Figure 1.1- 1.2	Key Construction Areas in this Reporting Period
Figure 2.1	Locations of Air and Noise Monitoring Stations and Chek Lap Kok Wind Station
Figure 3.1	Water Quality Monitoring Stations
Figure 6.1	Vessel based Dolphin Monitoring Transects in Construction, Post-construction and Operation Phases
Figure 6.2	Land based Dolphin Monitoring in Baseline and Construction Phases
Figure 6.3	Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins
Figure 6.4	Plots of First Sightings of All CWD Groups obtained from Land-based Stations
Figure 6.5	Location for Autonomous Passive Acoustic Monitoring in Baseline and Construction Phases
Figure 7.1	Duration of the SkyPier HSFs travelled through the SCZ for 1 – 31 July 2017

Appendices

Appendix A	Contract Description
Appendix B	Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS) for Construction Phase
Appendix C	Monitoring Schedule
Appendix D	Monitoring Results
Appendix E	Calibration Certificates
Appendix F	Status of Environmental Permits and Licences
Appendix G	Cumulative Statistics on Exceedances, Environmental Complaints, Notification of Summons and Status of Prosecutions
Appendix H	Data of SkyPier HSF Movements to/from Zhuhai and Macau (between 1 and 31 July 2017)

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.

This is the 19^th Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report for the Project which summarizes the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 July 2017.

Key Activities in the Reporting Period

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period included deep cement mixing (DCM) works and trials, laying of sand blanket and geotextile, site preparation works, site office establishment and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) works.

EM&A Activities Conducted in the Reporting Period

The monthly EM&A programme was undertaken in accordance with the Manual of the Project. During the reporting period, the ET conducted 30 sets of construction dust measurements, 20 sets of construction noise measurements, 13 events of water quality measurements, 2 complete sets of small vessel line-transect surveys and 5 days of land-based theodolite tracking survey effort for Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) monitoring and waste monitoring. Construction works on Sheung Sha Chau Island was suspended during the ardeid’s breeding season (between April and July). The ecological monitoring is therefore suspended.

Weekly site inspections of the construction works were carried out by the ET to audit the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. Bi-weekly site inspections were also conducted by the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC). Observations have been recorded in the site inspection checklists and provided to the contractors together with the appropriate follow-up actions where necessary.

On the implementation of Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP), dolphin observers were deployed by the contractors for laying of open sea silt curtain and laying of silt curtains for sand blanket in accordance with the plan. On the implementation of Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) Plan, dolphin observers at 12 to 15 dolphin observation stations were deployed for continuous monitoring of the DEZ by all contractors for DCM works in accordance with the DEZ Plan. Trainings for the proposed dolphin observers were provided by the ET prior to the aforementioned works, with the training records 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, whilst there were two records of dolphin sighting within the DEZs of DCM works in this reporting month. Audits of acoustic decoupling for construction vessels were also carried out by the ET.

On the implementation of the Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for High Speed Ferries of SkyPier (the SkyPier Plan), the daily movements of all SkyPier high speed ferries (HSFs) in July 2017 were in the range of 20 to 93 daily movements, which are within the maximum daily cap of 125 daily movements. A total of 846 HSF movements under the SkyPier Plan were recorded in the reporting period. All HSFs had travelled through the Speed Control Zone (SCZ) with average speeds under 15 knots (9.9 to 14.0 knots), which were in compliance with the SkyPier Plan. One ferry movement with minor deviation from the diverted route is under investigation by ET. The investigation result will be presented in the next monthly EM&A report. In summary, the ET and IEC have audited the HSF movements against the SkyPier Plan and conducted follow up investigation or actions accordingly.

On the implementation of the Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessel (MTRMP-CAV), the Marine Surveillance System (MSS) automatically recorded the deviation case such as speeding, entering no entry zone, not traveling through the designated gate. ET conducted checking to ensure the MSS records all deviation cases accurately. Training has been provided for the concerned skippers to facilitate them in familiarising with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. Deviations including speeding in the works area, entry from non-designated gates, and entering no-entry zones were reviewed by ET. All the concerned captains were reminded by the contractor’s Marine Traffic Control Centre (MTCC) representative to comply with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. ET reminded contractors that all vessels shall avoid entering the no-entry zone, in particular the Brothers Marine Park. 3-month rolling programmes for construction vessel activities, which ensures the proposed vessels are necessary and minimal through good planning, were also received from contractors.

Results of Impact Monitoring

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

No exceedance of the Action or Limit Levels in relation to construction dust, construction noise, construction waste, and CWD monitoring was recorded in the reporting month.

The water quality monitoring results for turbidity, total alkalinity, and chromium obtained during the reporting period did not trigger their corresponding Action and Limit Levels stipulated in the EM&A programme for triggering the relevant investigation and follow-up procedures under the programme if being exceeded. For DO, SS, and nickel, some of the testing results exceeded the relevant Action or Limit Levels, and the corresponding investigations were conducted accordingly. The investigation findings concluded that the exceedances were not due to the Project.

Summary of Upcoming Key Issues

Advanced Works:

Contract P560 (R) Aviation Fuel Pipeline Diversion Works

● HDD works; and

● Stockpiling of excavated materials from HDD operation.

DCM Works:

Contract 3201 to 3205 DCM Works

● Laying of sand blanket; and

● DCM works and trials.

Reclamation Works:

Contract 3206 Main Reclamation Works

● Site office establishment; and

● Laying of sand blanket.

Terminal 2 Expansion Works:

Contract 3501 Antenna Farm and Sewage Pumping Station

● Site formation and excavation works.

Contract 3502 Terminal 2 APM Depot Modification Works

● Removal of existing concrete.

Airfield Works:

Contract 3301 North Runway Crossover Taxiway

● CLP cable ducting work.

The key environmental issues will be associated with construction dust, construction noise, water quality, construction waste management, CWD and terrestrial ecology on Sheung Sha Chau. The implementation of required mitigation measures by the contractor will be monitored by the ET.


Dolphin Exclusion Zone Monitoring by Dolphin Observer	Chemical Spill Drill conducted by the Contractor	Skipper Training

Summary Table

The following table summarizes the key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period:

	Yes	No	Details	Analysis / Recommendation / Remedial Actions
Exceedance of Limit Level^		ü	No exceedance of project-related limit level was recorded.	Nil
Exceedance of Action Level^		ü	No exceedance of project-related action level was recorded.	Nil
Complaints Received		ü	No construction activities related complaints were received.	Nil
Notification of any summons and status of prosecutions		ü	No notifications of summons or prosecution were received.	Nil
Changes that affect the EM&A		ü	There were no changes to the construction works that may affect the EM&A	Nil

Remarks: ^Only exceedance of Action or Limit Level related to Project works is counted as Breaches 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. The Manual is available on the Project’s dedicated website (accessible at: http://env.threerunwaysystem.com/en/index.html). 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 existing 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.

1.2 Scope of this Report

This is the 19^th Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report for the Project which summarizes the key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 July 2017.

1.3 Project Organisation

The Project’s organization structure presented in Appendix B of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.1 remained unchanged during the reporting month. Contact details of the key personnel have been updated and is presented 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, Environment	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	Keith Chau	2972 1721
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) (AECOM Asia Company Limited)	Independent Environmental Checker	Jackel Law	3922 9376
	Deputy Independent Environmental Checker	Joanne Tsoi	3922 9423
Advanced Works:
Contract P560(R) Aviation Fuel Pipeline Diversion Works (Langfang Huayuan Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Co., Ltd.)	Project Manager	Wei Shih	2117 0566
	Environmental Officer	Lyn Lau	5172 6543
DCM Works:
Contract 3201 DCM (Package 1) (Penta-Ocean-China State-Dong-Ah Joint Venture)	Project Director	Tsugunari Suzuki	9178 9689
	Environmental Officer	Alan Tam	6119 3107
Contract 3202 DCM (Package 2) (Samsung-BuildKing Joint Venture)	Project Manager	Ilkwon Nam	9643 3117
	Environmental Officer	Dickson Mak	9525 8408
Contract 3203 DCM (Package 3) (Sambo E&C Co., Ltd)	Project Manager	Eric Kan	9014 6758
	Environmental Officer	Calvin Leung	9203 5820
Contract 3204 DCM (Package 4) (CRBC-SAMBO Joint Venture)	Project Manager	Kyung-Sik Yoo	9683 8697
	Environmental Officer	Kanny Cho	6799 8226
Contract 3205 DCM (Package 5) (Bachy Soletanche - Sambo Joint Venture)	Deputy Project Director	Min Park	9683 0765
	Environmental Officer	Margaret Chung	9130 3696
Reclamation Works:
Contract 3206 (ZHEC-CCCC-CDC Joint Venture)	Project Manager	Kim Chuan Lim	3693 2288
	Environmental Officer	Kwai Fung Wong	3693 2252
Terminal 2 Expansion Works:
Contract 3501 Antenna Farm and Sewage Pumping Station (Build King Construction Ltd.)	Project Manager	Osbert Sit	9079 7030

1.4 Summary of Construction Works

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period included DCM works and trials, laying of sand blanket and geotextile, site preparation works, site office establishment and HDD works.

