Table of Contents

LIST OF TABLES
Table I             Summary Table for EM&A Activities in the Reporting Month

Table II            Summary Table for Events Recorded in the Reporting Month

Table 2.1          Key Contacts of the Project

Table 2.2          Status of Environmental Licences, Notifications and Permits (Contract No. SSK509)

Table 2.3          Summary Table for Status of Compliance / Required Submission

Table 3.1          Location for Air Quality Monitoring Locations

Table 3.2          Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Table 3.3          Impact Dust Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Table 3.4          Summary Table of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results during the Reporting Month

Table 3.5          Observation at Dust Monitoring Stations

Table 4.1          Location for Noise Monitoring Stations

Table 4.2          Noise Monitoring Equipment

Table 4.3          Noise Monitoring Parameters, Duration and Frequency

Table 4.4          Summary Table of Noise Monitoring Results during the Reporting Month

Table 4.5          Observation at Noise Monitoring Stations

Table 5.1          Implementation Status of Protection Measures for Flora Species of Conservation Interest

Table 7.1          Observations and Recommendations of Site Audit

LIST OF FIGURES

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1  Site Layout Plan

Figure 2  Location of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Figure 3  Location of Noise Monitoring Stations

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A     Construction Programme and Proactive Environmental Protection Proforma

Appendix B     Action and Limit Levels

Appendix C      Copies of Calibration Certificates

Appendix D     Environmental Monitoring Schedules

Appendix E      Air Quality Monitoring Results and Graphical Presentation

Appendix F      Noise Monitoring Results and Graphical Presentation

Appendix G     Weather Condition

Appendix H     Ecological Monitoring Records

Appendix I       Event Action Plans

Appendix J       Summary of Exceedance

Appendix K     Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS)

Appendix L      Waste Generation in the Reporting Month

Appendix M     Complaint Log

Appendix N     Summary of Successful Prosecution

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Introduction

1.           This is the 3rd monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report for the Project of Police Facilities in Kong Nga Po under Environmental Permit No. FEP-01/510/2016. This report was prepared by Ka Shing Management Consultancy Ltd. (Ka Shing) under “Service Contract Quotation No. PMB202/8480/2022/A01/A Provision of Environmental Team consultancy for Design and Construction of Kong Nga Po Police Training Facilities” (hereinafter called the “Service Contract”). This report documents the findings of Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) work conducted from 1st to 30th June 2023.

2.           Part of the construction site was handed over to Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) on 23rd December 2022 whom taken over responsibility for the construction of building works and as maintenance agent for Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) during operation phase.

3.           During the reporting month, the following Works Contracts were undertaken for the Project of Police Facilities in Kong Nga Po under Environmental Permit No. FEP-01/510/2016: Contract No. SSK509 - Design and Construction of Kong Nga Po Police Training Facilities

Environmental Monitoring and Audit Progress

4.           A summary of the EM&A activities in this reporting month is listed in Table I below:

Table I          Summary Table for EM&A Activities in the Reporting Month

Breaches of Action and Limit Levels

5.     Summary of the environmental exceedances of the reporting month is tabulated in Table II.

        Air Quality

6.     All construction air quality monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. No    Action/Limit Level exceedance was recorded.

Construction Noise

7.     All construction noise monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. No   Action/Limit Level exceedance was recorded.

Table II    Summary Table for Events Recorded in the Reporting Month

        Ecological Monitoring

8.     All ecological monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. The ecological      monitoring result in the reporting month is shown in Appendix H.

        Environmental Non-Compliance

9.     No environmental non-compliance was recorded in the reporting month

        Environmental Complaint

10.   No environmental complaint was received in the reporting month.

        Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

11.   No notification of summons or successful prosecutions was received in the reporting month.

        Reporting Changes

12.   Part of the construction site was handed over to Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) on 23rd December 2022 whom took over responsibility for the construction of building works. So,   the site activities and implementation status of environmental mitigation measures related to       ArchSD Contract are presented in this Monthly EM&A Report.

        Future Key Issues

13.   The major site activities for the coming three months include:

- Setting-up of site office

- Open cut excavation

- Removal of soil

- Construction of footings

- Pre-bored socketed-H Piling

- U.U. Lead in and Pipe Duct Connection

14.   Potential environmental impacts arising from the above construction activities are mainly    associated with construction dust, noise, water quality and waste management. For the details,    please refer to Appendix A regarding the anticipated major impacts from the construction works and corresponding recommended mitigation measures.

