was recorded to aid in the identification of the bat species.

Freshwater Fauna Survey

8.3.3.15 Freshwater fish and aquatic macroinvertebrate were surveyed via active searching and direct observation at natural watercourses within the assessment area. Representative locations were chosen for surveys, where boulders within the watercourse were turned over to locate any aquatic animals beneath. Hand net was used to collect organisms along the watercourse. Organisms encountered were recorded and identified to the lowest possible taxon level. Nomenclature of freshwater fish and invertebrate communities follows Lee et al. (2004) and Dudgeon (2003), respectively.

Dive Survey

8.3.3.16 A spot-check dive was conducted covering the Nai Chung shore to locate the presence of corals. Subtidal substrata (hard substratum seabed and seawall, etc.) at the spot-check dive locations (refer to Figure 8.1) were surveyed for any presence of coral communities, including hard corals (order Scleractinia), octocorals (sub-class Octocorallia) and black corals (order Antipatharia).

8.3.3.17 A more detailed Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) were carried out with reference to DeVantier et al. (1998) (see Appendix 8.2 for details). The location of 100 m REA transects were proposed based on the preliminary results from the spot-check dives. For each transect, the locations (Global Positioning System, GPS) of dive routes, distance surveyed, number of colonies, sizes and types of corals, their coverage, abundance, condition, translocation feasibility and the conservation status of coral species in Hong Kong waters were recorded. Representative photographs were taken.

Benthos Fauna Survey

8.3.3.18 To survey the marine soft bottom benthic fauna, grab sampling of seabed sediment was carried out (refer to Figure 8.1). At each sampling site, three replicates of grab samples over a 0.1 m² area seabed substrate were collected using a Van Veen grab and sample was sieved through 0.5 mm sieves and stained with Rose Bengal. Collected organisms were counted, weighed and identified to the lowest taxon as far as practicable.

8.3.3.19 Abundance, biomass, species diversity H’ and evenness J were calculated for pooled data, using the formulae:

H’ = - ∑ (Ni / N) ln (Ni / N); and

J = H’ / ln S

where S is the total number of species in the sample, N is the total number of individuals, and Ni is the number of individuals of the i^th species.

Intertidal Communities Survey

8.3.3.20 Survey on intertidal communities was conducted in both wet and dry seasons (refer to Figure 8.1) by line transect method, in order to establish an ecological profile on various intertidal habitats located within the assessment area.

8.3.3.21 At each survey location, a qualitative or walk-through survey was conducted to find out the intertidal flora and fauna present and their occurrence in the survey location. It could help assess whether the sampling exercise in the later quantitative survey had collected representative data (e.g. the number and type of species encountered) and whether the sampling effort was deemed adequate. Effort spent in such qualitative or walk-through survey, such as number of surveyors involved, and the time spent was recorded and provided as appropriate.

8.3.3.22 After the walk-through survey, quantitative survey was conducted using line transect method. One line transect was deployed at each proposed survey location. The transects were laid perpendicular to shoreline from high water mark down to low water mark during the low tide period (tide level below 1 m). Along each transect, standard ecological sampling quadrat (dimensions 0.5 m x 0.5 m) was laid at 5 m intervals (or another suitable quadrat dimension and interval distance depending on the field situation). Intertidal epifauna and flora within each quadrat were identified and enumerated. In general, mobile fauna was counted in terms of abundance per unit area. Sessile organisms such as barnacles, oysters and algae were estimated in terms of percentage cover per fixed area. Intertidal fauna was identified to species level as far as possible. Representative photographs of intertidal habitat and flora / fauna species identified were taken.

8.3.4 Assessment Approach

8.3.4.1 The criteria and guidelines as stated in Annexes 8 and 16 of the EIAO-TM were followed for evaluating and assessing ecological impact arising from the construction and operation of the Project. Potential direct / indirect, on-site / off-site, primary, secondary, cumulative and residual ecological impacts arising from the Project were identified and evaluated where possible. Mitigation measures and monitoring and audit programme were recommended, where necessary.

8.4 Description of the Environment

8.4.1 Areas of Conservation Importance

Nai Chung Coast Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)

8.4.1.1 Nai Chung Coast Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) covers an area extending approximately 0.87 km along the coast. The site was designated due to its rare geological features. To the west of the pier there is a good contact of granite with sediments and to the east there is exposure of black pyritic carbonaceous shales. It is located about 170 m to the northwest of the Project site (refer to Figure 8.1).

Coastal Protection Area

8.4.1.2 An area zoned as “Coastal Protection Area” (“CPA”) under the Approved Shap Sz Heung OZP No. S/NE-SSH/11, is located within the assessment area to the northeast of Nai Chung, about 230 m from the Project site (refer to Figure 8.1). This zoning is intended to conserve, protect and retain the natural coastlines and the sensitive coastal natural environment including the bedrock conglomerate and quartzite along the coast.

Ma On Shan Country Park

8.4.1.3 Nai Chung Barbecue Area which is located along Sai Sha Road, about 430 m to the southeast of the Project site, forms part of Ma On Shan Country Park. It is an area designated under the Country Park Ordinance (Cap. 208). All uses and development require consent from the Country and Marine Park Authority.

8.4.1.4 Ma On Shan Country Park was designated in 1979, covering 2,880 ha. Some rare flora species e.g. wild rhododendrons, orchids and uncommon ferns can be found on the slopes. Mammals including Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Chinese Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura), Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) and Common Muntjac (Munitacus muntjac) are also present (AFCD, 2019b).

8.4.2 Habitat and Vegetation

8.4.2.1 As observed over the course of the recent survey, major habitat changes occurred along Sai Sha Road due to the vegetation clearance and site formation associated with the construction activities. Thus, the habitats away from Sai Sha Road i.e. the southern and northern parts of the current assessment area were largely unchanged, comparing to the findings of the previous survey conducted in 2015 and 2016.

8.4.2.2 A total of 12 habitat types were identified within the assessment area in recent survey, including woodland, mixed woodland, plantation, shrubland, grassland, developed area / wasteland, natural watercourse, modified watercourse, mangrove, rocky shore, sandy shore and intertidal mudflat, in which the latter four are described as intertidal habitats collectively. Habitat maps and representative photographs of habitats recorded within the assessment area are shown in Figures 8.2 and Appendix 8.3, respectively. Appendix 8.4 lists the flora recorded during the ecological surveys.

8.4.2.3 A summary of the size of the different habitat types recorded within the assessment area is shown in Table 8.1 below.

Table 8.1 Size of Habitats Recorded within the Assessment Area

Habitat Type	Assessment Area (ha)	Project site (ha)
Woodland	14.96	-
Mixed Woodland	4.92	-
Plantation	0.85	-
Shrubland	2.90	0.35
Grassland	0.44	-
Developed Area/Wasteland	30.83	-
Natural Watercourse	0.08	-
Modified Watercourse	0.37	-
Intertidal Habitats	2.41	-
Overall	57.76	0.35

8.4.2.4 Six flora species of conservation importance have been identified within the assessment area during the previous and recent surveys (Appendix 8.4), namely, Cycad-fern (Brainea insignis), Hong Kong Pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis), Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis), Luofushan Joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense), Ixonanthes (Ixonanthes reticulata) and Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides), in which Cycad-fern was found in the previous survey only.

8.4.2.5 Cycad-fern is listed as “Vulnerable” in China (Hu et al., 2003) and a Category II protected plant in the List of Wild Plants under State Protection in China.

8.4.2.6 Hong Kong Pavetta is a native and common tree/shrub species scheduled under Forestry Regulations (Cap. 96 sub. leg. of Laws of Hong Kong).

8.4.2.7 Incense Tree is scheduled in the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). This species is categorized as "Class II" in the List of Wild Plant under State Protection and "Vulnerable" in the China Plant Red Data Book. It is also listed as ‘Vulnerable’ under the IUCN Red List (ver. 2020.3) due to over harvesting for medical balm and habitat loss (IUCN, 2021). This species mainly grows in lowland forest and was recorded to be common in Hong Kong (Corlett et al., 2000). However, it has been threatened by illegal pouching and the population of mature trees has declined drastically in Hong Kong.

8.4.2.8 Ixonanthes is listed as “Vulnerable” in the China Plant Red Data Book and the IUCN Red List (ver. 2020.3) due to extensive habitat loss (IUCN, 2021). It is also a Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong (Hu et al., 2003) and a Category III nationally protected species in China.

8.4.2.9 Luofushan Joint-fir is listed as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN Red List (ver. 2020.3) and threatened by habitat loss caused by conversion of forest to agricultural land (IUCN, 2021). It is very common in the forest and shrubland of Hong Kong.

8.4.2.10 Small Persimmon is a native and very common shrub species listed as “Critically Endangered” in the IUCN Red List (ver. 2020.3) because of over-collection in the wild in Taiwan (IUCN, 2021).

8.4.3 Project Site

8.4.3.1 Shrubland was the only habitat identified within the Project site (Figure 8.2 refers). The Project site was fenced off and observation with binoculars from the fence was conducted. According to the aerial photographs, it had been a piece of agricultural land until 1985 when it was abandoned and subsequently being colonised with native and exotic / invasive grasses and shrubs such as Bidens alba, Desmodium tortuosum, Leucaena leucocephala, Miscanthus floridulus, Neyraudia reynaudiana, Pueraria lobate var. montana and Wedelia trilobata. Towards the boundary of the Project site near Nin Ming Road was a strip of denser vegetation composed of Alocasia macrorrhizos, mature individuals of Leucaena leucocephala and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa.

8.4.4 Woodland

8.4.4.1 The woodland at the northwest of assessment area near Nin Ming Road comprised a moderate diversity of native trees species with height ranging from 6 to 8 m including Alangium chinense, Celtis sinensis, Cratoxylum cochinchinense, Mallotus paniculatus, Schefflera heptaphylla, Sterculia lanceolata and Syzygium levinei forming a dense and continuous canopy. Woodland understory mainly consisted of native shrubs e.g. Breynia fruticose, Ilex asprella, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia and woody climbers e.g. Melodinus suaveolens and Smilax china. A moderate abundance of plant species of conservation importance such as Incense Tree seedlings and Small Persimmon could be found in the understorey. Small Persimmon was commonly seen along the northern fringe of this woodland. Hong Kong Pavetta had also been recorded in the previous survey. The southeast facing side was subject to moderate disturbance from the adjacent kite-flying site and a vast area of vegetation was entangled by the cut lines and broken kites.

