Expansion of Hong Kong
International Airport into a Three-Runway System

Construction Phase Quarterly EM&A Report No.20 (1 October to 31 December 2020)

March 2021

 

 

 

355482

06/15/13

A

 

 

 

 

Mott MacDonald

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contents

Abbreviations

Executive Summary

1       Introduction

1.1     Background

1.2     Scope of this Report

1.3     Project Organisation

1.4     Contact information for the Project

1.5     Summary of Construction Works

1.6     Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

2       Environmental Monitoring and Auditing

2.1     Air Quality Monitoring

2.1.1       Action and Limit Levels

2.1.2       Summary of Monitoring Results

2.1.3       Conclusion

2.2     Noise Monitoring

2.2.1       Action and Limit Levels

2.2.2       Summary of Monitoring Results

2.2.3       Conclusion

2.3     Water Quality Monitoring

2.3.1       Action and Limit Levels

2.3.2       Summary of Monitoring Results

2.3.3       Conclusion

2.4     Waste Monitoring

2.4.1       Action and Limit Levels

2.4.2       Summary of Monitoring Results

2.4.3       Marine Sediment Management

2.5     Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

2.5.1       Action and Limit Levels

2.5.2       Summary of Monitoring Results

2.6     Environmental Site Inspection

2.6.1       Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

2.6.2       Land Contamination Assessment

2.7     Audit of SkyPier High Speed Ferries

2.8     Audit of Construction and Associated Vessels

2.9     Review of the Key Assumptions Adopted in the EIA Report

3       Report on Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Prosecutions

3.1     Compliance with Other Statutory Environmental Requirements

3.2     Analysis and Interpretation of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Status of Prosecutions

3.2.1       Complaints

3.2.2       Notifications of Summons or Status of Prosecution

3.3     Cumulative Statistics

4       Conclusion and Recommendation

 

Tables

Table 1.1: Contact Information of Key Personnel 8

Table 1.2: Contact Information of the Project 11

Table 1.3: Summary of Status for All Environmental Aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual 11

Table 2.1: Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations  15

Table 2.2: Percentage of Air Quality Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels  15

Table 2.3: General Meteorological Condition during Impact Air Quality Monitoring  15

Table 2.4: Impact Noise Monitoring Stations  16

Table 2.5: Percentage of Noise Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels  16

Table 2.6: General Meteorological Condition during Impact Noise Monitoring  17

Table 2.7: Monitoring Locations and Parameters for Impact Water Quality Monitoring  17

Table 2.8: Action and Limit Levels for General Water Quality Monitoring and Regular DCM Monitoring  18

Table 2.9: The Control and Impact Stations during Flood Tide and Ebb Tide for General Water Quality Monitoring and Regular DCM Monitoring  19

Table 2.10: Percentage of Water Quality Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels  19

Table 2.11: General Weather Condition and Sea Condition during Impact Water Quality Monitoring  20

Table 2.12: Summary of SS Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide) 20

Table 2.13: Summary of SS Compliance Status (Mid-Flood Tide) 20

Table 2.14: Summary of Chromium Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide) 21

Table 2.15: Action and Limit Levels for Construction Waste  22

Table 2.16: Construction Waste Statistics  23

Table 2.17: Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey Station Details  23

Table 2.18: Derived Values of Action Level and Limit Level for Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring  24

Table 2.19: Summary of Number of CWD Sightings and Number of Dolphins for the Same Quarter Last Year, Previous Quarter, and Current Reporting Period  25

Table 2.20: Summary of Monthly and Running Quarterly STG and ANI of Chinese White Dolphin for the Same Quarter Last Year, Previous Quarter, and Current Reporting Period  27

Table 2.21: Summary of Photo Identification  31

Table 2.22: Summary of Survey Effort and CWD Group of Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey  32

Table 2.23: Landscape and Visual – Construction Phase Audit Summary  36

Table 2.24: Summary of the Number of Retained, Transplanted and To-be-transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period  37

Table 2.25: Summary of the Tree Status Updated in the Reporting Period  37

Table 2.26: Summary of the Transplanted Trees Updated in the Reporting Period  38

Table 2.27: Photos of the Existing Transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period  41

Table 3.1: Summary of Environmental Complaints  45

Table 3.2: Statistics for Valid Exceedances for the Environmental Monitoring  49

Table 3.3: Statistics for Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Prosecution  49

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figures

Figure 1.1

Locations of Key Construction Activities

Figure 2.1

Locations of Air and Noise Monitoring Stations and Chek Lap Kok Wind Station

Figure 2.2

Water Quality Monitoring Stations 

Figure 2.3

Vessel based Dolphin Monitoring Transects in Construction, Post-Construction, and Operation Phases

Figure 2.4

Land based Dolphin Monitoring Locations in Baseline and Construction Phases

Figure 2.5

Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins

Figure 2.6

 

Sighting Locations of Chinese White Dolphins with Different Group Sizes

Figure 2.7

Sighting Locations of Chinese White Dolphins Engaged in Different Behaviours

Figure 2.8

Sighting Locations of Mother-calf Pairs

Figure 2.9

 

Plots of First Sightings of All CWD Groups from Land-based Stations

Figure 2.10

Location for Passive Acoustic Monitoring

Figure 2.11

Locations of Newly Transplanted Trees during the Reporting Period

 

Appendices

Appendix A

Project Organisation Chart

Appendix B

Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS) for Construction Phase

Appendix C

Monitoring Results

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

Abbreviations

3RS

Three-Runway System

AAHK

Airport Authority Hong Kong

AECOM

AECOM Asia Company Limited

AFCD

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department

AIS

Automatic Information System

ANI

Encounter Rate of Number of Dolphins

APM

Automated People Mover

AW

Airport West

BHS

Baggage Handling System

CAP

Contamination Assessment Plan

CAR

Contamination Assessment Report

CWD

Chinese White Dolphin

DCM

Deep Cement Mixing

DEZ

Dolphin Exclusion Zone

DO

Dissolved Oxygen

EAR

Ecological Acoustic Recorder

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment

EM&A

Environmental Monitoring & Audit

EMIS

Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule

EP

Environmental Permit

EPD

Environmental Protection Department

ET

Environmental Team

FCZ

Fish Culture Zone

HKBCF

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities

HKIA

Hong Kong International Airport

HSF

High Speed Ferry

IEC

Independent Environmental Checker

LKC

Lung Kwu Chau

MTCC

Marine Traffic Control Centre

MMHK

Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited

MMWP

Marine Mammal Watching Plan

MSS

Maritime Surveillance System

MTRMP-CAV

Updated Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessel

NEL

Northeast Lantau

NWL

Northwest Lantau

PAM

Passive Acoustic Monitoring

SC

Sha Chau

SCZ

Speed Control Zone

SCLKCMP

Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park

SS

Suspended Solids

STG

Encounter Rate of Number of Dolphin Sightings

SWL

Southwest Lantau

The Manual

The Updated EM&A Manual

The Project

The Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport into a Three-Runway System

The SkyPier Plan

Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for High Speed Ferries of SkyPier

TSP

Total Suspended Particulates

WL

West Lantau

WMP

Waste Management Plan

 

Executive Summary

The “Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport into a Three-Runway System” (the Project) serves to meet the future air traffic demands at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). On 7 November 2014, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report (Register No.: AEIAR-185/2014) for the Project was approved and an Environmental Permit (EP) (Permit No.: EP-489/2014) was issued for the construction and operation of the Project.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) commissioned Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited (MMHK) to undertake the role of Environmental Team (ET) for carrying out the Environmental Monitoring & Audit (EM&A) works during the construction phase of the Project in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual (the Manual).

This is the 20th Construction Phase Quarterly EM&A Report for the Project which summarises the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 October 2020 to 31 December 2020.  

Key Activities in the Reporting Period

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period included reclamation works and land-based works. Works in the reclamation areas included deep cement mixing (DCM) works, marine filling, seawall and facilities construction, together with runway and associated works such as bored piling for approach lights. Land-based works on existing airport island involved mainly airfield works, foundation and substructure work for Terminal 2 expansion, modification and tunnel work for Automated People Mover (APM) and Baggage Handling System (BHS), and preparation work for utilities, with activities include site establishment, site office construction, road and drainage works, cable ducting, demolition, piling, and excavation works.

EM&A Activities Conducted in the Reporting Period

The EM&A programme was undertaken in accordance with the Manual of the Project. Summary of the monitoring activities during this reporting period is presented as below:

Monitoring Activities

Number of Sessions

1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) air quality monitoring

96

Noise monitoring

52

Water quality monitoring

39

Vessel line-transect surveys for Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) monitoring

6

Land-based theodolite tracking survey effort for CWD monitoring

6

Environmental auditing works, including weekly site inspections of construction works conducted by the ET and bi-weekly site inspections conducted by the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC), audit of SkyPier High Speed Ferries (HSF), audit of construction and associated vessels, and audit of implementation of Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP) and Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) Plan, were conducted in the reporting period. Based on information including ET’s observations, records of Maritime Surveillance System (MSS), and contractors’ site records, it is noted that environmental pollution control and mitigation measures were properly implemented and construction activities of the Project in the reporting period did not introduce adverse impacts to the sensitive receivers.

Snapshots of Good Environmental Practices in the Reporting Period

Installation of Energy Efficient Battery System

Use of CIC carbon assessment tool to monitor carbon emissions of on-site construction process

Obtained ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System Certification

Key examples of good site practices implemented in the Project are highlighted as below:

1.     Replacing traditional diesel generators with an energy efficient battery system for tower crane operation to improve site safety, minimize carbon emissions and noise levels.

2.     A carbon assessment tool established by Construction Industry Council (CIC) was deployed by a contractor to monitor carbon emissions of on-site construction process. Aided by this software application, contractor can measure the carbon footprint of their project and analyse their carbon emissions data in an effective manner.

3.     A 3RS contractor obtained ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System certification in Dececember 2020 to improve the energy use and enhance the energy consumption performance during the construction operation. 

Summary Findings of the EM&A Programme

The monitoring works for construction dust, construction noise, water quality, construction waste, landscape & visual, and CWD were conducted during the reporting period in accordance with the Manual.

Monitoring results of construction dust, construction noise, construction waste, and CWD monitoring did not trigger the corresponding Action and Limit Levels in the reporting period.

The water quality monitoring results for all parameters, except suspended solids (SS) and chromium, obtained during the reporting period were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels stipulated in the EM&A programme. Relevant investigation and follow-up actions will be conducted according to the EM&A programme if the corresponding Action and Limit Levels are triggered. For SS and chromium, some testing results triggered the relevant Action or Limit Level, and the corresponding investigations were conducted accordingly. The investigation findings concluded that the case was not related to the Project. To conclude, the construction activities in the reporting period did not introduce adverse impact to all water quality sensitive receivers.

The key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period is summarised as below:

 

 

Yes

No

Details

Analysis / Recommendation / Remedial Actions

Breach of Limit Level^

 

No breach of Limit Level was recorded.

Nil

Breach of Action Level^

 

No breach of Action Level was recorded.

