Agreement No. CE 20/2004(EP) North East New Territories (NENT) Landfill Extension

 

Quarterly Environmental Monitoring and Audit Report (No. 5) – January to March 2024

2024-04-11

ET Certification

IEC Verification

Contents

 

Executive Summary. 1

1.  Introduction. 2

2.  Project Information. 4

3.  Air Quality Monitoring. 7

4   Noise Monitoring. 12

5   Water Quality Monitoring. 16

6   Waste Management 23

7   Landfill Gas Monitoring. 24

8   Landscape and Visual 27

9   Cultural Heritage. 28

10 Ecological Monitoring. 29

11 Site Inspection and Audit 30

12 Environmental Non-conformance. 36

13 Implementation Status on Environmental Mitigation Measures. 39

14 Conclusion. 40

 

Figure

Figure 1

Location of the Project Site

Figure 2

Impact Monitoring Locations

Figure 3

Landfill Gas Monitoring Locations

Appendix

Appendix A

Construction Programme & Construction Site Activities

Appendix B

Project Organization Chart & Management Structure

Appendix C

Detail Status of FEP & EP Submission

Appendix D

Graphical Presentations

Appendix E

Notification of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedance

Appendix F

Waste Flow Table

Appendix G

Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS)

Appendix H

Mitigation Measures of Cultural Landscape Features

Appendix I

Cumulative complaint / enquiry log and Summaries of complaints and enquiry

 


Executive Summary

Aurecon Hong Kong Limited (Aurecon) was appointed to undertake the role of Environmental Team (ET) and carry out Environmental Monitoring and Audit for the North East New Territories (NENT) Landfill Extension.

 

The construction phase and EM&A programme of the Project commenced on 1 December 2022.

 

This 5th Quarterly EM&A Report presents the EM&A works conducted from 1 January to 31 March 2024 in accordance with the EM&A Manual.

Summary of Construction Works undertaken during Report Period

The major construction works undertaken during the reporting period include:

Construction Activities Undertaken

Reporting Month

Jan 2024

Feb 2024

Mar 2024

-  Material loading and unloading, site traffic

-  Construction of site buildings

-  Site clearance

-  Installation of permanent fencing

-  Site formation

-  Tree felling

Shotcreting (Permanent and Temporary)

Soil Nail Installation

 

Environmental Exceedance

 

Air Quality, Noise, Surface Water Quality & Landfill Gas Monitoring

No exceedance of the Action and Limit Levels were recorded at designated monitoring stations during the reporting period.

 

Environmental Non-conformance/Compliant/Summons and Prosecution

 

No non-conformance event, complaint, summons/prosecutions were recorded and received in this reporting period.

1.                  Introduction

1.1.              Background

1.1.1.            The North East New Territories Landfill Extension (the NENTX Project) is located adjacent to the existing North East New Territories (NENT) Landfill at Ta Kwu Ling. The extension site is located in a valley covering mainly the existing NENT Landfill Stockpile and Borrow Area that was formed to the east of the existing landfill as part of the original site development of the landfill, and layout plan shown in Figure 1.

1.1.2.            The NENTX is a designated project. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report (AEIAR-111/2007) and an Environmental Monitoring and Audit Manual were approved on 20 September 2007. The project is governed by an Environmental Permit (EP) (EP-292/2007) which was granted on 26 November 2007. A further of EP (FEP) was applied and the FEP (FEP-01/292/2007) was subsequently granted on 28 April 2022. Another further of EP (FEP-02/292/2007) was subsequently granted on 23 August 2023.

1.1.3.            In accordance with the requirements specified in Section 2.7 to 2.11 and Section 12.3 of the approved Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual, Quarterly EM&A report should be submitted to the Director of Environmental Protection (DEP) within 10 working days after the end of the reporting quarter. The submissions shall be certified by the Environmental Team (ET) Leader and verified by the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC).

1.1.4.            The construction phase and EM&A programme of the Project commenced on 1 December 2022.

1.2.              Nature, Scale and Scope of the captioned Designated Project

1.2.1           The Nature, Scale and Scope of the captioned Designated Project is presented in Table 1-1.

Table 1-1     Nature, Scale and Scope of the captioned Designated Project

Item(s)

Content

Nature of Designated Project

Construction and operation of a landfill for waste as defined in the “Waste Disposal Ordinance” (Cap. 354)

Scale and Scope of Designated Project

The Project mainly consists of the followings: -

Construction and operation of a landfill extension of about 70 hectares with a target void space of at least 19 million cubic metres on the eastern side of the existing NENT Landfill, including the followings: -

  i.       Site formation and preparation;

 ii.       Installation of liner system;

iii.       Installation of leachate collection, treatment and disposal facilities;

iv.       Installation of gas collection, utilization and management facilities;

 v.       Utilities provisions and drainage diversion;

vi.       Landfilling operation;

vii.       Restoration and aftercare in subsequent stages; and

viii.       Measures to mitigate environmental impacts as well as environmental monitoring and auditing to be implemented.


 

1.3.              Purpose of this Report

1.3.1.            This is the 5th Quarterly EM&A Report which summarises the impact monitoring results and audit findings for the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 01 January to 31 March 2024.

1.4.              Structure of the Report

1.4.1.            The structure of the report is as follows:

Section 1 – Introduction

-       details the background, purpose and structure of the report.

Section 2Project Information

-       summarises background and scope of the Project, site description, project organization and contact details, construction programme, the construction works undertaken and the status of Environmental Permit(s)/License(s) during the reporting period.

Section 3 – Air Quality Monitoring

-       Construction Dust

Section 4 – Noise Monitoring

Section 5 – Water Quality Monitoring

-       Groundwater Monitoring

-       Surface Water Monitoring

Section 6 – Waste Management

Section 7 – Landfill Gas Monitoring

Section 8 – Landscape and Visual

Section 9 – Cultural Heritage

Section 10 – Ecological Monitoring

Section 11 – Site Inspection and Audit

Section 12 – Environmental Non-Conformance

Section 13 – Implementation Status on Environmental Mitigation Measures

Section 14 – Conclusion


2.                  Project Information

2.1.              Construction Activities

2.1.1.            A summary of the major construction activities undertaken in this reporting period is shown in Table 2-1. Construction programme and detailed construction activities are illustrated in Appendix A.

Table 2-1       Major Construction Activities Undertaken in the Reporting Period

Construction Activities Undertaken

Reporting Month

Jan 2024

Feb 2024

Mar 2024

-  Material loading and unloading, site traffic

-  Construction of site buildings

-  Site clearance

-  Installation of permanent fencing

-  Site formation

-  Tree felling

Shotcreting (Permanent and Temporary)

Soil Nail Installation

2.2.              Project Organization & Management Structure

2.2.1.            The Project Organization Chart & Management Structure are shown in Appendix B. The key personnel contact information is summarized in Table 2-2.

Table 2-2       Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party

Name

Contact Number

Contractor

(Veolia Hong Kong Holding Ltd.)

Mr. Matt Choy

2902 5296

Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)

(Meinhardt Infrastructure and Environment Ltd.)

Ms. Claudine Lee

2859 5409

Environmental Team Leader (ETL)

(Aurecon Hong Kong Limited)

Mr. Fredrick Leong

3664 6888


 

2.3.              Status of Submission required under the FEP & EP during reporting period

2.3.1.            The status of statutory environmental compliance with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the FEP & EP during reporting period are presented in Table 2-3. The detail status of statutory environmental compliance with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the FEP & EP for NENTX project are shown in Appendix C.

Table 2-3          Status of Submissions required under the FEP & EP during reporting period

FEP Condition

EP Condition

Submission / Measures

Status

2.1

2.3

Management Organization of Main Construction Companies

Submitted

2.2

2.4

Setting up of Community Liaison Group

Community Liaison Group was set up.