8.4.4.2 The hillside woodland near villages at the south of Sai Sha Road was of similar composition but with more Machilus velutina. A seedling of Hong Kong Pavetta was present at the woodland fringe near the Nai Chung Barbeque Area. Luofushan Joint-fir was found at the woodland fringe behind Sai O Village. Ixonanthes was also recorded in this woodland. Cycad-fern had been recorded in this woodland in the previous survey.

8.4.5 Mixed Woodland

8.4.5.1 The majority of mixed woodland habitat was located at the east of the assessment area next to Nai Chung Old Village and southwest of the assessment area behind Villa Rhapsody – Symphony Bay. The compositions of the two mixed woodlands were similar, with semi-open canopies formed by a mix of native and exotic trees e.g. Acacia confusa, Bambusa sp., Celtis sinensis, Leucaena leucocephala, Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa and Machilus velutina. Common or very common species including Alangium chinense, Aporosa dioica, Mikania micrantha, Psychotria asiatica and Uvaria macrophylla constituted the understorey. The floristic composition suggests that the mixed woodland was established by planting of Acacia confusa and natural regeneration of native tree species thus should be regarded as semi-natural.

8.4.5.2 The small patch of mixed woodland in the centre of the assessment area behind the mangrove was mainly composed of very common native tree / shrub Hibiscus tiliaceus, with exotic Acacia confusa around the fringe.

8.4.6 Plantation

8.4.6.1 This habitat was mostly recorded at roadside landscaped areas, mainly composed of typical roadside planting and exotic plants e.g. Duranta erecta, Ixora sp., Senna siamea and Spathodea campanulata. A number of Rhododendron sp. were cultivated in the landscaped area opposite to the Sai O Pumping Station. This habitat was subjected to disturbances from traffic and human activities.

8.4.6.2 A collection of native and exotic tree species such as Acacia mangium, Bombax ceiba and Schima superba was planted in the Nai Chung Tree Walk, located in the Nai Chung Barbecue Area. The trees were mature and formed a semi-open canopy within the area, but the ground was covered by concrete and lacked understorey.

8.4.7 Shrubland

8.4.7.1 The shrubland habitat enclaved by woodland habitat at the hilltop northwest to the Project site and the one around the burial ground in the southern part of the assessment area recorded similar floral species. Typically found species in this habitat included Cratoxylum cochinchinense, Dicranopteris pedata, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, Melastoma sanguineum and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa. The shrubland around the burial ground experienced more disturbance, pioneer species Baeckea frutescens and Dicranopteris pedata were relatively dominant. Luofushan Joint-fir and a mature individual of Ixonanthes were found adjacent to the burial ground. Plant species of conservation importance, Luofushan Joint-fir and several individuals of Incense Tree, had been recorded in the enclaved shrubland patch northwest of the Project site.

8.4.7.2 Thin belts of shrubland immediately northwest to the Project site and along Nin Wah Road and Nin Ming Road recorded mainly exotic weedy trees and climbers such as Leucaena leucocephala, Mikania micrantha and Pueraria lobata var. montana. This area was also under disturbance from the adjacent kite-flying site. The shrubland along the seashore was dominated by Hibiscus tiliaceus.

8.4.8 Grassland

8.4.8.1 Grassland habitats were present east to Villa Rhapsody – Symphony Bay and near the Sai O Car Park, comprising both native and exotic self-sown grass species such as Cyperus involucratus, Imperata cylindrica var. major and Kyllinga polyphylla, and exotic herb e.g. Wedelia trilobata. Grassland habitats were located near villages and residential areas, and occasionally disturbed by human activities and sporadic cutting.

8.4.9 Developed Area/Wasteland

8.4.9.1 This habitat dominated about half of the assessment area, consisting of low-rise residential housing estates, burial ground, construction areas, roads and public facilities such as barbecue site.

8.4.9.2 A wide diversity of ornamental species (e.g. Archontophoenix alexandrae, Sansevieria trifasciata and Codiaeum variegatum) and fruit trees (e.g. Averrhoa carambola, Citrus maxima and Dimocarpus longan) were planted in the village areas.

8.4.9.3 Burial ground was situated in the western part of the assessment area, behind Nai Chung Village. Sparse and limited vegetation cover by very short stands of pioneer species e.g. Dicranopteris pedata, Melastoma sanguineum and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa was present.

8.4.9.4 The northern side of Sai Sha Road was under construction at the time of reconnaissance survey in early 2019. Vegetation clearance had recently been conducted in the far east of the assessment area, resulting in an open field with few sporadic stands of trees of species e.g. Alangium chinense, Microcos nervosa, Spathodea campanulata and Sterculia lanceolata.

8.4.9.5 Northwest to the Sai O Car Park was a piece of wasteland densely covered by an exotic perennial weed Wedelia trilobata, which inhibits the regeneration of other species. Only occasional stands of Cyperus involucratus and a few mature tree individuals of species e.g. Celtis sinensis and Macaranga tanarius var. tomentosa were recorded.

8.4.9.6 Nai Chung Barbecue Area though formed a part of the Ma On Shan Country Park, was a developed area because of the cemented ground.

8.4.9.7 The developed area / wasteland habitat was highly disturbed due to anthropogenic activities (e.g. traffic, noise and construction activities along Sai Sha Road).

8.4.10 Modified Watercourse

8.4.10.1 A number of modified watercourses with mainly artificial structures constructed for drainage and flood control purposes were identified within the assessment area. Watercourses W1, W2, W3, W5, W6 and W7 were all modified to different extent.

8.4.10.2 W1 was around 40 m northwest from the Project site. The upstream section of W1 was highly modified and concrete-lined with no riparian vegetation while the downstream section was modified with the rocky substratum retained. The downstream section was dominated by Alternanthera philoxeroides along the embankment. Water quality appeared to be inferior, turbid and green in colour. The water depth was around 0.2 m.

8.4.10.3 W2 was around 3 m wide with concrete banks and base, with clear slow flowing water of maximum depth of 0.2 m, which might be attributed by the influx of seawater. The water was clear and odourless. A few stands of self-sown weedy vegetation such as Ipomoea cairica and Neyraudia reynaudiana were present on the embankment.

8.4.10.4 W3 was modified on the channel wall with the rocky substratum retained. It is around 1 to 1.5 m wide, with maximum water depth of about 0.2 m, which was observed to be polluted, turbid and grey in colour, with oil floating on the surface. Some rubbish was scattered in the lower section. Part of the section was heavily colonised and shaded by Wedelia trilobata.

8.4.10.5 The middle section of W4 was modified, sandwiched by the natural sections at up- and downstream. The end near Sai Sha Road was around 2.5 m wide and the one downstream was 0.5 m wide. In addition to its natural water flow from the upper course, this section also received constant discharge from the construction site at the east of the assessment area, which would turn the water flow muddy in colour.

8.4.10.6 The lower section of W5 within Nai Chung Village was a concrete stepped channel between 1 to 1.5 m wide. It captured water from the seasonal natural watercourses upstream and subsurface drainage pipes. The water depth was shallow with moderate flow with no riparian vegetation.

8.4.10.7 W6 was a highly modified trapezoidal channel with concrete lining around 1 m wide. The water depth was shallow with little water flow and completely dry in drier months. No riparian vegetation grew on the embankment.

8.4.10.8 W7 was also a highly modified concrete-lined channel of around 3 m wide. It received discharge from a culvert, but the water flow was shallow and little. No riparian vegetation grew on the vertical embankment.

8.4.11 Natural Watercourse

8.4.11.1 The upper section of watercourse W5 consists of two seasonal natural tributaries: the one at the east going through the woodland was dry during the survey period and the one at the west had little but constant water flow.

8.4.11.2 Two sections of watercourse W4 in Nai Chung Barbeque Area and along Nai Chung Old Village were natural. The width of the watercourses was approximately 1.5 to 2 m with shallow water depth and moderate water flow. The substratum varied from rocky to muddy and the water quality was apparently fair. As W4 runs through mixed woodland and woodland, typical riparian vegetation commonly found in these habitats such as Commelina diffusa, Phyllanthus reticulatus, Sterculia lanceolata and Wedelia trilobata were recorded. Human disturbance (i.e. discharge from the construction site in Sai Sha Road) was observed.

8.4.12 Intertidal Habitats

8.4.12.1 Intertidal habitats along the coastline within the assessment area include mangrove, rocky shore, sandy shore and intertidal mudflat. Mangrove stands were identified along the coastline of the assessment area. The one northeast to the Sai O Car Park was the largest while the other two were just thin strips of mangrove. The flora species present in the mangrove were mostly common or very common species e.g. Aegiceras corniculatum, Excoecaria agallocha and Kandelia obovata. No plant species of conservation importance were recorded.

8.4.12.2 The rocky shore located at the western side of the assessment area within the Nai Chung Coast SSSI consisted of bedrock and boulders while the one at the far east of the assessment area within the area zoned as “CPA” on Approved Shap Sz Heung Outline Zoning Plan No. S/NE-SSH/11 had more boulders and cobbles. Scarce vegetation cover dominated by common species e.g. Hibiscus tiliaceus and Sporobolus virginicus was present.

8.4.12.3 Sandy shore was identified on the coastline east to the Sai O Offtake and Pigging Station and outside Nai Chung Old Village. Vegetation fringed at the top of the shore in low abundance included Ipomoea pes-caprae, Sporobolus virginicus and Vitex rotundifolia, which are common or very common sandy shore vegetation species in Hong Kong.

8.4.12.4 Intertidal mudflat was situated in the sheltered embayment within the assessment area, sandwiched by the sandy shores. No vegetation was recorded in this habitat.

8.4.12.5 During low tide, the sandy and rocky shores are subjected to human disturbance such as recreational clam digging, collection of other macroinvertebrate and fishing. They were also littered with the plastic struts of broken kites.

8.4.13 Terrestrial Fauna

8.4.13.1 Only limited literature relating to the terrestrial fauna within the assessment area is available. The result of desktop review and field survey conducted in 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 are presented in below sections. Details of survey result are presented in Appendix 8.5 and Figure 8.2.

Avifauna

8.4.13.2 A total of 39 avifauna species were recorded in the recent surveys within the assessment area, with six species recorded within the Project site. Most of the species are locally common and widespread generalists such as Black-collared Starling (Sturnus nigricollis), Crested Myna (Acridotheres cristatellus), Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) and Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis).