Nil

Complaints Received

 

A complaint regarding solid waste and suspected open burning at 3RS was received on 6 Oct 2020

ET requested the relevant contractors for details related to the complaint. Site inspections and on-site investigation were also conducted by ET and IEC during which there was no related observation found on improper storage of solid waste or opening burning. All contractors were reminded to continue with the proper handling of general waste. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding oil spillage from barges at 3RS project area was received on 15 Oct 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractors for details related to the complaint. Regular site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections were also conducted by ET during which there was no observation indicating malpractice leading to oil spillage. All contractors were reminded to continue with their current proper practice in handling of oil and fuel to prevent spillage. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding illegal fuel delivery at 3RS project area was received on 20 Oct 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractors for details related to the complaint. Regular site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections were also conducted by ET during which there was no observation indicating malpractice leading to fuel spillage. ET also conducted random check on contractors’ fuel purchasing record of Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD) or equivalent were purchased by the contractors. All contractors were reminded to continue with their current proper practice in handling fuel and implementation on their spill response plans. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding dust issue at 3RS construction site area was received on 6 Nov 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractor to provide information related to the complaint. During regular site inspections, no dust issue was recorded at the alleged area. The Contractor has reviewed and updated the dust control management plan to enhance water spraying to strengthen their dust suppression measure. All contractors were reminded to properly and adequately implement dust suppression measures especially in the current dry season to prevent air pollution on site. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding illegal refuel delivery leading to water pollution at 3RS project area was received on 19 Nov 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractors to provide information related to the complaint. Regular site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections were also conducted by ET during which no occurrence regarding oil spillage onto sea surface was observed. ET also conducted a night-time inspection along the reclaimed land during which no oil spillage onto the sea surface from fuel transfer activities was observed. All contractors were reminded to continue with their current proper handling of oil and fuel on site and implementation on their spill response plans. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding illegal cement discharge and domestic waste disposal from marine vessel was received on 19 Nov 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractor to provide information related to the complaint. ET conducted day-time and night-time inspections on the concerned vessel after receiving the complaint and checked the site inspection records of the vessel around the alleged period, and no adverse observation was made. The Contractor had followed their contract-specific Spill Response Plan and provided spill kits on the vessel. To follow up, the relevant contractor was reminded to strictly follow the standard operation procedures for cement refilling works and the contract-specific Spill Response Plan. The case was considered closed.

A complaint regarding smoke and dust from a contractor was received on 27 Nov 2020.

ET requested the relevant contractors to provide information related to the complaint. During regular site inspections, dust generation from vehicular movements was observed in the alleged area on one occasion and was rectified by the Contractor afterwards. The Contractors implemented water spraying according to their dust control management plans. All contractors were reminded to properly and adequately implement dust suppression measures especially in the current dry season and to prevent air pollution on site. The case was considered closed.

Notification of any summons and status of prosecutions

 

No notification of summons or prosecution were received.

Nil

Changes that affect the EM&A

 

There was no change to the construction works that may affect the EM&A.  

Nil

Remarks:

^Only triggering of Action or Limit Level found related to Project works is counted as Breach of Action or Limit Level.

 

1        Introduction

1.1      Background

On 7 November 2014, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report (Register No.: AEIAR-185/2014) for the “Expansion of Hong Kong International Airport into a Three-Runway System” (the Project) was approved and an Environmental Permit (EP) (Permit No.: EP-489/2014) was issued for the construction and operation of the Project.

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) commissioned Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited (MMHK) to undertake the role of Environmental Team (ET) for carrying out the Environmental Monitoring & Audit (EM&A) works during the construction phase of the Project in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual (the Manual) submitted under EP Condition 3.1[1]. AECOM Asia Company Limited (AECOM) was employed by AAHK as the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) for the Project.

The Project covers the expansion of the existing airport into a three-runway system (3RS) with key project components comprising land formation of about 650 ha and all associated facilities and infrastructure including taxiways, aprons, aircraft stands, a passenger concourse, an expanded Terminal 2, all related airside and landside works and associated ancillary and supporting facilities. The submarine aviation fuel pipelines and submarine power cables also require diversion as part of the works.

Construction of the Project is to proceed in the general order of diversion of the submarine aviation fuel pipelines, diversion of the submarine power cables, land formation, and construction of infrastructure, followed by construction of superstructures.

The updated overall phasing programme of all construction works was presented in Appendix A of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 7 and the contract information was presented in Appendix A of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 58.

1.2      Scope of this Report

This is the 20th Construction Phase Quarterly EM&A Report for the Project which summarises the key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 October 2020 to 31 December 2020.

1.3      Project Organisation

The Project’s organisation structure is provided in Appendix A. Contact details of the key personnel have been updated and provided in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1: Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Project Manager’s Representative

(Airport Authority Hong Kong)

Principal Manager, Environmental Compliance, Sustainability

Lawrence Tsui

2183 2734

Environmental Team (ET)

(Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited)

Environmental Team Leader

Terence Kong

2828 5919

Deputy Environmental Team Leader

Heidi Yu

2828 5704

Deputy Environmental Team Leader

Daniel Sum

2585 8495

Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)

(AECOM Asia Company Limited)

Independent Environmental Checker

Jackel Law

3922 9376

 

Deputy Independent Environmental Checker

Roy Man

3922 9141

 

 

Reclamation Works:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3205 DCM (Package 5)

(Bachy Soletanche - Sambo Joint Venture)

Deputy Project Director

Min Park

9683 0765

Environmental Officer

Steven Chan

6288 0189

Contract 3206

Main Reclamation Works (ZHEC-CCCC-CDC Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Alan Mong

3763 1352 

 

Environmental Officer

Kwai Fung Wong

3763 1452

 

Airfield Works:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3301 North Runway Crossover Taxiway

(FJT-CHEC-ZHEC Joint Venture)

Deputy Project Director

Kin Hang Chung

9800 0048

Environmental Officer

Joe Wong

6182 0351

Contract 3302 Eastern Vehicular Tunnel Advance Works

(China Road and Bridge Corporation)

Project Manager

Dickey Yau

5699 4503

Environmental Officer

Dennis Ho

5645 0563

Contract 3303 Third Runway and Associated Works

(SAPR Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Andrew Keung

6277 6628

Environmental Officer

Max Chin

6447 5707

Contract 3307 Fire Training Facility

(Paul Y. Construction Company Limited)

Project Manager

Steven Meredith

6109 1813

Environmental Officer

Albert Chan

9700 1083

 

Third Runway Concourse:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3402 New Integrated Airport Centres

Enabling Works

(Wing Hing Construction Co., Ltd.)

Contract Manager

Michael Kan

9206 0550

Environmental Officer

Lisa He

5374 3418

Contract 3403 New Integrated Airport Centres Building and Civil Works

(Sun Fook Kong Construction Limited)

Project Manager

Alice Leung

9220 3162

Environmental Officer

Alpha Chia

9626 1114

Contract 3405 Third Runway Concourse Foundation and Substructure Works

(China Road and Bridge Corporation – Bachy Soletanche Group Limited – LT Sambo Co., Ltd. Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Francis Choi

9423 3469

Environmental Officer

Jacky Lai

9028 8975

 

Terminal 2 (T2) Expansion:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3503 Terminal 2 Foundation and Substructure Works

(Leighton – Chun Wo Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Eric Wu

3973 1718

Environmental Officer

Gomez Yuen

9098 7807

Contract 3508 Terminal 2 Expansion Works

(Gammon Engineering & Construction Company Limited)

Project Director

Richard Ellis

6201 5637

Environmental Officer

Gena Tsang

9511 2283

 

Automated People Mover (APM) and Baggage Handling System (BHS):

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3601 New Automated People Mover System (TRC Line)

(CRRC Puzhen Bombardier Transportation Systems Limited and CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co., Ltd. Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Hongdan Wei

158 6180 9450

Environmental Officer

 

Jasmine Tso

 

5968 6926

Contract 3602 Existing APM System Modification Works

(Niigata Transys Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Kunihiro Tatecho

9755 0351

Environmental Officer

Yolanda Gao

5399 3509

Contract 3603 3RS Baggage Handling System (VISH Consortium)

Project Manager

K C Ho

9272 9626

Environmental Officer

Eric Ha

9215 3432

 

Construction Support (Facilities):

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3721 Construction Support Infrastructure Works

(China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd.)

Site Agent

Thomas Lui

9011 5340

Environmental Officer

Xavier Lam

9493 2944

Contract 3722 Western Support Area – Construction Support Facilities

(Tapbo Construction Company Limited and Konwo Modular House Limited Joint Venture)

Deputy Project Director

Philip Kong

9049 3161

Environmental Officer

Sampson Lo

9752 9118

 

Airport Support Infrastructure:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3801 APM and BHS Tunnels on Existing Airport Island

(China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd.)

Project Manager

Tony Wong

9642 8672

Environmental Officer

Federick Wong

9842 2703

Contract 3802 APM and BHS Tunnels and Related Works

(Gammon Construction Limited)

Project Director

John Adams

6111 6989

Environmental Officer

Andy Leung

9489 0035

 

Construction Support (Services / Licences):

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3901A Concrete Batching Facility

(K. Wah Concrete Company Limited)

Project Manager

Benedict Wong

9553 2806

Environmental Officer

C P Fung

9874 2872

Contract 3901B Concrete Batching Facility

(Gammon Construction Limited)

Senior Project Manager

Gabriel Chan

2435 3260

Environmental Officer

Rex Wong

2695 6319

 

1.4      Contact information for the Project

The contact information for the Project is provided in Table 1.2. The public can contact us through the following channels if they have any queries and comments on the environmental monitoring data and project related information.

Table 1.2: Contact Information of the Project

Channels

Contact Information

Hotline

3908 0354

Email

env@3rsproject.com

Fax

3747 6050

Postal Address

Airport Authority Hong Kong

HKIA Tower

1 Sky Plaza Road

Hong Kong International Airport

Lantau

Hong Kong

Attn: Environmental Team Leader Mr Terence Kong

c/o Mr Lawrence Tsui (TRD)

1.5      Summary of Construction Works

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period included reclamation works and land-based works. Works in the reclamation areas included DCM works, marine filling, seawall and facilities construction, together with runway and associated works such as bored piling for approach lights. Land-based works on existing airport island involved mainly airfield works, foundation and substructure work for Terminal 2 expansion, modification and tunnel work for APM and BHS systems, and preparation work for utilities, with activities include site establishment, site office construction, road and drainage works, cable ducting, demolition of existing facilities, piling, and excavation works.

The locations of the key construction activities are presented in Figure 1.1.

1.6      Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

The status for all environmental aspects is presented in Table 1.3. The EM&A requirements remained unchanged during the reporting period.

Table 1.3: Summary of Status for All Environmental Aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual

Parameters

EM&A Requirements

Status

Air Quality

 

 

Baseline Monitoring

At least 14 consecutive days before commencement of construction work

The baseline air quality monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.

Impact Monitoring

At least 3 times every 6 days

On-going

Noise

 

 

Baseline Monitoring

Daily for a period of at least two weeks prior to the commencement of construction works

The baseline noise monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.

Impact Monitoring

Weekly

On-going

Water Quality

 

 

General Baseline Water Quality Monitoring for reclamation, water jetting and field joint works

Three days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, for at least four weeks prior to the commencement of marine works.

The baseline water quality monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.

General Impact Water Quality Monitoring for reclamation, water jetting and field joint works

Three days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides.

On-going

Initial Intensive Deep Cement Mixing (DCM) Water Quality Monitoring

At least four weeks

The Initial Intensive DCM Monitoring Report was submitted and approved by EPD in accordance with the Detailed Plan on DCM.

Regular DCM Water Quality Monitoring

Three times per week until completion of DCM works.

On-going

Sewerage and Sewage Treatment

Methodology for carrying out annual sewage flow monitoring for concerned gravity sewer

Methodology to be prepared and submitted to EPD at least one year before commencement of the operation of 3RS.

To be prepared and submitted to EPD

Details of the routine H2S monitoring system for the sewerage system of 3RS

Details to be prepared and submitted to EPD at least one year before commencement of the operation of 3RS.