2.3

2.5

Submission of EM&A Manual

Submitted

2.5

2.7

Submission of Vegetation Survey (Transplantation Proposal)

Submitted

2.6

2.8

Submission of translocation proposal

Submitted

2.7

2.9

Submission of Transplantation Report and Post-Transplantation Monitoring

Submitted

2.8

2.10

Submission of Translocation Report and Post-Translocation Monitoring

Submitted

2.9

2.11

Submission of Detailed Landfill Gas Hazard Assessment Report

Submitted

2.10

2.12

Submission of Waste Management Plan

Submitted

3.2

3.2

Submission of Baseline Monitoring Report

Submitted

3.3

3.3

Submission of Monthly EM&A Report

14th report (Jan 2024)

15th report (Feb 2024)

16th report (Mar 2024)



2.4.              Status of Environmental Approval Document

2.4.1.            A summary of the relevant valid permits, licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project since the granting of the EP is presented in Table 2-4.

Table 2-4  Summary of the relevant valid permits, licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection

Permit / Licenses / Notification

Reference

Expiry Date

Remark

Environmental Permit (EP)

EP-292/2007

Throughout the Contract

Permit granted on 26

November 2007

Further Environmental Permit (FEP)

FEP-01/292/2007

Throughout the Contract

Permit granted on 28

April 2022

Further Environmental Permit (FEP)

FEP-02/292/2007

Throughout the Contract

Permit granted on23 August 2023

Notification of Construction Works as required under Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation

479809

Throughout the Construction Phase

Notified on 13 May 2022

Registration of Waste Producer under Waste Disposal Ordinance

7043692

Throughout the Contract

Registered on 13 April 2022

Registration as Chemical Waste Producer

 

5213-642-P1034-18

Throughout the Contract

Registered on 11 July 2022

Construction Noise Permit

GW-RN0240-24

7 June 2024

Permit granted on 1 March 2024

Effluent Discharge License under Water Pollution Control Ordinance

WT00042301-2022

31 October 2027

Permit granted on 18 October 2022

Variation of Licence (Permit granted on 7 February 2023)


 

3.              Air Quality Monitoring

3.1                  Construction Dust

3.1.1       Monitoring Requirement

3.1.1.1      In accordance with the EM&A Manual, 1-hr & 24-hr Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) levels should be measured at the designated air quality monitoring stations in every 6 days to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected, and timely action shall be undertaken to rectify such situation. For 1-hr TSP monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least three times in every six-days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs. The specific time to start and stop the 24- hr TSP monitoring shall be clearly defined for each location.

3.1.2       Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Location

3.1.2.1      According to the EM&A Manual, three monitoring stations namely AM(D)1, AM(D)2 and AM(D)3 are selected for the impact monitoring.

 

3.1.2.2      A baseline monitoring plan has been submitted to IEC and EPD on 31 May 2022 including the proposal with justification of change of monitoring locations. Due to limited access to the original monitoring locations at AM(D)1, AM(D)2 and AM(D)3, the adjusted stations at AM1, AM2 and AM3 were agreed with IEC prior to the baseline and impact monitoring. The locations of adjusted dust monitoring locations are shown in Figure 2.

 

3.1.2.3      The locations of dust monitoring stations are shown in Table 3-1. The monitoring parameters, frequency and duration are shown in Table 3-2.

Table 3-1          Locations of Dust Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Representative for

Monitoring Parameters

AM1

Tung Lo Hang

1-hr and 24-hr TSP

AM2

Heung Yuen Wai

1-hr and 24-hr TSP

AM3

Wo Keng Shan Tsuen

1-hr and 24-hr TSP

Remarks:

The contractor passed correspondence including original monitoring locations specified on the Approved EM&A Manual to the village representatives on 26 April 2022. After a meeting with Ta Kwu Ling District Rural Committee (RC) Chairman, representative from the RC and a few villagers on 1 May 2022, all the Village Heads of Wo Keng Shan Tsuen, Heung Yuen Wai and Lin Ma Hang verbally refused to accept our proposal for installation of dust and / or noise monitoring equipment within or next to their villages, for the baseline & impact monitoring.

AM(D)1 Tung Lo Hang, AM(D)2 Heung Yuen Wai, AM(D)3 Wo Keng Shan Tsuen are the air monitoring stations for the construction phase EM&A programme as identified in the approved EM&A Manual for the Project. The access to Tung Lo Hang, Heung Yuen Wai and Wo Keng Shan Tsuen were denied.  A search for alternative air monitoring locations (AM1, AM2 & AM3) was carried out during the site visit.

The Baseline Monitoring Plan has been submitted to IEC and EPD including the proposal of change of monitoring locations on 31 May 2022. This arrangement was conducted between baseline and impact monitoring and has been agreed by the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) and no comment received from EPD.

Due to the adjustment of the location of AM(D)1, AM(D)2 & AM(D)3to AM1, AM2 & AM3, the measured air quality levels at AM1, AM2 & AM3 would represent the air quality levels at AM(D)1, AM(D)2 & AM(D)3.


 

Table 3-2          Dust Impact Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Station

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

AM1, AM2, AM3

1-hr TSP

At least 3 times per 6 days

24-hr TSP

1 time per 6 days

3.1.3       Monitoring Results

3.1.3.1      The impact dust monitoring results are summarized in Table 3-3 and Table 3-4. The graphical presentations of monitoring data are presented in Appendix D.

Table 3-3          Summary of Impact 1-hr TSP Monitoring Results

Month

Average 1-hr TSP Concentration, µg/m³ (Range)

Dust Monitoring Station

AM1

AM2

AM3

Jan 2024

33 (21 – 59)

50 (40 – 65)

58 (48 – 70)

Feb 2024

28 (24 – 36)

50 (39 – 56)

54 (40 – 62)

Mar 2024

32 (22 – 60)

46 (31 – 63)

56 (48 – 71)

Action Level

>285

>279

>285

Limit Level

>500

Table 3-4          Summary of Impact 24-hr TSP Monitoring Results

Month

Average 24-hr TSP Concentration, µg/m³ (Range)

Dust Monitoring Station

AM1

AM2

AM3

Jan 2024

84 (70 – 112)

103 (84 – 119)

105 (80 – 119)

Feb 2024

98 (86 – 118)

118 (107 – 123)

117 (104 – 143)

Mar 2024

91 (66 – 117)

82 (60 – 104)

94 (76 – 125)

Action Level

>164

>152

>163

Limit Level

>260

 

3.1.3.2      The Summary of Impact 1-hr & 24-hr TSP Exceedance are shown in Table 3-5.


 

Table 3-5          Summary of Impact 1-hr & 24-hr TSP Exceedance

Dust Monitoring Station

AM1

AM2

AM3

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hr TSP

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

0

0

24-hr TSP

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

3.1.3.3     No Action / Limit Level exceedance for 1-hr & 24-hr TSP impact monitoring at AM1, AM2 & AM3 was recorded during the reporting period. The Notification of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedances are presented in Appendix E.

3.1.4       Recommended Mitigation Measures

3.1.4.1     The recommended dust mitigation measures from EIA report are listed as followed:

 

           The contractor shall follow the procedures and requirements given in the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation.

           Dust emission from construction vehicle movement is confined within the worksites area.

           Watering facilities will be provided at every designated vehicular exit point.

           Good site practice is recommended during construction phase.

3.1.5       Event and Action Plan

3.1.5.1      Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the action plan in Table 3-6 shall be carried out.