8.4.13.3 Eight species of conservation importance were recorded including Black Kite (Milvus migrans), Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus), Collared Scops Owl (Ottus lettia), Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela), Eastern Buzzard (Buteo japonicas), Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis), Great Egret (Ardea alba) and Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), none of which were recorded within the Project site. No evidence of breeding or nesting birds was recorded within the assessment area. Approximately 17 Little Egrets were seen foraging in the sandy shore and one in the intertidal mudflat at the time of survey.

8.4.13.4 In the previous survey, seven avifauna species of conservation importance – Black Kite, Eastern Buzzard, Little Egret, Collared Scops Owl, Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia) and Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps) had been recorded, none of which were recorded within the Project site. An active nest of Blue Whistling Thrush (Myophonus caeruleus) had also been found inside a tunnel section of a modified watercourse (W7).

Butterfly

8.4.13.5 A total of 50 species of butterfly were recorded within the assessment area, with six species recorded within the Project site. Most of the species recorded are very common or common in Hong Kong except Forget-me-not (Catochrysops strabo strabo), Peacock Royal (Tajuria cippus malcolmi) and Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus xuthus) which are considered as species with conservation importance. None of the butterfly species of conservation importance were recorded within the Project site.

Odonate

8.4.13.6 A total of 13 odonate species were recorded within the assessment area, none of which were recorded within the Project site. All the recorded species were either common or abundant in Hong Kong. Most of the sightings occurred in natural and modified watercourse habitats. No odonate species of conservation importance was recorded. The locally common Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens) was recorded from most of the habitats in assessment area.

Herpetofauna

8.4.13.7 Low abundance of four reptile and two amphibian species were recorded within the assessment area, none of which were recorded within the Project site. The recorded herpetofauna species are all locally common or widely distributed in Hong Kong. No herpetofauna was recorded within the Project site.

Terrestrial Mammal

8.4.13.8 One mammal species of conservation importance, Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus), had been recorded within the Project site and the developed area immediately north of the Project site in the 2015-2016 survey. No mammal species was recorded within the assessment area in the recent survey.

Freshwater Fauna

8.4.13.9 A total of 20 freshwater species were recorded within the assessment area. Three species of conservation importance, namely Cryptopotamon anacoluthon and Japanese Eel (Anguilla japonica) and Pseudosesarma patshuni, were recorded in the modified watercourse habitats.

8.4.13.10 In the previous survey, Cryptopotamon anacoluthon, an endemic freshwater crab, had been found in the lower section of modified watercourse (W1), but was not seen in the recent survey. It is a relatively stenotopic species that thrives in fast flowing upland streams shaded by woodland (Stanton et al., 2017), thus the recorded individual might be washed downstream through the culvert which is connected to the upstream natural watercourse. Hence this modified watercourse and the adjacent shrubland is an unlikely habitat for this species of conservation importance.

8.4.13.11 In the recent survey, Japanese Eel was recorded at sampling point F2 during night survey conducted in the dry season. This catadromous fish species makes their way back to upstream upon reaching maturity. Since adults of Japanese Eel live in holes and pools of lowland rivers (Lee et al., 2004), the cemented bank and bed of the modified watercourse (W2) with no pebbles and cobbles may not be able to offer the suitable habitat for the Japanese Eel to forage and inhabit thus W2 is unlikely an important habitat for this species. Pseudosesarma patshuni, an endemic uncommon sesarmind crab species which inhabits along river banks of mangroves, was spotted near sampling point F5 during the freshwater survey in wet season. Sesarmind crabs can tolerate a wide range of salinity and be found in a range of tidal heights but mostly in high intertidal regions and coastal lowlands (AFCD, 2005).

8.4.14 Marine Fauna

Intertidal Fauna

8.4.14.1 Intertidal communities were surveyed at five sampling locations (T1 to T5) during both dry and wet seasons in 2015 and 2019 (refer to Figure 8.1). The sampled intertidal habitats were made up of mangrove, sandy shore, rocky shore and intertidal mudflat.

8.4.14.2 A total of 54 intertidal species had been identified in the 2015 surveys. Snails such as Clithon oualaniensis and Lunella coronata had been abundant across different intertidal habitats in both dry and wet seasons. Saccostrea cucullata, C. oualaniensis, Gelidium pusillum, Batillaria sp. and Hildenbrandia sp. were commonly recorded at T1 – T3. C. oualaniensis and Batillaria sp. were the dominant species in T4 – T5. T3 supported the largest number of species among the five sampling points. Generally, lower intertidal zone was dominated by Batillaria sp. and S. cucullata while C. oualaniensis and crabs were commonly found at higher shore. All recorded species were common in Hong Kong. No species of conservation importance was recorded.

8.4.14.3 The 2019 survey recorded 82 intertidal species in total. Snails, in particular C. oualaniensis, Lunella coronata and Planaxis sulcatus, and bivalve Saccostrea cucullata were commonly recorded in sandy shores with natural cobbles, but the latter two species were less abundant in rocky shore and intertidal mudflat. Erect algae Gelidium pusilium was found to have high percentage coverage in rocky shore and C. oualaniensis was the most abundant species identified in intertidal mudflat (details refer to Appendix 8.6 and Appendix 8.7). No major seasonal difference between the species composition and abundance was noted.

8.4.14.4 In general, the diversities, coverage and abundance of species from the previous and recent surveys are similar. No intertidal species of conservation importance was recorded in either survey. Human activities such as clam digging were observed in the intertidal habitats both in previous and recent surveys.

Benthic Fauna

8.4.14.5 Grab samples were taken in the inner Tolo Harbour off the waters of the current assessment area (Sampling Station 105) in a territory-wide study on marine benthic communities in Hong Kong (CPSL, 2002). Low species richness (4 – 6 species per 0.5 m²) and abundance (26 – 106 individuals per m²) were recorded. The community was characterised as moderately disturbed and dominated by polychaetes Sigambra hanaokai and Prionospio sp. No species of conservation importance was recorded.

8.4.14.6 Benthic fauna surveys in 2015 had been conducted on rocky and sandy substrata, each with one sampling point. In total, 12 and 13 genera had been found in dry and wet season surveys respectively. For sampling point at rocky substratum, Polychaeta and Gastropoda had been equally abundant in dry season and Polychaeta had become more abundant in wet season but around three-quarter of the total biomass had been contributed by Gastropoda in both seasons. For the sandy bottom sampling point, Polychaeta had accounted for more than half of the total abundance, followed by Crustacea, in both dry and wet seasons. Echiura and Bivalvia had made up almost half of the biomass in dry and wet season surveys respectively. The overall Pielou’s Species Evenness (J) in dry and wet seasons were 0.67 and 0.90 respectively while the overall Shannon-weaver Diversity Index (H’) in dry and wet seasons were 1.66 and 2.31 respectively. No species of conservation importance had been recorded.

8.4.14.7 Benthic fauna surveys in 2019 were performed at two sampling points (E1 and E2, Figure 8.1 refers). The sediments of both sampling points were mainly soft mud with fine sand, with plenty of tube worms on the surface. Little portion of gravel was found in E2 sediment in the wet season sampling. A total of 358 and 460 specimens were collected during dry and wet season sampling respectively (refer to Table 8.2). Forty-four of 46 taxa collected were identified to genus or species levels. The benthic communities were different between the two sampling points regardless of sampling seasons, but no seasonal difference was noted at either sampling point. The Polychaete species were the most abundant in E1, followed by Bivalvia. Bivalvia accounted for most of the biomass in both E1 and E2. The sampling point E2 was dominated strongly by Bivalvia, especially the species Modiolus nipponicus, which was the most abundant. Large bivalve Anadara satowi contributed to most of the biomass. Thus, the J and H’ at E2 were both low while these two indices were moderate for E1 (refer to Table 8.3).

8.4.14.8 Comparing the biodiversity indices of the 2015 and 2019 surveys, the species evenness was similar, but the recent survey had recorded higher species diversity.

8.4.14.9 The benthic community was characterised of low to moderate biodiversity, inhabiting sediment mixture of soft mud and fine sand. The overall biodiversity value and species evenness of the benthic assessment area were between ‘Victoria Harbour’ and ‘Deep Bay’ groups, indicating that the benthic community of the assessment area was similar to that of other areas under long-term pollution stress. No species of conservation importance was recorded. The full list of benthic fauna species recorded is presented in Appendix 8.8.

Table 8.2 Total Abundance and Biomass of Each Faunal Group

Faunal Group	No. of individuals	Percentage (%)	Biomass (g)	Percentage (%)
Dry Season
Annelida ⁽¹⁾	84	23	0.1636	0
Arthropoda	24	7	1.6811	1
Mollusca	245	68	135.9960	97
Nemertea⁽¹⁾	3	1	0.0760	0
Sipuncula	2	1	2.2830	2
Total	358	-	140.1997	-
Wet Season
Annelida	122	27	1.0019	0
Arthropoda	7	2	0.1309	0
Echinodermata	2	0	0.4937	0
Mollusca	314	68	216.1819	99
Nemertea	13	3	0.1146	0
Platyhelminthes	1	0	0.0017	0
Sipuncula	1	0	0.2345	0
Total	460	-	218.1592	-

Note:

1. 0% denotes total individual / biomass of the faunal group is less than 1% of all organisms recorded.

Table 8.3 Overall Abundance and Biomass Recorded from Each Sampling Site

Sampling Site	No. of individuals	Biomass (g)	Species Evenness (J)	Species Diversity (H’)
Dry Season
E1	90	15.36	0.85	2.41
E2	268	124.84	0.44	1.31
Overall	358	140.2	0.65	1.86
Wet Season
E1	95	21.87	0.92	3.12
E2	365	196.29	0.53	1.73
Overall	460	218.16	0.73	2.43

Subtidal Fauna

8.4.14.10 The three spot-check dive survey sites (D1-D3) are composed of silty, muddy and sandy substrates. Natural boulders were observed in close proximity to the rocky shore at Site D1, which are considered as part of the intertidal habitats. Maximum depths of the three spot-check dive sites ranged from 4.6 to 6.5 m. The bottom substrates along the dive routes are predominantly muddy and silty, where sandy bottom becomes more prominent further offshore. The physical conditions of the spot-check dive survey sites are summarised in Table 8.4.