To be prepared and submitted to EPD

Waste Management

 

 

Waste Monitoring

At least weekly

On-going

Land Contamination

 

 

Supplementary Contamination Assessment Plan (CAP)

At least 3 months before commencement of any soil remediation works.

The Supplementary CAP was submitted and approved by EPD pursuant to EP condition 2.20.

Contamination Assessment Report (CAR)

CAR to be submitted for golf course

The CAR for Golf Course was submitted to EPD.

CAR to be submitted for Terminal 2 Emergency Power Supply Systems

 

The CARs for Terminal 2 Emergency Power Supply System Nos.1 (Volumes 1 and 2), 2, 3, 4 and 5 were submitted to EPD.

Terrestrial Ecology

 

 

Pre-construction Egretry Survey Plan

Once per month in the breeding season between April and July, prior to the commencement of HDD drilling works.

The Egretry Survey Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.14.

Ecological Monitoring

Monthly monitoring during the HDD construction works period from August to March.

The terrestrial ecological monitoring at Sheung Sha Chau was completed in January 2019.

Marine Ecology

 

 

Pre-Construction Phase Coral Dive Survey

Prior to marine construction works

The Coral Translocation Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.12.

Coral Translocation

-

The coral translocation was completed on 5 January 2017.

Post-translocation Monitoring

As per an enhanced monitoring programme based on the Coral Translocation Plan

The post-translocation monitoring programme according to the Coral Translocation Plan was completed in April 2018.

Chinese White Dolphins (CWD)

 

Baseline Monitoring

6 months of baseline surveys before the commencement of land formation related construction works.

Vessel line transect surveys: Two full surveys per month;

Land-based theodolite tracking surveys: Two days per month at the Sha Chau station and two days per month at the Lung Kwu Chau station; and

Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM): For the whole duration of baseline period.

Baseline CWD results were reported in the CWD Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD in accordance with EP Condition 3.4.

Impact Monitoring

Vessel line transect surveys: Two full surveys per month;

Land-based theodolite tracking surveys: One day per month at the Sha Chau station and one day per month at the Lung Kwu Chau station; and

PAM: For the whole duration for land formation related construction works.

On-going

Landscape and Visual

 

 

Landscape and Visual Plan

At least 3 months before the commencement of construction works on the formed land of the Project.

The Landscape & Visual Plan was submitted to EPD under EP Condition 2.18

Baseline Monitoring

One-off survey within the Project site boundary prior to commencement of any construction works

The baseline landscape & visual monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.

Impact Monitoring

Weekly

On-going

Environmental Auditing

 

Regular site inspection

Weekly

On-going

Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP) implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) Plan implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

SkyPier High Speed Ferries (HSF) implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Construction and Associated Vessels implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Complaint Hotline and Email Channel

Construction phase

On-going

Environmental Log Book

Construction phase

On-going

Taking into account the construction works in the reporting period, impact monitoring of air quality, noise, water quality, waste management, landscape & visual, and CWD were carried out in the reporting period.

The EM&A programme also involved weekly site inspections and related auditing conducted by ET for the checking of implementation of required environmental mitigation measures recommended in the approved EIA Report. To promote the environmental awareness and enhance the environmental performance of the contractors, environmental trainings and regular environmental management meetings were conducted during the reporting period which are summarised as below:

   Four skipper trainings provided by ET;

   One dolphin observer training session provided by ET;

   Two environmental briefings on EP and EM&A requirements of the 3RS provided by ET; and

   Fifty-two environmental management meetings for EM&A review with works contracts.

The EM&A programme has been following the recommendations presented in the approved EIA Report and the Manual. A summary of implementation status of the environmental mitigation measures for the construction phase of the Project during the reporting period is provided in Appendix B.

 

2              Environmental Monitoring and Auditing

2.1      Air Quality Monitoring

Impact 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) monitoring was conducted three times every six days at two representative monitoring stations during the reporting period. The locations of monitoring stations are described in Table 2.1 and presented in Figure 2.1.

2.1.1      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels of the air quality monitoring stipulated in the EM&A programme for triggering the relevant investigation and follow-up procedures under the programme are provided in Table 2.1 for reference.

Table 2.1: Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Location

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

AR1A

Man Tung Road Park

306

500

AR2

Village House at Tin Sum

298

2.1.2      Summary of Monitoring Results

The air quality monitoring results in the reporting period are summarised in Table 2.2 and the graphical plot is presented in Appendix C.

Table 2.2: Percentage of Air Quality Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels

 

AR1A

AR2

Oct 2020

100%

100%

Nov 2020

100%

100%

Dec 2020

100%

100%

Overall

100%

100%

Note: The percentages are calculated by dividing the number of monitoring results within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels by the total number of monitoring results.

All monitoring results were within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels at all monitoring stations in the reporting period.

General meteorological conditions in the last month of the previous quarter and this reporting period were recorded and summarised in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3: General Meteorological Condition during Impact Air Quality Monitoring

 

Weather

Dominant Wind Direction

Sep 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Southwest

Oct 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Northeast

Nov 2020

Cloudy

Northeast

Dec 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Northeast

2.1.3      Conclusion

No dust emission source was observed at the monitoring stations during the monitoring sessions. As the sensitive receivers were far away from the construction activities, with the implementation of dust control measures, there was no adverse impact at the sensitive receivers attributable to the works of the Project.

2.2      Noise Monitoring

Impact noise monitoring was conducted at four representative monitoring stations once per week during 0700 and 1900 in the reporting period. The locations of monitoring stations are described in Table 2.4 and presented in Figure 2.1.

2.2.1      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels of the noise monitoring stipulated in the EM&A programme for triggering the relevant investigation and follow-up procedures under the programme are provided in Table 2.4 for reference.

Table 2.4: Impact Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Location

Action Level

Limit Level

NM1A

Man Tung Road Park

When one documented complaint is received from any one of the sensitive receivers

75 dB(A)

NM4

Ching Chung Hau Po Woon Primary School

65dB(A) / 70 dB(A) (i)

NM5

Village House in Tin Sum

75 dB(A)

NM6

House No. 1, Sha Lo Wan

75 dB(A)

Note:

 (i) The Limit Level for NM4 is reduced to 70dB(A) for being an educational institution. During school examination period, the Limit Level is further reduced to 65dB(A).

2.2.2      Summary of Monitoring Results

The noise monitoring results in the reporting period are summarised in Table 2.5 and the graphical plot is presented in Appendix C.

Table 2.5: Percentage of Noise Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels

 

NM1A

NM4

NM5

NM6

Oct 2020

100%

100%

100%

100%

Nov 2020

100%

100%

100%

100%

Dec 2020

100%

100%

100%

100%

Overall

100%

100%

100%

100%

Note: The percentages are calculated by dividing the number of monitoring results within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels by the total number of monitoring results.

No complaints were received from any sensitive receiver that triggered the Action Level. All monitoring results were also within the corresponding Limit Levels at all monitoring stations in the reporting period.

General meteorological conditions in the last month of the previous quarter and this reporting period were recorded and summarised in Table 2.6.

Table 2.6: General Meteorological Condition during Impact Noise Monitoring

 

Weather

Sep 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Oct 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Nov 2020

Cloudy

Dec 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

2.2.3      Conclusion

Major sources of noise dominating the monitoring stations observed during the construction noise impact monitoring were traffic noise near NM1A and aircraft noise near NM6. As the sensitive receivers were far away from the construction activities, with the implementation of noise control measures, there was no adverse impact at the sensitive receivers attributable to the works of the Project.

2.3      Water Quality Monitoring

During the reporting period, water quality monitoring was conducted three days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, at a total of 23 water quality monitoring stations, comprising 12 impact (IM) stations, 8 sensitive receiver (SR) stations, and 3 control (C) stations in the vicinity of the water quality sensitive receivers around the existing airport island in accordance with the Manual. The purpose of water quality monitoring at the IM stations is to promptly capture any potential water quality impacts from the Project before the impacts could become apparent at sensitive receivers (represented by the SR stations). Table 2.7 describes the details of the monitoring stations. Figure 2.2 shows the locations of the monitoring stations.

Due to the completion of all marine-based DCM works within December 2020, regular DCM monitoring was proposed to be ceased at all monitoring stations starting within January 2021 and would be resumed if there are marine-based DCM works in the coming future.

Table 2.7: Monitoring Locations and Parameters for Impact Water Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Station

Description

Coordinates

Easting                                 Northing

Parameters

 

 

C1

Control Station

804247

815620

General Parameters

DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS

 

DCM Parameters

Total Alkalinity, Heavy Metals(2)

C2

Control Station

806945

825682

C3(3)

Control Station

817803

822109

IM1

Impact Station

807132

817949

IM2

Impact Station

806166

818163

IM3

Impact Station

805594

818784

IM4

Impact Station

804607

819725

IM5

Impact Station

804867

820735

IM6

Impact Station

805828

821060

IM7

Impact Station

806835

821349

IM8

Impact Station

808140

821830

IM9

Impact Station

808811

822094

IM10

Impact Station

809794

822385

IM11

Impact Station

811460

822057

IM12

Impact Station

812046

821459

SR1A(1)

Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF) Seawater Intake for cooling

812660

 

819977

General Parameters

DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS

SR2(3)

Planned marine park / hard corals at The Brothers / Tai Mo To

814166

821463

General Parameters

DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS

 

DCM Parameters

Total Alkalinity, Heavy Metals(2)(4)

SR3

Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park / fishing and spawning grounds in North Lantau

807571

822147

General Parameters

DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS

 

SR4A

Sha Lo Wan

807810

817189

SR5A

San Tau Beach SSSI

810696

816593

SR6A(5)

Tai Ho Bay, Near Tai Ho Stream SSSI

814739

817963

SR7

Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone (FCZ)

823742

823636

SR8(6)

Seawater Intake for cooling at Hong Kong International Airport (East)

811623

820390

 

Notes:

(1)    With the operation of HKBCF, water quality monitoring at SR1A station was commenced on 25 October 2018.

(2)    Details of selection criteria for the two heavy metals for regular DCM monitoring refer to the Detailed Plan on Deep Cement Mixing available on the dedicated 3RS website (http://env.threerunwaysystem.com/en/ep-submissions.html).  DCM specific water quality monitoring parameters (total alkalinity and heavy metals) were only conducted at C1 to C3, SR2, and IM1 to IM12.

(3)    According to the Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Report, C3 station is not adequately representative as a control station of impact/ SR stations during the flood tide. The control reference has been changed from C3 to SR2 from 1 September 2016 onwards.

(4)    Total alkalinity and heavy metals results are collected at SR2 as a control station for regular DCM monitoring.

(5)    As the access to SR6 was obstructed by the construction activities and temporary structures for Tung Chung New Town Extension, the monitoring location has been relocated to SR6A starting from 8 August 2019.

(6)    The monitoring location for SR8 is subject to further changes due to silt curtain arrangements and the progressive relocation of this seawater intake.

2.3.1      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels for general water quality monitoring and regular DCM monitoring stipulated in the EM&A programme for triggering the relevant investigation and follow-up procedures under the programme are presented in Table 2.8. The control and IM stations during flood tide and ebb tide for general water quality monitoring and regular DCM monitoring are presented in Table 2.9.