1         INTRODUCTION

1.1   Ka Shing Management Consultancy Ltd. (Ka Shing) was commissioned by the Architectural Services Department (ASD) as the Environmental Team to undertake the Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) works for the Project of Police Facilities in Kong Nga Po under Environmental Permit No. FEP-01/510/2016 to ensure that the environmental performance of the Works Contracts comply with the requirements specified in the Environmental Permits (EPs), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and Environmental Monitoring & Audit (EM&A) Manual of the Police Facilities in Kong Nga Po Project and other relevant statutory requirements.

1.2   The major construction works for the Project commenced on 3rd July 2020 and the main site in Kong Nga Po was handed over to Architectural Services Department (ASD) on 23rd December 2022 whom taken over responsibility for the construction of building works and as maintenance agent for Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) during operation phase.

Purpose of the report

1.3   This is the 3rd EM&A Report which summarises the impact monitoring results and audit findings for the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1st to 30th June 2023.

Structure of the report

1.4   The structure of the report is as follows:

Section 1: Introduction - purpose and structure of the report.

Section 2: Project Information – summarises background and scope of the Project, site description, project organisation and contact details, construction programme, the construction works undertaken and the status of Environmental Permits/Licences during the reporting month.

Section 3: Air Quality Monitoring – summarises the monitoring parameters, monitoring

programmes, monitoring methodologies, monitoring frequencies, monitoring locations, Action and Limit Levels, monitoring results and Event /Action Plans.

Section 4: Noise Monitoring – summarises the monitoring parameters, monitoring programmes, monitoring methodologies, monitoring frequencies, monitoring locations, Action and Limit Levels, monitoring results and Event/Action Plans.

Section 5: Ecological Monitoring – summarises the monitoring results of the monthly ecological monitoring undertaken within the reporting month.

Section 6: Landscape and Visual Monitoring – summarises the audit results of the site inspection undertaken within the reporting month.

Section 7: Environmental Site Inspection – summarises the audit findings of the weekly site inspections undertaken within the reporting month.

Section 8: Environmental Non-conformance – summarises any monitoring exceedance, environmental complaints, environmental summons and successful prosecutions within the reporting month.

Section 9: Future Key Issues – summarises the impact forecast for the next three months and monitoring schedule in the next month.

Section 10: Conclusions and Recommendations

2      PROJECT INFORMATION

Background

2.1   The Project mainly includes construction and operation of various police facilities. The police facilities include:

(i)    a helipad;

(ii)   two firing ranges; and

(iii)  other facilities, associated infrastructure & utilities, etc.

2.2  The Project is a Designated Project under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO). An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report (Report No.: AEIAR-201/2016) for the Project was approved under EIAO in October 2016 in accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-276/2014) and the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM). The corresponding Environmental Permit was issued (EP no.: FEP-01/510/2016) by the Director of Environmental Protection (DEP).

2.3   According to an approved Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual, an air quality and noise monitoring programme is recommended during the construction phases of the Project to monitor the expected dust and noise nuisances. Baseline air quality and noise monitoring were conducted by previous ET (Wellab Limited) from 14th March 2020 to 2nd April 2020 to establish the background conditions of the designated sensitive receivers prior to the commencement of the Project’s construction works.

2.4   The site layout plan for the Project is shown in Figure 1.

Project Organization

2.5   Different parties with different levels of involvement in the Project organization under EP no.: FEP-01/510/2016 include:

Project Proponent – Architectural Services Department (ArchSD)

Contractor– China State JV

Environmental Team (ET) – Ka Shing Management Consultancy Ltd.

Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) – Acuity Sustainability Consulting Limited

2.6   The key personnel contact names and numbers under Quotation No. PMB202/8480/2022/A01/A and the other contact names and numbers under ArchSD Contract No. SSK509 are summarised in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1  Key Contacts of the Project

Summary of Construction Works Undertaken During Reporting Month

2.7   The major site activities undertaken in the reporting month included:

- Preparation for excavation

- Ground Investigation

- Pre-bored socketed-H Piling

Construction Programme

2.8   A copy of Contractors’ construction programmes is provided in Appendix A.

2.9   A summary of the relevant permits, licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project is presented in Table 2.2

Table 2.2  Status of Environmental Licences, Notifications and Permits

Summary of EM&A Requirement

2.10 The EM&A programme requires construction noise monitoring, air quality monitoring, ecological monitoring and environmental site audits. The EM&A requirements are described in the following sections, including:

l     All monitoring parameters;

l     Action and Limit levels for all environmental parameters;

l     Event / Action Plans;

l     Environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Project EIA study final report; and

l     Environmental requirements in contract documents.

Status of Compliance with Environmental Permits Conditions

2.11 The status of compliance with Environmental Permit (EP) No. FEP-01/510/2016 and required submission related to this Project under the EP is summarized in Table 2.3:

Table 2.3  Summary Table for Status of Compliance / Required Submission under FEP No. FEP-01/510/2016

Remarks: * Approval not required in FEP-01/510/2016

3      AIR QUALITY MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

3.1   In accordance with the EM&A Manual, impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted to monitor the air quality for the Works Contracts. Appendix B shows the established Action/Limit Levels for the air quality monitoring works.

3.2   Impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least three times every 6 day at one air quality monitoring station.

Monitoring Location

3.3   According to Section 2.2.5 of the EM&A Manual, impact air quality monitoring was conducted at the two designated monitoring stations for the Project as shown in Figure 2. Table 3.1 describes the location of the air quality monitoring stations.

Table 3.1     Location for Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Equipment

3.4   As the setup of HVS for 1-hour TSP monitoring at the designated locations and request for secured supply of electricity for HVS were not allowed by the villager, direct reading dust meters was therefore used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Dust meter has been commonly used for measuring 1-hour TSP levels in a number of designated projects of major infrastructure works. The proposed use of direct reading dust meter was submitted to IEC and agreed by the IEC. With the use of direct reading dust meter, it can allow prompt and direct results for the EM&A reporting and the implementation of the event and action plan. The 1-hour sampling was determined on bi-monthly basis by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method.

3.5   Table 3.2 summarises the equipment used in the impact air quality monitoring programme. Copies of calibration certificates are attached in Appendix C.

Table 3.2        Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

 3.6  Meteorological information was extracted from “Hong Kong Observatory - General Weather Conditions during the Monitoring Period (June 2023)” in Appendix G as the alternative method to obtain representative wind data.

3.7 The weather conditions (i.e. sunny, cloudy or rainy) were recorded by the field staff as well during the monitoring days.

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

3.8   Table 3.3 summarises the monitoring parameters and frequencies of impact dust monitoring during the Works Contracts activities. The air quality monitoring schedule for the reporting month is shown in Appendix D.

Table 3.3    Impact Dust Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Methodology and QA/QC Procedure

1-hour TSP Air Quality Monitoring

Instrumentation

3.9   Direct reading dust meter was deployed for the air quality monitoring as shown in
Table 3.2.

3.10 The measuring procedures of the dust meter are in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:

l   When the Model LD-3B is turned on, the set time displayed at the bottom left of the liquid crystal display is [01 min].

l   When the start/stop switch is pressed once at this time, a measurement of 1minute is taken. The length of the measurement will depend on the time that is set and displayed.

l   A down timer is displayed at the bottom right of the liquid crystal display

Maintenance/Calibration

3.11     The following maintenance/calibration was required for the direct dust meters:

l Check and calibrate the dust meter by High Volume Sampler (HVS) to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method. Calibration of dust meter should be carried out on a bi-monthly basis throughout all stages of the air quality monitoring.

l The correlation of dust meter and HVS in TSP measurement was obtained by direct comparison of the weight of dust particle trapped in a filter paper using HVS with the reading of the dust meter. Calibration of the dust meter with HVS should be powered on and off at the same location and the same time.

l The correlation coefficient was checked to establish the correlation relationship between the dust meter and HVS. The correlation factor was determined by comparing the results of HVS and dust meter.

l Checking is made prior to dust monitoring commencing to ensure all equipment is in good working condition with necessary power supply. Zero count test were conducted before and after each monitoring event.

