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

Construction Phase Monthly EM&A
Report No. 104
(For August 2024)

September 2024

 


  

Contents

Abbreviations

Executive summary

1       Introduction

1.1      Background

1.2      Scope of this Report

1.3      Project Organisation

1.4      Summary of Construction Works

1.5      Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

2       Air Quality Monitoring

2.1      Action and Limit Levels

2.2      Monitoring Equipment

2.3      Monitoring Methodology

2.3.1         Measuring Procedure

2.3.2         Maintenance and Calibration

2.4      Summary of Monitoring Results

2.5      Conclusion

3       Noise Monitoring

3.1      Action and Limit Levels

3.2      Monitoring Equipment

3.3      Monitoring Methodology

3.3.1         Monitoring Procedure

3.3.2         Maintenance and Calibration

3.4      Summary of Monitoring Results

3.5      Conclusion

4       Water Quality Monitoring

5       Waste Management

5.1      Action and Limit Levels

5.2      Waste Management Status

5.3      Marine Sediment Management

6       Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

6.1      CWD Monitoring Transects

6.2      CWD Monitoring Methodology

6.2.1         Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

6.2.2         Photo Identification

6.3      Monitoring Results and Observations

6.3.1         Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

6.3.2         Photo Identification

6.4      Site Audit for CWD-related Mitigation Measures

6.5      Timing of reporting CWD Monitoring Results

6.6      Summary of CWD Monitoring

7       Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

7.1      Environmental Site Inspection

7.2      Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

7.3      Land Contamination Assessment

7.4      Audit of SkyPier High Speed Ferries

7.5      Audit of Construction and Associated Vessels

7.6      Implementation of Dolphin Exclusion Zone

7.7      Status of Submissions under Environmental Permits

7.8      Compliance with Other Statutory Environmental Requirements

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

7.9.1         Complaints

7.9.2         Notifications of Summons or Status of Prosecution

7.9.3         Cumulative Statistics

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

8.1      Construction Programme for the Coming Reporting Period

8.2      Key Environmental Issues for the Coming Reporting Period

8.2.1         Construction Activities in the Coming Reporting Period

8.3      Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Reporting Period

8.4      Review of the Key Assumptions Adopted in the EIA Report

9       Conclusion and Recommendation

 

Tables  

Table 1.1: Contact Information of Key Personnel

Table 1.2: Summary of Status of All Environmental Aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual

Table 2.1: Locations of Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations 

Table 2.2: Action and Limit Levels of Air Quality Monitoring 

Table 2.3: Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Table 2.4: Summary of Air Quality Monitoring Results 

Table 3.1: Locations of Impact Noise Monitoring Stations 

Table 3.2: Action and Limit Levels for Noise Monitoring 

Table 3.3: Noise Monitoring Equipment

Table 3.4: Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results 

Table 5.1: Action and Limit Levels for Construction Waste 

Table 5.2: Construction Waste Statistics 

Table 6.1: Coordinates of Transect Lines in NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL Survey Areas 

Table 6.2: Summary of Photo Identification 

Table 7.1: Landscape and Visual – Construction Phase Audit Summary 

Table 7.2: Examples of Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures in the Reporting Period 

Table 7.3: Monitoring Programme for Landscape and Visual

Table 7.4: Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual

Table 7.5: Summary of the Number of Retained, Transplanted and To-be-transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period 

Table 7.6: Summary of the Transplanted Trees Updated in the Reporting Period 

Table 7.7: Summary of Key Audit Findings against the SkyPier Plan

Table 7.8: Status of Submissions under Environmental Permit

 

Figures

Figure 1.1

Locations of Key Construction Activities 

Figure 2.1

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

Figure 6.1

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

Figure 6.2

Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins

Figure 7.1

Duration of the SkyPier HSFs travelling through the SCZ for August 2024

 

Appendices

Appendix A

Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS) for Construction Phase

Appendix B

Monitoring Schedule

Appendix C

Monitoring Results

Appendix D

Status of Environmental Permits and Licenses

Appendix E

Cumulative Statistics on Exceedances, Environmental Complaints, Notification of Summons and Status of Prosecutions

Appendix F

Data of SkyPier HSF Movements to/from Macau (between 1 and 31 August 2024)

 


Abbreviations

3RS

Three-Runway System

AAHK

Airport Authority Hong Kong

AECOM

AECOM Asia Company Limited

AFCD

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department

AIS

Automatic Information System

ANI

Encounter Rate of Number of Dolphins

APM

Automated People Mover

AW

Airport West

BHS

Baggage Handling System

C&D

Construction and Demolition

CAP

Contamination Assessment Plan

CAR

Contamination Assessment Report

CTCC

Construction Traffic Control Centre

CWD

Chinese White Dolphin

DCM

Deep Cement Mixing

DEZ

Dolphin Exclusion Zone

DO

Dissolved Oxygen

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment

EM&A

Environmental Monitoring & Audit

EP

Environmental Permit

EPD

Environmental Protection Department

EPSS

Emergency Power Supply Systems

ET

Environmental Team

FCZ

Fish Culture Zone

HKBCF

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

HKIA

Hong Kong International Airport

HOKLAS

Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme

HSF

High Speed Ferry

HVS

High Volume Sampler

I-2RS

Interim Two-Runway System

IEC

Independent Environmental Checker

LKC

Lung Kwu Chau

MMHK

Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited

MMWP

Marine Mammal Watching Plan

MSS

Maritime Surveillance System

MTRMP-CAV

Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for Construction and Associated Vessel

NEL

Northeast Lantau

NWL

Northwest Lantau

PAM

Passive Acoustic Monitoring

PM

Project Manager

SC

Sha Chau

SCZ

Speed Control Zone

SCLKCMP

Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park

SS

Suspended Solids

SSSI

Site of Special Scientific Interest

STG

Encounter Rate of Number of Dolphin Sightings

SWL

Southwest Lantau

T2

Terminal 2

The Project

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

The SkyPier Plan

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

The Manual

The Updated EM&A Manual

TSP

Total Suspended Particulates

WL

West Lantau

WMP

Waste Management Plan

 

Executive summary

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

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

This is the 104th Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report for the Project which summarises the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 August 2024.

