While weather, labour shortages, and material availability often attract attention, many delays originate much earlier in the process. They begin with surveying mistakes.

Surveying provides the foundation for design, approvals, engineering, and construction. When survey information is inaccurate, incomplete, outdated, or misunderstood, the consequences can ripple through an entire project. What appears to be a minor oversight at the beginning can evolve into weeks of delays and significant additional costs.

One of the most common mistakes is assuming an old survey is still accurate. Property owners frequently discover plans from previous developments and believe they can simply be reused. Unfortunately, sites change over time. New structures may have been built, retaining walls added, services installed, vegetation removed, or drainage systems altered. A survey completed years ago may no longer reflect current conditions. When architects and engineers design based on outdated information, issues often emerge during approvals or construction, forcing costly revisions.

Another frequent problem involves commissioning the wrong type of survey. Surveying is not a one-size-fits-all service. A local contour survey, detail survey, boundary survey, set-out survey, and identification survey each serve different purposes. Choosing the wrong survey can leave project teams without critical information they need to proceed. In many cases, developers only realise the mistake after consultants request additional data, causing unnecessary delays while further surveys are organised.

Incomplete site information creates another major source of disruption. Modern construction projects involve far more than buildings and boundaries. Existing drainage infrastructure, utility services, retaining walls, access points, vegetation, neighbouring structures, and easements all influence design decisions. When important features are missed during the surveying process, consultants are forced to redesign elements of the project once the omissions are discovered. What should have been a straightforward approval process can quickly become a cycle of revisions and resubmissions.

Boundary assumptions continue to cause problems across residential and commercial developments. Many property owners believe existing fences accurately represent legal boundaries. In reality, fences are often installed without reference to surveyed property lines and can be significantly offset from the true boundary. Designing structures based on assumed boundaries can lead to compliance issues, neighbour disputes, and redesign costs. In severe cases, construction may need to stop while boundary matters are resolved.

Survey timing is another factor that is often overlooked. Some developers wait until plans are already underway before arranging a survey. This approach frequently results in architects and engineers working with estimated dimensions or incomplete site data. Once the survey arrives, important aspects of the design may need adjustment. Engaging a surveyor early allows the project team to make informed decisions from the outset and reduces the likelihood of redesign later.

Communication failures between project consultants also contribute to delays. Surveyors, architects, engineers, planners, and builders each rely on accurate information being shared at the appropriate time. If survey data is not provided promptly or key site constraints are not communicated effectively, important details may be missed during the design phase. Successful projects typically involve close collaboration between all parties from the beginning.

Sloping sites introduce additional challenges. Properties that appear manageable during a casual inspection can contain significant level variations that affect drainage, retaining walls, access, and earthworks. Underestimating the complexity of a sloping block often results in approval issues and construction variations. Accurate contour surveys provide the information needed to understand the site’s topography before design work begins.

Another common mistake involves failing to identify easements. Easements can restrict where buildings, pools, retaining walls, and other structures may be placed. Discovering an easement after plans have been completed can trigger extensive redesign work and approval delays. Surveyors play an important role in identifying these constraints early in the project lifecycle.

Technology has improved surveying accuracy dramatically over recent decades, but mistakes can still occur when project teams rely on assumptions instead of verified data. Satellite imagery, online mapping tools, and real estate photographs may be useful for preliminary investigations, but they are not substitutes for a professional survey. Decisions involving construction approvals and engineering design should always be based on precise measurements collected on site.

The financial impact of surveying mistakes is often underestimated. Delays can affect consultant schedules, contractor availability, financing arrangements, and project cash flow. A relatively small investment in accurate survey information can help avoid much larger expenses later.

The most successful construction projects share a common characteristic. They start with reliable information. Professional surveying provides the foundation upon which architects, engineers, builders, and planners make critical decisions. By investing in accurate surveys and engaging surveyors early, developers can reduce uncertainty, avoid unnecessary delays, and keep projects moving efficiently from concept to completion.

In construction, problems become more expensive the later they are discovered. Surveying helps uncover those problems before they have the opportunity to derail a project.

The post Common Surveying Mistakes That Delay Australian Construction Projects appeared first on Bulletin Bite.