1.5 Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

The status for all environmental aspects is presented in Table 1.2. The EM&A requirements remained unchanged during the reporting period and details can be referred to Table 1.2 of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 1.

Table 1.2: Summary of status for all environmental aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual

Parameters	Status
Air Quality
Baseline Monitoring	The baseline air quality monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.
Impact Monitoring	On-going
Noise
Baseline Monitoring	The baseline noise monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.
Impact Monitoring	On-going
Water Quality
General Baseline Water Quality Monitoring for reclamation, water jetting and field joint 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	On-going
Initial Intensive Deep Cement Mixing (DCM) Water Quality Monitoring	Completed in May 2017 and data analysis in-progress.
Early/ Regular DCM Water Quality Monitoring	On-going
Waste Management
Waste Monitoring	On-going
Land Contamination
Supplementary Contamination Assessment Plan (CAP)	To be submitted with the relevant construction works.
Contamination Assessment Report (CAR) for Golf Course	The CAR for Golf Course was submitted to EPD.
Terrestrial Ecology
Pre-construction Egretry Survey Plan	The Egretry Survey Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.14.
Ecological Monitoring	Construction works on Sheung Sha Chau Island was suspended during the ardeid’s breeding season (between April and July). The ecological monitoring is therefore suspended.
Marine Ecology
Pre-Construction Phase Coral Dive Survey	The Coral Translocation Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.12.
Coral Translocation	The coral translocation was completed.
Post-Translocation Coral Monitoring	On-going
Chinese White Dolphins (CWD)
Vessel Survey, Land-based Theodolite Tracking and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM)
Baseline Monitoring	Baseline CWD results were reported in the CWD Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD in accordance with EP Condition 3.4.
Impact Monitoring	On-going
Landscape & Visual
Baseline Monitoring	The baseline landscape & visual monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under EP Condition 3.4.
Impact Monitoring	On-going
Environmental Auditing
Regular site inspection	On-going
Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP) implementation measures	On-going
Dolphin Exclusion Zone Plan (DEZP) implementation measures	On-going
SkyPier High Speed Ferries (HSF) implementation measures	On-going
Construction and Associated Vessels Implementation measures	On-going
Complaint Hotline and Email channel	On-going
Environmental Log Book	On-going

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

The EM&A programme also involved weekly site inspections and related auditing conducted by the ET for checking the implementation of the required environmental mitigation measures recommended in the approved EIA Report. In order to enhance environmental awareness and closely monitor the environmental performance of the contractors, environmental briefings and regular environmental management meetings were conducted.

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 Air Quality Monitoring

2.1 Monitoring Stations

Air quality monitoring was conducted at 2 representative monitoring stations in the vicinity of air sensitive receivers in Tung Chung and villages in North Lantau in accordance with the Manual. Table 2.1 describes the details of the monitoring stations. Figure 2.1 shows the locations of the monitoring stations.

Table 2.1: Locations of Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station	Location
AR1A	Man Tung Road Park
AR2	Village House at Tin Sum

2.2 Monitoring Requirements and Schedule

In accordance with the Manual, baseline 1-hour total suspended particulate (TSP) levels at the two air quality monitoring stations were established as presented in the Baseline Monitoring Report. Impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for three times every 6 days. 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 2.2.

The air quality monitoring schedule involved in the reporting period is provided in Appendix C.

Table 2.2: Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Monitoring Station	Action Level (mg/m³)	Limit Level (mg/m³)
AR1A	306	500
AR2	298	500

2.3 Monitoring Equipment

Portable direct reading dust meter was used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Details of equipment are given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3: Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model	Last Calibration Date
Portable direct reading dust meter (Laser dust monitor)	SIBATA LD-3B-002 (Serial No. 974350)	26 Oct 2016

Equipment

Brand and Model

Last Calibration Date

Portable direct reading dust meter (Laser dust monitor)

SIBATA LD-3B-002

(Serial No. 974350)

26 Oct 2016

2.4 Monitoring Methodology

2.4.1 Measuring Procedure

The measurement procedures involved in the impact 1-hr TSP monitoring can be summarised as follows:

a. The portable direct reading dust meter was mounted on a tripod at a height of 1.2 m above the ground.

b. Prior to the measurement, the equipment was set up for 1 minute span check and 6 second background check.

c. The one hour dust measurement was started. Site conditions and dust sources at the nearby area were recorded on a record sheet.

d. When the measurement completed, the “Count” reading per hour was recorded for result calculation.

2.4.2 Maintenance and Calibration

The portable direct reading dust meter is calibrated every year against high volume sampler (HVS) to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method. The calibration certificates of the portable direct reading dust meter and calibration record of the HVS provided in Appendix B of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.11 are still valid. Any updates of calibration certificates will be reported in the Monthly EM&A report if necessary.

2.5 Analysis and Interpretation of Monitoring Results

The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP are summarized in Table 2.4. Detailed impact monitoring results are presented in Appendix D.

Table 2.4: Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station	1-hr TSP Concentration Range (mg/m³)	Action Level (mg/m³)	Limit Level (mg/m³)
AR1A	9 – 20	306	500
AR2	9 – 23	298	500

No exceedance of the Action or Limit Level was recorded at all monitoring stations in the reporting period.

General meteorological conditions throughout the impact monitoring period were recorded. Wind data including wind speed and wind direction for each monitoring day were collected from the Chek Lap Kok Wind Station.

3 Noise Monitoring

3.1 Monitoring Stations

Noise monitoring was conducted at 5 representative monitoring stations in the vicinity of noise sensitive receivers in Tung Chung and villages in North Lantau in accordance with the Manual. Figure 2.1 shows the locations of the monitoring stations and these are described in Table 3.1 below. As described in Section 4.3.3 of the Manual, monitoring at NM2 will commence when the future residential buildings in Tung Chung West Development become occupied.

Table 3.1: Locations of Impact Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station	Location	Type of measurement
NM1A	Man Tung Road Park	Free field
NM2⁽¹⁾	Tung Chung West Development	To be determined
NM3A	Site Office	Facade
NM4	Ching Chung Hau Po Woon Primary School	Free field
NM5	Village House in Tin Sum	Free field
NM6	House No. 1, Sha Lo Wan	Free field

Note: (1) As described in Section 4.3.3 of the Manual, noise monitoring at NM2 will only commence after occupation of the future Tung Chung West Development.

3.2 Monitoring Requirements and Schedule

In accordance with the Manual, baseline noise levels at the noise monitoring stations were established as presented in the Baseline Monitoring Report. Impact noise monitoring was conducted once per week in the form of 30-minute measurements of L_eq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ levels recorded at each monitoring station between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays. 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 3.2. The construction noise monitoring schedule involved in the reporting period is provided in Appendix C.

Table 3.2: Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

Monitoring Stations	Time Period	Action Level	Limit Level, L_eq_(30mins) dB(A)
NM1A, NM2, NM3A, NM4, NM5 and NM6	0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays	When one documented complaint is received from any one of the sensitive receivers	75 dB(A)⁽ⁱ⁾

Monitoring Stations

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level, L_eq_(30mins) dB(A)

NM1A, NM2, NM3A, NM4, NM5 and NM6

0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one documented

complaint is received from

any one of the sensitive

receivers

75 dB(A)⁽ⁱ⁾

Note: ⁽ⁱ⁾ Reduced to 70dB(A) for school and 65dB(A) during school examination periods.

3.3 Monitoring Equipment

Noise monitoring was performed using sound level meter at each designated monitoring station. The sound level meters deployed comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications. Acoustic calibrator was used to check the sound level meters by a known sound pressure level for field measurement. Details of equipment are given in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3: Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model	Last Calibration Date
Integrated Sound Level Meter	B&K 2238 (Serial No. 2800932)	17 Jul 2017
	B&K 2238 (Serial No. 2381580)	8 Sep 2016

Acoustic Calibrator	B&K 4231 (Serial No. 3003246)	16 May 2017
Acoustic Calibrator	B&K 4231 (Serial No. 3004068)	17 Jul 2017

3.4 Monitoring Methodology

3.4.1 Monitoring Procedure

The monitoring procedures involved in the noise impact monitoring can be summarised as follows:

a. The sound level meter was set on a tripod at least a height of 1.2 m above the ground for free-field measurements at monitoring stations NM1A, NM4, NM5 and NM6. A correction of +3 dB(A) was applied to the free field measurements.

b. Façade measurements were made at the monitoring station NM3A.

c. Parameters such as frequency weighting, time weighting and measurement time were set.

d. Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using the acoustic calibrator. If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1 dB(A), the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

e. During the monitoring period, L_eq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ were recorded. In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a record sheet.

f. Noise measurement results were corrected with reference to the baseline monitoring levels.

g. Observations were recorded when high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) was observed during the monitoring.

3.4.2 Maintenance and Calibration

The maintenance and calibration procedures are summarised below:

a. The microphone head of the sound level meter was cleaned with soft cloth at regular intervals.

b. The meter and calibrator were sent to the supplier or laboratory accredited under Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.

Calibration certificates of the sound level meters and acoustic calibrators used in the noise monitoring provided in Appendix B of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 9 and Appendix D of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 17 are still valid. The equipment calibrated in July 2017 is provided in Appendix E.