During the reporting period, the project is in the Interim Two-Runway System (I-2RS) stage, in which the new North Runway and the associated taxiway and facilities were operated together with the South Runway and existing airport facilities, with the Centre Runway closed down for modification works. The flight check for Centre Runway was started on 5 August 2024.

Key Activities in the Reporting Period

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period are located in reclamation areas and existing airport island respectively. Works in the reclamation areas included land improvement works, filling works, pavement works, concourse superstructure works, tunnel works for Automated People Mover (APM) and Baggage Handling System (BHS) and associated works. Land-based works on existing airport island involved Terminal 2 (T2) expansion works, modification and tunnel works for APM and BHS, utilities works, road and drainage works, excavation works, and 132kV cable laying works.

EM&A Activities Conducted in the Reporting Period

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

Monitoring Activities

Number of Sessions

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

30

Noise monitoring

18

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

2

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

A post-construction phase CWD monitoring by vessel line transect survey was conducted following the same methodology as adopted in construction phase monitoring.

Snapshots of EM&A Activities in the Reporting Period

 

Post-construction CWD Monitoring conducted by ET

On-site Checking Display of Construction Noise Permit conducted by ET

Dust Suppression Measure provided by Contractor

Results of Impact Monitoring

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

Monitoring results of construction dust, construction noise, and construction waste did not trigger the corresponding Action and Limit Levels in the reporting period. No non-conformity was recorded for landscape & visual monitoring in the reporting period.

Summary of Upcoming Key Issues

Contract 3206 Main Reclamation Works

·      Filling materials delivery.

Airfield Works:

Contract 3302 Eastern Vehicular Tunnel Advance Works

·      Underground utilities works.

Contract 3305 Airfield Ground Lighting System

·      Enhanced vehicular warning light hardware installation;

·      Power supply system installation; and

·      Cable containment installation.

Contract 3310 North Runway Modification Works

·      Underground utilities works;

·      Construction of vehicular tunnels;

·      Pavement works for runway;

·      Land improvement works;

·      Landscape works; and

·      Architectural, builder's work and finishing works.

Terminal 2 Concourse and Apron Works:

Contract 3402 New Integrated Airport Centres Enabling Works

·      Road resurfacing work.

Contract 3403 New Integrated Airport Centres Building and Civil Works

·      Defects and outstanding works.

Contract 3404 Integrated Airport Control System

·      System testing works.

 

Contract 3405 Third Runway Concourse Foundation and Substructure Works

·      Backfilling works; and

·      Drainage works.

Contract 3408 Third Runway Concourse and Apron Works

·      Building services and architectural, builder's work and finishing works;

·      Fuel pipe installation works;

·      Utilities works;

·      Erection works for concrete batching plant;

·      Reinforced concrete works;

·      Pavement Works;

·      Backfilling works; and

·      Cable laying works.

Terminal 2 Expansion:

Contract 3508 Terminal 2 Expansion Works

·      Pier, deck and parapet construction;

·      Drainage construction and utilities works;

·      Roof works;

·      Link bridge works;

·      Crossroad duct laying works;

·      Construction of beams and columns;

·      Electrical and mechanical works; and

·      Architectural, builder's work and finishing works.

Automated People Mover and Baggage Handling System:

Contract 3601 New Automated People Mover System (TRC Line)

·      Guide beam installation.

Contract 3602 Existing APM System Modification Works

·      Guide props installation works;

·      New Swing Gates installation works; and

·      Cabling works.

Contract 3603 Baggage Handling System (BHS)

·      Steel work, mechanical and electrical installation; and

·      Conveyor and electrical installation.

Airport Support Infrastructure:

Contract 3801 APM and BHS Tunnels on Existing Airport Island

·      Demolition works;

·      Hydroseeding works;

·      Road reinstatement works; and

·      Underground utilities works.

Contract 3802 APM and BHS Tunnels and Related Works

·      Excavation and lateral supports;

·      Box culvert construction and superstructure works;

·      APM and BHS Tunnel construction;

·      Reinforced concrete works; and

·      Architectural, builder's work and finishing works.

 

Contract 3804 East and Landside Fire Stations

·      Site setup and formation works;

·      Superstructure works and architectural, builder’s work and finishing works;

·      Pile cap construction works;

·      Electrical and mechanical works; and

·      Underground utilities works.

Contract 3805 New Airport District Police Operational Base

·      Pile cap works; and

·      Site formation works.

Construction Support:

Contract 3901A Concrete Batching Facility

·      Operation of concrete batching plant and material conveyor belt.

Contract 3901B Concrete Batching Facility

·      Operation of concrete batching plant and material conveyor belt.

Contract 3908 Quay Management Services

·      Provision of services of site management and logistic control of 3RS quays; and

·      Provision of flat top barge and vehicle delivery services between the launching point in Hong Kong and 3RS quays.

Contract 3913 Asphalt Batching Plant

·      Operation of asphalt batching plant.

Utilities:

132kV Cable

·      Cable trenching, duct installation and backfilling.

 

Summary Table

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

 

Yes

No

Details

Analysis / Recommendation / Remedial Actions

Breach of Limit Level^

 

No breach of Limit Level was recorded.

Nil

Breach of Action Level^

 

No breach of Action Level was recorded.

Nil

Complaint Received

 

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

Nil

Notification of any summons and status of prosecutions

 

No notification of summons nor prosecution was received.

Nil

Change that affect the EM&A

 

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

Nil

Note:     

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

1        Introduction

1.1        Background

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

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

The Project covers the expansion of the existing airport into a three-runway system (3RS) with key project components comprising land formation of about 650 ha and all associated facilities and infrastructure including taxiways, aprons, aircraft stands, a passenger concourse, an expanded Terminal 2 (T2), all related airside and landside works and associated ancillary and supporting facilities. The submarine aviation fuel pipelines and submarine power cables also require diversion as part of the works.