Table 8.4 Physical Conditions of the Spot-check Dive Sites

Site	Location (GPS)	Maximum Depth (m)	Bottom Substrate	Visibility (m)	Approximate Dive Distance (m)
D1	22°26'3.80"N 114°15'4.20"E	6.5	Silt / Mud, Sand, Natural boulders	5	250
D2	22°26'4.78"N 114°15'21.72"E	4.6	Silt / Mud, Sand	5	200
D3	22°26'2.75"N 114°15'29.68"E	4.6	Silt / Mud, Sand	5	200

8.4.14.11 Only one live hard coral species was recorded during the spot-check dive surveys in 2019. The hard coral species, Oulastrea crispata, was recorded on a small pebble at Site D2. This species has a common and widespread distribution in Hong Kong waters. The species, coverage and size of the recorded coral are presented in Table 8.5. Photographs of the recorded corals are shown in Appendix 8.9. No soft coral, gorgonian or black coral species were recorded.

Table 8.5 Species, Coverage, Size, Condition and Translocation Feasibility of Corals Found at the Spot-check Dive Sites

Site	Species Name	Distribution in Hong Kong	Coverage (%)	Range of Size in Height / Diameter (cm)
D2	Oulastrea crispata	Common	<1%	3.5

8.4.14.12 Aside from corals, a total of 26 invertebrate species were recorded during the spot-check dives, including Porifera, Actiniaria, Polychaeta, Holothuria, Echinodermata, Bivalva, Crustacea, Gastropoda, Cephalopoda and Ascidiacea. The green-spinned sea urchin Salmacis sphaeroides and pleated sea squirt Styela plicata were the most abundant species recorded, which were found in the majority of the dive routes. It is also worth noting that egg masses belonging to Bursatella leachii and other Opisthobranchia species were sighted in moderate abundance at Site D3. Invertebrates (other than hard corals) recorded from spot-check dives are summarised in Appendix 8.10.

8.4.14.13 One 100 m REA transect (REA1) was deployed at site D2, where the hard coral species was discovered. The GPS coordinate, maximum depth, bottom substrate and underwater visibility of the REA transect are summarised in Table 8.6.

8.4.14.14 The ecological and substratum attributes of the REA transect are given in Table 8.7. Sparse coverage (1 – 5%) of hard coral was recorded in REA1. Only one coral species (Oulastrea crispata) was recorded along the transect which is the same colony discovered during spot-check dive at site D2. The coral was approximately 3.5 cm in diameter and in good condition. The coral was attached to a pebble of less than 5 cm in width. The species is common and widespread in Hong Kong and is a pioneering hard coral species that is especially tolerant to harsh environments (Chan, A.L.K. et al., 2005). The substrata along REA1 is mainly made up of mud / silt, with occasional presence of sandy bottom. The three types of substrata are not ideal substrates for coral settlement. A small number of pebbles were also found around the area, which enabled coral settlement. The size, health condition and translocation feasibility of the coral colonies recorded from the REA survey are shown in Table 8.8.

Table 8.6 Physical Conditions of the REA Transect

Date

Weather Condition

Transect

Locations (GPS)

Max. Depth (m)

Bottom Substrate

Visibility (m)

11 April 2019

· Wind direction: Southwest

· Beaufort: 1 - 2

· Overcast

REA1

(D2)

Start: 22°26'4.20"N 114°15'22.88"E

End: 22°26'3.18"N 114°15'26.57"E

4.6

Silt / Mud, Sand

Table 8.7 Ecological and Substratum Attributes of REA1

Ecological Attributes	REA1 (D2)
Hard Corals	0.5
Octocorals (Soft Corals and Gorgonians)	0
Black Corals	0
Dead Standing Corals	0
Substratum Attributes	REA1 (D2)
Bedrock / Continuous Pavement	0
Boulders Blocks (diam. >50 cm)	0
Boulders Blocks (diam. <50 cm)	0
Rubble	0
Other	0.5
Soft Substrata	0
Sand	1
Mud / Silt	4

Note:

Rank of percentage cover:

0=None recorded; 0.5=1-5%; 1=6-10%; 2=11-30%; 3=31-50%; 4=51-75%; 5=76-100%

Table 8.8 Size, Health Condition and Translocation Feasibility of Coral Colony Recorded at REA1

Coral Number	Coral Species	Distribution in Hong Kong	Size in Diameter (cm)	Health Condition	Translocation Feasibility
1	Oulastrea crispata	Common	3.5	Good	Yes

8.4.14.15 Only one colony of a very common coral species was observed during the recent dive survey, recorded in very low coverage, small size, and very low species richness. Furthermore, the majority of the bottom substrata in the site is not suitable for coral settlement, except for scarce pebbles that allowed the attachment of the recorded coral colony.

8.4.14.16 A total of two coral species, Porites lutea and Oulastrea crispata, were recorded in the 2015 and 2019 dive surveys. The former was only spotted in the 2015 survey but not the recent one while the latter could be found in both surveys. In general, the coral coverage, size and diversity recorded within the assessment area are very low. No other species of conservation importance have been found during the dive surveys. The ecological value of the subtidal habitats within assessment area is considered low, in comparison to other healthy coral communities in Hong Kong.

8.4.14.17 A total of six flora and 19 fauna terrestrial and marine species of conservation importance were identified from the previous and recent surveys in the assessment area and are summarized in Table 8.19 (representative photographs refer to Appendix 8.11).

8.5 Ecological Value

8.5.1.1 The ecological importance of recorded habitats has been evaluated in accordance with Annex 8 of the EIAO-TM criteria and is in Table 8.9 to Table 8.18.

8.5.2 Project Site

8.5.2.1 The Project site had been developed as an agricultural land before being abandoned. It is categorized as a shrubland habitat, which was derived from recolonization by weedy pioneer shrub and grass species. The area is prone to frequent disturbance caused by the nearby human activities (e.g. roads, car parks, visitors). The diversity of floral and faunal species within Project site is low thus the ecological value is considered “Low”.

Table 8.9 Ecological Evaluation of the Project Site

Criteria	Project Site
Naturalness	Non-natural, recolonised by self-sown flora species and subject to regular human disturbance
Size	Small (~0.35 ha)
Diversity	Recent Survey Low – 20 flora species and 12 fauna species (6 avifauna and 6 butterfly species) were recorded
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. A mammal species of conservation importance, Japanese Pipistrelle, was recorded in the previous survey
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Fragmented by the surrounding developed areas along the eastern and western boundaries. Disconnected with the shrubland at the northwest by a driveway.
Ecological linkage	No ecological linkage with any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Low
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

8.5.3 Woodland

8.5.3.1 Woodlands are found in the south and northwest of the assessment area. Both woodlands are largely intact, except the fringe which adjoins the developed areas and may suffer from occasional disturbance to a certain extent. The floral species composition is primarily native and the abundance of floral species of conservation importance is high and the ecological value is considered as “moderate”.

Table 8.10 Ecological Evaluation of Woodland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Woodland
Naturalness	Natural
Size	Medium (~14.96 ha)
Diversity	Recent Survey Moderate flora diversity – 100 flora species were recorded; majority of the flora species recorded are native Low fauna diversity – 24 fauna species (13 avifauna and 11 butterfly) were recorded
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. Previous Survey Six flora species of conservation importance, Hong Kong Pavetta, Ixonanthes, Incense Tree, Luofushan Joint-fir, Small Persimmons, and Cycad-fern recorded. Four avifauna species of conservation importance, Black Kite, Rufous-capped Babbler, Collared Scops Owl and Eastern Buzzard recorded. Recent Survey Five flora species of conservation importance, Hong Kong Pavetta Ixonanthes, Luofushan Joint-fir, Small Persimmons, and a number of Incense Tree seedlings were recorded. Two avifauna (Crested Serpent Eagle and Collared Scops Owl) and one butterfly (Peacock Royal) species of conservation importance were recorded.
Re-creatability	Low to moderate – decades needed for the plant to become mature and form a canopy
Fragmentation	Moderate – although the woodland in the northwest of the assessment area is relatively intact, it is isolated by the coastline and separated from the hillside woodland at the south of the assessment area by developed areas.
Ecological linkage	The woodland in the south of the assessment area is structurally and functionally connected to the Ma On Shan Country Park further south beyond the assessment area. The north-western woodland is linked to the Nai Chung Coast SSSI.
Potential value	Moderate – with protection from disturbance for natural succession to undergo
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Semi-mature
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Moderate
Ecological value	Moderate

8.5.4 Mixed Woodland

8.5.4.1 Mixed woodlands are present in the east, southwest and the central part of the assessment area. Though subject to disturbance from the adjacent developed areas, the ecological value of this habitat is considered as “moderate” due to the presence of moderately diverse flora and fauna species.

Table 8.11 Ecological Evaluation of Mixed Woodland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Mixed Woodland
Naturalness	Semi-natural – composition formed by a mix of native and exotic flora species
Size	Medium (~4.92 ha)
Diversity9	Recent Survey Moderate flora diversity – 90 flora species were recorded Low to moderate fauna diversity – 45 species (18 avifauna, 24 butterfly, 2 odonate and 1 reptile) were recorded
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. An avifauna species of conservation importance (Greater Coucal) was recorded in recent survey
Re-creatability	Low to moderate – decades needed for the trees to become mature and form a canopy
Fragmentation	Fragmented by developed areas
Ecological linkage	The mixed woodland behind Villa Rhapsody – Symphony Bay is connected to Ma On Shan Country Park in the south outside the assessment area. The eastern mixed woodland next to Nai Chung Old Village forms part of the CPA.
Potential value	Moderate – for the mixed woodland behind Villa Rhapsody – Symphony Bay to develop into more mature woodland, given with protection from disturbance and active management. Low – for the mixed woodland in the east of the assessment area next to Nai Chung Old Village due to the disturbance from the adjacent construction site and human activities currently and in the foreseeable future.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Semi-mature
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Moderate
Ecological value	Moderate

8.5.5 Plantation

8.5.5.1 Plantation is found along Sai Sha Road, Nai Chung Barbecue Site and opposite to the Sai O Pumping Station. No species of conservation importance was recorded in this habitat. It is also highly fragmented within the assessment area. Given the small size and man-made nature, the ecological value is considered as “low”.