Table 3-6        Event and Action Plan for dust impact

 


Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

Exceedance of Action Level

Exceedance for one sample

       Identify source

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Repeat measurement to confirm findings

       Increase monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below action level

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

       Rectify any unacceptable practice

       Amend working methods if appropriate

Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

       Identify source

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform Contractor and IEC

       Repeat measurements to confirm findings

       Increase monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below action level

       Discuss with IEC for remedial action required

       Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

       Continue monitoring at daily intervals if exceedance is due to the Project

        If no exceedance for 3 consecutive days, cease additional monitoring

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

       Review with analysed results submitted by ET

       Review the proposed remedial measures by Contractor

       Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

       Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification

       Implement the agreed proposals

       Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

 

 

Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

Exceedance of Limit Level

Exceedance for one sample

       Identify source

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Repeat measurement to confirm findings

       Increase monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below limit level

       Assess effectiveness of Contractor's remedial actions and keep EPD and IEC informed of the results

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss with ET and Contractor potential remedial actions

       Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

       Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

       Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within 3 working days of notification

       Implement the agreed proposals

       Amend proposal if appropriate

Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

       Identify source

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and EPD the causes and actions taken for the exceedances

       Discuss with IEC for remedial action required

       Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

       Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and informed of the results

       Increase monitoring frequency to confirm findings

       If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss amongst ET and Contractor on the potential remedial actions.

       Review Contractor's remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness

       Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

       Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

       Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC of notification

       Implement the agreed proposals

       Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

       Stop the relevant activity of works until the exceedance is abated


4             Noise Monitoring

4.1         Monitoring Requirement

4.1.1      In accordance with the EM&A manual, noise impact monitoring shall be carried out at 2 monitoring stations NM1 and NM2 once a week during normal construction working hour (0700-1900 Monday to Saturday). The minimum logging interval shall be 30 minutes with average of 6 consecutive Leq 5 mins. L10 and L90 shall also be measured at 5 mins intervals.

4.2         Monitoring Locations, Parameters and Frequency

4.2.1      According to the EM&A Manual, two monitoring stations namely NM1 and NM2 are selected for the impact monitoring.

4.2.2      A baseline monitoring plan has been submitted to IEC and EPD on 31 May 2022 including the proposal with justification of change of monitoring locations. Due to limited access to the original monitoring locations at NM1 and NM2, the adjusted stations at NM1a and NM2a were agreed with IEC prior to the baseline and impact monitoring. The noise monitoring locations are summarized in Table 4-1 and shown in Figure 2. The frequency and duration are shown in Table 4-2.

Table 4-1   Noise Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Station

Representative for

Type of Measurement

NM1a

Wo Keng Shan Tsuen

Free field

NM2a

Lin Ma Hang

Free field

Remarks:

The contractor passed correspondence including original monitoring locations specified on the Approved EM&A Manual to the village representatives on 26 April 2022. After a meeting with Ta Kwu Ling District Rural Committee (RC) Chairman, representative from the RC and a few villagers on 1 May 2022, all the Village Heads of Wo Keng Shan Tsuen, Heung Yuen Wai and Lin Ma Hang verbally refused to accept our proposal for installation of dust and / or noise monitoring equipment within or next to their villages, for the baseline & impact monitoring.

NM1 Wo Keng Shan Tsuen & NM2 Lin Ma Hang are the noise monitoring stations for the construction phase EM&A programme as identified in the approved EM&A Manual for the Project. The access to Tung Lo Hang, Heung Yuen Wai and Wo Keng Shan Tsuen were denied.  A search for alternative noise monitoring locations (NM1a & NM2a) was carried out during the site visit.

The Baseline Monitoring Plan has been submitted to IEC and EPD including the proposal of change of monitoring locations on 31 May 2022. This arrangement was conducted between baseline and impact monitoring and has been agreed by the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) and no comments received from EPD. Noise measurement at NM1a & NM2a will be considered as free-field and a correction of +3dB(A) would be made to the noise monitoring results.

Due to the adjustment of the location of NM1 & NM2 to NM1a & NM2a, the measured noise levels at NM1 & NM2 would represent the noise levels at NM1 & NM2.

Table 4-2   Noise Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Station

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

NM1a and NM2a

LAeq (30mins) average of 6 consecutive Leq (5min); L10 (5min) & L90 (5min)

once a week during normal construction working hour (0700-1900 Monday to Saturday)

4.3         Monitoring Results

4.3.1      The impact noise monitoring results are summarized in Table 4-3. The graphical presentations of monitoring data are presented in Appendix D.

Table 4-3   Summary of Noise Monitoring Results during normal working hours (07:00-19:00, Monday to Saturday)

Month

Average Leq, 30min, dB(A) (Range)

Noise Monitoring Station

NM1a

NM2a

Jan 2024

62.2 (59.6 – 63.2)

54.0 (53.3 – 55.3)

Feb 2024

60.7 (60.1 – 61.3)

57.0 (55.8 – 57.8)

Mar 2024

60.4 (60.0 – 60.8)

57.1 (55.2 – 58.6)

Action Level

When one documented complaint is received

Limit Level

>75dB(A)

Remark:

(1)     * A correction of +3 dB(A) was made to the free field measurements

(2)     If works are to be carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated in the construction noise permit issued by the Noise Control Authority have to be followed.

4.3.2      No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of construction noise was recorded during the reporting period. Therefore, there was no record of Notification of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedance in the Appendix E.

4.3.3      No particular observations are identified near the monitoring stations during the monitoring period.

4.4         Recommended Mitigation Measures

4.4.1      The recommended noise mitigation measures from EIA report are listed as followed:

1.     Use of good site practices to limit noise emissions by considering the following:

        Only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site and plant should be serviced regularly during the construction programme;

        Machines and plant (such as trucks, cranes) that may be in intermittent use should be shut down between work periods or should be throttled down to a minimum;

        Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction, where possible, be orientated so that the noise is directed away from nearby NSRs;

        Silencers or mufflers on construction equipment should be properly fitted and maintained during the construction works;

        Mobile plant should be sited as far away from NSRs as possible and practicable;

        Material stockpiles, mobile container site officer and other structures should be effectively utilised, where practicable, to screen noise from on-site construction activities.

2.     Select “Quiet plants” which comply with the BS 5228 Part 1 or TM standards.

4.5         Event and Action Plan

4.5.1      Should non-compliance of the criteria occurs, action in accordance with the action plan in Table 4-4 shall be carried out.


Table 4-4 Event and action plan for construction noise monitoring

Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

Exceedance of Action Level

       Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Report the results of investigation to IEC, and Contractor

       Discuss with Contractor and IEC for formulate remedial measures

       Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

       Have additional monitoring if exceedance is due to the Project. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Review the analysed results submitted by ET

       Discuss with ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions

       Review the proposed remedial measures

       Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

       Submit noise mitigation proposals to IEC

       Implement the agreed noise mitigation proposals

Exceedance of Limit Level

       Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Repeat measurements to confirm findings

       Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

       Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

       Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC and EPD informed of the results

       Have additional monitoring if exceedance is due to the Project. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

       Verify the Notification of Exceedance

       Review the analysed results submitted by ET

       Discuss with ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions

       Review the proposed remedial measures

       Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

       Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

       Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC of notification

       Implement the agreed proposals

       Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

       Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by project proponent until the exceedance is abated.

 


5             Water Quality Monitoring

5.1         Groundwater Monitoring

5.1.1    Monitoring Requirement

5.1.1.1   In accordance with the EM&A manual, groundwater quality monitoring shall be carried out at least once per month at the 35 designated groundwater monitoring locations (i.e ED1 to ED35). Based on the existing construction programme, site clearance and site formation works for future landfilling area are in progress. The groundwater monitoring locations ED1 to ED35 will be installed after the site formation work of the landfilling area. No groundwater monitoring is required before the completion of site formation work of the landfilling area.