3.5 Analysis and Interpretation of Monitoring Results

The construction noise monitoring results are summarized in Table 3.4 and the detailed monitoring data are provided in Appendix D.

Table 3.4: Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station	Noise Level Range, dB(A) L_eq_{(30 mins)}	Limit Level, dB(A) L_eq_{(30 mins)}
NM1A⁽ⁱ⁾	71 – 72	75
NM3A	57 – 63	75
NM4⁽ⁱ⁾	64 – 65	70⁽ⁱⁱ⁾
NM5⁽ⁱ⁾	57 – 67	75
NM6⁽ⁱ⁾	62 – 73	75

Note: (i) +3 dB(A) Façade correction included;

(ii) Reduced to 65 dB(A) during school examination periods at NM4. No school examination took place in the reporting period.

As the construction activities were far away from the monitoring stations, major sources of noise dominating the monitoring stations observed during the construction noise impact monitoring were road traffic and helicopter noise at NM1A, helicopter and aircraft noise at NM3A, road traffic, aircraft, and helicopter noise at NM4, aircraft and helicopter noise at NM5, and insect, aircraft, and marine vessel noise at NM6 in this reporting month.

No exceedance of the Action or Limit Level was recorded at all monitoring stations in the reporting period.

4 Water Quality Monitoring

4.1 Monitoring Stations

Water quality monitoring was conducted at a total of 22 water quality monitoring stations, comprising 12 impact (IM) stations, 7 sensitive receiver (SR) stations and 3 control stations in the vicinity of water quality sensitive receivers around the airport island in accordance with the Manual. Table 4.1 describes the details of the monitoring stations. Figure 3.1 shows the locations of the monitoring stations.

Table 4.1: Monitoring Locations and Parameters for Impact Water Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Stations	Description	Coordinates		Parameters
Monitoring Stations	Description	Easting	Northing	Parameters
C1	Control	804247	815620	DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS, Total Alkalinity, Heavy Metals⁽²⁾
C2	Control	806945	825682
C3⁽³⁾	Control	817803	822109
IM1	Impact	806458	818351
IM2	Impact	806193	818852
IM3	Impact	806019	819411
IM4	Impact	805039	819570
IM5	Impact	804924	820564
IM6	Impact	805828	821060
IM7	Impact	806835	821349
IM8	Impact	807838	821695
IM9	Impact	808811	822094
IM10	Impact	809838	822240
IM11	Impact	810545	821501
IM12	Impact	811519	821162
SR1⁽¹⁾	Future Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facilities (HKBCF) Seawater Intake for cooling	812586	820069	DO, pH, Temperature, Salinity, Turbidity, SS
SR2⁽³⁾	Planned marine park / hard corals at The Brothers / Tai Mo To	814166	821463
SR3	Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park / fishing and spawning grounds in North Lantau	807571	822147
SR4A	Sha Lo Wan	807810	817189
SR5A	San Tau Beach SSSI	810696	816593
SR6	Tai Ho Bay, Near Tai Ho Stream SSSI	814663	817899
SR7	Ma Wan Fish Culture Zone (FCZ)	823742	823636
SR8⁽⁴⁾	Seawater Intake for cooling at Hong Kong International Airport (East)	811418 (from July 2017 onwards)	820246

Notes:

⁽¹⁾ The seawater intakes of SR1 for the future HKBCF is not yet in operation, hence no water quality impact monitoring was conducted at this station. The future permanent location for SR1 during impact monitoring is subject to finalisation after the HKBCF seawater is commissioned.

⁽²⁾ Details of selection criteria for the two heavy metals for early 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⁾The monitoring location for SR8 is subject to further changes due to silt curtain arrangements and the progressive relocation of this seawater intake.

4.2 Monitoring Requirements and Schedule

In accordance with the Manual, baseline water quality levels at the abovementioned representative water quality monitoring stations were established as presented in the Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Report.

General water quality monitoring and early regular DCM water quality monitoring were conducted three days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, at the 22 water quality monitoring stations during the reporting period. The sea conditions varied from calm to moderate, and the weather conditions varied from sunny to rainy during the monitoring period.

The water quality monitoring schedule for the reporting period is updated and provided in Appendix C.

4.1.1 Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality Monitoring

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 4.2. The control and impact stations during flood tide and ebb tide for general water quality monitoring and regular DCM monitoring are presented in Table 4.3.

Table 4.2: Action and Limit Levels for General Water Quality Monitoring and Regular DCM Monitoring

Parameters	Action Level (AL)		Limit Level (LL)
Action and Limit Levels for general water quality monitoring and regular DCM monitoring (excluding SR1& 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
DO in mg/L (Surface, Middle & Bottom)	Bottom 3.4 mg/L		Bottom 2.7 mg/L
Suspended Solids (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 early regular DCM monitoring (Chromium)	0.2		0.2
Representative Heavy Metals for early regular DCM monitoring (Nickel)	3.2		3.6
Action and Limit Levels SR1
SS (mg/l)	To be determined prior to its commissioning		To be determined prior to its commissioning
Action and Limit Levels SR8
SS (mg/l)	52		60

Notes:

⁽¹⁾ For DO measurement, non-compliance occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits.

⁽²⁾For parameters other than DO, non-compliance of water quality results 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 early 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.

Table 4.3: 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
SR2^{^1}	IM7, IM8, IM9, IM10, IM11, IM12, SR1A, SR3, SR4A, SR5A, SR6, SR8
Ebb Tide
C1	SR4A, SR5A, SR6
C2	IM1, IM2, IM3, IM4, IM5, IM6, IM7, IM8, IM9, IM10, IM11, IM12, SR1A, SR2, SR3, SR7, SR8

^{^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.

4.2 Monitoring Equipment

Table 4.4 summarises the equipment used for monitoring of specific water quality parameters under the impact water quality monitoring programme.

Table 4.4: Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model	Last Calibration Date
Multifunctional Meter (measurement of DO, pH, temperature, salinity and turbidity)	YSI ProDSS (serial no. 15M101244)	16 Jun 2017
	YSI ProDSS (serial no. 16J101716)	16 Jun 2017
	YSI 6920 V2 (serial no. 00019CB2)	16 Jun 2017
	YSI 6920 V2 (serial no. 000109DF)	16 Jun 2017
Digital Titrator (measurement of total alkalinity)	Titrette Digital Burette 50ml Class A (serial no.10N65665)	19 Jun 2017

Other equipment used as part of the impact water quality monitoring programme are listed in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5: Other Monitoring Equipment

Equipment	Brand and Model
Water Sampler	Van Dorn Water Sampler
Positioning Device (measurement of GPS)	Garmin eTrex Vista HCx
Current Meter (measurement of current speed and direction, and water depth)	Sontek HydroSurveyor

4.3 Monitoring Methodology

4.3.1 Measuring Procedure

Water quality monitoring samples were taken at three depths (at 1m below surface, at mid-depth, and at 1m above bottom) for locations with water depth >6m. For locations with water depth between 3m and 6m, water samples were taken at two depths (surface and bottom). For locations with water depth <3m, only the mid-depth was taken. Duplicate water samples were taken and analysed.

The water samples for all monitoring parameters were collected, stored, preserved and analysed according to the Standard Methods, APHA 22^nd ed. and/or other methods as agreed by the EPD. In-situ measurements at monitoring locations including temperature, pH, DO, turbidity, salinity and water depth were collected by equipment listed in Table 4.4 and Table 4.5. Water samples for heavy metals and SS analysis were stored in high density polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed in ice (cooled to 4 ºC without being frozen), delivered to the laboratory within 24 hours of collection.

4.3.2 Maintenance and Calibration

Calibration of In-situ Instruments

All in-situ monitoring instrument were checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS before use. Responses of sensors and electrodes were checked with certified standard solutions before each use.

Wet bulb calibration for a DO meter was carried out before commencement of monitoring and after completion of all measurements each day. Calibration was not conducted at each monitoring location as daily calibration is adequate for the type of DO meter employed. A zero check in distilled water was performed with the turbidity probe at least once per monitoring day. The probe was then calibrated with a solution of known NTU. In addition, the turbidity probe was calibrated at least twice per month to establish the relationship between turbidity readings (in NTU) and levels of suspended solids (in mg/L). Accuracy check of the digital titrator was performed at least once per monitoring day.

Calibration certificates of the monitoring equipment used in the monitoring period provided in Appendix D of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.17 are still valid. Any updates of calibration certificates will be reported in the Monthly EM&A report if necessary.

4.3.3 Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

Analysis of SS and heavy metals have been carried out by a HOKLAS accredited laboratory, ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd (Reg. No. HOKLAS 066). Sufficient water samples were collected at all the monitoring stations for carrying out the laboratory SS and heavy metals determination. The SS and heavy metals determination works were started within 24 hours after collection of the water samples. The analysis of SS and heavy metals have followed the standard methods summarised in Table 4.6. The QA/QC procedures for laboratory measurement/ analysis of SS and heavy metals were presented in Appendix F of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.8.