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

The summary of construction works programme can be referred to Section 1.4.

1.2        Scope of this Report

This is the 104th Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report for the Project which summarises the key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 to 31 August 2024.

1.3        Project Organisation

The Project’s organisation structure presented in Appendix B of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.1 remained unchanged during the reporting period. Contact details of the key personnel are 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, Environmental Compliance, Sustainability

Lawrence Tsui

2183 2734

Environmental Team (ET)

(Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited)

Environmental Team Leader

Terence Kong

2828 5919

Deputy Environmental Team Leaders

Heidi Yu

2828 5704

Ken Wong

2828 5817

Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)

(AECOM Asia Company Limited)

Independent Environmental Checker

Roy Man

3729 0380

Deputy Independent Environmental Checker

Jackel Law

3856 5312

 

Reclamation Works:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3206

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

Project Manager

Alan Mong

3763 1352

Environmental Officer

Zhang Bin Wang

3763 1525

 

Airfield Works:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3302

Eastern Vehicular Tunnel Advance Works

(China Road and Bridge Corporation)

Project Manager

Dickey Yau

5699 4503

Environmental Officer

Dennis Ho

5645 0563

Contract 3305

Airfield Ground Lighting System

(ADB Safegate Hong Kong Limited)

Project Manager

Allam Al-Turk

2944 9725

Environmental Officer

Ivan Ting

9222 9490

Contract 3306

Observation Facility Control System Supporting Interim 2RS and 3RS

(Chinney Alliance Engineering Limited)

Project Director

Dennis Yam

9551 9920

Environmental Officer

Richard Liu

9216 8990

Contract 3307

Fire Training Facility

(Paul Y. Construction Company Limited)

Project Manager

Ken Tang

9640 5397

Environmental Officer

Ferddy Leung

5585 6746

Contract 3308

Foreign Object Debris Detection System

(DAS Aviation Services Group)

Project Manager

Jeffrey Yau

9873 7422

Contract 3310

North Runway Modification Works

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

Project Manager

Kingsley Chiang

9424 8437

Environmental Officer

Federick Wong

9842 2703

 

Terminal 2 Concourse and Apron Works:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3402

New Integrated Airport Centres Enabling Works

(Wing Hing Construction Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Wyman Lau

6112 9753

Health Safety Environmental Manager

Mike Leung

6625 2550

Contract 3403

New Integrated Airport Centres Building and Civil Works

(Sun Fook Kong Construction Limited)

Project Manager

Alice Leung

9220 3162

Environmental Officer

Ray Cheung

9785 1566

Contract 3404

Integrated Airport Control System

(Shun Hing Systems Integration Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Andy Ng

9102 2739

Environmental Officer

Michael Lo

6228 3926

Contract 3405

Third Runway Concourse Foundation and Substructure Works

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

Project Manager

Francis Choi

9423 3469

Environmental Officer

Jacky Lai

9028 8975

Contract 3408

Third Runway Concourse and Apron Works

(Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited and Chevalier (Construction) Company Limited Joint Venture)

Senior HSE Manager

Qian Zhang

5377 7976

Environmental Officer

Ivan Mak

9422 4805

 

Terminal 2 Expansion:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3508

Terminal 2 Expansion Works

(Gammon Engineering & Construction Company Limited)

Project Director

Richard Ellis

6201 5637

Environmental Officer

Carrie Kwan

9276 0551

 

Automated People Mover and Baggage Handling System:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3601

New Automated People Mover System (TRC Line)

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

Project Manager

Hongdan Wei

158 6180 9450

Environmental Officer

H Y Yue

9185 8186

Contract 3602

Existing APM System Modification Works

(Niigata Transys Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Xia Bo

6586 4950

Environmental Officer

Y M Tong

5316 9801

Contract 3603

3RS Baggage Handling System

(VISH Consortium)

Project Manager

K C Ho

9272 9626

Environmental Officer

Richard Ng

9802 9577

 

Airport Support Infrastructure:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3801

APM and BHS Tunnels on Existing Airport Island

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

Project Manager

Kingsley Chiang

9424 8437

Environmental Officer

Eunice Kwok

9243 1331

Contract 3802

APM and BHS Tunnels and Related Works

(Gammon Engineering & Construction Company Limited)

Project Director

John Adams

6111 6989

Environmental Officer

Yan Ng

5345 8555

Contract 3804

East and Landside Fire Stations

(Beijing Urban Construction Group Company

Limited -

Beijing Urban Construction International Company Limited - Kin Shing

(Leung's)

General Contractors Ltd

Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Zhang Xianda

4661 6818

Environmental Representative

Karis Lam

6084 9745

Contract 3805

New Airport District Police Operational Base

(Chinney Construction Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Cheuk Wing Wai

9339 8321

Environmental Officer

Mike Li

6306 8547

 

Construction Support:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Contract 3721

Construction Support Infrastructure Works

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

Senior Project Manager

Thomas Lui

9011 5340

Environmental Officer

John Mak

6273 8703

Contract 3728

Minor Site Works

(Shun Yuen Construction Company Limited)

Contract Manager

C K Liu

9194 8739

Environmental Officer

Dan Leung

6856 5899

Contract 3733

Emergency Repair Service

(Wing Hing Construction Co., Ltd.)