Results and Observations

3.12     The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP monitoring are summarised in Table 3.4. Detailed monitoring results and graphical presentations of 1-hour TSP monitoring results are shown in Appendix E.

Table 3.4        Summary Table of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results during the Reporting Month

3.13     1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. No Action/Limit Level exceedances were recorded.

3.14     According to our field observations, the major dust source identified at the designated air quality monitoring stations in the reporting month are shown in Table 3.5:

Table 3.5     Observation at Dust Monitoring Stations

Event and Action Plan

3.15     Should project-related non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event Action Plan in Appendix I shall be carried out.

4      NOISE MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

4.1     In accordance with EM&A Manual, construction noise monitoring was conducted in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) to monitor the construction noise arising from the construction activities. The regular monitoring frequency for each monitoring station shall be on a weekly basis and one set of measurements between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays shall be conducted. Appendix B shows the established Action/Limit Levels for the environmental monitoring works.

Monitoring Location

4.2   According to Section 3.2.3 of the EM&A Manual, impact noise monitoring was conducted at fourteen designated noise monitoring stations. With reference to the principle of EIA report of the Project, noise monitoring station within 300 m from the boundary of this Project are considered. In such regard, six noise monitoring stations as shown in Figure 3 as relevant monitoring locations. Table 4.1 describes the locations of the noise monitoring stations.

Table 4.1         Location of Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Equipment

4.3   Integrating Sound Level Meters were used for impact noise monitoring. The meters were Type 1 sound level meter capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) and percentile sound pressure level (Lx) that also complied with International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications. Table 4.2 summarises the noise monitoring equipment being used. Copies of calibration certificates are attached in Appendix C.

Table 4.2  Noise Monitoring Equipment

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

4.4       Table 4.3 summarises the monitoring parameters, frequency and total duration of monitoring.  The noise monitoring schedule is shown in Appendix D.

Table 4.3  Noise Monitoring Parameters, Duration and Frequency

Remarks:

[1]: Correction of +3dB (A) for Free-field Measurement.

[2]: A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq). It is the constant noise level which, under a given situation and time period, contains the same acoustic energy as the actual time-varying noise level.

L10 is the level exceeded for 10% of the time. For 10% of the time, the sound or noise has a sound pressure level above L10.

L90 is the level exceeded for 90% of the time. For 90% of the time, the noise level is above this level.

Monitoring Methodology and QA/QC Procedures

4.5       The monitoring procedures are as follows:

l The sound level meter was set on a tripod at a point 1m from the exterior of the noise sensitive facade and at the position of 1.2m above the ground;

l For free field measurement, the meter was positioned away from any nearby reflective surfaces. Free field noise levels were adjusted with a correction of +3 dB(A);

l The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter;

l Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:

—           frequency weighting              : A

—           time weighting                       : Fast

—           time measurement                  : Leq(30 min.) dB(A)

(as six consecutive Leq, 5min readings) during non-restricted hours (i.e. 0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays)

l Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using a Calibrator for 94.0 dB at 1000 Hz. If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1.0 dB, the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re- calibration or repair of the equipment;

l During the monitoring period, the Leq, L90 and L10 were recorded. In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet;

l Noise measurement was paused temporarily during periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if possible and observation record during measurement period should be provided; and

l Noise monitoring was cancelled in the presence of fog, rain, and wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed should be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.

Maintenance and Calibration

4.6   The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator were cleaned with a soft cloth at quarterly intervals.

4.7   The sound level meter and calibrator were checked and calibrated at yearly intervals.

4.8   Immediately prior to and following each noise measurement, the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known frequency. Measurements would be accepted as valid only if the calibration levels before and after the noise measurement agreed to within 1.0 dB.

Results and Observations

4.9   The noise monitoring results are summarised in Table 4.4. Detailed monitoring results and graphical presentations of noise monitoring are shown in Appendix F. The weather information for the reporting month is summarised in Appendix G.

Table 4.4         Summary Table of Noise Monitoring Results during the Reporting Month

Remarks:

[1]: Correction of +3dB (A) for Free-field Measurement.

4.10     Construction noise monitoring was conducted as scheduled in the reporting month. No Action/Limit Level exceedance was recorded. The summary of exceedance record in reporting month is shown in Appendix J.