Table 4.6: Laboratory Measurement/ Analysis of SS and Heavy Metals

Parameters	Instrumentation	Analytical Method	Reporting Limit
Suspended Solid (SS)	Analytical Balance	APHA 2540D	2 mg/L
Heavy Metals
Chromium (Cr)	ICP-MS	USEPA 6020A	0.2 µg/L
Nickel (Ni)	ICP-MS	USEPA 6020A	0.2 µg/L

4.4 Analysis and Interpretation of Monitoring Results

4.4.1 Summary of Monitoring Results

The water quality monitoring results for turbidity, total alkalinity, and chromium obtained during the reporting period did not trigger their corresponding Action and Limit Levels stipulated in the EM&A programme for triggering the relevant investigation and follow-up procedures under the programme if being exceeded. For DO, SS, and nickel, some of the testing results exceeded the relevant Action or Limit Levels, and the corresponding investigations were conducted accordingly. Details of the exceedances are presented in Section 4.5.2.

4.4.2 Summary of Findings for Investigation of Exceedances

During the reporting period, water quality monitoring was conducted at 12 impact (IM) stations, seven sensitive receiver (SR) stations, and three control stations in accordance with the Manual. The purpose of water quality monitoring at the IM stations is to promptly capture any potential water quality impact from the Project before it could become apparent at sensitive receivers (represented by the SR stations).

During the monitoring period, testing results exceeding the corresponding Action or Limit Levels were recorded on five monitoring days. Details of the exceedance cases are presented below.

Findings for DO Exceedances (Mid-Ebb Tide)

Table 4.7 and Table 4.8 presents a summary of the DO compliance status at IM and SR stations during mid-ebb tide for the reporting month.

Table 4.7: Summary of DO (Surface and Middle) Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

	IM1	IM2	IM3	IM4	IM5	IM6	IM7	IM8	IM9	IM10	IM11	IM12	SR2	SR3	SR4A	SR5A	SR6	SR7
01/07/2017
04/07/2017
06/07/2017
08/07/2017
11/07/2017
13/07/2017
15/07/2017
18/07/2017
20/07/2017
22/07/2017
25/07/2017
27/07/2017
29/07/2017
No. of Exceedance	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	0	0	0	1	1	0	0	0
Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.
Legend:
	No exceedance of Action and Limit Level
	Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow
	Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow
	Exceedance of Limit Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow
	Exceedance of Limit Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow
	Upstream station with respect to the Project during the respective tide based on dominant tidal flow

Table 4.8: Summary of DO (Bottom) Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR2

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6

SR7

01/07/2017

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Exceedances of Action or Limit Levels were recorded on one monitoring day. Repeat in-situ measurements were conducted on 7 July 2017 as stipulated in the Manual. No exceedance was recorded during the repeat measurement. As some of the exceedances occurred at stations located downstream of the Project, which might be affected by Project’s construction activities, exceedance investigation was carried out.

As part of the investigation on downstream exceedance events, details of the Project’s marine construction activities on the concerned monitoring day was collected, as well as any observations during the monitoring. The findings are summarized in Table 4.9.

Table 4.9: Summary of Findings from Investigations of DO Exceedances

Date	Marine construction works nearby	Approximate distance from marine construction works*	Status of water quality measures (if applicable)	Construction vessels in the vicinity	Turbidity / Silt plume observed near the monitoring station	Exceedance due to Project
06/07/2017	DCM works Sand blanket laying	Around 500m	Silt curtain deployed	No	No	No
* This refers to the approximate distance between the marine construction works and the nearest monitoring stations with exceedance.

Date

Marine construction works nearby

Approximate distance from marine construction works*

Status of water quality measures (if applicable)

Construction vessels in the vicinity

Turbidity / Silt plume observed near the monitoring station

Exceedance due to Project

06/07/2017

DCM works

Sand blanket laying

Around 500m

Silt curtain deployed

* This refers to the approximate distance between the marine construction works and the nearest monitoring stations with exceedance.

According to the investigation findings, it was confirmed that both DCM and sand blanket laying activities were operating normally with silt curtains deployed as additional measures. The silt curtains were maintained properly.

For the exceedance events at downstream monitoring stations, namely IM1, IM2, and SR4A, it is noted that exceedances also occurred at upstream stations on the same day, and no exceedance was recorded at other downstream IM stations, including IM3, which was located closer to active construction activities. Besides, lower DO concentrations were recorded during baseline monitoring at these monitoring stations. Based on these findings, the exceedances were possibly due to natural fluctuation in the vicinity of these monitoring stations, and considered not due to the Project.

Findings for DO Exceedances (Mid-Flood Tide)

Table 4.10 and Table 4.11 presents a summary of the DO compliance status at IM and SR stations during mid-flood tide for the reporting month.

Table 4.10: Summary of DO (Surface and Middle) Compliance Status (Mid-Flood Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6

SR7

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Table 4.11: Summary of DO (Bottom) Compliance Status (Mid-Flood Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6

SR7

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Exceedances of Action Levels were recorded on one monitoring day. Repeat in-situ measurements were conducted on 7 July 2017 as stipulated in the Manual. No exceedance was recorded during the repeat measurement. As there was exceedance occurred at a station located upstream of the Project, which would unlikely be affected by Project’s construction activities, exceedance investigation focused on downstream exceedance events was carried out.

As part of the investigation on downstream exceedance events, details of the Project’s marine construction activities on concerned monitoring day were collected, as well as any observations during the monitoring. The findings are summarized in Table 4.9.

For the exceedance events at downstream monitoring stations, namely IM8, IM9, and SR3, it is noted that the DO concentration at surface and middle level at C1, the corresponding control station for IM8 and SR3, was also below Action Level during the same tide. Besides, no exceedance was recorded at other downstream monitoring stations, including IM7 and IM10, which were similarly close to active construction activities. Based on these findings, the exceedances were possibly due to natural fluctuation in the vicinity of these monitoring stations, and considered not due to the Project.

Findings for SS Exceedances (Mid-Ebb Tide)

Table 4.12 presents a summary of the SS compliance status at IM and SR stations during mid-ebb tide for the reporting month.

Table 4.12: Summary of SS Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

SR2

SR3

SR4A

SR5A

SR6

SR7

SR8

01/07/2017

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Cancelled session due to safety constraint

An exceedance of Action Level was recorded on one monitoring day. However, during the same tide, no exceedances were recorded at all IM stations, which are located closer to active construction activities. Therefore, the exceedance was unlikely to be due to the Project. The exceedance at SR6 might be due to natural fluctuation.

Findings for Nickel Exceedances (Mid-Ebb Tide)

Table 4.13 presents a summary of the nickel compliance status at IM stations during mid-ebb tide for the reporting month.

Table 4.13: Summary of Nickel Compliance Status (Mid-Ebb Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

01/07/2017

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Exceedances of Action Levels were recorded on two monitoring days. As some of the exceedances occurred at stations located downstream of the Project, which might be affected by Project’s construction activities, exceedance investigation was carried out.

Nickel is a representative heavy metal that indicates the potential for release of contaminants from contaminated mud pits due to the disturbance of marine sediment within it by DCM activities. Therefore, elevated nickel concentrations due to these activities should be associated with similar elevated SS levels. For the exceedances at IM2, IM3, and IM12 on 6 July 2017, it is noted that no SS exceedance was recorded in the same tide and the concentration (9 – 10 mg/L) was well below the Action and Limit Levels. The low SS levels at impact stations indicates that the active DCM works had limited or insignificant effect on downstream water quality. Besides, no nickel exceedance was recorded at other downstream IM stations in the same tide, including IM4, which was located similarly close to active construction activities as IM3, and IM11, which was located closer to active construction activities as IM12. Based on these findings, the exceedances were possibly due to natural fluctuation in the vicinity of these monitoring stations, and considered not due to the Project.

Findings for Nickel Exceedances (Mid-Flood Tide)

Table 4.14 presents a summary of the nickel compliance status at IM stations during mid-flood tide for the reporting month.

Table 4.14: Summary of Nickel Compliance Status (Mid-Flood Tide)

IM1

IM2

IM3

IM4

IM5

IM6

IM7

IM8

IM9

IM10

IM11

IM12

04/07/2017

06/07/2017

08/07/2017

11/07/2017

13/07/2017

15/07/2017

18/07/2017

20/07/2017

22/07/2017

25/07/2017

27/07/2017

29/07/2017

No. of Exceedance

Note: Detailed results are presented in Appendix D.

Legend:

No exceedance of Action and Limit Level

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Action Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Limit Level recorded at monitoring station located downstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

Exceedance of Limit Level recorded at monitoring station located upstream of the Project based on dominant tidal flow

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

Exceedances of Action or Limit Levels were recorded on four monitoring days. As some of the exceedances occurred at stations located downstream of the Project, which might be affected by Project’s construction activities, exceedance investigation was carried out.

As part of the investigation on downstream exceedance events, details of the Project’s marine construction activities on concerned monitoring days were collected, as well as any observations during the monitoring. The findings are summarized in Table 4.15.