Detailed Site Survey

A detailed site survey is a comprehensive examination of a piece of land. It collects information about its physical features, such as topography, existing structures, vegetation, and other features. The survey provides accurate measurements of contours, levels, existing buildings, trees, drainage lines, utilities, and more. This information is vital for builders and designers to plan and execute a project efficiently and effectively.

Building a structure without a detailed site survey is like building a house of cards on shaky ground. The information a detailed site survey provides will allow for more accurate planning and help avoid costly mistakes during construction. One of the primary risks of not getting a site survey before building is inadvertently building on or too close to a property boundary. Boundary disputes with neighbours can be messy and expensive to resolve. It’s not uncommon for a structure to need to be modified or even demolished in these cases.

Issues with topography can also arise if a site survey is not conducted. The land may appear to be relatively flat to the naked eye but could actually have a significant slope when measured. The type of contour and detail survey provided by a surveyor Brisbane will provide a builder with the required information. Not having this information could lead to costly site works in the form of excavation or retaining walls and a need to change foundation designs.

Builders also need to be aware of underground infrastructure or easements that could impact the proposed build. These can include sewer lines, stormwater drains, water mains, power lines, or other buried services. Underground utility lines or easements can sometimes be difficult to locate without a detailed site survey. A detailed site survey conducted by a qualified land surveyor Brisbane business will reveal these features, allowing for proper planning and design around them.

Planning and design of the drainage of a new build will be critical in ensuring there are no problems during or after construction. This can be achieved by understanding the existing ground levels, which a detailed survey will provide.

Regulatory Requirements and Industry Standards

In many cases, local council policies or even state government legislation require that a survey be submitted with a building application. This requirement can include a need for existing structures and property boundary information to be submitted, which is what a building survey in Brisbane will provide. While in these cases the site survey may be required by a local council, whether they are required or not, a site survey is a valuable tool to use at the beginning of a project.

Surveys offered by companies like Surveyors Brisbane provide accurate, up-to-date information that reduces risk, expedites approvals, and results in a legal and correctly positioned finished structure. The survey will provide a record of the existing conditions of the land, which the builder, the client, and the council can all rely upon. A building survey Brisbane can conduct will also be up to date. In an area such as Brisbane which is prone to storm damage and cyclones, this is important as many of these features can change.

Site set out

A site survey is an important starting point for the construction of a building. Surveyors can also help with construction set-out, which is the physical marking of the structure on the site. The set-out shows the builder the footprint of the building as approved by council and other specific aspects of the structure. This process ensures that the structure is constructed in the correct location and to the correct dimensions.

Site set-out is important as it is the physical translation of the design drawings onto the land. It involves marking out the positions of specific points on the building, such as corners, centres of walls, and other critical points. This ensures that the builder is working with the correct location and size when the construction of the structure is happening. An incorrect site set-out can lead to errors in the structure that are difficult and expensive to fix.

For example, a site set-out might indicate that a house is to be built on a sloped block of land. If this information is not known and the design of the house is created based on inaccurate or assumed information, the house design might not work with the actual levels on site. This can cause problems with stormwater runoff, excessive excavation or fill, or even structural instability.

Site set-out is also important for aspects such as drainage. Poor drainage planning is one of the most common causes of damage to new builds, particularly in areas that receive heavy rainfall. A site survey would give information about the site such as existing and required elevations, which a site set-out process will use to determine an effective drainage plan. This helps to prevent water from pooling around foundations or other areas, which can cause long-term damage.

Site surveys and set-out processes also aid in project management and budgeting. They allow builders to provide more accurate pricing and avoid budget blowouts. The surveys and set-out also make it easier to coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, and other consultants, as everyone is working with the same information. This can result in better communication, more accurate estimates, and a smoother construction process.

Site surveys and set-out are two processes that are important in the construction of a building. A site survey will provide an accurate record of the existing conditions of the land, including boundaries and other features. A site set-out will then physically mark the land where the structure is to be built. Both are important steps that aid in project management, budgeting, and the construction of a building.

Conclusion

Builders who skip site surveys do so at their peril. In the construction industry, where profit margins can be tight, and risks are always present, taking shortcuts can be tempting. However, foregoing the site survey step can lead to more significant issues, such as incorrect site boundaries, failure to account for existing features, and potential regulatory non-compliance. Building starts with a site survey for a reason.