Table 2.8: Action and Limit Levels for General Water Quality Monitoring and Regular DCM Monitoring

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action and Limit Levels for general water quality monitoring and regular DCM monitoring

(excluding SR1A & SR8)

DO in mg/l

(Surface, Middle & Bottom)

Surface and Middle

4.5 mg/l

Surface and Middle

4.1 mg/l

5 mg/l for Fish Culture Zone (SR7) only

Bottom

3.4 mg/l

Bottom

2.7 mg/l

SS in mg/l

23

or 120% of upstream control station at the same tide of the same day, whichever is higher

37

or 130% of upstream control station at the same tide of the same day, whichever is higher

Turbidity in NTU

22.6

36.1

Total Alkalinity in ppm

95

99

Representative Heavy Metals for regular DCM monitoring

(Chromium)(6)

0.2

0.2

Representative Heavy Metals for regular DCM monitoring

(Nickel) (6)

3.2

 

3.6

 

Action and Limit Levels SR1A

 

 

 

SS (mg/l)

33

42

Action and Limit Levels SR8

 

 

 

 

SS (mg/l)

52

 

60

 

Notes:

1. For DO measurement, Action or Limit Level is triggered when monitoring result is lower than the limits.

2. For parameters other than DO, Action or Limit Level of water quality results is triggered when monitoring results is higher than the limits.

3. Depth-averaged results are used unless specified otherwise.

4. Details of selection criteria for the two heavy metals for regular DCM monitoring refer to the Detailed Plan on Deep Cement Mixing available on the dedicated 3RS website http://env.threerunwaysystem.com/en/ep-submissions.html)

5. The Action and Limit Levels for the two representative heavy metals chosen will be the same as that for the intensive DCM monitoring.

6. Due to the completion of all marine-based DCM works within December 2020, regular DCM monitoring was proposed to be ceased at all monitoring stations starting within January 2021 and would be resumed if there are marine-based DCM works in the coming future. 

Table 2.9: The Control and Impact Stations during Flood Tide and Ebb Tide for General Water Quality Monitoring and Regular DCM Monitoring

 

Control Station

Impact Stations

Flood Tide

 

C1

IM1, IM2, IM3, IM4, IM5, IM6, IM7, IM8, SR3

SR21

IM7, IM8, IM9, IM10, IM11, IM12, SR1A, SR3, SR4A, SR5A, SR6A, SR8

Ebb Tide

 

C1

SR4A, SR5A, SR6A

C2

IM1, IM2, IM3, IM4, IM5, IM6, IM7, IM8, IM9, IM10, IM11, IM12, SR1A, SR2, SR3, SR7, SR8

Note:

1. As per findings of Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Report, the control reference has been changed from C3 to SR2 from 1 Sep 2016 onwards.

2.3.2      Summary of Monitoring Results

The summary or results within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels in the reporting period are presented in Table 2.10. The weather and sea conditions in the last month of the previous quarter and this reporting period were recorded and summarised in Table 2.11.

Table 2.10: Percentage of Water Quality Monitoring Results within Action and Limit Levels

 

General Water Quality Monitoring

Regular DCM Monitoring

DO

(Surface and Middle)

DO

(Bottom)

SS

Turbidity

Alkalinity

Chromium

Nickel

Oct 2020

100%

(437/437)

100%

(437/437)

99.8%

(486/487)

100%

(437/437)

100%

(300/300)

100%

(300/300)

100%

(300/300)

Nov 2020

100%

(420/420)

100%

(420/420)

100%

(468/468)

100%

(420/420)

100%

(288/288)

100%

(288/288)

100%

(288/288)

Dec 2020

100%

 (490/490)

100%

 (490/490)

96.3%

(526/546)

100%

(490/490)

100%

(336/336)

99.7%

(335/336)

100%

(336/336)

Overall

100%

100%

98.6%

100%

100%

99.9%

100%

Note: The percentages are calculated by dividing the number of depth-averaged results complying with their corresponding Action and Limit Levels by the total number of depth-averaged results.

Table 2.11: General Weather Condition and Sea Condition during Impact Water Quality Monitoring

 

Weather

Sea Condition

Sep 2020

Sunny to Rainy

Calm to Rough

Oct 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Calm to Rough

Nov 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Calm to Rough

Dec 2020

Sunny to Cloudy

Calm to Rough

The monitoring results for all parameters, except SS and chromium, obtained during the reporting period were within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels stipulated in the EM&A programme. Relevant investigation and follow-up actions will be conducted according to the EM&A programme if the corresponding Action and Limit Levels are triggered.

For SS and chromium, some of the testing results triggered the corresponding Action or Limit Levels in the reporting period, and investigations were conducted accordingly. Summaries of results triggering Action or Limit Level for SS and chromium are presented Table 2.12 to Table 2.14.

Details of the investigation findings were presented in Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report Nos. 58 and 60, which concluded that all results triggering the Action or Limit Level were not related to the Project.

Table 2.12: Summary of SS Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR1A

SR2

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6A

SR7

SR8

15/12/2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17/12/2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D

 

 

19/12/2020

 

D

D

D

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. of result triggering Action or Limit Level

0

1

1

1

2

2

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

Table 2.13: Summary of SS Compliance Status (Mid-Flood Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR1A

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6A

SR7

SR8

15/10/2020

 

 

 

 

D

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17/12/2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19/12/2020

 

 

 

 

D

D

 

 

D

D

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. of result triggering Action or Limit Level

0

1

1

0

2

1

0

0

1

2

2

2

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Table 2.14: Summary of Chromium Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

22/12/2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No. of result triggering Action or Limit Level

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

 

Note: The monitoring results compiled with their corresponding Action or Limit Levels are presented in Appendix C.

 

Legend:

 

Result within corresponding Action and Limit Levels

 

Result triggered the Action Level at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

D

Result triggered the Action Level at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

D

Result triggered the Limit Level at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

 

Upstream station with respect to the Project during the respective tide based on dominant tidal flow

 

Downstream station with respect to the Project during the respective tide based on dominant tidal flow

2.3.3      Conclusion

In the reporting period, it is noted that most monitoring results were within their corresponding Action and Limit Levels, while only a minor number of results triggered their corresponding Action or Limit Level, and investigations were conducted accordingly. Based on the findings presented in Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report Nos. 58 and 60, all cases that triggered the corresponding Action or Limit Level were not related to the Project. Hence, the Project did not introduce adverse impact to all water quality sensitive receivers. All required actions under the Event and Action Plan were followed.

Nevertheless, the non-project related triggers were attended to and initiated corresponding action and measures. As part of the EM&A programme, the construction methods and mitigation measures for water quality will continue to be monitored and opportunities for further enhancement will continue to be explored and implemented where possible, to strive for better protection of water quality and the marine environment.

In the meantime, the contractors were reminded to implement and maintain all mitigation measures during weekly site inspections and regular environmental management meetings. These include maintaining mitigation measures properly for reclamation works including DCM works, marine filling, seawall construction, and bored piling for approach lights as recommended in the Manual.

2.4      Waste Monitoring

In accordance with the Manual, waste generated from construction activities was audited once per week to determine if wastes were being managed in accordance with the Waste Management Plan (WMP) prepared for the Project, contract-specific WMP, and any statutory and contractual requirements. All aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, transportation, and disposal were assessed during the audits.

2.4.1      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels of the construction waste are provided in Table 2.15.

Table 2.15: Action and Limit Levels for Construction Waste

Monitoring Stations

Action Level

Limit Level

Construction Area

When one valid documented complaint is received

Non-compliance of the WMP, contract-specific WMPs, any statutory and contractual requirements

2.4.2      Summary of Monitoring Results

Weekly monitoring of the Project construction works was carried out by the ET in the reporting period to check and monitor the implementation of proper waste management practices.

Recommendations made by the ET included provision and maintenance of proper chemical waste storage area, as well as handling, segregation, and regular disposal of general refuse. The contractors had taken actions to implement the recommended measures. Waste management audits were carried out by ET according to the requirement of the Waste Management Plan, Updated EM&A Manual and the implementation schedule of the waste management mitigation measures in Appendix B.

Based on updated contractors’ information, summary of construction waste generated in the reporting period is presented in Table 2.16. Proactive measures have been undertaken during the re-configuration of T2 building.  The contractor has established the recycling strategy for C&D materials with proper planning and design to maximize recycling and reuse.  Dedicated recyclers were employed for different kinds of recyclable materials by the contractor, and ET and IEC have carried out site visits to recyclers’ facilities to review recycling process.  Recycling materials before leaving the site are weighted by a weight bridge and monitored by CCTV system. Dedicated areas for sorting of materials are established on site. Recyclable materials such as steel, reinforcement bar, structural steel, aluminium, copper, other metals and glass are sorted on-site and transported off-site for recycling. ET and IEC have carried out site audits regularly and reviewed the trip ticket system.  

Table 2.16: Construction Waste Statistics

 

C&D(1) Material Stockpiled for Reuse or Recycle

(m3)

C&D Material Reused in the Project (m3)

C&D Material Reused in other Projects (m3)

C&D Material Transferred to Public Fill(3)

(m3)

Chemical Waste

(kg)

Chemical Waste

(l)

General Refuse (tonne)

Oct 2020(2)

7,679

121,985

1,724

10,267

60

1,800

2,242

Nov 2020(2)

7,611

100,368

31

30,995

1,297

3,600

1,545

Dec 2020(2)

20,497

52,073

4,879

4,027

240

5,980

2,223

Total

35,787

274,426

6,634

45,289

1,597

11,380

6,010

Notes:

1.      C&D refers to Construction and Demolition.

2.      Paper, metals and/or plastics were recycled in the reporting period.

3.      C&D materials not suitable for reuse on-site, including asphalt waste and sediment slurry, were transferred to public fill during the reporting period.

There were no complaints, non-compliance of the WMP, contract-specific WMPs, statutory and contractual requirements that triggered Action and Limit Levels in the reporting period.

2.4.3           Marine Sediment Management

Marine sediment is managed according to the EIA Report, Updated EM&A Manual and Waste Management Plan of the Project. The sampling process, storage conditions of the excavated marine sediment, treatment process, final backfilling location as well as associated records were inspected and checked by ET and verified by IEC to ensure they were in compliance with the requirements as stipulated in the Waste Management Plan.

Sampling works for marine sediment generated from the reclaimed land area was on-going during the reporting period. The details of the marine sediment sampling, treatment and backfilling will be reported in the subsequent EM&A Reports upon completion.

2.5      Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

CWD monitoring was conducted by vessel line transect survey at a frequency of two full surveys per month, supplemented by land-based theodolite tracking survey and PAM. The frequency of the land-based theodolite tracking survey during the construction phase was one day per month at both Sha Chau (SC) and Lung Kwu Chau (LKC) stations, as stipulated in the Manual. The vessel survey transects followed the transect lines proposed in the Manual and are consistent with those used in the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) long-term CWD monitoring programme. The transect locations of CWD monitoring by vessel line transect survey conducted from October to December 2020 are shown in Figure 2.3, whilst the land-based theodolite tracking survey stations are described in Table 2.17 and depicted in Figure 2.4. The location of the PAM device is shown in Figure 2.10.

Table 2.17: Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey Station Details

Stations

Location

Geographical Coordinates

Station Height (m)

Approximate Tracking Distance (km)

D

Sha Chau (SC)

22° 20’ 43.5” N

113° 53’ 24.66” E

45.66

2

E

Lung Kwu Chau (LKC)

22° 22’ 44.83” N

113° 53’ 0.2” E

70.40

3

2.5.1           Action and Limit Levels

The Action Level and Limit Level for CWD monitoring were formulated by an action response approach using the running quarterly dolphin encounter rates (STG and ANI) derived from baseline monitoring data, as presented in the CWD Baseline Monitoring Report. The derived values of Action and Limit Levels for CWD monitoring are shown in Table 2.18.