Table 4.15: Summary of Findings from Investigations of Nickel Exceedances

Date	Marine construction works nearby	Approximate distance from marine construction works*	Status of water quality measures (if applicable)	Construction vessels in the vicinity	Turbidity / Silt plume observed near the monitoring station	Exceedance due to Project
20/07/2017	DCM works Sand blanket laying Geotextile laying	Around 500m	Silt curtain deployed	No	No	No
22/07/2017	DCM works Sand blanket laying	Around 500m	Silt curtain deployed	No	No	No
* This refers to the approximate distance between the marine construction works and the nearest monitoring stations with exceedance.

According to the investigation findings, it was confirmed that all construction activities were operating normally with silt curtains deployed as additional measures for DCM and sand blanket laying. The silt curtains were maintained properly.

For the downstream exceedance events on 20 and 22 July 2017, it is noted that no SS exceedance was recorded in this period and the concentration (11 – 15 mg/L) was well below the Action and Limit Levels. The low SS levels at impact stations indicates that the active DCM works had limited or insignificant effect on downstream water quality. Besides, higher nickel concentrations were recorded during baseline monitoring at IM6, IM9, and IM10. Based on these findings, the exceedances were possibly due to natural fluctuation in the vicinity of these monitoring stations, and considered not due to the Project.

Conclusions

Based on the findings of the exceedance investigations, it is concluded that the exceedances were not due to the Project. Hence no SR was adversely affected by the Project. All required actions under the Event and Action Plan were followed. Exceedances appeared to be due to natural fluctuation or other sources not related to the Project.

Nevertheless, recognising that the IM stations represent a ‘first line of defence’, the non-project related exceedances identified at IM stations were attended to as a precautionary measure. 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 inspection and regular environmental management meetings. These include maintaining mitigation measures for DCM works and sand blanket laying works properly as recommended in the Manual.

5 Waste Management

5.1 Monitoring Requirements

In accordance with the Manual, the waste generated from construction activities was audited once per week to determine if wastes are 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. The Action and Limit Levels of the construction waste are provided in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1: 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

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

5.2 Waste Management Status

Weekly monitoring on all works contracts were carried out by the ET to check and monitor the implementation of proper waste management practices during the construction phase.

Recommendations including provision and maintenance of spill kits and drip trays, as well as provision of proper storage area for general refuse and chemical waste. The contractors had taken actions to implement the recommended measures.

Based on the Contractor’s information, about 435m³ of excavated materials were produced from the HDD launching site under P560(R) in the reporting period. The generated excavated materials were temporarily stored at the stockpiling area. The excavated material will be reused in the Project.

Around 157 tonnes of general refuse was disposed of to the designated landfill and 120 kg of chemical waste was collected by licensed chemical waste collector in July 2017. Around 26m³of Construction and Demolition (C&D) material generated from the reclamation contract for site office establishment was sent to public fill.

No exceedances of the Action or Limit Levels were recorded in the reporting period.

6 Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

6.1 CWD Monitoring Requirements

In accordance with the Manual, Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) monitoring by small vessel line-transect survey supplemented by land-based theodolite tracking and passive acoustic monitoring should be conducted during construction phase.

The small vessel line-transect survey as proposed in the Manual should be conducted at a frequency of two full survey per month while land-based theodolite tracking should be conducted at a frequency of one day per month per station during the construction phase. In addition to the land-based theodolite tracking required for impact monitoring as stipulated in the Manual, supplemental theodolite tracking have also been conducted during the implementation for the SkyPier HSF diversion and speed control in order to assist in monitoring the effectiveness of these measures, i.e. in total twice per month at the Sha Chau station and three times per month at the Lung Kwu Chau station.

The Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL) for CWD monitoring were formulated by the action response approach using the running quarterly dolphin encounter rates STG and ANI derived from the baseline monitoring data, as presented in the CWD Baseline Monitoring Report. The derived values of AL and LL for CWD monitoring were summarized in Table 6.1.

Table 6.1: Derived Values of Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL) 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

[Notes for Table 6.1 (referring to the baseline monitoring report):

*Action Level – running quarterly STG & ANI will be calculated from the three preceding survey months. For CWD monitoring for July 2017, data from 1 May 2017 to 31 July 2017 will be used to calculate the running quarterly encounter rates STG & ANI;

^Limit Level – two consecutive running quarters mean both the running quarterly encounter rates of the preceding month June 2017 (calculated by data from April 2017 to June 2017) and the running quarterly encounter rates of this month (calculated by data from May 2017 to July 2017).

AL and/or LL will be exceeded if both STG and ANI fall below the criteria.]

6.2 CWD Monitoring Transects and Stations

6.2.1 Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

Small vessel line-transect surveys were conducted along the transects covering Northeast Lantau (NEL), Northwest Lantau (NWL), Airport West (AW), West Lantau (WL) and Southwest Lantau (SWL) areas as proposed in the Manual, which are consistent with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) long-term monitoring programme (except the addition of AW). The AW transect has not been previously surveyed in the AFCD programme due to the restrictions of HKIA Approach Area, nevertheless, this transect was established during the EIA of the 3RS Project and refined in the Manual with the aim to collect project specific baseline information within the HKIA Approach Area to fill the data gap that was not covered by the AFCD programme. This provided a larger sample size for estimating the density, abundance and patterns of movements in the broader study area of the project.

The planned vessel survey transect lines follow the waypoints set for construction phase monitoring as proposed in the Manual and depicted in Figure 6.1 with the waypoint coordinates of all transect lines given in Table 6.2, which are subject to on-site refinement based on the actual survey conditions and constraints.

Table 6.2: Coordinates of Transect Lines in NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL Survey Areas

Waypoint	Easting	Northing	Waypoint	Easting	Northing
NEL
1S	813525	820900	6N	818568	824433
1N	813525	824657	7S	819532	821420
2S	814556	818449	7N	819532	824209
2N	814559	824768	8S	820451	822125
3S	815542	818807	8N	820451	823671
3N	815542	824882	9S	821504	822371
4S	816506	819480	9N	821504	823761
4N	816506	824859	10S	822513	823268
5S	817537	820220	10N	822513	824321
5N	817537	824613	11S	823477	823402
6S	818568	820735	11N	823477	824613
NWL
1S	804671	814577	5S	808504	821735
1N	804671	831404	5N	808504	828602
2Sb	805475	815457	6S	809490	822075
2Nb	805476	818571	6N	809490	825352
2Sa	805476	820770	7S	810499	822323
2Na	805476	830562	7N	810499	824613
3S	806464	821033	8S	811508	821839
3N	806464	829598	8N	811508	824254
4S	807518	821395	9S	812516	821356
4N	807518	829230	9N	812516	824254
AW
1W	804733	818205	2W	805045	816912
1E	806708	818017	2E	805960	816633
WL
1W	800600	805450	7W	800400	811450
1E	801760	805450	7E	802400	811450
2W	800300	806450	8W	800800	812450
2E	801750	806450	8E	802900	812450
3W	799600	807450	9W	801500	813550
3E	801500	807450	9E	803120	813550
4W	799400	808450	10W	801880	814500
4E	801430	808450	10E	803700	814500
5W	799500	809450	11W	802860	815500
5E	801300	809450	12S/11E	803750	815500
6W	799800	810450	12N	803750	818500
6E	801400	810450
SWL
1S	802494	803961	6S	807467	801137
1N	802494	806174	6N	807467	808458
2S	803489	803280	7S	808553	800329
2N	803489	806720	7N	808553	807377
3S	804484	802509	8S	809547	800338
3N	804484	807048	8N	809547	807396
4S	805478	802105	9S	810542	800423
4N	805478	807556	9N	810542	807462
5S	806473	801250	10S	811446	801335
5N	806473	808458	10N	811446	809436

6.2.2 Land-based Theodolite Tracking

Land-based theodolite tracking stations were set up at two locations, one facing east/south/west on the southern slopes of Sha Chau (SC), and the other facing north/northeast/northwest at Lung Kwu Chau (LKC). The stations (D and E) are depicted in Figure 6.2 and shown in Table 6.3 with position coordinates, height of station and approximate distance of consistent theodolite tracking capabilities for CWD.

Table 6.3: Land-based 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

Stations

Location

Geographical Coordinates

Station Height (m)

Approximate Tracking Distance (km)

Sha Chau (SC)

22° 20’ 43.5” N

113° 53’ 24.66” E

45.66

Lung Kwu Chau (LKC)

22° 22’ 44.83” N

113° 53’ 0.2” E

70.40

6.3 CWD Monitoring Methodology

6.3.1 Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

Small vessel line-transect surveys provided data for density and abundance estimation and other assessments using distance-sampling methodologies, specifically, line-transect methods.

The surveys involved small vessel line-transect data collection and have been designed to be similar to, and consistent with, previous surveys for the AFCD for their long-term monitoring of small cetaceans in Hong Kong. The survey was designed to provide systematic, quantitative measurements of density, abundance and habitat use.

As mentioned in Section 6.2.1, the transects covered NEL, NWL covering the AW, WL and SWL areas as proposed in the Manual and are consistent with the AFCD long-term monitoring programme (except AW). There are two types of transect lines:

● Primary transect lines: the parallel and zigzag transect lines as shown in Figure 6.1; and

● Secondary transect lines: transect lines connecting between the primary transect lines and crossing islands.