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With the rise of online shopping and changing consumer behaviors, Australia market presents a unique opportunity for dropshipping entrepreneurs. Many are left contemplating the potential benefits and challenges of starting a dropshipping business in this dynamic environment. Questions abound: Is the market saturated? What are pros and cons? And most importantly, is it truly worth the investment of time and resources? In this exploration, we will delve into the factors that make dropshipping an appealing venture in Australia and assess whether now is the right time to take the plunge.

Why Dropshipping?

Dropshipping has become an increasingly popular choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of online retail. The appeal is clear – by partnering with suppliers who handle the storage, packaging, and shipping of products, entrepreneurs can launch an ecommerce business with minimal upfront investment. This low-risk approach allows startup enthusiasts to test the waters, experiment with different product niches, and build their brand without the burden of managing inventory or logistics.

For many, the flexibility and scalability of dropshipping are its biggest draws. Unlike traditional retail models, where business owners must commit to purchasing and storing large quantities of inventory, dropshipping enables a more agile and responsive approach. Entrepreneurs can quickly adapt to changing market trends, introduce new products, and expand their offerings without the need for significant capital outlays or physical warehouse space.

Opportunities and Challenges

As one of the world’s largest ecommerce markets, Australia presents a compelling opportunity for those considering a dropshipping venture. With a population of over 26 million and a growing appetite for online shopping, the potential customer base is substantial.

However, the Australia market is not without its challenges. The country’s highly competitive ecommerce landscape means that entrepreneurs must work harder to differentiate their offerings and attract customers.

Despite these hurdles, many industry experts remain optimistic about the prospects for dropshipping in Australia. According to a report by Statista, the country’s ecommerce market is expected to grow by over 13% in 2025, reaching a value of US$42.2 billion. This projected growth, coupled with the inherent advantages of the dropshipping model, suggests that now could be an opportune time for novice entrepreneurs to explore this avenue.

Navigating the Australia Dropshipping Landscape

For those considering a foray into dropshipping in Australia, the first step is to conduct thorough market research. Understanding the competitive landscape, identifying lucrative product niches, and developing a robust marketing strategy are all crucial elements of a successful dropshipping venture.

One of the key challenges in the Australia market is the prevalence of established ecommerce players, many of whom have significant resources and brand recognition. To rise above the rest, business owners must find ways to offer unique value propositions, whether through specialized product selections, exceptional customer service, or innovative marketing tactics.

Additionally, entrepreneurs must navigate the complexities of supplier selection, order fulfillment, and customer service. Choosing reliable and reputable suppliers is essential, as is ensuring that the logistics and delivery processes are seamless and efficient. Effective inventory management, order tracking, and customer communication can also be critical differentiators in a crowded marketplace.

The Role of Technology and Platforms

The rise of dedicated dropshipping platforms and tools has been a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to enter the Australia market. These solutions, such as AliDropship, offer a comprehensive suite of features that streamline the entire dropshipping process, from product sourcing and inventory management to order fulfillment and customer support.

By leveraging such platforms and learning how to start dropshipping in Australia, newcomers can bypass many of the operational hurdles that have traditionally hindered the growth of small ecommerce businesses. Automated product importing, integrated payment gateways, and seamless order processing can all contribute to a more efficient and scalable dropshipping operation. This synergy between technology and ecommerce infrastructure has opened the door for more individuals to explore the potential of dropshipping in Australia.

The Future of Dropshipping in Australia

The prospects for dropshipping in Australia appear increasingly promising. The country’s thriving ecommerce landscape, coupled with the inherent advantages of the dropshipping model, suggest that now is an opportune time for budding entrepreneurs to explore this avenue.

The flexibility, scalability, and low-risk nature of dropshipping make it an attractive option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of online retail. And with the continued growth of the Australia’s ecommerce market, the potential customer base is substantial and ripe for exploration.

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This meeting involved around 130 leaders from academia, trade unions, and private business. The conference was hidden from public view and focused on the role of Australia in a century that was being characterised by a rise in Asia.

In the meeting, they were urged to talk about the positives of the Australian economy and dissuade people from believing that the global economy was going to crash down on them. It was about getting away from fear-mongering and talking about the factual reality that the sky was not about to fall.