Table 2.18: Derived Values of Action Level and Limit Level for Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

 

NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL as a Whole

Action Level

Running quarterly STG < 1.86 & ANI < 9.35

Limit Level

Two consecutive running quarterly (3-month) STG < 1.86 & ANI < 9.35

2.5.2      Summary of Monitoring Results

2.5.2.1            Vessel Line Transect Survey

Survey Effort

During the October to December 2020 reporting period, a total of six sets of vessel line transect survey covering all transects in Northeast Lantau (NEL), Northwest Lantau (NWL), Airport West (AW), West Lantau (WL) and Southwest Lantau (SWL) survey areas were conducted at a frequency of twice per month, in each survey area.

A total of around 1,350 km of survey effort was collected from these surveys, with around 85.9% of the total survey effort being conducted under favourable weather condition (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility). Details of the survey effort data are presented in Appendix C.

CWD Sighting

From October to December 2020, there were a total of 45 sightings of CWDs, with 137 dolphins sighted (Table 2.19). Amongst these sightings, 43 sightings with 135 dolphins were recorded during on-effort searches under favourable weather condition.

When breaking down the sightings by survey areas, 2 sightings with 2 dolphins were recorded in NWL, 2 sightings with 4 dolphins were recorded on AW transects, 27 sightings with 88 dolphins were recorded in WL, while 14 sightings with 43 dolphins were recorded in SWL during the current reporting period. No CWD was sighted in NEL survey area.

Compared with the last quarter (i.e. July to September 2020), the total number of CWD sightings slightly increased by a few, but the total number of dolphins dropped by 22%. The drop in terms of number of dolphins was mainly attributed by the decline of the number of dolphins in WL by 29% during the reporting period.

Compared with the same quarter of last year (i.e. October to December 2019), there is an increase in terms of both the total number of CWD sightings and the total number of dolphins by 18% and 25% respectively, contributed by the increase in sightings and dolphins in WL and SWL survey areas. However, there is a significant decline in both the number of sightings and the number of dolphins in NWL by 78% and 89% respectively.

Table 2.19 below shows the comparison of the numbers of sightings and dolphins amongst the current reporting period, last quarter, and the same quarter of last year.

Table 2.19: Summary of Number of CWD Sightings and Number of Dolphins for the Same Quarter Last Year, Previous Quarter, and Current Reporting Period

 

Same Quarter of Last Year

Previous Reporting Period

Current Reporting Period

 

October to December 2019

July to September 2020

October to December 2020

NEL

0 (0)

0 (0)

0 (0)

NWL

9 (19)

1 (2)

2 (2)

AW

1 (7)

0 (0)

2 (4)

WL

21 (71)

24 (124)

27 (88)

SWL

7 (13)

17 (50)

14 (43)

Total

38 (110)

42 (176)

45 (137)

Note: Values in ( ) represent number of dolphins

The distribution of CWD sightings recorded from October to December 2020 is illustrated in Figure 2.5. In NWL including AW transects, all the CWD sightings were recorded at the southwestern part of the survey area with two sightings located west to the existing Hong Kong International Airport, while another two sightings located between Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road and the north Lantau coast near Sham Wat Wan. In WL, CWD sightings scattered amongst the survey area with the majority clustered near Peaked Hill and Yi O. In SWL, most of the dolphin sightings were recorded in the waters around Fan Lau and some sightings were scattered around the Soko Islands. No CWD sightings were recorded in NEL survey area. Details of the sighting data are presented in Appendix C.

Figure 2.5: Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins from October to December 2020


Remarks: (1) Please note that there are 45 pink circles on the map indicating the sighting locations of CWD. Some of them were very close to each other and therefore appear overlapped on this sighting distribution map. (2) Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.

Encounter Rate

The dolphin encounter rates for the number of on-effort dolphin sightings per 100 km survey effort (STG) and for the total on-effort number of dolphins per 100 km survey effort (ANI) in the whole survey area (i.e. NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL) for October, November and December 2020 are summarised in Table 2.20.

In this reporting period, both the running quarterly STG and ANI increased from October to December 2020. No Action Level for CWD monitoring was triggered during the reporting period. For the monthly ANI, however, there was a significant drop from 17.80 in October to 7.19 in December 2020.

Compared with the previous reporting period (i.e. July to September 2020), the running quarterly STG remained relatively steady while the running quarterly ANI became lower. While comparing with the same quarter of last year (i.e. October to December 2019), both the running quarterly STG and ANI increased, from 2.80 to 3.71 and from 8.18 to 11.64 respectively. Encounter rates for these periods are summarised in Table 2.20 and graphical presentation is provided in Appendix C.  

Table 2.20: Summary of Monthly and Running Quarterly STG and ANI of Chinese White Dolphin for the Same Quarter Last Year, Previous Quarter, and Current Reporting Period

 

Same Quarter of Last Year

Previous Reporting Period

Current Reporting Period

 

Oct 19

Nov 19

Dec 19

Jul 20

Aug 20

Sep 20

Oct 20

Nov 20

Dec 20

Monthly STG

3.33

2.50

2.56

6.84

1.90

1.18

3.89

3.30

3.99

Monthly ANI

12.00

5.46

6.98

28.62

7.59

4.48

17.80

10.37

7.19

Running Quarterly STG

3.91

3.42

2.80

4.88

4.81

3.23

2.24

2.73

3.71

Running Quarterly ANI

15.32

11.63

8.18

21.16

19.01

13.23

9.54

10.52

11.64

Note:    For detailed calculations of encounter rates STG and ANI for the current reporting period, please refer to the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report Nos. 58, 59 and 60.

Group Size

Between October and December 2020, the group size of CWD sightings ranged from 1 to 15 dolphins. The average group size of CWDs was 3.0 dolphins per group, which is smaller than that of the last quarter (4.2 dolphins per group). The average group size of CWDs in this reporting quarter is slightly larger than that of the same quarter of last year (2.9 dolphins per group).

In this reporting quarter, the number of CWD sightings with medium group size (i.e. 3-9 dolphins) was slightly higher than that with small group size (i.e. 1-2 dolphins). There was only one CWD sighting with large group size (i.e. 10 or more dolphins) recorded in this reporting period.

The majority of the medium sized dolphin groups were recorded over the entire WL survey area and also in SWL near Fan Lau. All sightings recorded at the southwestern part of NWL survey area and also around the Soko Islands in SWL were small sized groups. The only CWD sighting with large group size was recorded at Fan Lau in SWL survey area. Sighting locations of CWD groups with different group sizes are depicted in Figure 2.6.

Figure 2.6: Sighting Locations of Chinese White Dolphins with Different Group Sizes

Remarks: (1) Please note that there are 45 circles on the map indicating the sighting locations of CWD. Some of them were very close to each other and therefore appear overlapped on this sighting distribution map. (2) Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.

Activities and Association with Fishing Boats

From October to December 2020, four sightings of CWDs were recorded with feeding activities.  Amongst these sightings, one was observed in association with operating gillnetter in AW.

The number of sightings with feeding recorded in the current reporting period is lower than that in the previous reporting period (i.e. 10 sightings involved feeding activities between July and September 2020). The number of CWD sightings with feeding activities is the same as that in the same quarter of last year (i.e. 4 sightings between October and December 2019).

The sighting locations of CWDs engaged in different behaviour during the current reporting period are illustrated in Figure 2.7.

Figure 2.7: Sighting Locations of Chinese White Dolphins Engaged in Different Behaviours

Remarks: Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.


Mother-calf Pairs

From October to December 2020, seven sightings of CWDs were recorded with the presence of mother-and-unspotted calf or mother-and-unspotted juvenile pairs, which is fewer than that recorded in the previous reporting quarter (i.e. 11 sightings between July and September 2020). The number is higher than that recorded in the same quarter of last year (i.e. three sightings between October and December 2019). All these seven sightings were recorded in WL.

The locations of CWD sightings with the presence of mother-and-calf and/or mother-and-unspotted juvenile pairs are shown in Figure 2.8.

Figure 2.8: Sighting Locations of Mother-calf Pairs

Remarks: (1) Please note that there are seven circles on the map indicating the sighting locations of Mother-Calf pair. (2) Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.

Photo Identification

Between October and December 2020, a total number of 45 different CWD individuals were identified altogether for 81 times. Re-sighting information of CWD individuals provides an initial idea of their range use and apparent connection between different areas of Lantau waters. Amongst these 45 different CWD individuals, 21 animals (i.e. SLMM003, SLMM007, SLMM010, SLMM012, SLMM014, SLMM023, SLMM025, SLMM035, SLMM037, SLMM049, SLMM052, WLMM007, WLMM028, WLMM060, WLMM070, WLMM071, WLMM073, WLMM079, WLMM114, WLMM147 and WLMM150) were sighted for more than once.

Ten individuals including SLMM003, SLMM010, SLMM023, SLMM037, SLMM049, WLMM007, WLMM028, WLMM070, WLMM073 and WLMM114 were re-sighted in different survey areas during this reporting period. All cross-area movements were between WL and SWL survey areas except that by SLMM010, the most frequently re-sighted individual in this reporting quarter which has been encountered in NWL, WL and SWL survey areas altogether for six times. The number of CWD individuals re-sighted more than once and the number of CWD individuals showing cross-area movement in the current reporting period are both lower than those of the previous reporting quarter from July to September 2020 (25 and 11 individuals respectively).

A summary of photo identification works is presented in Table 2.21. Representative photos of the 45 identified individuals and figures depicting the sighting locations of the aforementioned 21 re-sighted individuals recorded in this reporting period are presented Appendix C.

Table 2.21: Summary of Photo Identification

Individual ID

Date of sighting

Sighting Group No.

Area

 

Individual
ID

Date of sighting

Sighting Group No.

Area

SLMM002

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM007

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

SLMM003

27-Oct-20

9

WL

 

 

27-Oct-20

6

WL

 

06-Nov-20

3

WL

 

 

06-Nov-20

5

WL

 

09-Dec-20

7

SWL

 

 

 

6

WL

 

10-Dec-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM008

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

SLMM007

27-Oct-20

6

WL

 

WLMM018

21-Oct-20

3

SWL

 

16-Nov-20

4

WL

 

WLMM028

27-Oct-20

7

WL

SLMM010

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

 

10-Dec-20

7

SWL

 

27-Oct-20

7

WL

 

WLMM029

10-Dec-20

7

SWL

 

06-Nov-20

6

WL

 

WLMM056

27-Oct-20

6

WL

 

17-Nov-20

1

NWL

 

WLMM060

27-Oct-20

1

WL

 

19-Nov-20

2

SWL

 

 

 

2

WL

 

10-Dec-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM063

16-Dec-20

1

AW

SLMM012

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM064

16-Dec-20

2

WL

 

19-Nov-20

2

SWL

 

WLMM065

19-Oct-20

1

WL

SLMM014

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM070

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

10-Dec-20

5

SWL

 

 

27-Oct-20

1

WL

SLMM022

27-Oct-20

7

WL

 

WLMM071

27-Oct-20

1

WL

SLMM023

21-Oct-20

3

SWL

 

 

 

2

WL

 

 

4

SWL

 

WLMM073

21-Oct-20

3

SWL

 

16-Nov-20

3

WL

 

 

 

4

SWL

SLMM025

21-Oct-20

3

SWL

 

 

16-Nov-20

5

WL

 

 

4

SWL

 

WLMM076

27-Oct-20

4

WL

SLMM031

21-Oct-20

2

SWL

 

WLMM079

27-Oct-20

9

WL

SLMM035

09-Dec-20

1

SWL

 

 

06-Nov-20

3

WL

 

 

5

SWL

 

 

16-Nov-20

3

WL

SLMM037

16-Nov-20

6

WL

 

WLMM080

16-Nov-20

1

AW

 

19-Nov-20

2

SWL

 

WLMM085

27-Oct-20

8

WL

 

09-Dec-20

5

SWL

 

WLMM107

06-Nov-20

1

WL

 

 

7

SWL

 

WLMM114

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

SLMM049

27-Oct-20

6

WL

 

 

06-Nov-20

3

WL

 

19-Nov-20

2

SWL

 

 

16-Nov-20

6

WL

SLMM050

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

WLMM131

27-Oct-20

4

WL

SLMM052

27-Oct-20

6

WL

 

WLMM135

06-Nov-20

1

WL

 

16-Nov-20

3

WL

 

WLMM147

27-Oct-20

9

WL

SLMM059

21-Oct-20

4

SWL

 

 

06-Nov-20

3

WL

SLMM064

06-Nov-20

1

WL

 

 

16-Nov-20

3

WL

SLMM073

16-Nov-20

4

WL

 

WLMM149

06-Nov-20

1

WL

 

 

 

 

 

WLMM150

27-Oct-20

7

WL

 

 

 

 

 

 

06-Nov-20

5

WL

 

 

 

 

 

WLMM158

27-Oct-20

3

WL

 

 

 

 

 

WLMM160

06-Nov-20

5

WL

 

 

 

 

 

WLMM163

06-Nov-20

5

WL

2.5.2.2            Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey

Survey Effort

Between October and December 2020, a total of six days of land-based theodolite tracking survey effort were completed, including three days on Lung Kwu Chau and three days on Sha Chau. In total, six CWD groups were tracked from the Lung Kwu Chau station while no CWD groups were tracked from the Sha Chau station, with an overall 0.17 CWD groups sighted per survey hour.