All data collected on both primary and secondary transect lines were used for analysis of sighting distribution, group size, activities including association with fishing boat, and mother-calf pair. Only on-effort data collected under conditions of Beaufort 0-3 and visibility of approximately 1200 m or beyond were used for analysis of the CWD encounter rates.

A 15-20 m vessel with a flying bridge observation platform about 4 to 5 m above water level and unobstructed forward view, and a team of three to four observers were deployed to undertake the surveys. Two observers were on search effort at all times when following the transect lines with a constant speed of 7 to 8 knots (i.e. 13 to 15 km per hour), one using 7X handheld binoculars and the other using unaided eyes and recording data.

During on-effort survey periods, the survey team recorded effort data including time, position (waypoints), weather conditions (Beaufort sea state and visibility) and distance travelled in each series with assistance of a handheld GPS device. The GPS device also continuously and automatically logged data including time, position (latitude and longitude) and vessel speed throughout the entire survey.

When CWDs were seen, the survey team was taken off-effort, the dolphins were approached and photographed for photo-ID information (using a Canon 7D [or similar] camera and long 300 mm+ telephoto lens), then followed until they left the study area or were lost. At that point, the boat returned (off effort) to the next survey line and began to survey on effort again.

Focal follows of dolphins were conducted where practicable (i.e. when individual dolphins or small stable groups of dolphins with at least one member that could be readily identifiable with unaided eyes during observations and weather conditions are favourable). These involved the boat following (at an appropriate distance to minimize disturbance) an identifiable individual dolphin for an extended period of time, and collecting detailed data on its location, behaviour, response to vessels, and associates.

6.3.2 Photo Identification

CWDs can be identified by their unique features like presence of scratches, nick marks, cuts, wounds, deformities of their dorsal fin and distinguished colouration and spotting patterns.

When CWDs were observed, the survey team was taken off-effort, the dolphins were approached and photographed for photo-ID information (using a Canon 7D [or similar] camera and long 300 mm+ telephoto lens). The survey team attempted to photo both sides of every single dolphin in the group as the colouration and spotting pattern on both sides may not be identical. The photos were taken at the highest available resolution and stored on Compact Flash memory cards for transferring into a computer.

All photos taken were initially examined to sort out those containing potentially identifiable individuals. These sorted-out images would then be examined in detail and compared to the CWD photo-identification catalogue established for 3RS during the baseline monitoring stage.

6.3.3 Land-based Theodolite Tracking

Land-based monitoring obtains fine-scale information on the time of day and movement patterns of the CWDs. A digital theodolite (Sokkia/Sokkisha Model DT5 or similar equipment) with 30-power magnification and 5-s precision was used to obtain the vertical and horizontal angle of each dolphin and vessel position. Angles were converted to geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) and data were recorded using Pythagoras software, Version 1.2. This method delivers precise positions of multiple spatially distant targets in a short period of time. The technique is fully non-invasive, and allows for time and cost-effective descriptions of dolphin habitat use patterns at all times of daylight.

Three surveyors (one theodolite operator, one computer operator, and one observer) were involved in each survey. Observers searched for dolphins using unaided eyes and handheld binoculars (7X50). Theodolite tracking sessions were initiated whenever an individual CWD or group of CWDs was located. Where possible, a distinguishable individual was selected, based on colouration, within the group. The focal individual was then continuously tracked via the theodolite, with a position recorded each time the dolphin surfaced. In case an individual could not be positively distinguished from other members, the group was tracked by recording positions based on a central point within the group whenever the CWD surfaced. Tracking continued until animals were lost from view; moved beyond the range of reliable visibility (>1-3 km, depending on station height); or environmental conditions obstructed visibility (e.g., intense haze, Beaufort sea state >4, or sunset), at which time the research effort was terminated. In addition to the tracking of CWD, all vessels that moved within 2-3 km of the station were tracked, with effort made to obtain at least two positions for each vessel.

Theodolite tracking included focal follows of CWD groups and vessels. Priority was given to tracking individual or groups of CWD. The survey team also attempted to track all vessels moving within 1 km of the focal CWD.

6.4 Monitoring Results and Observations

6.4.1 Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

Survey Effort

Within this reporting month, two complete sets of small vessel line-transect surveys were conducted on the 11^th, 12^th, 13^th, 14^th, 20^th, 21^st, 25^th and 26^th July 2017, covering all transects in NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL survey areas for twice.

A total of around 446.88 km of survey effort was collected from these surveys, with around 86.09% 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 are given in Appendix D.

Sighting Distribution

In July 2017, 34 groups of CWDs with 92 individuals were sighted. Amongst these sightings, 26 groups of CWDs with 71 animals were recorded during on-effort search under favourable weather conditions (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility). Details of cetacean sightings are presented in Appendix D.

Distribution of all CWD sightings recorded in July 2017 is illustrated in Figure 6.3. In July 2017, five sightings of CWDs were recorded in NWL. Amongst these five sightings, three were located around the SCLKCMP, one was sighted near Black Point while the remaining one was recorded near the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Link Road at the southwestern corner of NWL. In WL, CWDs were sighted along the coastal waters from Tai O to Fan Lau with a few sightings recorded offshore to Peaked Hill. In SWL, CWD sightings were mainly recorded around Fan Lau Tung Wan and the coastal waters around Lo Kei Wan. No sightings of CWDs were recorded in NEL and also the vicinity of or within the 3RS land-formation footprint.

Figure 6.3: Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins

[Pink circle: Sighting locations of CWD, Black line: Vessel survey transects, Blue polygon: Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park (SCLKCMP), Green polygon: Brothers Marine Park (BMP) Red polygon: 3RS land-formation footprint, Yellow line: 3RS temporary works area boundary]
Remarks: Please note that there are 34 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 distribution map.

Encounter Rate

Two types of dolphin encounter rates were calculated based on the data from July 2017. They included the number of dolphin sightings per 100 km survey effort (STG) and total number of dolphins per 100 km survey effort (ANI) in the whole survey area (i.e. NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL). In the calculation of dolphin encounter rates, only survey data collected under favourable weather condition (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility) were used. The formulae used for calculation of the encounter rates are shown below:

Encounter Rate by Number of Dolphin Sightings (STG)

Encounter Rate by Number of Dolphins (ANI)

(Notes: Only data collected under Beaufort 3 or below condition was used)

In July 2017, a total of around 384.73 km of survey effort were conducted under Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility, whilst a total number of 26 on-effort sightings with a total number of 71 dolphins from on-effort sightings were obtained under such condition. Calculation of the encounter rates in July 2017 are shown in Appendix D.

For the running quarter of the reporting month (i.e., from May 2017 to July 2017), a total of around 1169.66 km of survey effort were conducted under Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility, whilst a total number of 67 on-effort sightings and a total number of 245 dolphins from on-effort sightings were obtained under such condition. Calculation of the running quarterly encounter rates are shown in Appendix D.

The STG and ANI of CWD in the whole survey area (i.e. NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL) during the month of July 2017 and during the running quarter are presented in Table 6.4 below and compared with the Action Level. The running quarterly encounter rates STG and ANI did not trigger the Action Level (i.e., remained above the Action Level).

Table 6.4: Comparison of CWD Encounter Rates of the Whole Survey Area with Action Levels

	Encounter Rate (STG)	Encounter Rate (ANI)
July 2017	6.76	18.45
Running Quarter from May 2017 to July 2017*	5.73	20.95
Action Level	Running quarterly* < 1.86	Running quarterly* < 9.35

*Running quarterly encounter rates STG & ANI were calculated from data collected in the reporting month and the two preceding survey months, i.e. the data from May 2017 to July 2017, containing six sets of transect surveys for all monitoring areas.

Group Size

In July 2017, 34 groups of CWDs with 92 individuals were sighted, and the average group size of CWDs was 2.71 individuals per group. Small-sized (i.e. 1-2 individuals) CWD groups dominated (i.e. with 23 groups). No large CWD groups (i.e. 10 or more individuals) were recorded in this reporting month.

Activities and Association with Fishing Boats

Four out of 34 sightings of CWDs were recorded engaging in feeding activities in July 2017, whilst one of these sightings was associated with operating gillnetter.

Mother-calf Pair

In July 2017, six sightings of CWDs were recorded with the presence of mother-and-calf, mother-and-unspotted juvenile or mother-and-spotted juvenile pairs. Five out of these six sightings were recorded in WL while the remaining one was recorded in SWL.

6.4.2 Photo Identification

In July 2017, a total number of 32 different CWD individuals were identified for totally 40 times. A summary of photo identification works is presented in Table 6.5. Representative photos of these individuals are given in Appendix D.