She cited that negative economic forecasts from other countries would affect Australian confidence if the narrative was not corrected in regard to the local context. She said it was important for the government and economic leaders to raise levels of economic optimism in the wider Australian society.

She cites facts that supported her consensus that the Australian economy was growing in spite of the negative news heard in other countries. She wanted business leaders to chase meaningful opportunities to grow with the changing trends in global trade rather than fight against them.

At the time, the Liberal opposition condemned the event as being nothing more than a motivational seminar with not real policy changes being flagged. They said that Labor would use big events like this to make promises and break them later to introduce new taxes.

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The journey begins with the meticulous selection of classic cars. The team at Classics for a Cause possesses a keen eye for potential, often acquiring cars that have been lovingly preserved or restored. Their selection criteria aren’t just based on the car’s model or make; it’s about finding vehicles with character and history that will resonate with their members and enthusiasts.

The cars in the Classics for a Cause collection are typically sourced in a state of excellent restoration, often embodying a piece of automotive history as they are. These stories are shared with the community, adding an emotional depth to each giveaway. For instance, a 1960s Australian muscle car in the collection doesn’t just represent automotive history; it carries memories of the era it was from.

The giveaway events themselves are a spectacle, generating excitement and community spirit. Participants not only anticipate the chance to win these beautifully maintained classics but also appreciate the craftsmanship and history of each vehicle. The winners’ joy is palpable, often shared in emotional handover ceremonies that are covered on the company’s social media channels.

However, the true heart of Classics for a Cause lies in its mission. Each car giveaway also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by veterans. The stories of these cars become intertwined with the stories of those who have served, creating a powerful narrative that resonates with the community.

Here is one of them:

As Classics for a Cause continues to grow, so does its community of car enthusiasts and supporters of the veteran cause. Each giveaway brings with it a renewed sense of excitement and purpose, strengthening the bond between car lovers and the veteran community.

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From Fat Tyre Fun to Electric Dreams

Ampd Brothers is all about living life to the fullest while caring for our beautiful planet. They got started with their awesome fat tyre electric bikes – think vintage vibes meets modern tech! These bikes are the bee’s knees, tackling sandy beaches, rugged trails, and city streets like a breeze. No terrain can stand in their way!

Choose Your Adventure

With a name like Ampd Bros, you know they mean business. They’ve got a whole range of fat tyre electric bikes, each with its own flair and style. From the ACE to the Chubbie, there’s a ride for everyone. Whether you’re an explorer of the wild or a city slicker, Ampd Bros has got your back!

Ripping through the Dirt

But hold on, there’s more! Ampd Brothers is the go-to place for Surron electric dirt bikes in Australia. These babies are built to be tough, thrilling, and perfect for off-road adventures. With Ampd Bros leading the charge, Aussies all over the country can now get their hands on these high-performance beasts!

Surf the Streets with Vortex Electric Skateboards

They didn’t stop there – Ampd Brothers took their love for electrifying rides to the streets with their Vortex line of electric skateboards. You’ll be gliding through the city with style and eco-conscious swag. These boards are a head-turner, setting new standards for electric skateboarding fun!

Australia-Wide Fun

With over 80 dealers and stockists spread across the country, Ampd Brothers is on a mission to make eco-friendly commuting and leisure accessible to all Aussies. No matter where you are, they’ve got you covered!

Get Ampd Online!

Can’t wait to start your Ampd adventure? Good news, mate! You can shop till you drop at www.ampdbros.com. Their website is as smooth as their electric rides, offering you a seamless shopping experience from the comfort of your couch. No need to rush – explore, compare, and pick your perfect electric mate!

Family Values & Eco-Passion

Ampd Brothers is more than just a business; it’s a family’s dream come true. Brendon and Corey’s vision of a greener future and a love for the outdoors have shaped this incredible journey. They’re proof that when family values, innovation, and eco-consciousness collide, magic happens!

So, what are you waiting for? Join the Ampd Brothers crew and revolutionize your commute with electric fun and sustainable swag. Embrace the thrill of adventure, the joy of exploration, and the love for our planet – all in one electrifying ride! Get ampd today!