5.2         Surface Water Monitoring

5.2.1    Monitoring Requirement

5.2.1.1   In accordance with the EM&A manual, impact surface water quality monitoring was carried out at the two designated surface water discharge points (i.e WM1 and WM2) for once per month from commencement of construction works of the Project.

5.2.2    Monitoring Locations, Parameters and Frequency

5.2.2.1   Impact surface water monitoring was carried out at WM1 and WM2. The monitoring locations are indicated in Table 5-1 and Figure 2.

5.2.2.2   The monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of surface water quality monitoring are summarized in Table 5-2.

Table 5-1 Surface water quality monitoring locations

Monitoring Station

Location

Coordinates (HK Grid)

Easting

Northing

WM1

Upstream of Lin Ma Hang River

836665

845020

WM2

Ping Yuen River

835592

844186

GR3*

Ping Yuen River

835361

844134

Remarks:

“*” The monitoring location only conducted based on the environmental complaint.

Table 5-2 Surface water quality monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter

Frequency

pH, Electrical conductivity, DO, Turbidity, SS, Alkalinity, COD, BOD5, TOC, Ammonia-nitrogen, TKN, Nitrate, Sulphate, Sulphite, Phosphate, Chloride, Sodium, Mg, Ca, K, Fe, Ni, Zn, Mn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Coliform Count, Oil and Grease

Once per month

5.2.3    Monitoring Results

5.2.3.1   The summary of monitoring results is presented in Table 5-3 & Table 5-4. Detailed graphical presentations at each monitoring station of surface water quality (DO, SS and Turbidity) at the monitoring stations are given in Appendix D.
Table 5-3
          Summary of Impact Surface Water Monitoring Results at WM1

Monitoring Parameter(s)

Monitoring Station WM1

Monitoring Results

Action Level

Limit Level

Jan 2024

Feb 2024

Mar 2024

pH

7.5

7.5

6.6

>7.7

>7.8

DO in mg/L

7.7

7.6

7.6

<7.4

<4

Turbidity in NTU

6.0

8.3

4.4

>9.2

>9.5

Electrical Conductivity in μS/cm

93

123

121

---

---

SS in mg/L

8.2

2.0

4.5

>9.7

>11.4

Alkalinity

16

<1

8

---

COD

6

<5

<5

BOD5

<2

<2

<2

TOC

<1

<1

3

Ammonia-nitrogen

0.02

0.02

0.04

TKN

0.3

0.2

0.2

Nitrate

0.03

0.40

0.02

Sulphate

4

104

11

Sulphite

<2

<2

<2

Phosphate

0.0

0.02

<0.01

Chloride

6

5

7

Sodium

8060

4430

8540

Mg

450

590

520

Ca

3130

5510

3580

K

400

1530

360

Fe

900

60

680

Ni

<1

1.0

<1

Zn

<10

35

<10

Mn

52

9

89

Cu

<1

2.0

<1

Pb

<1

<1

<1

Cd

<2

<0.2

<0.2

Coliform Count

1400

Not Detected

28

Oil and Grease

<5

<5

<5

Remarks:

“TBC” equal to To Be Confirm


 

Table 5-4          Summary of Impact Surface Water Monitoring Results at WM2

Monitoring Parameter(s)

Monitoring Station WM2

Monitoring Results

Action Level

Limit Level

Jan 2024

Feb 2024

Mar 2024

pH

7.5

7.4

7.2

>7.6

>7.7

DO in mg/L

7.8

7.5

6.5

<5

<4

Turbidity in NTU

18.5

32.7

78.6

>108.3

>108.9

Electrical Conductivity in μS/cm

225

207

615

---

---

SS in mg/L

14.7

12.3

83.2

>94.7

>94.7

Alkalinity

56

60

62

---

COD

7

<5

9

BOD5

<2

<2

2.0

TOC

1

1

4

Ammonia-nitrogen

0.23

0.07

0.03

TKN

0.5

0.2

0.9

Nitrate

0.22

0.27

0.30

Sulphate

24

29

10

Sulphite

<2

<2

<2

Phosphate

<0.01

<0.01

<0.01

Chloride

15

7

14

Sodium

8850

7290

9010

Mg

1600

1450

1350

Ca

27400

25400

20000

K

3840

3490

4020

Fe

1920

1620

7340

Ni

5

1

3

Zn

18

10

36

Mn

836

822

2290

Cu

2

1

4

Pb

1

<1

5

Cd

<2

<0.2

<0.2

Coliform Count

12000

3400

4200

Oil and Grease

<5

<5

<5

Remarks:

“TBC” equal to To Be Confirm

 


 

5.2.3.2   The Summary of Impact Surface Water Quality Exceedance are shown in Table 5-5.

Table 5-5     Summary of Impact Surface Water Quality Exceedance during the reporting period

Surface Water Quality Monitoring Station

WM1

WM2

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

pH

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

DO

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

Turbidity

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

SS

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

5.2.3.3   No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of surface water monitoring was recorded during the reporting period. The Notification of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedance is presented in Appendix E.

5.2.4    Recommended Mitigation Measure

5.2.4.1   The recommended surface water mitigation measures from EIA report are listed as followed:

       Channels (both temporary and permanent drainage pipes and culverts), earth bunds or sand bag barriers should be provided on site to direct stormwater to silt removal facilities.

       The overall slope of the site should be kept to a minimum to reduce the erosive potential of surface water flows.

       The design of efficient silt removal facilities should be based on the guidelines in Appendix A1 of ProPECC PN 1/94, which states that the retention time for silts and sediment traps should be 5 minutes under maximum flow conditions.

       All vehicles and plant should be cleaned before leaving a construction site to ensure no earth, mud, debris and the like is deposited by them on roads.

       Construction solid waste, debris and rubbish on site should be collected, handled and disposed of properly to avoid water quality impacts.

       Measures should be taken to prevent the washing away of construction materials, soil, silt or debris into any drainage system.

5.2.5    Event and Action Plan

5.2.5.1   Should non-compliance of the criteria occurs, action in accordance with the action plan in Table 5-6 shall be carried out.


Table 5-6        Event and Action Plan for Water Quality

Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

Action level being exceeded by one sampling day

       Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

       Identify source(s) of impact

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods

       Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance

       Verify Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data and Contractor’s working methods

       Rectify unacceptable practice

       Amend working methods if appropriate

Action level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days

       Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

       Identify source(s) of impact

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor

       Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods

       Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

       Ensure mitigation measures are implemented

       Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Action level

       Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance

       Verify Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data and Contractor's working method

       Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions

       Review the proposed mitigation measures

       Supervise the implementation of mitigation measures

       Submit proposal of additional mitigation measures to IEC of notification

       Implement the agreed mitigation measures

       Amend proposal if appropriate


 

Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

Limit Level being exceeded by one sampling day

       Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

       Identify source(s) of impact

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC and Contractor;

       Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor

       Ensure mitigation measure are implemented

       Verify Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted By ET and Contractor’s working method

       Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions

       Review the proposed mitigation measures

       Supervise the implementation of mitigation measures

       Critically review the working method

       Rectify unacceptable practice

       Take immediate corrective actions to avoid further exceedance

       Submit proposal of mitigation measures to IEC

       Implement the agreed mitigation measures

Limit level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days

       Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

       Identify source(s) of impact

       Prepare Notification of Exceedance

       Inform IEC, contractor and EPD

       Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods

       Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor

       Ensure mitigation measure are implemented

       Verify Notification of Exceedance

       Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working method

       Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions

       Review the proposed mitigation measures

       Supervise the implementation of mitigation measures

       Critically review the working method

       Rectify unacceptable practice

       Take immediate corrective actions to avoid further exceedance

       Submit proposal of mitigation measures to IEC

       Implement the agreed mitigation measures

       Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

       Slow down or to stop relevant activity until exceedance is abated


6       Waste Management

6.1    Wastes generated from this Project include inert construction and demolition (C&D) materials and non-inert C&D materials. Non-inert C&D materials were made up of general refuse, steels and paper/cardboard packaging materials. Steel materials generated from the Project were also grouped into non-inert C&D materials as the materials were not disposed of with other inert C&D materials. With reference to relevant handling records and trip tickets of this Project, the quantities of different types of waste generated in the reporting month are summarised in Appendix F.