Table 8.12 Ecological Evaluation of Plantation within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Plantation
Naturalness	Man-made – composed of mostly exotic species
Size	Small (~0.85 ha)
Diversity	Recent Survey Low – 27 flora and 7 fauna (6 avifauna and 1 odonate) species were recorded
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong No species of conservation importance were recorded in either previous or recent survey
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Fragmented into thin belts by developed areas
Ecological linkage	Not linked to any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Low due to limited space and the surrounding developed areas
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

8.5.6 Shrubland

8.5.6.1 Shrublands outside that of Project site recorded low to moderate biodiversity. The two flora species of conservation importance found in this habitat are actually common in Hong Kong. This habitat is considered of “low to moderate” ecological value.

Table 8.13 Ecological Evaluation of Shrubland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Shrubland (outside Project site)
Naturalness	Natural for the shrubland northwest to the Project site Semi-natural for the other shrublands within the assessment area due to constant disturbance and vegetation maintenance
Size	Small (~2.90 ha)
Diversity	Recent Survey Low to moderate flora diversity – 61 flora species were recorded Low fauna diversity – 24 fauna (7 avifauna, 15 butterfly, 1 odonate and 1 reptile) species were recorded.
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong Previous Survey Two flora species of conservation importance (Luofushan Joint-fir and Incense Tree) recorded. An avifauna species of conservation importance (Rufous-capped Babbler) recorded. Recent Survey Two flora species of conservation importance (Luofushan Joint-fir and Ixonanthes) were recorded.
Re-creatability	High – if time is allowed for maturation and ecological succession
Fragmentation	Low
Ecological linkage	Not linked to any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Moderate for the shrubland at the hilltop northwest to the Project site, as it is isolated by the surrounding woodland and can remain intact. Limited for all the other shrublands within the assessment area, due to the regular disturbance from the human activities at the adjacent burial ground and developed areas.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low to moderate
Ecological value	Low to Moderate

8.5.7 Grassland

8.5.7.1 The size of the three patches of grasslands in the assessment area is small, with regular maintenance. The diversity and abundance of species recorded are low so the ecological value is considered as “low”.

Table 8.14 Ecological Evaluation of Grassland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Grassland
Naturalness	Non-natural, colonised by self-sown species
Size	Small (~ 0.44 ha)
Diversity	Recent Survey Low – 15 flora and 24 fauna (8 avifauna, 14 butterfly, 1 odonate and 1 amphibian) species were recorded.
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. One butterfly species of conservation importance (Swallowtail) recorded in a grassland which was then converted to developed area during this study.
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	Fragmented by developed areas
Ecological linkage	Not linked to any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Low due to limitation by small size and frequent disturbance
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Young
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

8.5.8 Developed Area/Wasteland

8.5.8.1 Developed area / wasteland is occupied by intensive human activities. Over half of the flora species recorded is exotic. The low to moderate faunal diversity can be ascribed to the large size and thus larger survey area for this habitat. Due to the man-made nature, this habitat is considered of “low” ecological value.

Table 8.15 Ecological Evaluation of Developed Area/Wasteland within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Developed Area/Wasteland
Naturalness	Man-made
Size	Large (~30.83 ha)
Diversity	Previous Survey A fauna species of conservation importance, Japanese Pipistrelle recorded Recent Survey Moderate floral diversity – 117 species were recorded but the majority are cultivated. Low to moderate faunal diversity – 50 species (18 avifauna, 27 butterfly, 3 odonate, 1 amphibian and 1 reptile) were recorded
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. One butterfly (Forget-me-not) species of conservation importance recorded
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	N/A
Ecological linkage	Not linked to any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Low
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Not known
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

8.5.9 Modified Watercourse

8.5.9.1 The modified watercourses [W1, W2, W3, W5 (lower section), W6 and W7)] are all man-made, with concrete lining. The discharge of W1 and W3 provides freshwater to the intertidal habitats and is essential for the formation of mangrove, which hosts an intertidal faunal community. W3 are structurally and functionally connected to the intertidal mudflat and mangrove with its freshwater input. The intertidal mudflat, in particular, serves as a feeding ground for water birds and a group of egrets was seen feeding on this habitat.

8.5.9.2 Nonetheless, the water of W1 and W3 was of inferior quality and appeared to be polluted. Both floral and faunal diversities recorded in the modified watercourses are low. Although one freshwater species of conservation importance was found near the estuary of W2, that watercourse, with concrete embankment and bed, is unlikely a key habitat for the species. In general, the ecological value of this habitat is “low”.

Table 8.16 Ecological Evaluation of Modified Watercourse within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Modified Watercourse
Naturalness	Man-made
Size	~0.37 ha
Diversity	Recent Survey Low – 11 flora and 31 fauna (5 avifauna, 8 butterfly, 8 odonate, 9 aquatic fauna and 1 reptile) species were recorded.
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong Previous Survey Nest of Blue Whistling Thrush found inside W7. One freshwater species of conservation importance (Cryptopotamon anacoluthon) recorded in W1. Recent Survey One butterfly species of conservation importance (Forget-me-not) was recorded in W1. One aquatic species of conservation importance (Japanese Eel) was recorded near the estuary of W2
Re-creatability	High
Fragmentation	N/A
Ecological linkage	Not linked to any highly valued habitat
Potential value	Low to moderate, with control measures on water quality and channel enhancement
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Unknown
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low
Ecological value	Low

8.5.10 Natural Watercourse

8.5.10.1 The watercourses [W4 & W5 (upper section)] are largely natural with certain sections modified. They are small in scale and have recorded low biodiversity in the surveys. W4 directs freshwater discharge into the intertidal habitats and this is important for the formation of mangrove near the estuarine. W5 (upper section) is seasonal with limited water flow. Since most sections of the two watercourses are natural and the connection of W4 to the CPA, the ecological value of this habitat is rated as “low to moderate”.

Table 8.17 Ecological Evaluation of Natural Watercourse within the Assessment Area

Criteria	W4 (Natural lower section)	W5 (Upper natural seasonal section)
Naturalness	Mostly natural
Size	~0.08 ha
Diversity	Recent Survey Low – 20 flora and 35 fauna (14 butterfly, 7 odonate, 13 aquatic fauna, and 1 amphibian) species recorded.
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong. One aquatic species of conservation importance (Pseudosesarma patshuni) was recorded in W4 in recent survey.
Re-creatability	Moderate
Fragmentation	W4 is fragmented by a modified section in the middle. W5 is fragmented by a culvert and developed areas in the lower section
Ecological linkage	The estuarine area is structurally and functionally linked to the intertidal habitats i.e. the CPA.	Not linked to any highly valued habitat.
Potential value	Low to moderate – if the discharge from the surrounding developed area can be controlled.	Low – given the naturally scarce and sporadic water flow and its seasonal nature.
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground
Age	Unknown
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Low	Low
Ecological value	Low to moderate

8.5.11 Intertidal Habitats

8.5.11.1 Intertidal habitats comprise of mangrove, intertidal mudflat, rocky shore and sandy shore. They are under various disturbance e.g. collection of oyster and other seashore fauna, and the plastic struts of broken kites.

8.5.11.2 Nonetheless, these habitats, particularly the intertidal mudflat, were observed to be foraging ground for water-dependent birds. Given the moderate to high diversity of fauna recorded and the connection to adjacent sites of conservation importance, the ecological value of these habitats is “moderate” (Table 8.18 refers).

8.5.12 Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitats

8.5.12.1 This habitat mainly consisted of bedrocks. Two locally common hard coral species were recorded in low coverage (<1%) along the REA transects in the previous survey. All hard coral species are protected in Hong Kong under Marine Park Ordinance (Cap. 476) and Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). This habitat is considered as having “low” ecological value due to the sparse coverage and low species richness (Table 8.18 refers).

8.5.13 Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitats

8.5.13.1 Only one locally common coral species was recorded in the recent survey and the benthic community was characterised of low to moderate biodiversity, dominated by one bivalve species. Thus, the ecological value of the subtidal habitat is regarded as “low” (Table 8.18 refers).

Table 8.18 Ecological Evaluation of Seashore, Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat and Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat within the Assessment Area

Criteria	Intertidal Habitats	Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat	Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat
Naturalness	Mostly natural with regular human disturbance	High – Natural habitat	High – Natural habitat
Size	Moderate (~2.41 ha)	Moderate	Large
Diversity	Low floral diversity – 21 species recorded, dominated by native species. Moderate to high faunal diversity – 112 species (24 avifauna, 2 butterfly, 4 odonate and 82 intertidal fauna) recorded.	Low with two hard coral species recorded.	Low with one hard coral species, and 46 other benthic invertebrate species recorded in which the benthic community was characterised as low to moderate biodiversity.
Rarity	Common habitat in Hong Kong Previous Survey Two avifauna species of conservation importance (Little Egret and Intermediate Egret) recorded. Recent Survey Four avifauna species of conservation importance (Black Kite, Collared Crow, Great Egret and Little Egret) recorded; the latter two species were foraging in these habitats.	Common habitat in Hong Kong. Two common hard coral species of conservation importance (Porites lutea and Oulastrea crispata) were recorded in the previous survey.	Common habitat in Hong Kong. One common hard coral species of conservation importance (Oulastrea crispata) was recorded.
Re-creatability	Low	Low	Low
Fragmentation	No fragmentation	No fragmentation	No fragmentation
Ecological linkage	The eastern and western parts of this habitat form the Nai Chung Coast SSSI and CPA respectively.	Ecological linkage with adjacent intertidal habitats such as mudflat and mangroves.	Ecological linkage with adjacent intertidal habitats such as mudflat and mangroves.
Potential value	Moderate – given active management and protection from human disturbance are executed.	Low	Low
Nursery/ breeding ground	No record of nursery or breeding ground	No significant breeding grounds observed	No significant breeding grounds observed
Age	Unknown	Unknown	Unknown
Abundance/ Richness of wildlife	Moderate	Low	Low
Ecological value	Moderate	Low	Low

Table 8.19 Floral and Faunal Species of Conservation Importance Recorded during Previous and Recent Ecological Surveys