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The partnership between Mr. Mungoli and Mr. Singh began on ResearchGate, a site for researchers to showcase their works. As they connected over their shared interest in machine learning and artificial intelligence, they embarked on their first collaborative project. This project centered on cryptocurrency price prediction, leveraging historical data and machine learning algorithms to make informed projections. They used a recurrent neural network (RNN) model, particularly the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) variant, to analyze time-series data and make predictions. While it wasn’t a financial success, this endeavor laid the groundwork for their future collaboration.

The primary objective of their research is to develop innovative algorithms for machine learning and object detection. To achieve this, they have combined Mr. Mungoli’s expertise in artificial intelligence with Mr. Singh’s background in software engineering. This collaboration has allowed them to navigate the challenges inherent in the field, such as processing large amounts of data, ensuring real-time object detection, and improving algorithm accuracy. They have tackled these challenges by leveraging advanced techniques like deep learning, transfer learning, and edge computing.

One of their recent developments is an object detection algorithm based on the popular YOLO (You Only Look Once) architecture. This algorithm is designed for real-time object detection, making it particularly useful for applications that require rapid analysis, such as autonomous vehicles and surveillance systems. By incorporating advanced techniques like anchor box optimization and data augmentation, they have been able to achieve higher detection accuracy and reduced false positives compared to traditional methods.

Their cutting-edge algorithms are currently being used in various applications at the University of Sunshine Coast, focusing primarily on the Australian market. For example, their object detection technology has been employed in traffic management systems to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion. They have integrated their algorithms with Internet of Things (IoT) sensors placed at strategic points throughout the city, allowing the system to adapt in real-time based on traffic patterns and congestion levels. Additionally, their machine learning algorithms have been utilized in agriculture to monitor crop health and optimize yields. By analyzing multispectral satellite imagery and other data sources, their algorithms can identify signs of plant stress, disease, and pests, enabling farmers to take preventive action and optimize their crop management strategies.

Moreover, their research has found applications in healthcare, where their algorithms assist in early diagnosis and personalized treatment planning for patients. One notable example is their work on using machine learning for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. By analyzing neuroimaging data, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, their algorithms can identify subtle patterns indicative of early-stage Alzheimer’s, allowing for earlier intervention and improved patient outcomes.

The potential impact of their technology on industries and society is immense. By enhancing object detection and machine learning capabilities, they are paving the way for more efficient, accurate, and effective systems. Their work has the potential to revolutionize fields such as transportation, agriculture, healthcare, and more, ultimately improving people’s lives and driving economic growth.

As for the future, Mr. Mungoli and Mr. Singh envision their technology playing a significant role in various sectors. They foresee advancements in autonomous vehicles, powered by their object detection algorithms, making transportation safer and more efficient. They also anticipate further integration of their machine learning algorithms in healthcare, enabling more personalized and effective treatments for patients. In the retail sector, they predict the use of their technology to optimize supply chain management and enhance customer experiences. For instance, by analyzing customer behavior data and preferences, their algorithms can help retailers develop targeted marketing campaigns and improve inventory management, ultimately resulting in increased customer satisfaction and revenue.

Both Mr. Mungoli and Mr. Singh recognize that the future of machine learning and object detection is filled with potential, but they also acknowledge the ethical considerations and challenges that lie ahead. They emphasize the importance of addressing concerns surrounding privacy, data security, and algorithmic bias, to ensure the responsible development and deployment of their technology. In this regard, they have adopted a proactive approach, incorporating privacy-preserving techniques, such as federated learning and differential privacy, into their work to protect user data and ensure fairness in their algorithms.

Moreover, they are actively involved in the development of guidelines and best practices for the ethical use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in various industries. By engaging with policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders, they aim to create a framework that balances the benefits of technological advancement with the need to protect individual rights and societal values.

The collaborative partnership between Mr. Mungoli and Mr. Singh serves as a shining example of the power of international research collaboration. As they continue to break new ground in the fields of machine learning and object detection, their work is poised to have a profound impact on a wide range of industries and society as a whole. Their inspiring story highlights the importance of forging connections across borders and disciplines to drive progress in the ever-evolving world of technology. With their relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to ethical development, Mr. Mungoli and Mr. Singh are undoubtedly shaping the future of machine learning and object detection, making the world a better, smarter, and more efficient place.