6.2    The recommended waste management mitigation measures from EIA report are listed as followed:

     Implement a trip-ticket system to ensure that the movement of C&D materials are properly documented and verified in accordance with DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2010.

     Concrete and masonry should be used as general fill and steel reinforcement bars can be used by scrap steel mills.

      Proper areas should be designated for waste segregation and storage wherever site conditions permit.

     Maximise the use of reusable steel formwork to reduce the amount of C&D material.

     Maintain temporary stockpiles and reuse excavated fill material for backfilling and reinstatement.

     On-site sorting and segregation facility of all type of wastes is considered as one of the best practice in waste management and hence, should be implemented in all projects generating construction waste.

     The sorted public fill and C&D waste should be properly reused.

     Excavated slope, stockpiled material and bund walls should be covered by tarpaulin until used in order to prevent wind-blown dust during dry weather, and to reduce muddy runoff during wet weather.


 

7       Landfill Gas Monitoring

7.1   Monitoring Requirement during Construction

Monitoring for Construction Works

7.1.1      Intrinsically safe portable gas detectors should be used during excavation or when working in any confined spaces, which have the potential for presence of LFG and risk of explosion or asphyxiation.  The monitoring equipment should alarm, both audibly and visually, when the concentrations of the following gases were exceeded: 

·         CH4: >10% Lower Explosion Limit (LEL);

·         CO2: >0.5%; and

·         O2: <18% by volume.

7.2   Monitoring Location

7.2.1      During the construction works within the NENT Landfill Extension site with excavation of 1m deep or more, LFG concentrations should be monitored before entry and periodically during the progress of works.  If drilling is required, the procedures for safety management and working procedures as stipulated in EPD’s Landfill Gas Hazard Assessment – Guidance Note should be strictly adopted.

7.2.2      The monitoring frequency and areas to be monitored should be set down prior to commencement of groundworks by the Safety Officer. All measurements in excavations should be made with the monitoring tube located not more than 10mm from the exposed ground surface. Monitoring of excavations should be undertaken as follows:

7.2.3      For excavation works deeper than 1m, measurements should be made:

• at ground surface prior to excavation; 

• immediately before any worker enters the excavation;

• at the beginning of each working day for the entire period the excavation remains open; and 

• periodically through the working day whilst workers are in the excavation.

 

7.2.4      For excavation between 300mm and 1m deep, measurements should be made:

 • directly after the excavation has been completed; and

• periodically whilst the excavation remains open.

 

7.2.5      For excavations less than 300mm deep, monitoring may be omitted, at the discretion of the Safety Officer.

7.2.6      The locations of LFG monitoring locations during reporting period are shown in Table 7-1. The Site formation layout plan is shown in Figure 2 and the Layout of LFG monitoring locations is presented in Figure 3.

Table 7-1          Locations of LFG Monitoring during reporting period

Monitoring Period

Monitoring Location

Type of works

Jan to Mar 2024

Portion A +50 mpD to 70 mpD Platform

Excavation Works

7.3   Monitoring Results

7.3.1      The LFG monitoring was conducted at Portion A +50 mpD to 70 mpD Platform during the reporting period (conducted on working days). The LFG monitoring results are summarized in Table 7-2.

Table 7-2          Summary of LFG Monitoring Results

LFG Monitoring Station

Monitoring Date

Monitoring Parameter(s)

CH4 in %

LEL in %/v

CO2 in %

O2 in %

Average Monitoring Results (Range)

Portion A +50 mpD to 70 mpD Platform

Jan 2024

0

0

0

20.1

(20.020.2)

Feb 2024

0

0

0

20.2

(20.020.2)

Mar 2024

0

0

0

20.1

(20.120.2)

Action Level

>10% LEL

---

>0.5%** CO2

<19%

Limit Level

>20% LEL

---

>1.5% CO2

<18%

* LEL: Lower Explosive Limit - concentrations in air below which there is not enough fuel to continue an explosion.

** This Limit Level of CO2 at 0.5% is set for reference only, assuming no CO2 emission from a particular location.

7.3.2      No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of LFG was recorded during the reporting period. The Notification of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedance is presented in Appendix E.

7.3.3      No effect that arose from the other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned site was noted during the current monitoring month.

7.4   Recommended Mitigation Measures

7.4.1      The recommended landfill gas mitigation measures from EIA report are listed as followed:

 

           Special LFG precautions should be taken due to close proximity of NENT landfill extension site to existing landfill to avoid potential hazards of LFG exposure (ignition, explosion, asphyxiation, toxicity).

           Prominent safety warning signs should be erected on-site to alert all personnel and visitors of LFG hazards during excavation works.

           No smoking or burning should be permitted on-site.

           Prominent 'No smoking' and ‘No Naked Flames’ signs should be erected on-site.

           No worker should be allowed to work alone at any time in excavated trenches or confined areas on-site.

           Adequate fire fighting equipment should be provided on-site.

           Construction equipment should be equipped with vertical exhaust at least 0.6m above ground installed with spark arrestors.

           Electrical motors and extension cords should be explosion-proof and intrinsically safe for use on-site.

           ’Permit to Work' system should be implemented.

           Welding, flame-cutting or other hot works should be conducted only under ‘Permit to Work’ system following clear safety requirements, gas monitoring procedures and presence of qualified persons to supervise the works.

7.5   Event and Action Plan (EAP)

7.5.1      Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the action plan in Table 7-3 shall be carried out.

Table 7-3 Action Plan for the monitoring during construction phase

Parameter

Monitoring Result

Action

Oxygen (O2)

Action Level <19% O2

Ventilate trench/void to restore O2 to >19%

Limit Level <18% O2

Stop works

Evacuate personnel/prohibit entry

Increase ventilation to restore O2 to >19%

Methane (CH4)

Action Level >10% LEL*

Prohibit hot works

Increase ventilation to restore CH4 to <10% LEL

Limit Level >20% LEL*

Stop works

Evacuate personnel/prohibit entry

Increase ventilation to restore CH4 to <10% LEL

Carbon dioxide

(CO2)

Action Level** >0.5%** CO2

Ventilate to restore CO2 to <0.5%

Limit Level >1.5% CO2

Stop works

Evacuate personnel / prohibit entry

Increase ventilation to restore CO2 to <0.5%

* LEL: Lower Explosive Limit - concentrations in air below which there is not enough fuel to continue an explosion.

** This Action Level of CO2 at 0.5% is set for reference only, assuming no CO2 emission from a particular location.

Depending on the baseline CO2 levels, the Action Level at a particular location will be changed.


 

8       Landscape and Visual

8.1   Monitoring Requirement

8.1.1      In order to monitor the landscape and visual impact after providing mitigation measures effectively, all the specified and affected LCAs, LRs and VSRs should be monitored. Implementation of the mitigation measures during construction phase of the Project has been monitored through the regular site inspection/audit.

8.1.2      All relevant environmental mitigation measures listed in the approved EIA Report and the EM&A Manual, and their implementation status are summarised in Appendix G.

