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Press Release
EPD to launch flytipping spotter trial scheme
The Environmental Protection Department will launch a spotter scheme to combat illegal dumping more effectively and encourage the public to report flytipping of construction waste. The trial scheme will run on a trial basis in areas under the purview of three District Councils in its initial phase.
An EPD spokesman said today (July 16) that with the support and participation of the District Councils and area committees, the flytipping spotter scheme could effectively tackle the environmental hygiene and nuisance problems caused by flytipping of construction waste.
"Public support is vital in making this scheme successful. EPD has written to three District Councils, namely Eastern, Sham Shui Po and Sha Tin, and relevant social organisations to invite interested members to join as pioneer spotters, helping to spot and prosecute flytippers, and to protect our environment," the spokesman said.
"In the first stage, the pilot scheme will be launched in areas under the purview of these three District Councils. The procedure of reporting and prosecution will be reviewed and fine-tuned on a regular basis. It is expected that detailed arrangements will be firmed up after the conclusion of the review at the end of next year," he added.
Since the Construction Waste Disposal Charging Scheme took effect from January 2006, EPD has carried out more than 5,000 patrols and raids to tackle flytipping of construction waste as well as collect evidence in prosecution cases.
The spokesman emphasised that according to the Waste Disposal Ordinance, the maximum penalty for flytipping of construction waste is a fine of $200,000 and a six-month's imprisonment.
Starting this month, EPD will recruit in phases interested spotters to assist in reporting flytipping of construction waste. Training courses will also be organised to facilitate spotters to comprehend the relevant legislative provisions and proper prosecution procedures, as well as details of their work.
The spokesman called on the public to be civic-minded and help to bring to justice those who discard construction waste illegally. He also called on the public to join in improving the environmental hygiene of the community. Those who want to join the trial scheme are welcome to contact EPD regional offices or call 2838 3111.
EPD will also launch a series of educational and publicity programmes, including the broadcast of TV and radio Announcement in Public Interest (API), a designated website and a poster, to raise public awareness of the scheme.
Ends/Monday, July 16, 2007
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