Project Manager

Michael Kan

9206 0550

Safety Health Environmental Manager

Mike Leung

6625 2550

Contract 3901A

Concrete Batching Facility

(K. Wah Concrete Company Limited)

Project Manager

Benedict Wong

9553 2806

Environmental Officer

C P Fung

9874 2872

Contract 3901B

Concrete Batching Facility

(Gammon Construction Limited)

General Manager

Gabriel Chan

2435 3260

Environmental Officer

Rex Wong

2695 6319

Contract 3908

Quay Management Services

(Gitanes – Crown Asia Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Mr. Ian Li

9750 6438

Environmental Officer

Mr. Tang Kai Fun

9406 3526

Contract 3913

Asphalt Batching Plant

(SPR Joint Venture)

Project Manager

Xie Yi Sheng

6580 6005

Environmental Officer

Kenneth Chan

9300 2182

 

Utilities:

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

132 kV Cable

(CLP Power Hong Kong Limited / Kum Shing (K.F.) Construction Company Limited)

Engineer

Ken Fung

6391 9087

Assistant Engineer

Ben Tang

5133 1754

1.4        Summary of Construction Works

During the reporting period, the project is in the Interim Two-Runway System (I-2RS) stage, in which the new North Runway and the associated taxiway and facilities were operated together with the South Runway and existing airport facilities, with the Centre Runway closed down for modification works. The flight check for Centre Runway was started on 5 August 2024. The restricted area during the flight check is presented in Figure 1.1.

The key activities of the Project carried out in the reporting period are located in reclamation areas and existing airport island respectively. Works in the reclamation areas included land improvement works, filling works, pavement works, concourse superstructure works, tunnel works for APM and BHS and associated works. Land-based works on existing airport island involved T2 expansion works, modification and tunnel works for APM and BHS, utilities works, road and drainage works, excavation works, and 132kV cable laying works.

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

1.5        Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

The status for all environmental aspects are presented in Table 1.2. The EM&A requirements remained unchanged during the reporting period.

Table 1.2: Summary of Status of All Environmental Aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual

Parameters

EM&A Requirements

Status

Air Quality

Baseline Monitoring

At least 14 consecutive days before commencement of construction work

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

Impact Monitoring

At least 3 times every 6 days

On-going

Noise

Baseline Monitoring

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

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

Impact Monitoring

Weekly

On-going

Water Quality

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

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

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

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

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

General impact water quality monitoring for water jetting works was completed on 23 May 2017.

The impact water quality monitoring was terminated after 31 October 2023.

Initial Intensive Deep Cement Mixing (DCM) Water Quality Monitoring

At least four weeks

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

Regular DCM Water Quality Monitoring

Three times per week until completion of DCM works.

Due to the completion of all marine-based DCM works within April 2022, regular DCM monitoring was ceased at all monitoring stations starting from 28 April 2022.

Post-construction phase water quality monitoring

Three days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides for four weeks

The four-week post-construction phase water quality monitoring exercise was commenced on 14 November 2023 and completed on 9 December 2023.

Sewerage and Sewage Treatment

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

Methodology to be prepared and submitted to EPD one year before the scheduled commencement of operation of the proposed third runway

The proposed methodology of the annual sewage flow monitoring was approved by EPD. The annual flow monitoring was started from June 2021 and completed in 2022.

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

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

The H2S monitoring proposal was accepted by EPD in Jun 2023.

Waste Management

Waste Monitoring

At least weekly

On-going

Land Contamination

Supplementary Contamination Assessment Plan (CAP)

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

The Supplementary CAP was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.20.

Site Re-appraisal Summary Report for Fire Training Facility

Site Re-appraisal Summary Report for Fire Training Facility

Site Re-appraisal Summary Report for Fire Training Facility was submitted and accepted by EPD.

Contamination Assessment Report (CAR) for Golf Course

CAR to be submitted for golf course

The CAR for Golf Course was submitted and accepted by EPD.

Contamination Assessment Reports (CAR) for Terminal 2 Emergency Power Supply Systems

CAR to be submitted for Terminal 2 Emergency Power Supply Systems

The CARs for Terminal 2 Emergency Power Supply Systems were submitted and accepted by EPD.

Terrestrial Ecology

Pre-construction Egretry Survey Plan

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

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

Ecological Monitoring

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

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

Marine Ecology

Pre-Construction Phase Coral Dive Survey

Prior to marine construction works

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

Coral Translocation

-

The coral translocation was completed.

Post-Translocation Coral Monitoring

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

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

Chinese White Dolphins (CWD)

Baseline Monitoring

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

Vessel line transect surveys: Two full surveys per month;

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

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

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

Impact Monitoring

Vessel line transect surveys: Two full surveys per month;

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

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

The construction phase CWD monitoring was completed in December 2023.

Post-construction Phase Monitoring

12 months of post-construction phase CWD monitoring upon the completion of marine construction works.

Vessel line transect surveys: Two full surveys per month.

The post-construction phase CWD monitoring was commenced in January 2024.

Landscape & Visual

 

 

Landscape & Visual Plan

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

The Landscape & Visual Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.18.

Baseline Monitoring

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

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

Impact Monitoring

Weekly

On-going

Establishment Works Monitoring

Bi-monthly

On-going

Long Term Management (10 years) Monitoring

Annually

On-going

Environmental Auditing

 

 

Regular site inspection

Weekly

On-going

Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP) implementation measures

Monitor and check

No Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP) implementation measures during this reporting period.

Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) Plan implementation measures

Monitor and check

No Dolphin Exclusion Zone (DEZ) monitoring was conducted during this reporting period

SkyPier High Speed Ferries (HSF) implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Construction and Associated Vessels Implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Silt Curtain Deployment Plan implementation measures

Monitor and check

Silt Curtain Deployment Plan measures was implemented at C7a during this reporting period.

Spill Response Plan implementation measures

Monitor and check

On-going

Complaint Hotline and Email channel

Construction phase

On-going

Environmental Log Book

Construction phase

On-going

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

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. To promote the environmental awareness and enhance the environmental performance of the contractors, regular environmental management meetings were conducted during the reporting period, which are summarised as below:

Sixteen environmental management meetings for EM&A review with works contracts: 7, 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28 & 29 August 2024.

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 A.

 

2        Air Quality Monitoring

Air quality monitoring of 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) was conducted three times every six days at two 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

2.1        Action and Limit Levels

In accordance with the Manual, baseline air quality monitoring of 1-hour TSP levels at the two air quality monitoring stations were established as presented in the Baseline Monitoring Report. 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.