8.2   Result and Observation

8.2.1      Measures to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts during the construction phase has been checked to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures within the reporting period. The progress of the engineering works are regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken.

8.2.2      In order to monitor the landscape and visual impact after providing mitigation measures effectively, all the specified and affected LCAs, LRs and VSRs should be monitored. Implementation of the mitigation measures during construction phase of the Project has been monitored through the regular site inspection/audit.


 

9       Cultural Heritage

9.1.1      The Mitigation measures for preservation of the cultural landscape feature located within the project area was conducted before commencement of construction of the project based on the requirement of Survey Report and Mapping Records for Boulder Paths BP1 & 2 & Conditions of G2, G4, G5 G6, G7, G8, G14, G15, G25, G26 and G27 within NENTX.

9.1.2      The survey and mapping works carried out on 25 April 2022 and the verification works carried out on 23 August 22 confirmed that both 2 boulder paths BP1 and BP2 are fall outside the site boundary and the Project area.

9.1.3      All the affected graves within the waste boundary have been removed in accordance with section 119(1) of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap 132). Removal of the graves as shown on Figure 2 attached to the FEP was proven by the visit of graves on 22 August 2022. All the graves as shown on Figure 2 attached to the FEP were abandoned and removed and no mitigation or preservation measures is necessary.

9.1.4      The Survey Report and Mapping Records for Boulder Paths BP1 & 2 was certified by ET on 10 Oct 2022, was verified by IEC and submitted to EPD on 12 Oct 2022. The Conditions of G2, G4, G5 G6, G7, G8, G14, G15, G25, G26 and G27 within NENTX was certified by ET, was verified by IEC and submitted to EPD on 15 Oct 2022. No later than four weeks before commencement of construction of the project in accordance with Condition 2.4 of the FEP-01/292/2007.

9.1.5      Implementation of the mitigation measures such as permanent fencing to protect the boulder path and setting up warning notices during construction phase of the Project has been monitored through the regular site inspection/audit. The permanent fencing locations are shown in Appendix H. In case of any presence of undiscovered grave during construction phase, AMO will be informed as soon as possible.


 

10   Ecological Monitoring

10.1.1    The post-transplantation monitoring had been completed in October 2023. No further post-transplantation monitoring will be conducted in accordance with the requirement of the approved Transplantation Proposal for Plant Species of Conservation Importance (Rev.1).

10.1.2    The post-translocation monitoring had been completed in July 2023. No further post-translocation monitoring will be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the Revised Translocation Proposal for the Endemic Freshwater Crab Somanniathelphusa zanklon.

10.1.3    The details of requirements, monitoring results and site inspection with photos for the post-translocation monitoring and post-transplantation monitoring would be reported separately.

10.1.4    The milestone of the ecological monitoring is presented in Table 10-1. The softcopies of the submissions are provided in https://www.nentx-ema.com/ep-submissions/.

Table 10-1        Milestone of the Ecological Monitoring

 

Type of Monitoring

Monitoring Event No.

Monitoring Date

Post-transplantation Monitoring

1st

24 Nov 2022

2nd

9 Dec 2022

3rd

21 Dec 2022

4th

13 Jan 2023

5th

26 Jan 2023

6th

8 Feb 2023

7th

24 Feb 2023

8th

20 Mar 2023

9th

21 Apr 2023

10th

12 May 2023

11th

16 Jun 2023

12th

18 Jul 2023

13th

11 Aug 2023

14th

15 Sep 2023

15th

13 Oct 2023

Post-translocation Monitoring

1st (Aug 2022)

29 Aug 2022

2nd (Sep 2022)

28 Sep 2022

3rd (Oct 2022)

28 Oct 2022

4th (Nov 2022)

22 Nov 2022

5th (Dec 2022)

29 Dec 2022

6th (Jan 2023)

30 Jan 2023

7th (Feb 2023)

24 Feb 2023

8th (Mar 2023)

20 Mar 2023

9th (Apr 2023)

19 Apr 2023

10th (May 2023)

17 May 2023

11th (Jun 2023)

7 Jun 2023

12th (Jul 2023)

12 Jul 2023


 

11   Site Inspection and Audit

11.1.1    Site Inspection and audits were carried out by ET on weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental management practices and mitigation measures in the Project Site.

11.1.2    Total 13 weekly environmental site inspections were conducted during the reporting period. 3 of them were the joint environmental site inspections with the representatives of ER, Contractor, IEC and ET. There was no noncompliance recorded during the site inspections.

11.1.3    Details of observations and recommendations are summarized in Table 11-1.

Table 11-1        Observations and Recommendations of Site Audit

Parameter

Date

Observation and Reminders

Follow-up Action Taken

Air Quality

02 Jan 2024

Observation:

Unpaved main haul road was dry and fugitive dust was observed, especially at Portion E4.

The Contractor was advised to provide enough water sprayers for short-term dust control to ensure that all unpaved roads are wetted and also implement other measurements like shotcrete to pave all main haul road for long term dust control.

08 Jan 2024

Observation:

The unpaved main haul road at SBA was dry and fugitive dust was observed.

The Contractor was advised to regularly water the unpaved main haul road to ensure it stays moist and to pave it for long-term dust control.

15 Jan 2024

Observation:

Dusty material (Cement) at SBA without covered by impervious sheet properly or placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 side was observed.

The Contractor was recommended that the loading, unloading or transfer, handing or storage of cement should be cover entirely by impervious sheeting or placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides to prevent dust suppression or sprayed with water to maintain the entire surface wet. They had also been recommended to provide training courses on dust control during the shotcrete process.

29 Jan 2024

Observation:

Stockpiling of dusty material without covered by impervious sheet at SBA was found.

The Contractor was recommended that dusty materials should be covered by impervious sheet to prevent dust dispersion.

29 Jan 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that activities of loading, unloading, transfer, handing or storage of bulk cement or dry PFA shall be carried out in a totally enclosed system or facility at Portion E4 to prevent dust dispersion.

 


 

Parameter

Date

Observation and Reminders

Follow-up Action Taken

Air Quality

5 Feb 2024

Observation:

The exposed slope area at Portion B2 without covered by impervious sheet was observed.

The Contractor was advised to cover the exposed slope area by impervious sheet for short-term slope protection, and shotcrete for long-term slope protection.

15 Feb 2024

Observation:

The main haul road is dry and fugitive dust was observed at Portion E4 and SBA.

The Contractor was reminded to increase the frequency of watering to ensure that the surface of assess road is wetted and to prevent dust dispersion.

15 Feb 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that the stockpiling of dusty material shall be covered by impervious sheet.

 

26 Feb 2024

Observation:

Unpaved main haul road was dusty and fugitive dust was observed at Portion SBA and Portion E4.

The Contractor was advised to increase the frequency of watering to ensure that the unpaved haul road surface is wetted and prevent dust dispersion.

4 Mar 2024

Observation:

More than 20 bags of cement or dry PFA and activities of loading, unloading, transfer, handing or storage of bulk cement or dry PFA without covered by impervious sheet or placed in an area sheltered on the top and 3 sides were observed at SBA.

The Contractor was advised that every stock of more than 20 bags of cement or dry PFA, and activities involving bulk cement or dry PFH, should be covered by impervious sheeting or placed in an area sheltered on the top and three sides.

4 Mar 2024

Observation:

The exposed earth slope at Portion B1-2 shall be covered by impervious sheet for short-term slope protection and shotcrete within 6 months after last construction activities.

The Contractor was recommended to provide impervious sheet for portion B1-2 slope protection to prevent dust dispersion.

11 Mar 2024

Observation:

The exposed slope surface without covered by impervious sheet temporarily at Portion B2 was observed.