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Overview

Hong Kong abounds in unexpected and delightful contrasts. Although renowned as a fast-paced business hub, Hong Kong offers a variety of landscapes and scenic vistas rarely matched in such a compact city, ranging from sandy beaches and rocky shorelines to open grasslands and mountain ranges.

Designated Places for Nature Conservation

–  Around 40% of Hong Kong’s 1,110 square kilometres of land is protected country park and special areas for the purpose of nature conservation. There are currently 24 country parks and 22 special areas, covering about 44,300 hectares in Hong Kong, which attracts some 12 million visitors every year.

–  Many Hong Kong hiking trails are near urban areas and easily accessible. For example, it takes less than 20 minutes by bus from the bustling downtown area on eastern Hong Kong Island to reach the start of the Dragon’s Back trail, which has been rated Asia’s “Best Urban Hike”.

–  Hong Kong has six marine parks and one marine reserve covering about 4,050 hectares to conserve local marine environments, including the Southwest Lantau Marine Park which was designated on April 1,

The Government also implemented the new fisheries management strategy in marine parks on the same day for better conservation of marine habitats.

–  The Government will complete designation of the South Lantau Marine Park by June 30, 2022.

Designation process of the proposed North Lantau Marine Park and a new country park is under way.

–  The 2021-22 Budget sets aside $500 million to improve facilities in country parks to enrich visitors’ experience.

–  As announced in the 2021 Policy Address and Northern Metropolis Development Strategy, the Government will implement a proactive conservation policy and establish a system of wetland conservation parks through the gradual resumption of several hundred hectares of private wetlands and fish ponds with

conservation value for better conservation of wetlands in Hong Kong and thus creating environmental

capacity.

Astonishing Biodiversity

–  Rich and wonderful biodiversity is a precious natural resource. Hong Kong has over 3,300 species of vascular plants; 55 species of terrestrial mammals; over 560 species of birds (approximately one-third of

total bird species recorded throughout China); 115 species of amphibians and reptiles; 194 species of freshwater fish; 245 species of butterflies and 130 species of dragonflies.

–  There are more than 1,000 species of marine fish and 84 species of hard corals – more than the hard coral species found in the Caribbean. Some species are endemic to Hong Kong.

–  Hong Kong is also home to a number of globally threatened species, such as the rare Bogadek’s Burrowing Lizard, Three-banded Box Turtle, Yellow-breasted Bunting, Short-legged Toad, Chinese Pangolin and Chinese Tiger dragonfly.

–  The Government on average plants more than one million trees and other plants in the countryside and urban areas annually to green Hong Kong.

–  The Government continues implementing long-term actions under the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to promote biodiversity conservation and support sustainable development in Hong Kong.

Efforts in Ecological, Nature and Countryside Conservation

–  To deter illicit trade in endangered species, the Government gradually phased out ivory trade and imposed heavier sentences under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 that came into effect in May 2018, and stepped up co-operation with Mainland authorities.

The full ban on local ivory trade has been implemented since the end of December 2021.

–  To strengthen the protection of endangered Green Turtles, the Government has expanded the Sham Wan Restricted Area on Lamma Island to cover Green Turtles’ breeding grounds in the adjacent waters

since April 1, 2021. The restricted period has also been extended from five months to seven months (from April to October) each year.

–  The Countryside Conservation Office was established in July 2018 to co-ordinate work related to countryside conservation and revitalisation. It launched the Countryside Conservation Funding

Scheme in October 2019 and a total of 30 projects involving about $156 million in total has been approved up to April 2022. These projects are expected to enhance the management of areas with high ecological value and revitalise local villages. They will also increase public appreciation of village culture and identify novel solutions to promote countryside conservation.

Carbon Neutrality and Emission Reduction

–  The Government announced the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 in October 2021. With the vision of “Zero-carbon Emissions ‧Liveable City ‧Sustainable Development”, it sets four major

decarbonisation strategies and targets for combating climate change and achieving carbon neutrality, i.e.  net-zero electricity generation, energy saving and green buildings, green transport and waste reduction, to lead Hong Kong towards the interim target to reduce Hong Kong’s carbon emissions by half before 2035 as compared to the 2005 level, and the goal to strive to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050.