Table 6.5: Summary of Photo Identification

Individual ID	Date of Sighting (dd/mm/yyyy)	Sighting Group No.	Area		Individual ID		Date of Sighting (dd/mm/yyyy)		Sighting Group No.		Area
NLMM013	14/07/2017	1	NWL	WLMM008		26/07/2017		3		SWL
NLMM019	12/07/2017	1	NWL	WLMM009		11/07/2017		12		SWL
NLMM020	12/07/2017	1	NWL			20/07/2017		3		WL
NLMM023	11/07/2017	13	SWL	WLMM013		21/07/2017		2		WL
NLMM034	11/07/2017	2	WL	WLMM015		11/07/2017		9		WL
		5	WL			21/07/2017		2		WL
NLMM050	14/07/2017	2	NWL	WLMM028		11/07/2017		10		WL
SLMM003	26/07/2017	4	SWL	WLMM038		11/07/2017		5		WL
SLMM010	20/07/2017	1	SWL	WLMM043		21/07/2017		5		WL
SLMM011	20/07/2017	1	SWL					7		WL
SLMM030	21/07/2017	7	WL	WLMM047		21/07/2017		7		WL
SLMM040	11/07/2017	7	WL	WLMM067		11/07/2017		12		SWL
	21/07/2017	5	WL	WLMM076		26/07/2017		5		SWL
SLMM045	21/07/2017	7	WL	WLMM078		26/07/2017		5		SWL
SLMM059	26/07/2017	5	SWL	WLMM079		11/07/2017		7		WL
WLMM001	11/07/2017	10	WL			26/07/2017		4		SWL
		13	SWL	WLMM097		11/07/2017		1		WL
WLMM003	11/07/2017	13	SWL	WLMM098		11/07/2017		1		WL
WLMM006	11/07/2017	12	SWL	WLMM099		11/07/2017		3		WL
	20/07/2017	3	WL	WLMM100		11/07/2017		10		WL

6.4.3 Land-based Theodolite Tracking

Survey Effort

Land-based theodolite tracking surveys were conducted at LKC on 5^th, 10^th and 14^th July 2017 and at SC on 21^st and 24^th July 2017, with a total of five days of land-based theodolite tracking survey effort accomplished in this reporting month. In total, nine CWD groups were tracked at LKC station during the surveys. Information of survey effort and CWD groups sighted during these land-based theodolite tracking surveys are presented in Table 6.6. Details of the survey effort and CWD groups tracked are presented in Appendix D. The first sighting locations of CWD groups tracked at LKC station during land-based theodolite tracking surveys in July 2017 were depicted in Figure 6.4. No CWD group was sighted from SC station in this reporting month.

Table 6.6: Summary of Survey Effort and CWD Group of Land-based Theodolite Tracking

Land-based Station	No. of Survey Sessions	Survey Effort (hh:mm)	No. of CWD Groups Sighted	CWD Group Sighting per Survey Hour
Lung Kwu Chau	3	18:10	9	0.50
Sha Chau	2	12:00	0	0
TOTAL	5	30:10	9	0.30

Figure 6.4: Plots of First Sightings of All CWD Groups obtained from Land-based Stations

[Green triangle: LKC station; Green circle: CWD group off LKC; Blue line: SCLKCMP boundary]

6.5 Progress Update on Passive Acoustic Monitoring

Underwater acoustic monitoring using Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) should be undertaken during land formation related construction works. The Ecological Acoustic Recorder (EAR) deployment is generally for 4-6 weeks prior to data retrieval for analysis. In this reporting month, the EAR has remained underwater and positioned at south of Sha Chau Island with 20% duty cycle (Figure 6.5). Acoustic data is reviewed to give an indication of CWDs occurrence patterns and to obtain anthropogenic noise information simultaneously. Analysis (by a specialized team of acousticians) involved manually browsing through every acoustic recording and logging the occurrence of dolphin signals. All data will be re-played by computer as well as listened to by human ears for accurate assessment of dolphin group presence. As the period of data collection and analysis takes more than two months, PAM results could not be reported in monthly intervals.

As a result of the recent changes in the marine traffic conditions around the 3RS project works area, the PAM device deployed at south of Sha Chau station (A5) may pose marine traffic risks in the narrowed navigation channel between the northern boundary of the 3RS project areas, and the southern boundary of the SCLKCMP. In the interests of diver safety and to avoid potential obstruction of the narrowed navigation channel, it is proposed to move the PAM around 30 – 80m from the existing Station A5 to a location just inside the SCLKCMP.

The proposed minor shift of this PAM location due to marine safety reason is considered not having significant effect on the impact monitoring for CWD, as previous studies found that dolphins’ click sounds may generally be detected at a distance of up to about 2 km by the underwater acoustic devices, subject to the orientation of dolphins and parameters of the environment. In addition, the PAM is used for collecting underwater acoustic data that only provide additional reference information for facilitating the review of effectiveness of mitigation measures proposed and the need for adaptive management. The proposed minor shift of PAM station has been supported by the Marine Department, verified by the IEC and approved by the EPD in this reporting month, prior to any action on relocating the EAR. The relevant permits for the deployment of PAM within the SCLKCMP have been obtained and the proposed shift in PAM station will be carried out in the next re-deployment in early August.

6.6 Site Audit for CWD-related Mitigation Measures

During the reporting period, silt curtains were in place by the contractors for sand blanket laying works, 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 12 to 15 dolphin observation stations by the contractors for continuous monitoring of the Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) by all contractors for DCM works 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 447 individuals being trained and the training records 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, whilst there were two records of dolphin sighting within the DEZ of DCM works in this reporting month. According to contractors’ site records, DCM works were suspended in these dolphin sighting events until the DEZ was clear of dolphin for a continuous period of 30 minutes. These contractors’ records were also audited by the ET during site inspection. Details for the implementation of DEZ during the incidents of dolphin sighting within the DEZ of DCM works are mentioned in Section 7.4.

Audits of acoustic decoupling for construction vessels were carried out during weekly site inspection and the observations are summarised in Section 7.1. Audits of SkyPier high speed ferries route diversion and speed control and construction vessel management are presented in Section 7.2 and Section 7.3 respectively.

6.7 Timing of Reporting CWD Monitoring Results

Detailed analysis of CWD monitoring results collected by small vessel line-transect survey will be provided in future quarterly reports. Detailed analysis of CWD monitoring results collected by land-based theodolite tracking and PAM will be provided in future annual reports after a larger sample size of data has been collected.

6.8 Summary of CWD Monitoring

Monitoring of CWD was conducted with two complete sets of small vessel line-transect surveys and five days of land-based theodolite tracking survey effort as scheduled. The running quarterly encounter rates STG and ANI in the reporting month did not trigger the Action Level for CWD monitoring.

7 Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

7.1 Environmental Site Inspection

Weekly site inspections of the construction works for the advanced works contract, DCM contracts and reclamation contracts were carried out by the ET to audit the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. The weekly site inspection schedule of the construction works is provided in Appendix C. Bi-weekly site inspections were also conducted by the IEC. Observations have been recorded in the site inspection checklists and provided to the contractors together with the appropriate follow-up actions where necessary.

The key observations from site inspection and associated recommendations were related to provision and maintenance of drip trays and chemical waste storage container, implementation of noise mitigation, dust suppression, and surface runoff prevention measures, as well as display of non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) label on required machinery. In addition, recommendations were also provided during site inspection on barges, which included provision and maintenance of drip trays; provision of proper storage area for general refuse and chemical waste; implementation of proper wastewater treatment, DEZ monitoring, dust suppression measures, dark smoke prevention measures, acoustic decoupling measures, and spill and runoff preventive measures; as well as proper installation and maintenance of silt curtains.

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.

7.2 Audit of Route Diversion and Speed Control of the 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 (ACE) 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 implementing the mitigation measure of requiring high speed ferries (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.

Key audit findings for the SkyPier HSFs travelling to/from Zhuhai and Macau against the requirements of the SkyPier Plan during the reporting period are summarized in Table 7.1. The daily movements of all SkyPier HSFs in July 2017 (i.e., 20 to 93 daily movements) were within the maximum daily cap of 125 daily movements. There was fewer ferry movement on 23 July 2017 (20 movements) due to typhoon. Status of compliance with the annual daily average of 99 movements will be further reviewed in the annual EM&A Report.

In total, 846 ferry movements between HKIA SkyPier and Zhuhai / Macau were recorded in July 2017 and the data are presented in Appendix H. The time spent by the SkyPier HSFs travelling through the SCZ in July 2017 were presented in Figure 7‑1. It will take 9.6 minutes to travel through the SCZ when the SkyPier HSFs adopt the maximum allowable speed of 15 knots within the SCZ. Figure 7‑1 shows that all of the SkyPier HSFs spent more than 9.6 minutes to travel through the SCZ.

Figure 7‑1 Duration of the SkyPier HSFs travelling through the SCZ for July 2017

Note: Data above the red line indicated that the time spent by the SkyPier HSFs travelling through the SCZ is more than 9.6 minutes, which is in compliance with the SkyPier Plan.

One ferry was recorded with minor deviation from the diverted route on 12 July 2017. Notice was sent to the ferry operator (FO) and the case is under investigation by ET. The investigation result will be presented in the next monthly EM&A report.

One case of minor deviation from the diverted route recorded on 17 June 2017 was followed up after receiving information from the FO. ET’s investigation found that the minor route deviation was due to strong tidal wave and current. After that, the HSF had returned to the normal route following the SkyPier Plan.