The Contractor was reminded that the exposed slope surface should be covered by impervious sheet temporarily and shotcreted for long-term slope protection at Portion B2.

25 Mar 2024

Observation:

NRMM label shall be fixed on the generator and excavator at Portion E3-1A.

The Contractor was reminded to display NRMM label on the generator and excavator at Portion E3-1A.

25 Mar 2024

Observation:

Unpaved main haul road at Portion E3-1A and E4 shall be wetted by water spraying.

The Contractor was advised to increase the frequency of watering to ensure that the surface of the unpaved haul road is wetted and to prevent dust dispersion.


 

Parameter

Date

Observation and Reminders

Follow-up Action Taken

Noise

29 Jan 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded to ensure that the door of the generator shall be closed while it is operating to reduce the noise produced.

 

Water Quality

15 Jan 2024

Observation:

The exposed slope surface at SBA without covered by impervious sheet properly was found.

The Contractor was reminded that the exposed slope surface should be properly covered with impervious sheet.

15 Jan 2024

Observation:

Damaged silt fence around the stockpile area at SBA was observed.

The Contractor was advised to provide maintenance for the silt fence.

22 Jan 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded to provide temporary slope surface protection for the exposed slope surface at Portion B2 before completing the concrete surface protection by February.

 

29 Jan 2024

Observation:

Insufficient silt fence around the soil stockpiling area at SBA was observed.

The Contractor was advised to provide sufficient silt fence around the soil stockpiling area to prevent sediment from entering the system.

5 Feb 2024

Observation:

The exposed slope area at Portion B2 without covered by impervious sheet was observed.

The Contractor was advised to cover the exposed slope area by impervious sheet for short-term slope protection, and shotcrete for long-term slope protection.

26 Feb 2024

Observation:

The accumulation of deposited silt and grit was observed at Portion A.

The contractor was recommended to clean up and remove the deposited silt and grit regularly to prevent silt accumulation.

4 Mar 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that the precaution shall be taken with Appendix A2 of ProPECC PN 1/94 before, during and after rainstorm.

 

11 Mar 2024

Reminder:

The stagnant water was observed at Portion A and D.

The Contractor was advised to install efficient channels at Portion A and D to properly direct stormwater to silt removal facility.

11 Mar 2024

Observation:

The exposed slope surface without covered by impervious sheet temporarily at Portion B2 was observed.

The Contractor was reminded that the exposed slope surface should be covered by impervious sheet temporarily and shotcreted for long-term slope protection at Portion B2.

 

Parameter

Date

Observation and Reminders

Follow-up Action Taken

Water Quality

11 Mar 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that the precaution shall be taken with Appendix A2 of ProPECC PN 1/94 before, during and after rainstorm.

 

18 Mar 2024

Observation:

The accumulation of deposited silt and grit was observed at Portion A.

The Contractor was recommended to install an efficient channel at Portion A to properly direct stormwater to silt removal facility and clean up the deposited silt and grit regularly.

18 Mar 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that the precaution shall be taken with Appendix A2 of ProPECC PN 1/94 before, during and after rainstorm.

 

25 Mar 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that the precaution shall be taken with Appendix A2 of ProPECC PN 1/94 before, during and after rainstorm.

 

Waste and Chemical Management

29 Jan 2024

Observation:

The oil drum and chemical containers without chemical drip tray at Portion E4 was found.

The Contractor was reminded to provide the sufficient drip tray for chemical storage to avoid chemical spillage and land contamination.

5 Feb 2024

Observation:

The accumulation of C&D materials at Portion D was observed.

The Contractor was reminded to provide enough waste skip for waste storage to avoid waste accumulation.

5 Feb 2024

Observation:

The chemical containers at Portion D shall be stored and placed in the drip tray

The Contractor was recommended to provide sufficient chemical drip tray for chemical storage to prevent chemical spillage.

5 Feb 2024

Reminder:

The Contractor was reminded that general waste shall be collected into the enclosed rubbish bins.

 

19 Feb 2024

Observation:

The chemical containers without stored and placed on the drip tray at portion D and E3-1 is observed.

The Contractor was advised to provide enough drip tray at portion D and E3-1 for chemical storage to prevent chemical spillage.

26 Feb 2024

Observation:

Oil stain was found in the work area at Portion D and Portion A..

The Contractor was reminded to clean up the oil stain immediately and dispose of it as chemical waste. Also, the impervious sheet should be provided during using and placing chemicals.

 


 

Parameter

Date

Observation and Reminders

Follow-up Action Taken

Waste and Chemical Management

26 Feb 2024

Observation:

The accumulation of general waste and C&D waste was observed at Portion A.

The Contractor was recommended to provide sufficient enclosed bins for general waste disposal and waste skip for C&D waste disposal to separate and dispose the general and construction wastes.

26 Feb 2024

Observation:

The chemical containers at Portion A shall be stored and placed properly.

The Contractor was advised to provide drip tray for chemical storage to prevent chemical spillage and land contamination.

4 Mar 2024

Observation:

The general waste and food waste at portion D shall be disposed into enclosed rubbish bins.

The Contractor was reminded to provide an enclosed rubbish bins for waste disposal to ensure the site clean tidy.

4 Mar 2024

Observation:

The chemical containers at portion B1-2 and oil drum at SBA shall be placed at the chemical trip tray.

The Contractor was advised to provide chemical drip tray for chemical storage to prevent chemical spillage.

11 Mar 2024

Observation:

The accumulation of waste was observed at Portion D.

The Contractor was recommended to increase waste disposal frequently if necessary to avoid waste accumulation.

11 Mar 2024

Observation:

The chemical container at Portion B2 shall be placed on the drip tray.

The Contractor was reminded to provide the chemical drip tray for chemical storage to prevent chemical spillage.

18 Mar 2024

Observation:

The general waste and C&D waste at Portion A shall be disposed and stored in enclosed bins and waste skip properly.

The Contractor was reminded to increase the capacity and the number of enclosed bins and waste skips at Portion A for waste storage and disposal and clean up the accumulation of general waste and C&D waste regularly.

18 Mar 2024

Observation:

The oil drum and chemical containers at Portion A shall be placed in the chemical drip tray with labelling.

The Contractor was advised to provide enough chemical drip tray for chemical storage and label them in English and Chinese to recognize chemical container.

25 Mar 2024

Observation:

General waste (e.g. food waste) shall be collected in enclosed bin at Portion E3-1A.

The Contractor was recommended to provide sufficient enclosed bin at Portion E3-1A for general waste collection and storage.

Landscape and Visual Impact

No specific observation was identified in the reporting period.

Permit / Licenses

No specific observation was identified in the reporting period.

 

11.1.4    One general site inspection on 25 January 2024 was conducted by Environmental Protection Department-Regional Office (North) (EPD-RNG).


 

12   Environmental Non-conformance

12.1      Summary of Monitoring Exceedance

Air Quality Monitoring

12.1.1    No Action / Limit Level exceedance impact monitoring was recorded at designated monitoring stations during the reporting period. The Summary of Impact 1-hr & 24-hr TSP Exceedance are shown in Table 12-1.

Table 12-1        Summary of Impact 1-hr & 24-hr TSP Exceedance during the reporting period

Dust Monitoring Station

AM1

AM2

AM3

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hr TSP

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

0

0

24-hr TSP

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

Noise Monitoring

12.1.2    No exceedance of the Action and Limit Levels was recorded at designated monitoring stations during the reporting period. The Summary of Impact Noise Exceedance are shown in Table 12-2.