4.11     According to our field observations, the major noise sources identified at the designated noise monitoring stations in the reporting month are as follows:

Table 4.5  Observation at Noise Monitoring Stations

Event and Action Plan

4.12     Should any project related to non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event Action Plan in Appendix I shall be carried out.

5          ECOLOGICAL MONITORING

Monitoring of Flora Species of Conservation Interest

5.1       As required under Section 8.3.2 of EM&A Manual, during construction phase, temporary protective fence shall be erected enclosing the flora species of conservation interest identified under the detailed vegetation survey. The temporary protective fence shall be properly maintained and monitored for the effectiveness. Monthly monitoring of individual of flora species of conservation interest identified in the detailed vegetation survey shall be conducted during the construction phase to make sure that the flora species of conservation interest are not affected by the construction activities of the Project.

5.2       The purpose of the monitoring is to monitor the timely implementation of proper environmental management practices and mitigation measures for the retained and transplanted individuals of flora species of conservation interest. Proper erection and maintenance of the temporary protective fence enclosing the individuals was inspected for the effectiveness. The recommended protection measures in the implementation schedule as stated in approved transplantation proposal were monitored and the conditions of the individuals of flora species of conservation interest were recorded as shown in Table 5.1.

5.3       According to the approved detailed vegetation survey report and transplantation proposal, 71 individuals of Brainea insignis, 41 individuals of Spiranthes sinensis and 3 individuals of Aquilaria sinensis were identified to be transplanted to the receptor site. 51 individuals of Keteleeria fortunei, 26 undersized seedlings of Keteleeria fortunei and 7 undersized seedlings of Aquilaria sinensis were identified to be retained along Kong Nga Po Road near Police Dog Unit and Force Search Unit Training School.

Post-Transplantation Monitoring and Maintenance Programme

5.4       According to approved transplantation proposal, post-transplantation monitoring should be conducted by the Contractor once per week in the first three months and once per month afterwards during the 12-month establishment period and the post-establishment period until the end of construction phase of the Project. Regular monitoring allows early detection of the growth status of transplanted species, sign of construction activity within and nearby the receptor site, and any environmental change of the receptor site.

5.5       Maintenance works were recommended for the first year of establishment to allow health growth of the transplanted species. In view of the condition of transplanted individuals after the 12-month establishment period, maintenance works were recommended to extend during the Post-establishment Period until the end of Construction Phase. Watering was recommended in daily practice during the first three months after the transplantation and during the dry season. Watering frequency may be reduced to at least twice a week and adjusted based on the plant condition to keep the soil moist. Other maintenance works like the use of mulch and weeding shall be conducted if required.

Results and Observations

5.6       Monthly monitoring of flora species of conservation interest was conducted by the Contractor on 30th June 2023 during the reporting month. The implementation status of protection measures as stated in the approved transplantation proposal and the maintenance of temporary protective fence were inspected. The implementation status of protection measures is shown in Table 5.1 and photographic record and checklists for monthly monitoring are shown in Appendix H. The health conditions of the transplanted / retained species are generally in fair and poor condition. The Contractor was reminded to closely monitor the transplanted species and implement the protection measures according to the approved transplantation proposal to protect the transplanted / retained species. In addition, the Contractor was also advised of the following:

1)    To arrange the new tags for those Brainea insignis with missing tags;

2)    To replace the faded plant labels identified in the receptor site.

3)    To refer to the guidelines on soil improvement issued by the Greening, Landscape and Tree Management Section (GLTMS) of the development bureau (2022) to apply to monitoring and maintenance of transplanted flora species.

4)    To install shaded nets

Transplanted Brainea insignis and Spiranthes sinensis

5.7       71 individuals of Brainea insignis and 41 individuals of Spiranthes sinensis were transplanted to receptor site from 21st to 26th May 2020. Transplantation Report recording the process of transplantation has been submitted to ET(Wellab), IEC(Acuity) and the Supervisor (AECOM) for review and record. Post-transplantation monitoring was conducted once per week in the first three months (June to August 2020) and once per month during the 12-month establishment period and the post-establishment period until the end of construction phase of the Project. The health condition of the transplanted species was monitored by the Contractor. The Contractor provided maintenance works including watering, use of mulch and weeding in the first year of establishment to allow health growth of the transplanted species. Post-transplantation monitoring on transplanted Brainea insignis and Spiranthes sinensis was conducted on 27th June 2023 during the reporting month and the post-transplantation monitoring record is shown in Appendix H. The health condition of the transplanted Brainea insignis affected by bushfire on 2nd February 2021 was closely monitored and reported in the post-transplantation monitoring records. The health conditions of the retained species are generally in fair condition. The Contractor was reminded to closely monitored the retained species and implemented the protection measures to protect the retained species.