Information on survey effort and CWD groups sighted during land-based theodolite tracking surveys are presented in Table 2.22. Details on the survey effort and CWD groups tracked are presented in Appendix C. The first sighting locations of CWD groups tracked between October and December 2020 are shown in Figure 2.9.

Table 2.22: Summary of Survey Effort and CWD Group of Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey

Land-based Station

# of Survey Sessions

Survey Effort (hh:mm)

# CWD Groups Sighted

CWD Group Sighting per Survey Hour

October 2020

Lung Kwu Chau

1

06:00

1

0.17

Sha Chau

1

06:00

0

0

TOTAL

2

12:00

1

0.08

November 2020

Lung Kwu Chau

1

06:00

2

0.33

Sha Chau

1

06:00

0

0

TOTAL

2

12:00

2

0.17

December 2020

Lung Kwu Chau

1

06:00

3

0.5

Sha Chau

1

06:00

0

0

TOTAL

2

12:00

3

0.25

OVERALL

6

36:00

6

0.17

Figure 2.9:       Plots of First Sightings of All CWD Groups from Land-based Stations

Remark: Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.

2.5.2.3            Progress Update on PAM

An Ecological Acoustic Recorder (EAR) has been deployed and positioned to the south of Sha Chau Island inside the SCLKCMP (Figure 2.10) with 20% duty cycle, while PAM data from the EAR intends to supplement the detection of CWD presence in the south Sha Chau area that are not recorded visually by the land-based theodolite tracking survey and to coincide the theodolite data when there is sighting from the land-based station at Sha Chau. In this reporting period, the EAR has been retrieved on 22 October and 3 December 2020 for data collection and subsequently redeployed. The EAR will be deployed for about 4 weeks and retrieved in early January 2021 for annual data analysis, and replaced by F-POD/C-POD for deployment at the same monitoring location with effective from January 2021. As the period of data collection and analysis takes more than four months, PAM results could not be reported in quarterly intervals but report for supplementing the annual CWD monitoring analysis.

2.5.2.4            Site Audit for CWD-related Mitigation Measures

During the reporting period, silt curtains were in place by the contractors for marine filling works (similar to the previous reporting period), in which dolphin observers were deployed by each contractor in accordance with the Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP). Teams of at least two dolphin observers were deployed at 3 to 7 dolphin observation stations by the contractors for continuous monitoring of the DEZ by all contractors for DCM works, seawall construction and bored piling for approach lights in accordance with the DEZ Plan. Trainings for the proposed dolphin observers on the implementation of MMWP and DEZ monitoring were provided by the ET prior to the aforementioned works, with a cumulative total of 703 individuals being trained and the training records were kept by the ET. From the contractors’ MMWP observation records and DEZ monitoring records, no dolphin or other marine mammals were observed within or around the silt curtains or the DEZ in this reporting period. The contractors’ records were also audited by the ET during site inspection.

Audits of acoustic decoupling for construction vessels were carried out during weekly site inspection and summarised in Section 2.6. Summary of audits of SkyPier HSFs route diversion and speed control and construction vessel management are presented in Section 2.7 and Section 2.8 respectively.

2.6      Environmental Site Inspection

Site inspections of the construction works were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. Bi-weekly site inspections were also conducted by the IEC. Besides, ad-hoc site inspections were conducted by ET and IEC if environmental problems were identified, or subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint, or as part of the investigation work. These site inspections provided a direct means to reinforce the specified environmental protection requirements and pollution control measures in construction sites.

During site inspections, environmental situation, status of implementation of pollution control and mitigation measures were observed. Environmental documents and site records, including waste disposal record, maintenance record of environmental equipment, and relevant environmental permit and licences, were also checked on-site. Observations were recorded in the site inspection checklist and passed to the contractor together with the appropriate recommended mitigation measures where necessary in order to advise contractors on environmental improvement, awareness and on-site enhancement measures. The observations were made with reference to the following information during the site inspections:

·         The EIA and EM&A requirements;

·         Relevant environmental protection laws, guidelines, and practice notes;

·         The EP conditions and other submissions under the EP;

·         Monitoring results of EM&A programme;

·         Works progress and programme;

·         Proposal of individual works;

·         Contract specifications on environmental protection; and

·         Previous site inspection results.

Good site practices were implemented in the project to enhance environmental performance. Key examples are highlighted as below:

1.     Replacing traditional diesel generators with an energy efficient battery system for tower crane operation to improve site safety, minimize carbon emissions and noise levels.

2.     A carbon assessment tool established by Construction Industry Council (CIC) was deployed by a contractor to monitor carbon emissions of on-site construction process. Aided by this software application, contractor can measure the carbon footprint of their project and analyse their carbon emissions data in an effective manner.

3.     A 3RS contractor obtained ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System certification in December 2020 to improve the energy use and enhance the energy consumption performance during the construction operation. 

Installation of Energy Efficient Battery System

Use of CIC carbon assessment tool to monitor carbon emissions of on-site construction process

Obtained certification of ISO 50001:2018 Energy Management System Standard

Besides, advice were given when necessary to ensure the construction workforce were familiar with relevant procedures, and to maintain good environmental performance on site. Regular toolbox talks on environmental issues were organised for the construction workforce by the contractors to ensure understanding and proper implementation of environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures.

2.6.1           Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

Implementation of applicable landscape and visual mitigation measures (reference to the environmental protection measures CM1 – CM10 in Appendix B) is monitored regularly in accordance with the Manual. The implementation status of the environmental protection measures is summarised in Table 2.23. For trees which were managed under the Project during the reporting period, relevant measures have been implemented by Contracts 3302, 3503, 3602 and 3801. Contracts 3508 and 3802 would begin to undertake tree management measures subject to the handover of site area (Contract 3508: Q2 2021 (tentative); Contract 3802: to be confirmed). Those trees which were within the Project boundary yet to be taken care by existing 3RS Contractors during the reporting period were managed by AAHK. The total number of retained trees, transplanted trees and to-be-transplanted trees under the management of Project are summarized in Table 2.24.

The total number of retained trees of the Project as of December 2020 was 118. Compared to 147 retained trees reported in the previous reporting quarter, the change in number was due to the following reasons:

·         2 nos. of trees near Airport North Interchange and 1 no. of tree in Area 3801/13 were damaged due to adverse weather from typhoon Mangkhut in September 2018 and typhoon Higos in August 2020 respectively, and subsequently removed by the Contractor in Aug 2020 (-3 nos.);

·         Some of the Contractor’s initial tree survey areas which recently confirmed not to be works areas and therefore excluded from the Project. Trees located in those areas were removed from the retained tree list under the Project (-27 nos.); and

·         ET and Contractor’s recent on-site inspections confirmed that the status of 1 no. of tree near the Airport North Interchange should be retained tree (+1 no.).

Table 2.25 lists the affected tree ID together with the reasons for change of retained tree status of the Project. 

A total of six trees under Contractor 3503 (i.e. T812, T814, T815, T829, T830 and T831) were transplanted during the reporting quarter. Therefore, the cumulative total number of transplanted trees of the Project has been increased from 8 from previous reporting quarter to 14. The summary of transplanted trees is shown in Table 2.26. Photos of the transplanted trees are presented in Table 2.27 and the locations of newly transplanted trees during the reporting period are presented in Figure 2.11.

Table 2.23: Landscape and Visual – Construction Phase Audit Summary

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures during Construction

Implementation Status

Implementation Status

Relevant Contract(s) in the Reporting Period

CM1- The construction area and contractor’s temporary works areas shall be minimised to avoid impacts on adjacent landscape.

The implementation of mitigation measures were checked by ET during weekly site inspection and clarified by the Contractors during the monthly Environmental Management Meetings.  Implementation of the measures CM5, CM6 and CM7 by Contractors was observed.

3RS Project contracts

CM2 – Reduction of construction period to practical minimum.

CM3 – Phasing of the construction stage to reduce visual impacts during the construction phase.

CM4 – Construction traffic (land and sea) including construction plants, construction vessels and barges shall be kept to a practical minimum.

CM5 – Erection of decorative mesh screens or construction hoardings around works areas in visually unobtrusive colours.

CM6 – Avoidance of excessive height and bulk of site buildings and structures

CM7 – Control of night-time lighting by hooding all lights and through minimisation of night working periods

CM8 – All existing trees shall be carefully protected during construction.  Detailed Tree Protection Specification shall be provided in the Contract Specification. Under this specification, the Contractor shall be required to submit, for approval, a detailed working method statement for the protection of trees prior to undertaking any works adjacent to all retained trees, including trees in contractor’s works areas

Tree Protection Specifications have been provided in the relevant Contract Specifications respectively for implementation by the Contractors under the Project. 

 

The Contractors’ performance on the implementation of the trees maintenance and protection measures were observed and checked by the ET weekly during construction period.

3302, 3503, 3602, 3801

 

3508, 3802

(To be implemented)

CM9 – Trees unavoidably affected by the works shall be transplanted where practical.  A detailed Tree Transplanting Specification shall be provided in the Contract Specification, if applicable. Sufficient time for necessary tree root and crown preparation periods shall be allowed in the project programme

Tree Transplanting Specifications have been provided in the relevant Contract Specifications respectively for implementation by the Contractors under the Project where trees will unavoidably be affected by the construction works. 

 

The Contractors were required to submit Method Statements for tree transplanting prior to the transplanting works. Tree inspections were conducted by ET to check the tree transplanting works implemented by the Contractors on site.

 

The Contractors’ performance on the implementation of trees maintenance and protection measures on transplanted trees were observed and checked by the ET bi-monthly during the 12-month establishment period after the completion of each batch of transplanting works.

 

Long term management of the transplanted trees were currently monitored by ET annually.  

3503, 3801

 

3508, 3802

(To be implemented)

CM 10 – Land formation works shall be followed with advanced hydroseeding around taxiways and runways as soon as practical

To be implemented around taxiways and runways as soon as practicable.

To be implemented

Table 2.24: Summary of the Number of Retained, Transplanted and To-be-transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period

Existing

 

 

 

Contract

Retain (nos.)

Transplanted (nos.)

To-be-transplanted (nos.)