Table 2.2: Action and Limit Levels of Air Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Station

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

AR1A

306

500

AR2

298

2.2        Monitoring Equipment

Portable direct reading dust meter was used to carry out the air quality monitoring. Details of equipment used in the reporting period are given in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3: Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Brand and Model                  

Last Calibration Date                  

Calibration Certificate Provided in

Portable direct reading dust meter

(Laser dust monitor)

SIBATA LD-3B-1

(Serial No. 597337)

9 May 2024

Appendix D of Monthly EM&A Report No. 103

2.3        Monitoring Methodology

2.3.1         Measuring Procedure

The measurement procedures involved in the impact air quality monitoring can be summarised as follows:

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

2.3.2         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 record of the HVS provided in Appendix D of the Monthly EM&A Report No. 103 and the calibration certificates of portable direct reading dust meters listed in Table 2.3 are valid in the reporting period.

2.4        Summary of Monitoring Results

The air quality monitoring schedule of the reporting period is provided in Appendix B.

The air quality monitoring results in the reporting period are summarised in Table 2.4. Detailed impact monitoring results are presented in Appendix C.

Table 2.4: Summary of Air Quality Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station

1-hr TSP Concentration Range (mg/m3)

Action Level (mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

AR1A

23 – 64

306

500

AR2

17 – 86

298

The monitoring results were within the corresponding Action and Limit Levels 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.

2.5        Conclusion

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

3        Noise Monitoring

Noise monitoring in the form of 30-minute measurements of Leq, L10, and L90 levels was conducted once per week between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays at four representative monitoring stations in the vicinity of noise sensitive receivers in Tung Chung and villages in North Lantau in accordance with the Manual. Table 3.1 describes the details of the monitoring stations. Figure 2.1 shows the locations of the monitoring stations.

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(2)

Site Office

Façade

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

Notes:

(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.

(2)    According to Section 4.3.3 of the Manual, the noise monitoring at NM3A was temporarily suspended starting from 1 September 2018 and would be resumed with the completion of the Tung Chung East Development.

3.1        Action and Limit Levels

In accordance with the Manual, baseline noise levels at the noise monitoring stations were established as presented in the Baseline Monitoring Report. 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.

Table 3.2: Action and Limit Levels for Noise Monitoring

Monitoring Stations

Time Period

Action Level

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

NM1A, NM2, NM3A, NM4, NM5 and NM6

0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one valid documented

complaint is received from

any one of the sensitive

receivers

75dB(A)(1)

Note:

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

3.2        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 used in the reporting period are given in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3: Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Brand and Model

Last Calibration Date

Calibration Certificate Provided in

Integrated Sound Level Meter

Rion NL-52

(Serial No. 00998505)

03 Mar 2024

Appendix D of Monthly EM&A Report No.99

Integrated Sound Level Meter

Rion NL-52

(Serial No. 01287679)

22 Oct 2023

Appendix D of Monthly EM&A Report No.95

Acoustic Calibrator

Castle GA607 (Serial No. 040162)

03 Mar 2024

Appendix D of Monthly EM&A Report No.99

Acoustic Calibrator

Casella CEL-120 (Serial No. 2383737)

30 Jun 2024

Appendix D of Monthly EM&A Report No.103

3.3        Monitoring Methodology

3.3.1         Monitoring Procedure

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

a.   The sound level meter was set on a tripod at least a height of 1.2m above the ground for free-field measurements at monitoring stations NM1A, NM4, NM5 and NM6. A correction of +3dB(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 1dB(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, Leq, L10 and L90 were recorded. In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a record sheet.

f.    Noise measurement results, when higher than the baseline monitoring levels, 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.

3.3.2         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 listed in Table 3.3 are valid in the reporting period.

3.4        Summary of Monitoring Results

The noise monitoring schedule of reporting period is provided in Appendix B.

The noise monitoring results in the reporting period are summarised in Table 3.4. Detailed impact monitoring results are presented in Appendix C.

Table 3.4: Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station

Noise Level Range, dB(A)

Leq (30mins)

Limit Level, dB(A)

Leq (30mins)

NM1A(1)

61 - 65

75

NM4(1)

62 - 64

70(2)

NM5(1) (3)

53 - 58

75

NM6(1) (3)

63 - 71

75

 Notes:

(1)    +3dB(A) Façade correction included;

(2)    The limit level will be reduced to 65dB(A) during school examination periods at NM4. No school examination took place during this reporting period.

(3)    Some of the noise measurement results were higher than the baseline monitoring levels. To reduce the influence of non-Project related noise on the monitoring results, these measurement results were corrected with reference to the baseline monitoring results.

No complaints were received from any sensitive receiver as listed in Table 3.1 that triggered the Action Level. All monitoring results were within the corresponding Limit Levels at all monitoring stations in the reporting period.

3.5        Conclusion

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 traffic noise near NM1A, school activities near NM4 and aircraft noise near NM6 during this reporting period. It is considered that the monitoring work during the reporting period was effective and there was no adverse impact attributable to the Project activities.

 

4        Water Quality Monitoring

All water impact monitoring work has been completed, with results presented in the Annual EM&A Report for 2023 and to be included in the Final EM&A Report. Based on the analysis presented in Annual EM&A report for 2023, the post-construction phase water quality monitoring did not reveal significant changes of the water quality when comparing with baseline water quality monitoring, and it can be concluded that the marine works of the Project during construction phase did not cause deterioration in or adverse impacts on the marine water quality surrounding the Project site.

 

5        Waste Management

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.

5.1        Action and Limit Levels

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

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

Based on updated contractors’ information, construction waste generated in the reporting period is summarised in Table 5.2. The ET and IEC have carried out site audits regularly and reviewed the trip ticket system. Dedicated areas for sorting of materials are established on site. Recyclable materials such as steel bar, metal strip, aluminium, paper and plastic are sorted on-site and transported off-site for recycling during this reporting period.