5.8   During monthly monitoring, no construction activity and equipment storage was observed within the receptor site. Temporary protective fence was properly erected and maintained for the transplanted species.

Table 5.1  Implementation Status of Protection Measures for Flora Species of Conservation Interest

Precautionary Measure for Butterfly Species of Conservation Interest

5.9   According to FEP Condition 2.17, with consideration of minimizing impact on butterfly species of conservation interest, the re-establishment of the new grassland areas in the Project site shall be enhanced, through planting of appropriate plant species which are the larval food plants of butterfly species of conservation interest such as Small Three-Ring, in order to benefit these species.

5.10   The re-establishment of grassland areas in the Project shall be implemented before Commencement of Operation of the Project. Details of the plant species as larval food plants of butterflies including design and implementation arrangement will be further submitted under ArchSD’s building works contract.

Precautionary Measures to Minimize Indirect Disturbance on Ecology

5.11 In accordance with Section 9.7.3 of EIA Report, mitigation measures for air, noise, water, waste and landscape aspects could act as precautionary measures to prevent and minimize any indirect disturbance impact or pollution arisen from the construction activities on the local ecology and offsite habitats. Site audits were carried out by ET on weekly basis to monitor the timely implementation of proper environmental management practices and mitigation measures on the Project site and the observations are summarised in Section 7.3.

6          LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL MONITORING                                                              

Monitoring Requirements

6.1       The EIA Report has recommended mitigation measures for landscape and visual resources to be undertaken during the construction and operation phases of the Project.

6.2       These measures include the consideration of a number of development options and the provision of mitigation measures to directly offset unavoidable impacts. The measures include strategies for reducing, offsetting and compensating impacts during construction and operation phases according to Section 10.13 in the EIA Report.

6.3   The implementation and maintenance of landscape compensatory planting measures is a key aspect of this and shall be checked to ensure that they are fully realised and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other Project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest possible date and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures. In addition, implementation of the mitigation measures recommended by the EIA shall be monitored throughout the construction phase site audit programme.

6.4   Bi-weekly inspection of the implementation of landscape and visual mitigation measures was conducted by ET during weekly site audit. The observation and recommendations made during the audit sessions are summarised in Table 7.1. The implementation status is given in Appendix K.

7          ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION

Site Audits

7.1   Site audits were carried out by ET on weekly basis to monitor the timely implementation of proper environmental management practices and mitigation measures on the Contract site.

7.2   Site audits were conducted by ET with the representative of the Engineer’s Representative and the Contractor on 6, 14, 20, 27 June 2023 in the reporting month. Site audits with the representative of the Contractor and IEC were carried out on 14^th June 2023.

7.3   During site inspections in the reporting month, no non-conformance was identified. The observations and recommendations made during the audit sessions are summarised in Table 7.1.

Table 7.1     Observations of Weekly site Inspection and Follow Up Action  

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

7.4       According to the EIA Report, Environmental Permit and the EM&A Manual of the Project, the mitigation measures detailed in the documents are recommended to be implemented during the construction phase. An updated summary of the Environmental Mitigation Implementation Schedule (EMIS) is provided in Appendix K.

Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

7.5       In accordance with the EM&A Manual, waste management was audited during weekly site audit to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with the Waste Management Plan (WMP) prepared for the Project and the relevant legislative and contractual requirements. Waste management practice including waste handling, storage, transportation, and disposal were audited.