Table 12-2        Summary of Impact Noise Exceedance during the reporting period

Noise Monitoring Station

NM1(a)

NM2(a)

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

LAeq(30mins)

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

Surface Water Quality Monitoring

12.1.3    No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of surface was recorded at designated monitoring stations during the reporting period. The Summary of Impact Surface Water Quality Exceedance are shown in Table 12-3.


Table 12-3        Summary of Impact Surface Water Quality Exceedance during the reporting period

Surface Water Quality Monitoring Station

WM1

WM2

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

Action Level

Limit Level

pH

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

DO

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

Turbidity

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

SS

Exceedance Date

-

-

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

Landfill Gas Monitoring

12.1.4    No exceedance of the Action and Limit Levels for were recorded at designated monitoring stations during the reporting period. The Summary of Landfill Gas Exceedance are shown in Table 12-4.

Table 12-4   Summary of Landfill Gas Exceedance during the reporting period

Landfill Gas Monitoring Station

Portion A +50 mpD to 70 mpD Platform

Level Exceedance

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

CH4

Exceedance Date

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

CO2

Exceedance Date

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

O2

Exceedance Date

-

-

Exceedance Count

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related

12.2      Summary of Environmental Non-compliance

12.2.1    No non- compliance event was recorded during the reporting period.

12.3      Summary of Environmental Complaint

12.3.1    No environmental complaint was recorded during the reporting period. The cumulative statistics on environmental complaints are presented in Table 12-5.

Table 12-5 Cumulative Statistics on Environmental Complaints

Reporting Period  

Environmental Aspects

Air Quality

Noise

Water Quality

Waste

Ecology

Jan 2024

Complaint Date

-

-

-

-

-

No. of Complaint

0

0

0

0

0

Feb 2024

Complaint Date

-

-

-

-

-

No. of Complaint

0

0

0

0

0

Mar 2024

Complaint Date

-

-

-

-

-

No. of Complaint

0

0

0

0

0

Total during the reporting period

0

0

0

0

0

Accumulate of project

1

0

5

0

0

Remarks: * equal to non-project related after the investigation.

12.3.2    Cumulative complaint / enquiry log, Summaries of complaints and enquiries & Environmental complaint reports are presented in Appendix I.

12.4      Summary of Environmental Summons and Successful Prosecution

12.4.1    No summons and prosecution were received during the reporting period.


 

13   Implementation Status on Environmental Mitigation Measures

13.1.1    The Contractor has generally implemented part of environmental mitigation measures and requirements as stated in the EIA Report, the EP and EM&A Manual and the contract documents. The implemented mitigation measures are considered effective. The implementation status during the reporting period is summarized in Appendix G.


 

14   Conclusion

14.1.1    1-hr & 24-hr TSP impact monitoring was carried out in the reporting period. No Action / Limit Level exceedance for 1-hr & 24-hr TSP impact monitoring at AM1, AM2 & AM3 was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.2    Construction noise monitoring was carried out in the reporting period. No Action / Limit Level exceedance for construction noise monitoring at NM1a & NM2a was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.3    Site clearance of future landfilling area is in progress. The installation of groundwater monitoring boreholes will be installed after the site formation work of the landfilling area. The target commencement period of groundwater monitoring will be in 2026. No groundwater monitoring is required before the completion of site formation work of the landfilling area.

14.1.4    Surface water monitoring was carried out in the reporting period. No Action / Limit Level exceedance for surface water monitoring at WM1 & WM2 was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.5    Landfill Gas Monitoring was carried out in the reporting period. No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of LFG was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.6    In terms of cultural heritage, implementation of the mitigation measures such as permanent  fencing to protect the boulder path and setting up warning notices during construction phase of the Project has been monitored through the regular site inspection/audit in the reporting period. All the mitigation measures are in order.

14.1.7    no post-transplantation monitoring, and no post-translocation monitoring was conducted during the reporting period.

14.1.8    13 environmental site inspections were carried out in the reporting period. Recommendations on mitigation measures for Permit/ Licenses were given to the Contractor for remediating the deficiencies identified during the site inspections.

14.1.9    No environmental complaint was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.10  No non-compliance event was recorded during the reporting period.

14.1.11  No notification of summons and prosecution was received during the reporting period.

 

Comment and Recommendations

14.1.12  The recommended environmental mitigation measures, as proposed in the EIA reports and EM&A Manuals shall be effectively implemented to minimize the potential environmental impacts from the Project. The EM&A programme would effectively monitor the environmental impacts generated from the construction activities and ensure the proper implementation of mitigation measures.

14.1.13  According to the environmental audit performed in the reporting period, the following recommendations were made:

Air Quality Impact

         The Contractor was advised to provide enough water sprayers for short-term dust control to ensure that all unpaved roads are wetted and also implement other measurements like shotcrete to pave all main haul road for long term dust control.

         The Contractor was advised to regularly water the unpaved main haul road to ensure it stays moist and to pave it for long-term dust control.

         The Contractor was recommended that the loading, unloading or transfer, handing or storage of cement should be cover entirely by impervious sheeting or placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides to prevent dust suppression or sprayed with water to maintain the entire surface wet. They had also been recommended to provide training courses on dust control during the shotcrete process.

         The Contractor was recommended that dusty materials should be covered by impervious sheet to prevent dust dispersion.

         The Contractor was advised to cover the exposed slope area by impervious sheet for short-term slope protection, and shotcrete for long-term slope protection.

         The Contractor was advised that every stock of more than 20 bags of cement or dry PFA, and activities involving bulk cement or dry PFH, should be covered by impervious sheeting or placed in an area sheltered on the top and three sides.

 

Construction Noise Impact

         The Contractor was reminded to ensure that the door of the generator shall be closed while it is operating to reduce the noise produced.

 

Water Quality Impact

         The Contractor was reminded that the exposed slope surface should be properly covered with impervious sheet.

         The Contractor was advised to provide maintenance for the silt fence.

         The Contractor was advised to provide sufficient silt fence around the soil stockpiling area to prevent sediment from entering the drainage system.

         The Contractor was advised to cover the exposed slope area by impervious sheet for short-term slope protection, and shotcrete for long-term slope protection.

         The Contractor was recommended to clean up and remove the deposited silt and grit regularly to prevent silt accumulation.

         The Contractor was reminded that the precaution shall be taken with Appendix A2 of ProPECC PN 1/94 before, during and after rainstorm.

         The Contractor was advised to install efficient channels to properly direct stormwater to silt removal facility and clean up the deposited silt and grit regularly.

 

Waste and Chemical Management

         The Contractor was reminded to provide the sufficient drip tray for chemical storage to avoid chemical spillage and land contamination.

         The Contractor was reminded to provide enough waste skip for waste storage to avoid waste accumulation.

         The Contractor was reminded to clean up the oil stain immediately and dispose of it as chemical waste. Also, the impervious sheet should be provided during using and placing chemicals.

         The Contractor was recommended to provide sufficient enclosed bins for general waste disposal and waste skip for C&D waste disposal to separate and dispose the general and construction wastes.

         The Contractor was recommended to increase waste disposal frequently if necessary to avoid waste accumulation.

         The Contractor was reminded to increase the capacity and the number of enclosed bins and waste skips for waste storage and disposal and clean up the accumulation of general waste and C&D waste regularly.

         The Contractor was advised to provide label in English and Chinese to recognize chemical container.


 

Landscape and Visual Impact

         No specific observation was identified in the reporting period.

 

Permit / Licenses

         No specific observation was identified in the reporting period.

14.1.14  The Contractor has generally implemented environmental mitigation measures and requirements as stated in the EIA Report, the EP and EM&A Manual and the contract documents. The implemented mitigation measures are considered effective.

14.1.15  The ET will keep track on the EM&A programme to ensure compliance of environmental requirements and the proper implementation of all necessary mitigation measures.