Table 7.1: Summary of Key Audit Findings against the SkyPier Plan

Requirements in the SkyPier Plan	1 July to 31 July 2017
Total number of ferry movements recorded and audited	846
Use diverted route and enter / leave SCZ through Gate Access Points	1 deviation, which is under investigation
Speed control in speed control zone	The average speeds taken within the SCZ of all HSFs were within 15 knots (9.9 knots to 14.0 knots), which complied with the SkyPier Plan. The time used by HSFs to travel through SCZ is presented in Figure 7-1.
Daily Cap (including all SkyPier HSFs)	20 to 93 daily movements (within the maximum daily cap - 125 daily movements).

7.3 Audit of Construction and Associated Vessels

The updated Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessel (MTRMP-CAV) was submitted and approved in November 2016 by EPD under EP Condition 2.9. The approved Plan is available on the dedicated website of the Project.

ET carried out the following actions during the reporting period:

Three skipper training sessions were held for contractors’ concerned skippers of relevant construction vessels to familiarize 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. The list of all trained skippers was properly recorded and maintained by ET.
Three skipper training sessions were held by contractor’s Environmental Officer. Competency test was subsequently conducted with the trained skippers by ET.

16 skippers were trained by ET and 4 skippers were trained by contractor’s Environmental Officer in July 2017. In total, 707 skippers were trained from August 2016 to July 2017.
The Marine Surveillance System (MSS) automatically recorded deviation cases such as speeding, entering no entry zone, not traveling through the designated gate. ET conducted checking to ensure the MSS records deviation cases accurately.
Deviations such as speeding in the works area, entering from non-designated gates and entering no-entry zones were identified. All the concerned contractors were reminded to comply with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV during the bi-weekly MTCC audit.
3-month rolling programmes (one month record and two months forecast) for construction vessel activities were received from the contractors in order to help maintain the number of construction and associated vessels on site to a practicable minimal level.

The IEC of the Project had performed audit on the compliance of the requirements as part of the EM&A programme.

7.4 Implementation of Dolphin Exclusion Zone

The DEZ Plan was submitted in accordance with EP Condition 3.1 (v) requirement and Section 10.3 of the Updated EM&A Manual, and approved in April 2016 by EPD. The 24-hour DEZs with a 250m radius for marine works were established and implemented by the contractors for DCM works according to their Method Statement for DEZ Monitoring that followed the specifications and requirements of the DEZ Plan.

During the reporting period, ET has been notified on two records of dolphin sighting within the DEZs of DCM works by the contractors. ET has checked the dolphin sighting records and the contractors’ site records to audit the implementation of DEZ. Both dolphin sightings within the DEZs were recorded on 15 July 2017. One of the sightings was recorded from a DCM barge working at Area A8 (geographical coordinates: 22°19.110N, 113°52.884E; refer to Figure 1.2 for the location of works area), with the dolphin group being first sighted at 09:12 within the DEZ and last sighted at 09:25 from the DEZ monitoring station on the barge. The other sighting was recorded from a DCM barge working at Area D6 (geographical coordinates: 22°18.838N, 113°53.754E; refer to Figure 1.2 for the location of works area), with the dolphin group being first sighted at 09:11 within the DEZ and last sighted at 10:00 from the DEZ monitoring station on the barge. DCM installation works on DCM barges within the DEZs were ceased respectively by the contractors, and not resumed until the DEZs were clear of dolphin for a continuous period of at least 30 minutes in accordance with the DEZ Plan.

7.5 Ecological Monitoring

In accordance with the Manual, ecological monitoring shall be undertaken monthly at the Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) daylighting location on Sheung Sha Chau Island during the HDD construction works period from August to March. Since the construction works on Sheung Sha Chau is suspended during the ardeid’s breeding season between April to July, no ecological monitoring was carried out in this reporting period.

7.6 Status of Submissions under Environmental Permits

The current status of submissions under the EP up to the reporting period is presented in Table 7.2.

Table 7.2: Status of Submissions under Environmental Permit

EP Condition	Submission	Status
2.1	Complaint Management Plan	Accepted / approved by EPD
2.4	Management Organizations
2.5	Construction Works Schedule and Location Plans
2.7	Marine Park Proposal
2.8	Marine Ecology Conservation Plan
2.9	Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessels
2.10	Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for High Speed Ferries of SkyPier
2.11	Marine Mammal Watching Plan
2.12	Coral Translocation Plan
2.13	Fisheries Management Plan
2.14	Egretry Survey Plan
2.15	Silt Curtain Deployment Plan
2.16	Spill Response Plan
2.17	Detailed Plan on Deep Cement Mixing
2.19	Waste Management Plan
3.1	Updated EM&A Manual
3.4	Baseline Monitoring Reports

7.7 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. The environmental licenses and permits which are valid in the reporting month are presented in Appendix F.

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

7.8.1 Complaints

No construction activities related complaint was received during the reporting period.

7.8.2 Notifications of Summons or Status of Prosecution

Neither notification of summons nor prosecution was received during the reporting period.

7.8.3 Cumulative Statistics

Cumulative statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and status of prosecutions are summarized in Appendix G.

8 Future Key Issues and Other EIA & EM&A Issues

8.1 Construction Programme for the Coming Reporting Period

Key activities anticipated in the next reporting period for the Project will include the following:

Advanced Works:

Contract P560 (R) Aviation Fuel Pipeline Diversion Works

● HDD works; and

● Stockpiling of excavated materials from HDD operation.

DCM Works:

Contract 3201 to 3205 DCM Works

● Laying of sand blanket; and

● DCM trials and works.

Reclamation Works:

Contract 3206 Main Reclamation Works

● Site office establishment; and

● Laying of sand blanket.

Terminal 2 Expansion Works:

Contract 3501 Antenna Farm and Sewage Pumping Station

● Site formation and excavation works.

Contract 3502 Terminal 2 APM Depot Modification Works

● Removal of existing concrete.

Airfield Works Contract:

Contract 3301 North Runway Crossover Taxiway

● CLP cable ducting work.

8.2 Key Environmental Issues for the Coming Reporting Period

The key environmental issues for the Project in the coming reporting period expected to be associated with the construction activities include:

● Generation of dust from construction works and stockpiles;

● Noise from operating equipment and machinery on-site;

● Generation of site surface runoffs and wastewater from activities on-site;

● Water quality from laying of sand blankets and DCM works;

● DEZ monitoring for DCM works and implementation of MMWP for silt curtain deployment by the contractors’ dolphin observers;

● Sorting, recycling, storage and disposal of general refuse and construction waste;

● Management of chemicals and avoidance of oil spillage on-site; and

● Acoustic decoupling measures for equipment on marine vessels.

The implementation of required mitigation measures by the contractors will be monitored by the ET.

8.3 Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Reporting Period

A tentative schedule of the planned environmental monitoring work in the next reporting period is provided in Appendix C.

9 Conclusion and Recommendation

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

No exceedance of the Action or Limit Levels in relation to construction dust, construction noise, construction waste and CWD monitoring was recorded in the reporting month.

Weekly site inspections of the construction works were carried out by the ET to audit the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. Bi-weekly site inspections were also conducted by the IEC. Observations have been recorded in the site inspection checklists which have been provided to the contractors together with the appropriate follow-up actions where necessary.

On the implementation of Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP), dolphin observers were deployed by the contractors for laying of open sea silt curtain and laying of silt curtains for sand blanket in accordance with the plan. On the implementation of DEZ Plan, dolphin observers at 12 to 15 dolphin observation stations were deployed for continuous monitoring of the DEZ by all contractors for DCM works in accordance with the DEZ Plan. Trainings for the proposed dolphin observers were provided by the ET prior to the aforementioned works, with the training records 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, whilst there were two records of dolphin sighting within the DEZs of DCM works in this reporting month. DCM works were suspended in the dolphin sighting events until the DEZs were clear of dolphin for a continuous period of 30 minutes. These contractors’ records were checked by the ET during site inspection. Audits of acoustic decoupling for construction vessels were also carried out by the ET.

On the implementation of the SkyPier Plan, the daily movements of all SkyPier HSFs in July 2017 were in the range of 20 to 93 daily movements, which are within the maximum daily cap of 125 daily movements. A total of 846 HSF movements under the SkyPier Plan were recorded in the reporting period. All HSFs had travelled through the SCZ with average speeds under 15 knots (9.9 to 14.0 knots), which were in compliance with the SkyPier Plan. One ferry movement with minor deviation from the diverted route is under investigation by ET. The investigation result will be presented in the next monthly EM&A report. In summary, the ET and IEC have audited the HSF movements against the SkyPier Plan and conducted follow up investigation or actions accordingly.

On the implementation of the MTRMP-CAV, the MSS automatically recorded the deviation case such as speeding, entering no entry zone, not traveling through the designated gate. ET conducted checking to ensure the MSS records all deviation cases accurately. Training has been provided for the concerned skippers to facilitate them in familiarising with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. Deviations including speeding in the works area, entry from non-designated gates, and entering no-entry zones were reviewed by ET. All the concerned captains were reminded by the contractor’s MTCC representative to comply with the requirements of the MTRMP-CAV. ET reminded contractors that all vessels shall avoid entering the no-entry zone, in particular the Brothers Marine Park. 3-month rolling programmes for construction vessel activities, which ensures the proposed vessels are necessary and minimal through good planning, were also received from contractors.