7.6       The Contractor has nominated on-site Environmental Officers to oversee the environmental management, pollution control measures, good site practices and training of site personnel in waste management. Proactive measures have been undertaken to make use of construction and demolition (C&D) materials to minimize the waste generated. On-site sorting and screening of excavated materials have been carried out to recover any recyclable portions. Inert C&D materials were used on-site for backfilling works and hard paving of haul road. In addition, inert C&D materials generated from excavation works were reused as fill materials in other local projects. The surplus inert C&D materials were disposed of at the Government’s public fill reception facilities (PFRFs) for beneficial use by other projects. In order to monitor the disposal of inert and non-inert C&D materials and to control fly-tipping, every excavated materials before leaving the site is weighted by a weight bridge and Trip Ticket System is strictly followed.

7.7       The Contractors are advised to minimize the wastes generated through the recycling or reusing. All mitigation measures stipulated in the EM&A Manual and waste management plans shall be fully implemented. The status of implementation of waste management and reduction measures is summarised in Appendix K.

7.8       Waste generated from this Project includes inert C&D materials and non-inert C&D materials. Non-inert C&D materials are made up of general refuse and waste that cannot be reused or recycled and has to be disposed of at the designated landfill sites. The amount of wastes generated by the construction works of the Project during the reporting month is shown in Appendix L.

8          ENVIRONMENTAL NON-CONFORMANCE

Summary of Exceedances

8.1       No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of air quality was recorded in the reporting month.

8.2       No exceedance of Action and Limit Levels of construction noise was recorded in the reporting month.

8.3       Should the monitoring results of the environmental monitoring parameters at any designated monitoring stations indicate that the Action / Limit Levels are exceeded, the actions in accordance with the Event and Action Plans in Appendix I be carried out. The summary of exceedance record in reporting month is shown in Appendix J.

Summary of Environmental Non-Compliance

8.4       No environmental non-compliance was recorded in the reporting month.

Summary of Environmental Complaint

8.5       In accordance with the EM&A Manual, Section 11.3, complaints should be referred to the ET for action. During the complaint investigation works, the ET and IEC as established according to EP Condition 2.1 and 2.6 can carry out Ad-hoc site inspections to identify the source of the complaint, review the effectiveness of the Contractor’s remedial measures and the updated situation once received the complaint. In addition, additional monitoring and audit can also be arranged immediately to verify the situation if necessary. ET and IEC will also oversee the circumstances that leading to the complaint do not recur. Moreover, ET and IEC can cooperate efficiently with the Contractor and Supervisor on site for completion of the investigation.

8.6       There was no environmental complaint received in the reporting month. The Cumulative Complaint Log since the commencement of the Project is presented in Appendix M.

Summary of Environmental Summon and Successful Prosecution

8.7       There was no successful environmental prosecution or notification of summons received since the Project commencement. The Cumulative Log for environmental summon and successful prosecution since the commencement of the Project is presented in Appendix N.

9          FUTURE KEY ISSUES

Key Issues in the Coming Three Months

9.1       The tentative construction programmes for the Project are provided in Appendix A. The major construction activities undertaken in the coming three months will include:

- Setting-up of site office

- Open cut excavation

- Removal of soil

- Construction of footings

- Pre-bored socketed-H Piling

- U.U. Lead in and Pipe Duct Connection

9.2       With reference to the site layout plan including the indication of coming three months construction site activities in Appendix A, potential environmental impacts arising from the above construction activities are mainly associated with construction dust, noise, water quality, waste management, landscape and visual and ecology. The foreseeable environmental impacts were taken into consideration of the planned mitigation measures in the coming months.

9.3       The mitigation measures to be implemented for the coming three months were proposed by the Contractor and reviewed by ET, IEC and the Engineers through Email, during site audit and SSEMC meeting. The Proactive Environmental Protection Proforma summarizing the major site activities, potential environmental impacts and recommended mitigation measures was reviewed and endorsed by the Engineers, ET and IEC and was shown in Appendix A.

9.4       Dust can be generated during construction works and exposed site area during dry weather. To prevent high dust concentrations during the dry weather, the Contractor should pay attention on the air quality mitigation measures as far as practicable to minimise the dust impact to the villages which are located adjacent to the Project works (refer to the layout plan in Appendix A). The Contractor was also reminded to follow the Project Implementation Schedule in approved EIA report / EM&A Manual to implement appropriate dust control measure including “Use of regular water spraying (once every 1.25 hours or 8 times per day) to reduce dust emissions from heavy construction activities (including ground excavation, earth moving, etc.) at all active works area exposed site surfaces and unpaved roads, particularly during dry weather and covering 80% of stockpiling area by impervious sheets and spraying all dusty material with water immediately prior to any loading transfer operations to keep the dusty materials wet during material handling at the stockpile areas” as well as the relevant dust control practices as stipulated in the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation so that no adverse dust impact arising from the Project works site.