Establishment Period

Maintenance Period

3302

9

0

0

0

3503

19

9

0

0

3602

2

0

0

0

3801

88

0

5

0

Sub-total

118

9

5

0

Provisional

 

 

 

Contract

Retain (nos.)

Transplanted (nos.)

To-be-transplanted (nos.)

3508(1)

155

0

22

Sub-total

155

0

22

Grand Total

273

14

22

Note:

(1)    Actual tree number is subject to confirmation after initial tree survey is conducted by the Contractor.

Table 2.25: Summary of the Tree Status Updated in the Reporting Period

Tree ID(s)

Contract

 

Previous

Status (Sep 2020)

Current Status (Dec 2020)

Remarks

Impact to Retain Tree Number

CT1889, CT1890, CT1892, CT1893, CT1894, CT1895, CT1897, CT1898, CT1899, CT1900, CT1901, CT1902, CT1904, CT1905, CT1906, CT1907, CT1908, CT1909, CT1910, CT1911, CT1912, CT1913, CT1914, CT1917, CT1933, CT1934, CT1935

3801

Retain

Not within Project’s contract works area

27 nos. of trees were confirmed not located within Project’s contract works area.

– 27 nos.

CT1400, CT1466

3801

Retain

Removed

2 nos. trees were uprooted by typhoon Mangkhut in Sep 2018. As the health conditions were deteriorated and would cause adverse impacts to the retained trees in close vicinity, they were removed in late 2020.

 

 – 2 nos.

 

CT1863

3801

Retain

Removed

1 no. tree was removed due to damage by typhoon Higos in Aug 2020.

– 1 nos.

CT1407

3801

Fell

Retain

The status of one tree was updated to retain during site inspection in Dec 2020.

+ 1 nos.

 

 

 

 

 

Total 118 nos. updated to Dec 2020

 

Table 2.26: Summary of the Transplanted Trees Updated in the Reporting Period

Tree ID

Transplant Date

Management Stage

Management Agency

Remarks

CT276

3 May 2018

Establishment period

4 May 2018 – May 2019

Contract 3801

NA

Maintenance period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

CT1253

4 May 2018

Establishment period

5 May 2018 – May 2019

Contract 3801

Maintenance period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

T835

22 Jan 2020

Establishment period

23 Jan 2020 – Jan 2021

Contract 3503

NA

 

T836

13 Dec 2019

Establishment period

14 Dec 2020 – Jan 2021

Contract 3503

T838

22 Jan 2020

Establishment period

23 Jan 2020 – Jan 2021

Contract 3503

CT1194

4 May 2018

Establishment period

5 May 2018 – May 2019

Contract 3801

NA

Maintenance period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

Uprooted and collapsed due to Typhoon Higos on 18 August 2020. Tree removal was conducted as recommended by tree specialist of the contractor of Southern Landside Petrol Filing Station.

CT1794

3 May 2018

Establishment period

4 May 2018 – May 2019

Contract 3801

NA

Maintenance period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

AsiaWorld-Expo

The tree within the land parcel was acquired by the government for construction of emergency hospital to handle COVID19 pandemic at AsiaWorld-Expo. The tree was felled in late 2020.

CT1795

3 May 2018

Establishment period

4 May 2018 – May 2019

Contract 3801

NA

Maintenance period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

AsiaWorld-Expo

The tree within the land parcel was acquired by the government for construction of emergency hospital to handle COVID19 pandemic at AsiaWorld-Expo. The tree was felled in late 2020.

Newly Transplanted Trees during the Reporting Period

T812

21 Dec 2020

Establishment period

22 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

Original Location:

Airport South Interchange

 

Recipient Site:

Chun Wan Road Interchange (Scenic Road)

T814

20 Dec 2020

Establishment period

21 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

Original Location:

Airport South Interchange

 

Recipient Site:

Chek Lap Kok South Road (Scenic Road) Interchange

T815

15 Dec 2020

Establishment period

16 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

Original Location:

Airport South Interchange

 

Recipient Site:

Chun Wan Road Interchange (Scenic Road)

T829

18 Dec 2020

Establishment period

19 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

T830

14 Dec 2020

Establishment period

15 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

Original Location:

Airport South Interchange

 

Recipient Site:

Chun Yue Road Interchange

T831

19 Dec 2020

Establishment period

20 Dec 2020 – Dec 2021

Contract 3503

Original Location:

Airport South Interchange

 

Recipient Site:

Chun Wan Road Interchange (Scenic Road)


 

Table 2.27: Photos of the Existing Transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period

Under 12-month Establishment Period:

T835

T836

T838

Newly Transplanted Trees during the Reporting Period

T812

T814

T815

T829

T830

T831

 

Under 10-year Long-term Management:

CT276

CT1253

2.6.2           Land Contamination Assessment

The Supplementary CAP was submitted to EPD pursuant to EP Condition 2.20. The CARs for Golf Course and T2 Emergency Power Supply System Nos.1 (Volumes 1 and 2), 2, 3, and 5 and No. 4 were submitted to EPD in accordance with EP Condition 1.9 and the Supplementary CAP in which no land contamination issues were identified. EPD has issued no further comment for all the CARs and required ET to submit additional photos for sides and bottom of some of sampling points after the removal of pipelines to reaffirm no leakage from the pipelines concerned. Afterwards, the potential land contamination concern of two concerned systems will be closed.

A summary of implementation status of the environmental mitigation measures for the construction phase of the Project during the reporting period is provided in Appendix B.

2.7      Audit of SkyPier High Speed Ferries

The Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for High Speed Ferries of SkyPier (the SkyPier Plan) was submitted to the Advisory Council on the Environment for comment and subsequently submitted to and approved by EPD in November 2015 under EP Condition 2.10. The approved SkyPier Plan is available on the dedicated website of the Project. In the SkyPier Plan, AAHK has committed to implement the mitigation measure of requiring HSFs of SkyPier travelling between HKIA and Zhuhai / Macau to start diverting the route with associated speed control across the area, i.e. Speed Control Zone (SCZ), with high CWD abundance. The route diversion and speed restriction at the SCZ have been implemented since 28 December 2015.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all SkyPier HSF services have been suspended from 25 March 2020 until further notice. Two special ferry movements between HKIA SkyPier and Macau were arranged by the ferry operator and were audited in the reporting period. The summary of the SkyPier Plan monitoring result is presented in Graph 1. Besides, limited HSF services from other destination were also provided starting from 28 October 2020.

The daily movements of all SkyPier HSFs, including those not using the diverted route, in the reporting period ranged between 0 and 3, which fell within the maximum daily cap number of 125.

The average speeds of all HSFs travelling through the Speed Control Zone (SCZ) ranged from 10.8 to 11.0 knots. All HSFs travelled through the SCZ with average speed within 15 knots in compliance with the SkyPier Plan.

Graph 1: Summary of SkyPier High Speed Ferries Monitoring Results

In addition, the dolphin habitat index was reviewed based on AFCD latest marine mammals monitoring report findings and historical dolphin density records, and the grids for dolphin hotspot remain unchanged. AAHK will continue to implement the SkyPier HSF route diversion and speed restriction according to the approved SkyPier Plan.

2.8      Audit of Construction and Associated Vessels

On the implementation of the updated Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessels (MTRMP-CAV), the Maritime Surveillance System (MSS) automatically recorded deviation cases such as speeding, entering no entry zone, and not traveling through the designated gates. ET conducted bi-weekly audit of relevant information including AIS data, vessel tracks and other relevant records to ensure sufficient information were provided by the system and the contractors complied with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. The contactors submitted 3-month rolling vessel plans for construction vessel activities to AAHK in order to help maintain the number of construction vessels to a practicable minimum. The IEC also performed audit on the compliance of the requirements as part of the EM&A programme.

During the reporting period, deviations including speeding within the works area, entry from non-designated gates, and entering no-entry zones were identified. After investigation by the contractor’s Marine Traffic Control Centre (MTCC) representatives, all the concerned captains were reminded to comply with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. 

A total of 4 skipper training workshops were held by ET during the reporting period and 16 concerned captains of construction vessels associated with the 3RS contracts were trained to familiarise them with the predefined routes, general education on local cetaceans, guidelines for avoiding adverse water quality impact, the required environmental practices / measures while operating construction and associated vessels under the Project, and guidelines for operating vessels safely in the presence of CWDs. Another 10 skipper training workshops were held with 18 captains by contractors’ Environmental Officers and competency tests were conducted subsequently with the trained captains by ET.

2.9     Review of the Key Assumptions Adopted in the EIA Report

With reference to Appendix E of the Manual, it is noted that the key assumptions adopted in approved EIA report for the construction phase are still valid and no major changes are involved. The environmental mitigation measures recommended in the approved EIA Report remain applicable and shall be implemented in undertaking construction works for the Project.

 

 

3              Report on Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Prosecutions

3.1      Compliance with Other Statutory Environmental Requirements

During the reporting period, environmental related licenses and permits required for the construction activities were checked. No non-compliance with environmental statutory requirements was recorded.

3.2      Analysis and Interpretation of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Status of Prosecutions

3.2.1      Complaints

Seven environmental complaints were received in the reporting period. All environmental complaints were attended to and investigation was conducted by the ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan. The summary of the complaints and analysis is presented in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1: Summary of Environmental Complaints

Date of Complaint Received

Details

Analysis/ Remedial Actions

Status

6 Oct 2020

A complaint was received regarding solid waste and suspected open burning at the project area

Investigation was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. The ET identified the potential related 3RS contractors and requested them for information regarding the complaint. Based on information provided by the contractors, no open burning was conducted within their respective construction sites. Besides, general waste was observed properly handled on site and toilets were cleaned by the workers regularly. Before formally receiving the complaint on 6 October 2020, IEC had conducted an ad-hoc site inspection in the alleged area on 30 September 2020. ET had also conducted an on-site investigation with IEC and contractor representatives on 5 October 2020. In both inspections, no opening burning, white smoke, or poor hygiene caused by storage of solid waste on site was observed. The security guards at the western pier and Environmental Officers from the potential related contractors all reported no white smoke was observed at the alleged area on 30 September 2020. Furthermore, the ET checked the construction vessels of all potential related contractors and confirmed no open burning or maintenance works were carried out on the construction vessels on 30 September 2020. Nevertheless, the ET reminded all contractors to continue with the proper handling of general waste produced from the construction site including collection and disposal. ET and IEC would continue to check contractors’ records on the proper handling of waste collection and disposal.

Closed

15 Oct 2020

A complaint was received regarding oil spillage from barges at 3RS project area

Investigation was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. ET investigated the related work contractors of 3RS Project on the reclaimed land. Based on information provided by the contractors, no oil spillage incident from bunkering barge was recorded in September and early October 2020. During regular site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections conducted by ET in September and early October, no occurrence regarding oil spillage onto sea surface was observed. It was also observed that oil and fuel containers were properly stored at designated storage area and drip trays were provided. Besides, it was noted that the water quality monitoring results of the Project from 1 September 2020 to 10 October 2020 were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels at all monitoring stations. Nevertheless, the ET will continue to remind all contractors to continue with their current proper practice in handling of oil and fuel to prevent spillage.