Table 5.2: Construction Waste Statistics

 

 

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

(m3)

C&D Material Reused in the Project

(m3)

C&D Material Reused in other Projects

(m3)

C&D Material Transferred to Public Fill

(m3)

Chemical Waste

(kg)

Chemical Waste

(l)

General Refuse

(tonne)

 

May 2024(2)

 

0

525

0

5,152

1,350

0

5,150

Jun 2024(2)

 

0

16,018

0

4,390

60

1,300

6,789

Jul 2024(2)

 

0

13,793

0

6,025

1,300

0

5,995

Aug 2024(3)

 

0

4,719

0

8,989

0

2,400

7,123

Notes:

(1)    C&D refers to Construction and Demolition.

(2)    Updated figures were provided by contractors.

(3)   The data was based on the information provided by contractors up to the submission date of this Monthly EM&A Report and might be updated in the forthcoming Monthly EM&A Report.

 

 

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

5.3        Marine Sediment Management

Marine sediment is managed according to the EIA Report, Updated EM&A Manual, Waste Management Plan and the proposal of Further Development on Treatment Level / Details and the Reuse Mode for Marine Sediment (hereinafter referred to as “Further Development Proposal”) of the Project. The storage conditions of the excavated marine sediment, treatment process, final backfilling location as well as associated records were inspected and checked by ET and verified by IEC to ensure they were in compliance with the requirements as stipulated in the Waste Management Plan and Further Development Proposal.

Sampling and backfilling works for treated marine sediment was conducted during the reporting period. The details of the marine sediment sampling, treatment and backfilling can be referred to Annual EM&A Report.

6        Chinese White Dolphin Monitoring

In accordance with the Manual, CWD monitoring by small vessel line-transect survey should be conducted during the post-construction phase, with a frequency of two full surveys per month.

6.1        CWD Monitoring Transects

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

Table 6.1: 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        CWD Monitoring Methodology

6.2.1         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 6.1, the transects covered NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL areas as proposed in the Manual, which 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 going around 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 pairs. Only on-effort data collected under favourable conditions of Beaufort 0-3 and visibility of approximately 1200 m or beyond were used for analysis of the CWD encounter rates.

A 15-20m vessel with a flying bridge observation platform about 4 to 5m 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 were lost from view.  At that point, the boat returned (off effort) to the survey line at the closest point after obtaining photo records of the dolphin group and began to survey on effort again.

Focal follows of dolphins would be used for providing supplementary information only 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 would involve the boat following (at an appropriate distance to minimise disturbance) an identifiable individual dolphin for an extended period of time, and collecting detailed data on its location, behaviour, response to vessels, and associates.

6.2.2         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 photograph 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 Project since the baseline monitoring stage.

6.3        Monitoring Results and Observations

6.3.1         Small Vessel Line-transect Survey

Survey Effort

Within this reporting period, two complete sets of small vessel line-transect surveys were conducted on the 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20 and 23 August 2024 covering all transects in NEL, NWL, AW, WL and SWL survey areas for twice.

A total of around 442.60 km of survey effort was collected from these surveys and around 433.42 km survey effort was 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 C.

Sighting Distribution

In the current reporting period, 25 sightings with 82 dolphins were sighted. All these sightings were on-effort records under favourable weather condition (i.e. Beaufort Sea State 3 or below with favourable visibility). Details of dolphin sightings are presented in Appendix C.

Distribution of all CWD sightings recorded in the current reporting period is illustrated in Figure 6.2. In WL, CWD sightings were mostly scattered in the waters between Tai O and Fan Lau. In SWL, CWD sightings were recorded in area near Fan Lau and Tong Wan. There was no CWD sighting recorded in NWL and NEL during the reporting period.

Figure 6.2: Sightings Distribution of Chinese White Dolphins

Remarks: (1) Please note that there is 25 pink circles on the map indicating the sighting locations of CWDs. (2) Marine park excludes land area and the landward boundary generally follows the high water mark along the coastline.

Group Size

In the current reporting period, 25 groups of 82 dolphins in total were sighted, and the average group size of CWDs was 3.3 dolphins per group. The majority of the CWD sightings were having small group size (i.e. 1-2 dolphins) and two CWD sightings with large group size (i.e. 10 or more dolphins) were recorded in the current reporting period.

Activities and Association with Fishing Boats

There was eight CWD sightings recorded engaging in foraging activities in WL and SWL survey areas during the current reporting period. Amongst these eight sightings, there was one sighting observed in association with operating purse seiner in SWL.

Mother-calf Pair

In this reporting period, there were six sightings recorded with the presence of mother-and-unspotted calf and/or mother-and-unspotted juvenile pair(s). These sightings were recorded in both WL and SWL.

6.3.2         Photo Identification

In the current reporting period, a total number of 40 different CWD individuals were identified for totally 46 times. A summary of photo identification works is presented in Table 6.2. Representative photos of these individuals are given in Appendix C.

Table 6.2: Summary of Photo Identification

Individual ID

Date of Sighting (dd-mmm-yy)

Sighting Group No.

Area

 

Individual ID

Date of Sighting (dd-mmm-yy)

Sighting Group No.

Area

NLMM012

13-Aug-24

2

WL

 

WLMM043

7-Aug-24

3

SWL

NLMM013

13-Aug-24

3

WL

 

 

13-Aug-24

7

WL

NLMM028

23-Aug-24

5

WL

 

WLMM056

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

NLMM039

13-Aug-24

2

WL

 

WLMM058

8-Aug-24

3

SWL

NLMM052

13-Aug-24

3

WL

 

WLMM065

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

NLMM065

13-Aug-24

3

WL

 

 

23-Aug-24

1

WL

NLMM070

13-Aug-24

3

WL

 

WLMM067

13-Aug-24

5

WL

SLMM002

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

 

WLMM079

23-Aug-24

4

WL

SLMM003

23-Aug-24

4

WL

 

WLMM082

13-Aug-24

8

WL

SLMM010

13-Aug-24

8

WL

 

WLMM111

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

SLMM034

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

 

WLMM114

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

SLMM049

23-Aug-24

4

WL

 