9.5       In addition, construction noise is also one of the key environmental issues during construction of the Project. Noise mitigation measures such as using quiet plants and noise barriers should be in place, where applicable. In addition, the Contractor was reminded to frequently check and maintain the acoustic materials wrapped on noisy part of PME and ensure no gaps between noise barriers; proactively identify any potential construction noise impact to NSRs and provide sufficient mitigation measures if necessary; and provide notification to nearby villagers in Kong Nga Po for potential noisy works at works area.

9.6       The Contractor is also recommended to maintain water quality mitigation measures during construction works.  The dikes or embankments for flood protection should be implemented around the boundaries of earthwork areas. Temporary ditches should be provided to facilitate the runoff discharge into an appropriate watercourse, through a site/sediment trap. The sediment/silt traps should be incorporated in the permanent drainage channels to enhance deposition rates. Efficient silt removal facilities shall be deployed to ensure all treated effluent from wastewater treatment plant shall meet the requirements as stated in WPCO licences. The site drainage plan shall also be updated based on the site condition and construction programme.

Monitoring Schedule for the Next Month

9.7       The tentative environmental monitoring schedule for the next month is shown in Appendix D.

10        CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions

10.1   This Monthly EM&A Report presents the EM&A work undertaken in June 2023 in accordance with EM&A Manual.

10.2     No Action/Limit Level exceedance was recorded for air quality monitoring in the reporting month.

10.3     No Action/Limit Level exceedance was recorded for construction noise monitoring in the reporting month.

10.4    Environmental site inspections were conducted on 6, 14, 20, 27 June 2023 and landscape and visual monitoring was carried out on 6, 13 June whereas ecological  monitoring was carried out on 27 June by ETL in the reporting month. No environmental non-compliance was recorded in the reporting month.

10.5     No environmental complaint, notification of summons or successful prosecutions was received in the reporting month.

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

Recommendations                                                                             

10.7     According to the environmental audits performed in the reporting month, the following recommendations were made:

            Air Quality Impact

l  To maintain the cover for stockpile of dusty materials and exposed slope for dust suppression;

l  To enhance the dust suppression measures including watering for the dust generation works, exposed site area and haul road;

l  To regular check the valid NRMM labels are properly displayed on the regulated machines and non-road vehicles; and

l  To maintain the wheel washing facilities provided at every construction site exit where practicable are functioning properly.

            Construction Noise

l  To keep inspect the noise sources inside the site;

l  To keep space out noisy equipment and position the equipment as far away as possible from sensitive receivers; and

l  To maintain temporary noise barriers for operations of noisy equipment near the noise sensitive receivers, if necessary.

            Water Impact

l  To maintain the cover for open stockpile of and exposed slope;

l  To keep reviewing and updating temporary drainage system;

l  To maintain the earth bunds or sand bag barriers on site to direct stormwater to silt removal facilities;

l  To maintain and ensure the silt removal facilities are functioning properly;

l  To maintain the wheel washing facilities provided at every construction site exit where practicable are functioning properly; and

l  To divert the muddy water at the retention pond to the wetsep for treatment before discharging out.

            Waste/Chemical Management

l  To check for any accumulation of waste materials or rubbish on site;

l  To avoid any discharge or accidental spillage of chemical waste or oil directly from the site;

l  To maintain the drip tray well to prevent oil and chemical leakage; and

l  To avoid improper handling, storage and dispose of oil drums or chemical containers on site.

            Ecology

l To erect and maintain the protection fence around the retained trees / conservation species;

l To keep the tree protection zone large enough to protect the tress; and

l To remove the construction materials within the tree protection zone.

            Landscape and Visual

l To erect and maintain the protection fencing and tree protection zone around the preserved trees;

l To remove the construction materials within the tree protection zone; and

l To keep the tree protection zone large enough to protect the tress.