Fauna / Floral Species	Protection status	Distribution in Hong Kong	Recorded Habitats		Rarity
Fauna / Floral Species	Protection status	Distribution in Hong Kong	Previous Survey (2015-2016)	Recent Survey (2018-2019)	Rarity
Flora
Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis)	- Listed as “Vulnerable” at IUCN Red List - Listed as “Vulnerable” at China Red Data Book - Listed as “Near Threatened” in Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong (Status in China) - Under State protection (Category II) - Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Common (Hu et al., 2003)	Woodland; Shrubland	Woodland	Common (Corlett et al., 2000)
Hong Kong Pavetta (Pavetta hongkongensis)	- Protection under Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96)	Common (Corlett et al., 2000)	Woodland	Woodland	Common (Corlett et al., 2000)
Cycad-fern (Brainea insignis)	- Listed as “Vulnerable” in Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong (Status in China) - Under State protection (Category II)	Common (Hu et al., 2003)	Woodland	-	Uncommon (Corlett et al., 2000)
Ixonanthes (Ixonanthes reticulata)	- Listed as “Vulnerable” in China Plant Red Data Book - Listed as “Vulnerable” in Rare and Precious Plants of Hong Kong (Status in China)	Populations are recorded in Cape D’Aguilar, Happy Valley, Wong Nai Chung, Aberdeen, Repulse Bay, and Ma On Shan (Hu et al., 2003)	Woodland	Woodland; Shrubland	Common (Corlett et al., 2000)
Luofushan Joint-fir (Gnetum luofuense)	- Listed as “Near Threatened” at IUCN Red List	Very common (Corlett et al., 2000)	Woodland; Shrubland	Woodland; Shrubland	Very common (Corlett et al., 2000)
Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides)	- Listed as “Critically Endangered” at IUCN Red List	Very common (Corlett et al., 2000)	-	Woodland	Very common (Corlett et al., 2000)
Avifauna^#
Black Kite (Milvus migrans)	- Regional Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002) - Listed as Class II in the List of Wild Animals under State Protection - Protection under Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Widely distributed (AFCD, 2018)	Woodland (in flight)	Sandy Shore; Woodland (in flight)	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus)	- Local Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002) - Listed as “Vulnerable” at IUCN Red List	Found in Inner Deep Bay area, Nam Chung, Kei Ling Ha, Tai Mei Tuk, Pok Fu Lam, Chek lap Kok, Shuen Wan, Lam Tsuen (AFCD, 2018)	-	Sandy Shore; Rocky Shore	Uncommon (AFCD, 2018)
Collared Scops Owl (Otus lettia)	- Listed as Class II in the List of Wild Animals under State Protection - Protection under Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Populations widely distributed in shrubland throughout Hong Kong (AFCD, 2018)	Woodland	Woodland	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)	- Local Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002) - Listed as Class II in the List of Wild Animals under State Protection - Listed as “Vulnerable” at China Red Data Book Status	Widely distributed in woodland, hillside and open area throughout Hong Kong (AFCD, 2018)	-	Woodland (Heard)	Uncommon (AFCD, 2018)
Eastern Buzzard (Buteo japonicas)	- Protection under Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Widely distributed (AFCD, 2018)	Woodland (in flight)	Woodland (in flight)	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)	- Listed as Class II in the List of Wild Animals under State Protection - Listed as “Vulnerable” at China Red Data Book Status	Widely distributed (AFCD, 2018)	-	Mixed Woodland (Heard)	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Great Egret (Ardea alba)	- Potential Regional Concern (Regional Concern)(Fellowes et al., 2002)	Widely distributed (AFCD, 2018)	-	Intertidal Mudflat; Sandy Shore	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Intermediate Egret (Egretta intermedia)	- Regional Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002)	Populations distributed in Deep Bay area, Tai Long Wan, Starling Inlet, Tai O, Cape D’Aguilar. (AFCD, 2018)	Sandy Shore	-	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)	- Regional Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002)	Populations widely distributed in coastal area throughout Hong Kong (AFCD, 2018)	Intertidal Mudflat	Intertidal Mudflat; Sandy Shore	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Rufous-capped Babbler (Stachyridopsis ruficeps)	- Local Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002)	Found mainly in shrublands and woodlands of New Territories (AFCD, 2018)	Woodland; Shrubland	-	Common (AFCD, 2018)
Butterfly
Forget-me-not (Catochrysops strabo strabo)	-	Pui O, Tai Po Kau, Fung Yuen, Shing Mun, Sha Lo Wan (AFCD, 2018)	-	Modified Watercourse; Developed Area / Wasteland	Very Rare (AFCD, 2018)
Peacock Royal (Tajuria cippus malcolmi)	- Local Concern (Fellowes et al., 2002)	Ma On Shan, Wu Kau Tang, Tai Po Kau, Mount Nicholson, Victoria Peak, Cloudy Hill (AFCD, 2018)	-	Woodland	Rare (AFCD, 2018)
Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus xuthus)	-	Kap Lung, Ma On Shan, Tai Tam, Sha Lo Wan, Kat O, Lung Kwu Tan, Wu Kau Tang, Lung Kwu Chau (AFCD, 2018)	-	Grassland	Rare (AFCD, 2018)
Mammal
Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus)	- Protection under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170)	Widely distributed (AFCD, 2018)	Developed area (also recorded within Project site)	-	Very Common (AFCD, 2018)
Aquatic Fauna
Cryptopotamon anacoluthon	- Listed as “Vulnerable” at IUCN Red List - "Potential Global Concern" (Fellowes et al., 2002)	-	Modified Watercourse (W1)	-	-
Japanese Eel (Anguilla japonica)	- Listed as “Endangered” at IUCN Red List	Records from Lantau Island, Hong Kong Island, Sai Kung and Tsuen Wan in low abundance (AFCD, 2018)	-	Modified Watercourse (W2)	Uncommon (Lee et al., 2004)
Pseudosesarma patshuni	- Endemic to Hong Kong	Found along river banks of mangroves (AFCD, 2018)	-	Natural Watercourse (W4)	Uncommon (AFCD, 2018)
Coral
Oulastrea crispata	- Protection under Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Many places in Hong Kong (Chan, A.L.K. et al., 2005)	Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat	Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat	Common (Chan, A.L.K. et al., 2005)
Porites lutea	- Protection under Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)	Widespread (Chan, A.L.K. et al., 2005)	Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat	-	Dominant (Chan, A.L.K. et al., 2005)

Note:

# – All wild birds are Protected under Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170).

8.6 Identification of Potential Impacts

8.6.1.1 The potential direct and indirect terrestrial and aquatic ecological impacts arising from the proposed Project are assessed below in accordance with Annexes 8 and 16 of the EIAO-Technical Memorandum.

8.6.1.2 The potential ecological impacts considered:

· Habitat loss especially those of conservation importance

· Habitat fragmentation

· Loss of feeding grounds

· Reduction of ecological carrying capacity

· Reduction of species abundance/diversity

· Direct impact and disturbance to animals and plants

· Indirect ecological impacts due to potential changes in the water quality, hydrodynamics properties, sedimentation hydrology as a result of surface run-off and emergency sewage overflow on habitats

· Cumulative impacts due to other planned and committed concurrent development projects at or near the Project site

8.7 Prediction and Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

8.7.1 Direct Impacts to Habitats and Vegetation

8.7.1.1 The Project is to construct and operate a new sewage pumping station within the Project site to cope with the sewerage needs of both existing and future developments. The vegetation and habitat within the Project site would be affected. The affected habitat type includes 0.35 ha of shrubland only. No other habitats nor species of conservation importance within the assessment area would be directly impacted by the proposed development.

8.7.2 Direct Impacts to Fauna

8.7.2.1 Construction activities during site clearance and site formation stage have a potential to cause direct injury or mortality to wildlife, such as road kill by rapidly-moving vehicles. Since both highly mobile wildlife (e.g. avifauna) and animals with lower mobility (e.g. herpetofauna) were recorded at low density, and no species of conservation importance was found within and around the Project site, direct impact to these organisms is anticipated to be minor.

8.7.2.2 The only recorded species of conservation importance within the Project site was Japanese Pipistrelle. A small number of Japanese Pipistrelle was observed within the Project site in the previous survey, though none was recorded in the recent survey. It is a very common and widespread species in Hong Kong and adapted to the urban environment. No sign of roosting was observed, and the Project site is unlikely an important habitat to this species. Therefore, the impact to this species due to the habitat loss within the Project site is not significant. Likewise, since this species is highly mobile and no roosting site was observed in the Project site and the adjacent developed area, the direct impact to this species is also minor.

8.7.3 Habitat Fragmentation

8.7.3.1 The construction site would create a direct barrier effect which could hinder the movement of animals through the area. The division of the habitats into two or more parts may lead to indirect fragmentation impacts. Fragmentation effects are often difficult to quantify, potential impacts would include:

· Decline in species number and densities over and above that which would be expected from habitat loss alone;

· Loss of ‘core’ or characteristic species dependent on large habitat patches, and concomitant increases in ‘edge’ or more facultative species; and

· Other changes in community composition.

8.7.3.2 Since the impacted habitats (i.e. shrubland within the Project site) do not connect with other natural habitats but surrounded by developed area, the fragmentation impact is therefore considered minor.

8.7.3.3 The impacted shrubland habitat within the Project site is functionally connected to the shrubland in the northwest. Developing the Project site means a reduction to the size of these functionally connected shrublands. However, since the shrubland of the Project site is located at the periphery of these shrublands, the impact of fragmentation is therefore considered minor.

8.7.4 Indirect Impacts

Construction Phase Disturbance Impacts to Ecological Sites of Conservation Importance

Coastal Protection Area

8.7.4.1 The area zoned as "CPA" under the Approved Shap Sz Heung OZP No. S/NE-SSH/11 is to conserve the natural coastlines and the sensitive coastal environment. Since the Project site is located about 230 m from the “CPA”, the disturbance impacts resulted from the Project is minor.

Ma On Shan Country Park

8.7.4.2 The Country Park zoned within the Assessment Area is Nai Chung Barbecue Site. The barbecue site is a developed area and visitors’ activities are frequent. There is a sampling of Incense Tree, a flora species of conservation importance, planted as part of the Nai Chung Tree Walk within the barbecue site, but just outside the assessment area. Given that the proposed works are located distant from this barbecue site, the impacts are considered negligible.

Construction Phase Disturbance Impacts

Construction and Human Activities

8.7.4.3 Project-related construction activities would increase the human activities and cause disturbances (e.g. construction dust and noise) around the Project site. The flora and fauna inhabiting the habitats nearby might be disturbed by the construction works. In the worst-case, mobile fauna such as avifauna might temporarily be displaced from the area near the construction site due to the disturbances, potentially causing a decrease in wildlife diversity and abundance. However, the Project site and the surrounding lands are mostly developed in nature. The disturbance impact would be temporary during the construction phase. Given that the construction works is of relatively small scale, the impact is considered not significant.