WLMM118

13-Aug-24

5

WL

SLMM050

7-Aug-24

2

SWL

 

WLMM141

13-Aug-24

5

WL

SLMM052

13-Aug-24

8

WL

 

WLMM147

23-Aug-24

4

WL

SLMM055

8-Aug-24

3

SWL

 

WLMM154

13-Aug-24

4

WL

SLMM058

23-Aug-24

1

WL

 

WLMM168

23-Aug-24

1

WL

WLMM001

13-Aug-24

13

WL

 

WLMM192

13-Aug-24

8

WL

WLMM003

13-Aug-24

13

WL

 

WLMM196

23-Aug-24

1

WL

 

23-Aug-24

3

WL

 

WLMM197

23-Aug-24

1

WL

 

 

4

WL

 

WLMM200

7-Aug-24

3

SWL

 

 

6

WL

 

WLMM201

13-Aug-24

3

WL

WLMM008

13-Aug-24

8

WL

 

WLMM202

23-Aug-24

3

WL

WLMM042

13-Aug-24

8

WL

 

 

 

4

WL

6.4        Site Audit for CWD-related Mitigation Measures

During the reporting period, no dolphin observation station was deployed by the contractor for continuous monitoring of the DEZ in accordance with the DEZ Plan. During this reporting period, no training session were provided by the ET for the proposed dolphin observers.  

Audits of SkyPier high speed ferries route diversion and speed control and construction vessel management are presented in Section 7.4 and Section 7.5 respectively. 

6.5        Timing of reporting CWD Monitoring Results

Detailed analysis of CWD monitoring results collected by small vessel line-transect survey will be provided in upcoming quarterly reports and annual report.

6.6        Summary of CWD Monitoring

Monitoring of CWD was conducted with two complete sets of small vessel line-transect surveys. The tentative post-construction phase CWD monitoring schedule of next reporting month is provided in Appendix B.

 

7        Environmental Site Inspection and Audit

7.1        Environmental Site Inspection

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

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

·         The EIA and EM&A requirements;

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

·         The EP conditions and other submissions under the EP;

·         Monitoring results of EM&A programme;

·         Works progress and programme;

·         Proposal of individual works;

·         Contract specifications on environmental protection; and

·         Previous site inspection results.

Good site practices were observed in site inspections during the reporting period. Advice was given when necessary to ensure the construction workforce were familiar with relevant procedures, and to maintain good environmental performance on site. Regular toolbox talks on environmental issues were organised for the construction workforce by the contractors to ensure understanding and proper implementation of environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures.

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 A.

7.2        Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures

Implementation of applicable landscape and visual mitigation measures (reference to the environmental protection measures CM1 – CM10 and OM7 in Appendix A) was monitored in accordance with the Manual. All measures undertaken by both the contractor and the landscape contractor during the construction phase and first year of the operation phase shall be audited by a landscape architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures. Site inspections shall be undertaken at least once every two months during the operation phase.

 

The implementation status of the environmental protection measures is summarized below in Table 7.1. Examples of landscape and visual mitigation measures are shown in Table 7.2. The monitoring programme for detailed design, construction, establishment works and long term management (10 years) stages is presented in Table 7.3. Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual impacts is stated in Table 7.4.

Table 7.1: Landscape and Visual – Construction Phase Audit Summary 

Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures during Construction

Implementation Status

Relevant Contract(s) in the Reporting Period

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

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

All works contracts

CM2 – Reduction of construction period to practical minimum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

3508

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

3508

 

CM10 – Land formation works shall be followed with advanced hydroseeding around taxiways and runways as soon as practical

The Contractor’s performance on the implementation of advanced hydroseeding works was observed and checked by the ET during the weekly site inspection.

3310

OM7 – Compensatory tree planting for all felled trees shall be provided to the satisfaction of relevant Government departments.  Required numbers and locations of compensatory trees shall be determined and agreed separately with Government during the Tree Felling Application process under the relevant technical circulars.(1)

Compensatory trees have been planted in batches at different time periods.

 

The compensatory trees were checked by ET bi-monthly during the 12-month establishment period after the completion of each batch of compensatory tree planting works.

 

Subsequently, the trees were monitored annually throughout the 10-year long-term management period, succeeding the establishment period for each batch of compensatory planting.

AAHK

Note:

(1) AAHK is the management and maintenance agency of the compensatory trees. Tree Felling Application is not required for 3RS project.

 

Table 7.2: Examples of Landscape and Visual Mitigation Measures in the Reporting Period

Erection of site hoardings around works area in unobtrusive colours (CM5)

Avoidance of excessive height and bulk of site buildings (CM6)

Control of night-time lighting using light hooding and minimisation of night working period (CM7)

General view of retained tree (CM8)

General view of   transplanted trees (CM9)

General view of advanced hydroseeding works (CM10)

 

 

General view of   compensatory tree planting (OM7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual, all existing trees shall be protected carefully during construction. Trees unavoidably affected by the works shall be transplanted where practical. In this reporting period, the cumulative total number of retained trees and transplanted trees under the Project remained unchanged (i.e. 33 and 26 respectively) comparing to the previous reporting period. No non-conformity was recorded in the reporting period.

Details of the retained trees, transplanted trees and to-be-transplanted trees under the Project are summarized in Table 7.5. Details of the retained trees are to be discussed in the Quarterly EM&A reports.

For the compensatory tree monitoring, a bi-monthly site inspection for the 12-month establishment period will be conducted in September 2024.

Table 7.3: Monitoring Programme for Landscape and Visual

Stage

Monitoring Task

Monitoring Report

Form of Approval

Frequency

Detailed Design

Checking of design works against the recommendations of the landscape and visual impact assessments within the EIA shall be undertaken during detailed design and tender stage, to ensure that they fulfil the intention of the mitigation measures. Any changes to the design, including design changes on site shall also be checked.

Report by AAHK / PM confirming that the design conforms to requirements of EP.

Approved by Client

At the end of the Detailed Design Phase

Construction

Checking of the contractor’s operations during the construction period.