Closed

20 Oct 2020

A complaint was received regarding illegal fuel delivery leading to water pollution, air pollution and impact to CWDs at 3RS project area

Investigation was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. The complainant mentioned that a barge pumping high sulphur diesel to oil drum and fuel tanker on the reclaimed land of 3RS construction site, which may cause air pollution. The complainant also mentioned that fuel spillage onto the sea surface was observed, which may cause impact to CWD. No further details of the case including date, time, location and name of barge could be provided. ET investigated the related work contractors of the Project on the reclaimed land and requested them for information regarding the case. Based on information provided by the contractors, no fuel spillage incident from bunkering barge was recorded in September and early October 2020. During the regular site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections conducted by ET in September and early October, no occurrence regarding fuel spillage onto sea surface was observed. It was also observed that oil and fuel containers were properly stored at designated storage area and drip trays were provided on site. No environmental malpractice leading to fuel spillage was observed. It was noted that 3RS water quality monitoring results from 1 September 2020 to 10 October 2020 were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels at all monitoring stations. Moreover, the ET conducted random check on the fuel purchasing records of the related work contracts and all of them had purchased Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD) or equivalent like EURO V. Nevertheless, the ET will continue to remind all contractors to continue with their current proper practice in handling fuel and implementation on their respective contract-specific spill response plans, including conducting regular spill drills and trainings. ET and IEC would continue to monitor 3RS water quality, air quality including the checking of contractors’ ULSD purchasing records and CWD monitoring results.

Closed

6 Nov 2020

A complaint was received regarding dust issue at 3RS construction site area

Investigation was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. The ET identified the related 3RS contractor and requested the Contractor to provide more information regarding the complaint. According to the information provided by the Contractor, ground improvement works and filling material transferring activities were carried out at the alleged area. The watering of vehicular accesses following the circuits as set out in the contractor’s dust control management plan had been arranged. Based on ET’s regular site inspections, no dust issue was recorded at the alleged area. During the joint ad-hoc inspection of ET and IEC in the morning of 4 November 2020, dust emission from the vehicular movements was observed and the Contractor was advised to provide dust suppression mitigation measures to prevent fugitive dust generation. The Contractor also updated the dust control management plan to expand the water spray coverage at the alleged area. ET further conducted on-site investigations and observed that the exposed reclaimed land area and construction materials at the alleged area were in dry conditions. ET reminded the Contractor again to strictly follow the relevant requirements to prevent fugitive dust generation. The Contractor followed up to provide water spraying at the alleged area according to updated dust control management plan. It was noted that 3RS water quality monitoring results from 1 October 2020 to 8 November 2020 were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels at all monitoring stations, except one case of SS triggered the corresponding Action Level at IM5 on 15 October 2020. Based on the investigation on the exceedance, the case was considered not due to the Project. Nevertheless, ET reminded the Contractor to strengthen their dust suppression measures and requested the Contractor to strengthen their dust suppression measures, proactively and timely review their management plan for dust control. ET will continue to remind all contractors to properly and adequately implement dust suppression measures especially in the current dry season and to prevent air pollution on site.

Closed

19 Nov 2020

A complaint regarding illegal refuel delivery leading to water pollution at 3RS project area was received on 19 Nov 2020.

Investigation was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. No detail of the case such as location and name of the barge was provided in the complaint. ET investigated the related work contractors of 3RS Project on the reclaimed land. Based on the information provided by the contractors, no oil spillage incident from fuel transfer activities was recorded in October and up to early November 2020. During regular environmental site inspections and night-time ad-hoc inspections conducted by ET in October and early November 2020, no occurrence regarding oil spillage onto sea surface was observed. In addition, a night-time inspection along the reclaimed land in particular the western pier and north eastern pier was conducted on 24 November 2020 during which no oil spillage onto the sea surface from fuel transfer activities was observed. Regarding the reporting of oil and/or fuel spillage incident for the period from October and up to early November 2020, the ET did not receive any such reporting from the related work contractors. It was noted that 3RS water quality monitoring results from 1 October 2020 to 6 November 2020 were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels at all monitoring stations, except one case of SS triggered the corresponding Action Level at IM5 on 15 October 2020. Based on the investigation on the exceedance, the case was considered not due to the Project. Nevertheless, the ET will continue to remind all contractors to properly handle oil and fuel on site and implement their respective contract-specific spill response plan including the conducting of regular spill drills and trainings, and to provide sufficient spill kits on site. ET and IEC would continue to monitor 3RS water quality.

Closed

19 Nov 2020

A complaint was received regarding illegal cement discharge and domestic waste disposal from a marine vessel

Investigated was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. The ET identified the related 3RS contractor and requested the Contractor to provide more information regarding the complaint. According to the information provided by the Contractor, the identified marine vessel was responsible for cement mixing works and providing cement slurry for land improvement work during the alleged period from 29 to 31 August 2020. Although the Contractor had stopped operations on-board the vessel, ET conducted a night-time inspection on 23 November 2020 and day-time inspection on 24 November 2020. During both inspections, it was observed that the tops of the cement silo tanks were covered and the cement pipes were closed with metal plates with no discharge of cement effluent. Moreover, in ET’s inspections on the vessel on 18 August 2020 and 8 September 2020, it was observed that the set up on the vessel was properly in place and there was no environmental malpractice relating to the silo tank maintenance work as well as the handling of domestic waste. It was also noted that the Contractor had followed their contract-specific Spill Response Plan and provided spill kits on the vessel. No spill incident was reported by the Contractor during the alleged period. The environmental monitoring results for water quality, air quality and CWD monitoring in August 2020 were checked, where all the results were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels except six cases of DO exceedances on 15 and 22 August 2020. Based on the investigation on the exceedances, the cases were considered not due to the Project. Following up on the complaint case, ET and IEC checked and noted the Contractor had executed corrective actions including conducting maintenance checking and inspections of vessels, provision of additional training for frontline staff, conducting an environmental emergency drill, and reviewing the implementation of their standard operating procedures in handling cement wastewater during maintenance works. The Contractor was also advised to implement suitable measures on issues regarding cement refilling works, spill response procedures and spill incident handling, and regular operation and maintenance. The ET would continue to remind all contractors to strictly follow both the standard operation procedures for cement refilling works and the contract-specific Spill Response Plan. ET and IEC would also conduct on-board inspections to ensure all similar cement mixing barges are maintaining good housekeeping and continue to monitor the Project’s water quality, air quality, and CWD monitoring results.

Closed

27 Nov 2020

A complaint was received regarding smoke and dust issue at 3RS project area

Investigated was conducted by ET in accordance with the Manual and the Complaint Management Plan of the Project. The ET identified the related 3RS contractors and requested the Contractors to provide more information regarding the complaint. According to the information provided by the Contractors, marine filling works and unloading of construction materials at an aggregate mixing plant were carried out at the alleged area during the alleged period. Water spraying by water truck and water hose as set out in the Contractors’ dust control management plan were implemented at nearby haul road and stockpiling area. Sprinklers were also installed and operated at the stockpiling area of the aggregate mixing plant as dust suppression measure to further prevent fugitive dust. Based on ET’s regular site inspections, water spraying were implemented at the alleged area according to the Contractors’ dust control management plans. Around the alleged period, ET conducted regular site inspections in the alleged area on 3 and 17 November 2020, where on 3 November 2020 no smoke and dust emissions were observed at the alleged area. Dust generation from the vehicular movements was observed during the regular site inspection on 17 November 2020 and the related contractor was advised to implement sufficient dust suppression measures to keep haul roads in a damp condition. The Contractor subsequently rectified the issue by implementing water spraying on the concerned haul road. To follow up, ET reminded the related Contractors to continue implementing and strengthening their environmental mitigation measures for dust suppression measures. ET also reminded all contractors to properly and adequately implement dust suppression measures especially in the current dry season and to prevent air pollution on site. ET and IEC would continue to monitor the related contractors’ environmental mitigation measures for dust suppression during the environmental site inspections.

Closed

3.2.2      Notifications of Summons or Status of Prosecution

No notification of summons nor prosecution was received during the reporting period.

3.3     Cumulative Statistics

Cumulative statistics on valid exceedance, non-compliance, complaints, notifications of summons and status of prosecutions are summarised in Table 3.2 and Table 3.3.

Table 3.2: Statistics for Valid Exceedances for the Environmental Monitoring

 

 

Total No. Recorded in the Reporting Period

Total No. Recorded since the Project Commenced

1-hr TSP

Action Level

0

0

 

Limit Level

0

0

Noise

Action Level

0

0

 

Limit Level

0

0

Waste

Action Level

0

0

 

Limit Level

0

0

Water

Action Level

0

0

 

Limit Level

0

0

CWD

Action Level

0

0

 

Limit Level

0

0

Remark: Non-project related triggers of Action or Limit Level are not shown in this table.

Table 3.3: Statistics for Non-compliance, Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Prosecution

Reporting Period

Cumulative Statistics

 

Non-compliance

Complaints

Notifications of Summons

Prosecutions

This reporting period

0

7

0

0

From 28 December 2015 to end of the reporting period

0

27

1

1


 

4        Conclusion and Recommendation

In this quarterly period from 1 October 2020 to 31 December 2020, the EM&A programme has been implemented as planned, including 96 sets of air quality measurements, 52 sets of construction noise measurements, 39 sets of water quality measurements, 6 complete sets of vessel line transect surveys and 6 days of land-based theodolite tracking survey effort for CWD monitoring, as well as environmental site inspections and waste monitoring for the Project’s construction works.

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period included reclamation works and land-based works. Works in the reclamation areas included DCM works, marine filling, seawall and facilities construction, together with runway and associated works such as bored piling for approach lights. Land-based works on existing airport island involved mainly airfield works, foundation and substructure work for Terminal 2 expansion, modification and tunnel work for APM and BHS, and preparation work for utilities, with activities include site establishment, site office construction, road and drainage works, cable ducting, demolition, piling, and excavation works.

Monitoring results of construction dust, construction noise, construction waste, and CWD did not trigger the corresponding Action and Limit Levels in the reporting period. All site observations made by the ET were recorded in the site inspection checklists and passed to the contractor together with the recommended follow-up actions.

For water quality, the water quality monitoring results for all parameters, except SS and chromium, obtained during the reporting period were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels stipulated in the EM&A programme. Relevant investigation and follow-up actions will be conducted according to the EM&A programme if the corresponding Action and Limit Levels are triggered. For SS and chromium, some testing results triggered the relevant Action or Limit Levels, and the corresponding investigations were conducted accordingly. The investigation findings concluded that the cases were not related to the Project. In summary, the construction activities in the reporting period did not introduce adverse impact to all water quality sensitive receivers.

In total, two ferry movements between HKIA SkyPier and Macau were audited in the reporting period. All HSFs travelled through the SCZ with average speed within 15 knots in compliance with the SkyPier Plan.

During the reporting period, ET conducted bi-weekly audit of the MSS to ensure the system recorded all deviation cases accurately and the contractors fully complied with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. 4 skipper training workshops were held by ET and 10 skipper training workshops were held by contractors’ Environmental Officers during the reporting period and competency tests were conducted subsequently with the trained skippers by ET.

On the implementation of MMWP, dolphin observers were deployed by the contractors for laying of silt curtains for marine filling works in accordance with the plan. On the implementation of DEZ Plan, dolphin observers were deployed for continuous monitoring of the DEZ by the contractors for DCM works, seawall construction and bored piling for approach lights in accordance with the DEZ Plan. Trainings for the proposed dolphin observers were provided by the ET prior to the aforementioned works.  From the contractors’ MMWP observation records and DEZ monitoring records, no dolphin or other marine mammals were observed within or around the silt curtains or the DEZ in this reporting period. Audits of acoustic decoupling for construction vessels were also carried out by the ET.

The recommended environmental mitigation measures, as included in the EM&A programme, were effectively implemented during the reporting period. Also, the EM&A programme implemented by the ET has effectively monitored the construction activities and ensured the proper implementation of mitigation measures.


[1] The Manual is available on the Project’s dedicated website (accessible at: http://env.threerunwaysystem.com/en/index.html)