8.7.4.4 A vegetated knoll with shrubland and woodland habitats was identified at around 90 m to the northwest of the Project site. Construction disturbance such as construction dust might indirectly impact these natural habitats. However, given that this vegetated area is separated from the Project site by existing roads and a large piece of vacant land with concrete ground, the change in level of disturbance is expected to be minor.

Water Quality Impact

8.7.4.5 The Project site is located approximately 45 m to the southwest of the intertidal habitats. The construction activities might generate water quality impact to the intertidal communities, if unmitigated. In the worst-case scenario, wastewater generated from general construction activities, construction site run-off, sewage effluent from workforce or chemicals (e.g. engine oil and lubricants), if accidentally enter into the intertidal and subtidal zones, could reduce habitat quality of these areas.

8.7.4.6 The Project site is located around 35 m to the southeast of a modified watercourse (W1). Recorded species of conservation importance in this stream includes a freshwater crab species Cryptopotamon anacoluthon. Similar to the intertidal and subtidal areas, the stream might be prone to water quality impacts from construction phase activities due to the short separation distance. Another aquatic species of conservation importance, Japanese Eel, was seen in the estuarine of modified watercourse W2, which is around 150 m southeast to the Project site. This catadromous fish species may search for the suitable freshwater habitat by swimming through the estuarine and intertidal areas that the quality of waters off the seashore is also important to this species. Pseudosesarma patshuni, an aquatic species of conservation importance, was found in the natural watercourse W4 that is located about 260 m east to the Project site. This species can inhabit a range of high intertidal and semi-terrestrial habitats, which may also be affected by the water quality of seawater through tidal influence.

8.7.4.7 Three small mangrove stands are located along the coastline of the assessment area. The nearest distance between the Project site and the mangrove is about 80 m. Three avifauna species of conservation, including Little Egret, Intermediate Egret and Great Egret, were seen foraging in the intertidal mudflats and mangrove around 200 m southeast to the Project site. Any unmitigated deterioration of water quality due to the construction of the Project might indirectly impact the mangrove habitat and affect the fauna utilizing this habitat.

8.7.4.8 Nonetheless, with the implementation of mitigation measures and good site practices as detailed in Section 5.8 to minimise the potential impacts on water quality from land-based construction and construction run-off and chance of accidental spillage chemicals to the nearby waterbodies, no adverse water quality impact due to the construction of the Project is anticipated. The ecological impacts arising from potential water quality deterioration due to the construction is expected to be minor.

8.7.4.9 On the other hand, since the key construction activities would be confined within the Project site as far as practicable, the water quality impact to the coral communities which is located further from the terrestrial environment is considered minor.

Operational Phase Disturbance Impacts to Habitats

8.7.4.10 Normally, the sewage pumping station would operate independently with little concern on creating disturbances to wildlife and natural habitats. While the possibility of emergency sewage discharge via the nearby stormwater drainage system into the Tolo Harbour would be avoided to the maximum practicable extent with the incorporation of the preventive measures detailed in Section 5 into the design, the unlikely event of emergency bypass due to complete pump/parts failure and interruption of the electrical power supply might impact the nearby aquatic habitats in Tolo Habour (e.g. the mangrove located in the vicinity of the Project site as shown in Figure 8.2, as well as the intertidal and subtidal habitats). The potential deterioration of water quality, if any, due to increase in pollutant levels (e.g. E. coli and TIN) from emergency discharge period would be transient and reversible within short times (Section 5 refers). No long-term adverse impact on water quality would be expected from the emergency overflow from the proposed Sai O Trunk Sewer SPS. Likewise, as detailed in Section 5, past studies of mangroves concluded that the mangrove habitats are able to grow in areas of rich nutrient, low oxygen and high bacteria level and not adversely affected by high pollution loads (including concentrated sewage effluent). Therefore, it is considered that the temporary and minor increase of pollutants (especially TIN and E. coli) caused by the emergency discharge would not adversely affect the mangrove site. No unacceptable ecological impacts are anticipated due to the changes in water quality during emergency discharge from the SPS.

8.7.5 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Habitats

8.7.5.1 A summary of ecological impacts to habitats within the assessment area is given in Table 8.20 to Table 8.28.

Table 8.20 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Woodland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Woodland
Habitat quality	Moderate
Species	Previous Survey Six flora species of conservation importance, Hong Kong Pavetta, Ixonanthes, Incense Tree, Luofushan Joint-fir, Small Persimmons, and Cycad-fern recorded Four avifauna species of conservation importance, Black Kite, Rufous-capped Babbler, Collared Scops Owl and Eastern Buzzard recorded Recent Survey Moderate flora diversity – 100 flora species were recorded; majority of the flora species recorded are native. Five flora species of conservation importance, Hong Kong Pavetta, Ixonanthes Luofushan Joint-fir, a number of Incense Tree seedlings and Small Persimmons, were recorded. Low fauna diversity – 24 fauna species (13 avifauna and 11 butterfly) were recorded. Two avifauna (Crested Serpent Eagle and Collared Scops Owl) and one butterfly (Peacock Royal) species of conservation importance were recorded.
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent and is of negligible level.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.21 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Mixed Woodland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Mixed Woodland
Habitat quality	Moderate
Species	Moderate flora diversity – 90 flora species were recorded Low to moderate fauna diversity – 45 species (18 avifauna, 24 butterfly, 2 odonate and 1 reptile) were recorded. An avifauna species of conservation importance (Greater Coucal) was recorded.
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent and is of negligible level.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.22 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Plantation within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Plantation
Habitat quality	Low
Species	Low – 27 flora and 7 fauna (6 avifauna and 1 odonate) species were recorded.
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent and is of negligible level.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.23 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Shrubland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Shrubland (within Project site)	Shrubland (outside Project site)
Habitat quality	Shrubland habitat within the Project site is of low ecological value.	Shrubland habitat outside the Project site is of low to moderate ecological value
Species	Previous Survey A fauna species of conservation importance, Japanese Pipistrelle was recorded in the shrubland within the Project site. Recent Survey Low flora diversity – 20 flora species were recorded. Low fauna diversity – 12 fauna (6 avifauna and 6 butterfly) species were recorded. No species of conservation importance was recorded.	Previous Survey Two flora species of conservation importance (Luofushan Joint-fir and Incense Tree) were recorded. An avifauna species of conservation importance (Rufous-capped Babbler) was recorded in the habitat. Recent Survey Low to moderate flora diversity – 61 flora species were recorded. Low fauna diversity – 24 fauna (7 avifauna, 15 butterfly, 1 odonate and 1 reptile) species were recorded. Two flora species of conservation importance (Luofushan Joint-fir and Ixonanthes) were recorded
Size/Abundance	Shrubland habitat within the Project site would be directly affected.	Shrubland habitat outside the Project site would not be directly affected
Duration	Habitat loss of the shrubland habitat within the Project site would be permanent.	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent and is of negligible level.
Reversibility	Habitat loss of the shrubland habitat within the Project site would be irreversible.	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low	Low
Overall impact evaluation	Low	Low

Table 8.24 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Grassland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Grassland
Habitat quality	Low
Species	Low – 15 flora and 24 fauna (8 avifauna, 14 butterfly, 1 odonate and 1 amphibian) species were recorded. One butterfly species of conservation importance (Swallowtail) recorded in a grassland (subsequently converted to developed area).
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent, but the level is negligible.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.25 Evaluation of Ecological Impact to Developed Area/Wasteland within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Developed Area/Wasteland
Habitat quality	Low
Species	Previous Survey A fauna species of conservation importance, Japanese Pipistrelle, was recorded Recent Survey Moderate floral diversity – 118 species were recorded but the majority are cultivated. Low to moderate faunal diversity – 50 species (18 avifauna, 27 butterfly, 3 odonate, 1 amphibian and 1 reptile) were recorded. One butterfly (Forget-me-not) species of conservation importance was recorded
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact is permanent, but the level is negligible.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance would be irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.26 Evaluation of Ecological Impacts to Modified Watercourse and Natural Watercourse within the Assessment Area

Evaluation Criteria	Modified Watercourse	Natural Watercourse
Habitat quality	Low	Low to moderate
Species	Previous Survey Nest of Blue Whistling Thrush found inside W7 One freshwater species of conservation importance (Cryptopotamon anacoluthon) recorded in W1 Recent Survey Low biodiversity – 11 flora and 31 fauna (5 avifauna, 8 butterfly, 8 odonate, 9 stream fauna and 1 reptile) species were recorded One butterfly species of conservation importance (Forget-me-not) was recorded in W1 One aquatic species of conservation importance (Japanese Eel) was recorded near the estuary of W2	Recent Survey Low biodiversity – 20 flora and 35 fauna (14 butterfly, 7 odonate, 13 aquatic fauna and 1 amphibian) species recorded One aquatic species of conservation importance (Pseudosesarma patshuni) was recorded in W4
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact due to normal plant operation is permanent and is of negligible level.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance impact due to normal plant operation is irreversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low	Low

Table 8.27 Evaluation of Ecological Impacts to Intertidal Habitats

Evaluation Criteria	Intertidal Habitats
Habitat quality	Moderate
Species	Recent Survey Low floral diversity – 21 species recorded, dominated by native species. Moderate to high faunal diversity – 112 species (24 avifauna, 2 butterfly, 4 odonate and 82 intertidal fauna) recorded. Four avifauna species of conservation importance (Black Kite, Collared Crow, Great Egret and Little Egret) recorded; the latter two species were seen foraging in these habitats. Previous Survey Two avifauna species of conservation importance (Little Egret and Intermediate Egret) recorded.
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact due to normal plant operation is permanent and is of negligible level. Operational phase disturbance impact due to changes in water quality during emergency bypass is transient and minor.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance impact due to normal plant operation is irreversible. Operational phase disturbance impact due to changes in water quality during emergency bypass is reversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low

Table 8.28 Evaluation of Ecological Impacts to Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat and Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat

Evaluation Criteria	Subtidal Hard Bottom Habitat	Subtidal Soft Bottom Habitat
Habitat quality	Low	Low
Species	Low, with two hard coral species recorded	Recent Survey Low with one hard coral species and 46 other benthic invertebrate species recorded which were characterised as low to moderate biodiversity
Size/Abundance	Habitat would not be directly affected.
Duration	Construction phase disturbance impact would be temporary. Operational phase disturbance impact due to changes in water quality during emergency bypass is transient and minor.
Reversibility	Construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Operational phase disturbance impact due to changes in water quality during emergency bypass is reversible.
Magnitude	Low in terms of disturbance impact
Overall impact evaluation	Low	Low

8.7.6 Impact to Species of Conservation Importance

8.7.6.1 A total of six flora and 19 fauna (comprising of ten avifauna, three butterfly, three aquatic fauna, one mammal and two hard coral) species of conservation importance were recorded within the assessment area during the 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 survey. Species recorded within the Project site would be directly impacted. While those occur nearby would be mildly disturbed.