Report on Contractor's compliance, by ET

Counter signature of report by IEC

Weekly

Establishment Works

Checking of the planting works during the twelve-month Establishment Period after completion of each batch of transplanting works or compensatory tree planting works.

Report on Contractor's compliance, by ET

Counter signature of report by IEC

Every two months

Long Term Management (10 year)

Monitoring of the long-term management of the planting works in the period up to 10 years after completion of each batch of transplanting works or compensatory tree planting works.

Report on compliance by ET or maintenance Agency as appropriate

Counter signature of report by Management Agency

Annually

 

Table 7.4: Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual

Event Action Level

Action

ET

IEC

AAHK / PM

Contractor

Design Check

Check final design conforms to the requirements of EP and prepare report.

Check report.

Recommend remedial design if necessary.

Undertake remedial design if necessary.

 

Non-conformity on one occasion

Identify source.

Inform IEC and AAHK / PM.

Discuss remedial actions with IEC, AAHK / PM and Contractor.

Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed.

Check report.

Check Contractor’s working method.

Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures.

Advise AAHK / PM on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures.

Check implementation of remedial measures.

Notify Contractor.

Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

Amend working methods to prevent recurrence of non-conformity.

Rectify damage and undertake additional action necessary.

Repeated Non-conformity

Identify source.

Inform IEC and AAHK / PM.

Increase monitoring frequency.

Discuss remedial actions with IEC, AAHK / PM and Contractor.

Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed.

If non-conformity stops, cease additional monitoring.

Check monitoring report.

Check Contractor’s working method.

Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures.

Advise AAHK / PM on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures.

Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

Notify Contractor.

Ensure remedial measures area properly implemented.

Amend working methods to prevent recurrence of non-conformity.

Rectify damage and undertake additional action necessary.

 

Table 7.5: Summary of the Number of Retained, Transplanted and To-be-transplanted Trees in the Reporting Period

 

Contract No.

Retain (nos.)

Transplanted (nos.)

To-be-transplanted (nos.)

Establishment Period

Maintenance Period

3503

0

0

9(1)

0

3508

33

0

12

0

3801

0

0

5(2)

0

Grand Total

33

0

26

0

Note:

(1) Contract 3503 was completed. The 9 transplanted trees, including T835, T836, T838, T812, T814, T815, T829, T830 and T831 were handed over to AAHK in February 2022.

(2) The 5 transplanted trees including CT276, CT1253, CT1194, CT1794 and CT1795 have been handed over to other management agencies. Details of the management agency are presented in Table 7.6.

Summary of the updated transplanted trees are presented in Table 7.6.

Table 7.6: Summary of the Transplanted Trees Updated in the Reporting Period

Tree ID

Transplant Date

Management Stage

Management Agency

Remarks

CT276

3 May 2018

 

Long Term Management period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

Establishment Period was completed. Next inspection will be conducted in February 2025. Photos of the last inspection in February 2024 can be referred to Table 7.7 of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.98.

CT1253

4 May 2018

 

Long Term Management period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

T835

22 Jan 2020

Long Term Management period

Feb 2021 – Jan 2030

AAHK

Establishment Period was completed. The tree within the land parcel was acquired for construction of infrastructure. The tree was felled in 2023.

T836

13 Dec 2019

Long Term Management period

Feb 2021 – Jan 2030

AAHK

 

T838

22 Jan 2020

Long Term Management period

Feb 2021 – Jan 2030

AAHK

 

T812

21 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

Establishment Period was completed. Next inspection will be conducted in December 2024.  Photos of the last inspection in December 2023 can be referred to Table 7.7 of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No. 96.

T814

20 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

T815

15 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

T829

18 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

T830

14 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

T831

19 Dec 2020

Long Term Management period

Jan 2022 – Dec 2031

AAHK

 

T1493

6 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

Establishment Period was completed. Next inspection will be conducted in July 2025. Photos of the last inspection in July 2024 can be referred to Table 7.7 of the Construction Phase Monthly EM&A Report No.103.

T1494

6 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1495

10 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1496

5 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1497

5 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1498

29 Jun 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1499

29 Jun 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1500

30 Jun 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1501

30 Jun 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1502

5 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1503

6 Jul 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

T1504

24 Jun 2021

Long Term Management period

Aug 2022 – Jul 2031

Contract 3508

CT1194

4 May 2018

Long Term Management period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

Southern Landside Petrol Filling Station

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

CT1794

3 May 2018

Long Term Management period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

AsiaWorld-Expo

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

CT1795

3 May 2018

Long Term Management period

Jun 2019 – May 2028

AsiaWorld-Expo

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

7.3        Land Contamination Assessment

The Supplementary CAP was submitted to EPD pursuant to EP Condition 2.20. The CARs for Golf Course and T2 Emergency Power Supply Systems (EPSS) were submitted to EPD in accordance with EP Condition 1.9 and the Supplementary CAP in which no land contamination issues were identified. EPD issued no further comment for aforesaid CARs. No leakage was found after the removal of underground fuel pipelines of T2 EPSS and all required additional photos have been submitted to EPD.

According to the approved supplementary CAP, there are 3 remaining locations where site re-appraisal / additional site investigation are proposed. The site re-appraisal summary report for Fire Training Facility was submitted and accepted by EPD on 20 December 2023. The status of site re-appraisal/ additional site investigation of the 2 remaining locations (Fuel Tank Room to the west of CAD Antenna Farm and Airside Petrol Filling Station) shall be further updated upon latest development programme is available.

7.4        Audit of SkyPier High Speed Ferries

The Marine Travel Routes and Management Plan for High Speed Ferries of SkyPier (the SkyPier Plan) was submitted to the Advisory Council on the Environment for comment and subsequently submitted to and approved by EPD in November 2015 under EP Condition 2.10. The approved SkyPier Plan is available on the dedicated website of the Project. In the SkyPier Plan, AAHK has committed to implement the mitigation measure of r