8.7.6.2 A summary of potential ecological impacts to the species of conservation importance recorded in the assessment area during the previous and recent survey is provided in Table 8.29 below.

Table 8.29 Summary of Potential Impacts to Species of Conservation Importance Recorded in the Assessment Area

Species of Conservation Importance	Construction Phase Impacts		Operational phase Impacts
Species of Conservation Importance	Description	Evaluation	Description	Evaluation
Flora species (i.e. Cycad-fern, Hong Kong Pavetta, Incense Tree, Luofushan Joint-fir, Ixonanthes and Small Persimmon)	The nearest flora species of conservation importance are the seedlings of Incense Tree located at about 128 m to the Project site. Potential construction phase disturbance impact and dust impact.	No Direct Impact Minor Disturbance Impact	No Impact	No Impact
Ardeid species (i.e. Intermediate Egret, Little Egret and Great Egret)	Nearest record was located in a mangrove habitat about 200 m to the Project site. No direct loss of this habitat would be caused. Disturbance impact and runoff might affect habitat quality. However, the magnitude is low.	No Direct Impact Minor Disturbance Impact	There would be a very low chance of potential malfunction of the sewage pumping station might causing emergency sewage discharge. This would reduce habitat quality for ardeid species utilization e.g. as foraging ground.	Negligible
Raptor species (i.e. Black Kite, Crested Serpent Eagle, Eastern Buzzard) and other avifauna species (i.e. Collared Crow, Collared Scops Owl, Greater Coucal, Rufous-capped Babbler and nesting Blue Whistling Thrush)	Individuals were recorded outside the Project site. This indicates that the assessment area was a potential foraging or roosting sites. Alternative habitats of higher ecological value e.g. woodland and shrubland are available nearby. Impact due to habitat loss is minor. Construction phase disturbance impacts are temporary, and the magnitude is small.	Low	No Impact	Low
Butterfly species (i.e. Forget-me-not, Peacock Royal and Swallowtail)	Individuals were recorded outside the Project site. Two individuals of Forget-me-not were recorded the modified watercourse (W1) northwest to the Project site, implying that the modified watercourse and the adjacent shrubland might be attractive to this species. However, since the larvae food plant of this butterfly species was not recorded in this collective strip of shrubland and with the high mobility of butterfly, the loss of the shrubland habitat within the Project site is insignificant.	No Direct Impact Minor Disturbance Impact	No Impact	Negligible
Aquatic fauna (i.e. Cryptopotamon anacoluthon, Japanese Eel and Pseudosesarma patshuni)	Construction site runoff might carry sediment and increase the suspended solid in the water. It might also affect the water quality of the stream to the northwest of the Project site where the Cryptopotamon anacoluthon was recorded. The runoff might enter the seashore and impact the seawater, affecting the migration of the Japanese Eel. But the Japanese Eel is mobile and could return to the area after the construction works. Pseudosesarma patshuni was found in the natural watercourse furthest away from the Project site. This species is mobile and inhabits a range of semi-terrestrial and high intertidal regions thus it can displace to other readily available habitats. With the implementation of good site practices, no adverse water quality impact would be expected from the construction of the Project and the magnitude of the impact is small.	Low	This would affect habitat quality due to water pollution. Pollutants entering the stream might be have lethal or sub-lethal effects to the freshwater communities, decomposition of organic matter would consume dissolved oxygen. The seawater quality would deteriorate as well. There would be a very low chance of potential malfunction of the sewage pumping station which might cause emergency sewage discharge.	Negligible
Mammal (i.e. Japanese Pipistrelle)	This species was recorded in the shrubland within the Project site and the adjacent developed area. The area of the habitat loss is small compared to the size of the available habitats in the vicinity and the affected habitats are not considered as important habitats to this species. So, the degree of the direct impact is low. Construction phase disturbance impacts are temporary, and the magnitude is small.	Low	The normal operation of the sewage pumping station would not cause disturbance impact to this species.	Negligible
Coral colony (Porites lutea and Oulastrea crispata)	The species were recorded in subtidal hard bottom habitat and subtidal soft bottom habitat outside the Project site. Construction site runoff might affect the water quality of the subtidal habitat by deposition of suspended solids. With the implementation of good site practices, the magnitude of the impact is small.	Low	There would be a very low chance of potential malfunction of the sewage pumping station which might cause emergency sewage discharge. The potential water quality impact due to emergency discharge would be transient and reversible. No long-term adverse impact on water quality and the habitat quality would be expected.	Negligible

8.7.7 Cumulative Impacts

8.7.7.1 As presented in Section 2.7, there is a concurrent project identified within the assessment area, i.e. Sai Sha Road Widening. Based on the available information, the construction programme of Sai Sha Road Widening would be from Q1 of 2018 to Q4 of 2023. For the proposed school with recreational area, to the north of Nin Ming Road under the approved planning application no. A/MOS/125, as well as the Comprehensive Residential and Commercial Development, to the east of Nai Chung under the approved planning application no. A/NE-SSH/120 and A/NE-SSH/120-1, no confirmed construction programme is available at time of the preparation of this EIA. Nonetheless, given that the Project would affect only 0.35 ha of shrubland of low ecological value and the scale of construction works would be small and localized, with the implementation of the mitigation measures in Section 8.8, unacceptable cumulative impacts would not be anticipated.

8.7.7.2 The potential concurrent projects detailed in Section 2 fall within the sewerage catchment boundary of the proposed SPS and the designed capacity the SPS has already taken into account the need of catering the sewage flow generated from these planned developments. As such, no adverse cumulative ecological impact would be anticipated during operational phase.

8.8 Mitigation of Adverse Environmental Impacts

8.8.1 Construction Phase

8.8.1.1 No significant ecological impacts were identified for the proposed sewage pumping station construction works in the current study. No site / species of conservation importance or important habitats would be directly impacted. Nonetheless, as a precautionary measure, all the construction works and stockpile areas should be strictly restricted (e.g. using hoarding / fencing as appropriate) to the Project site to protect the adjacent vegetation, natural habitats and fauna as far as possible.

Minimising Construction Disturbance

8.8.1.2 The implementation of the good site practices and general mitigation measures could further minimise the disturbance on the surrounding habitats. In general, the disturbance impacts to the surrounding habitats and associated wildlife arising from the construction activities could be minimised by adopting the following good site practices:

· confining the works within the site boundary;

· controlling access of site staff to avoid damage to the vegetation in surrounding areas; and

· placement of equipment or stockpile in the existing disturbed / urbanized land within the site boundary of the Project to minimise disturbance to vegetated areas.

8.8.1.3 Dust suppression measures including regular site watering and good construction practices for dust minimisation (refer to Section 3.7.1) should be adopted to avoid and minimise the dust covering leaves of plants that would affect their photosynthesis, and thus, their health and growth.

8.8.1.4 Mitigation measures as detailed in the ProPECCPN 1/94 “Construction Site Drainage” and ETWB TC (Works) No. 5/2005 “Protection of Natural Streams/Rivers from Adverse Impacts arising from Construction Works”, as well as other good site practices as detailed in Section 5.8 should be implemented to minimise the potential impacts on water quality to the nearby waterbodies from land-based construction, construction run-off or accidental spillage chemicals and the associated ecological impacts.

8.8.2 Operational phase

8.8.2.1 Since the sewage pumping station would operate independently, the normal operation would not create disturbances to the surrounding environment. A low level of human disturbance would happen during the regular site check, surveillance or during the repairing works. No mitigation measures would be required.

8.8.2.2 The possibility of emergency bypass would be avoided to the maximum practicable extent with the incorporation of precautionary measures as detailed in Section 5.7 (such as installation of backup power supply, provision of a standby pump, provision of a remote monitoring system, provision of twin rising mains system, etc.) into the design of the proposed sewage pumping station.

8.9 Evaluation of Residual Impacts

8.9.1.1 Based on the above assessment, residual impacts from the Project on ecological resources are not expected to arise with the effective implementation of the suggested mitigation measures.

8.10 Environmental Monitoring and Audit

8.10.1.1 No specific environmental monitoring and audit for ecology are recommended for this project. However, it is recommended that regular site inspections by site supervisor should be undertaken to ensure proper implementation of the recommended mitigation measures and good site practices.

8.11 Conclusion

8.11.1.1 A total of 12 habitat types were identified within the assessment area, including woodland, mixed woodland, plantation, shrubland, grassland, developed area / wasteland, natural watercourse, modified watercourse, mangrove, rocky shore, sandy shore and intertidal mudflat. The woodland, mixed woodland and the intertidal habitats within the assessment area are considered to have moderate ecological value while the other habitats are of low or low to moderate ecological value. 6 flora and 19 fauna species of conservation importance were recorded from the assessment area during the surveys. The Project site is a shrubland of low ecological value as it is derived by recolonization of weedy vegetation and under frequent disturbance. While a mammal species of conservation importance was identified within the Project site in the previous survey, no species of conservation importance was recorded in the recent survey.

8.11.1.2 A total of approximately 0.35 ha shrubland within the Project site would be permanently lost. Given the small size and low ecological value of the affected habitat, the direct impact is considered minor. Construction site runoff, deterioration of water quality and other disturbance impacts resulting from the construction works would have potential indirect impact on nearby natural habitats (e.g. intertidal, mangrove, shrubland, etc.). With the implementation of good site practice and control / mitigation measures for construction disturbance (e.g. dust, noise) and water quality impacts, no adverse residual ecological impact would be anticipated from the Project.

8.12 Reference

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