–  The Government will devote about $240 billion in the coming 15 to 20 years to take forward various measures to mitigate and adapt to climate change. The Government will also set up a new Office of Climate Change and Carbon Neutrality to strengthen co-ordination and promote deep decarbonisation. Also, a dedicated advisory committee on combating climate change will be formed to encourage different

sectors in the community, including young people, to participate actively in climate actions.

–  The Government announced the Clean Air Plan for Hong Kong 2035 in June 2021. Setting out the vision of “Healthy Living‧Low-carbon Transformation‧World Class”, the Clean Air Plan covers six major areas of action, namely green transport, liveable environment, comprehensive emissions reduction, clean energy, scientific management and regional collaboration, leading Hong Kong to

become a more liveable city with air quality on par with major international cities by 2035, and advancing towards the goal of having the air quality to fully meet the air quality guideline levels under the Global Air Quality Guidelines of the World Health Organization.

–  Since 2013, concentration levels of major air pollutants (including ambient and roadside nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and fine suspended particulates) have reduced by around 30% to 60%.

–  Starting from January 1, 2019, all vessels in Hong Kong waters are required to use compliant fuel, such as fuel with sulphur content not exceeding 0.5% or liquefied natural gas.

–  The Government launched in October 2020 an incentive-cum-regulatory programme to progressively phase out about 40,000 Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles by the end of 2027 and $7.1 billion

has been earmarked for ex-gratia payments to the affected vehicle owners.

–  The first Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles (EV) was unveiled in March 2021. Key measures include ceasing the new registration of fuel-propelled and hybrid private cars in 2035 or earlier, expanding the EV charging network and promoting its marketisation, training EV technical and maintenance practitioners, and formulating a Producer Responsibility Scheme for retired EV batteries. The Government will also take the lead in using more EVs.

–  A $2 billion EV-charging at Home Subsidy Scheme (EHSS) was launched in October 2020 to subsidise installation of EV charging-enabling infrastructure in car parks of existing private residential buildings. The 2022-23 Budget set aside an additional $1.5 billion to extend the EHSS for four years to the 2027-28 financial year. The whole EHSS is expected to cover a total of about 140,000 private parking spaces.

–  In 2020, the Government allocated additional funding of $800 million for the New Energy Transport Fund and expanded its scope to cover additional types of electric commercial vehicles.

–  $350 million earmarked to provide subsidies to ferry operators to test out electric ferries on Victoria Harbour routes from 2023.

–  $80 million earmarked to launch a pilot scheme on electric public light buses from 2023.

–  The Cleaner Production Partnership Programme is extended to March 2025 with funding of $311 million to encourage Hong Kong-owned factories to adopt cleaner production technologies with a view to improving the regional environment.

Green Building Design and Technology

–  Target of reducing Hong Kong’s energy intensity from the 2005 level by 40% by 2025.

–  Measures outlined in “Energy Saving Plan for Hong Kong’s Built Environment 2015~2025+” include: setting an energy saving target and timeline; development of green buildings; tax concessions;

expanding the Mandatory Energy Efficiency Labeling Scheme; running the “Energy Saving for All” campaign.

–  Upon completion of all energy saving measures, the annual reduction in CO2 emissions will be about 1.7 million tonnes, equivalent to about 4% of Hong Kong’s total emissions in 2016.

–  The first “Green Energy Target” aims to further improve government energy use by 6% in five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25.

–  The 2021-22 Budget allocated an additional $1 billion, making it $3 billion in total, to install more small-scale renewable energy systems at government buildings and infrastructure.

–  $150 million set aside to conduct energy audit and install energy-efficient appliances, free of charge, for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) subvented by the Social Welfare Department.

–  “Green Schools 2.0” to enhance energy efficiency in schools.

–  “Solar Harvest” to install solar energy generation systems for schools and welfare NGOs for free.

–  The Zero Carbon Building in Kowloon Bay, which opened in 2012, is the city’s first building with a zero carbon footprint, featuring over 80 types of green technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

–  The T‧PARK sludge treatment facility at Nim Wan, Tuen Mun, opened in 2016, is one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the world. Heat produced from incinerating sludge at T‧

PARK is recovered for electricity generation, thus transforming waste into energy, which is also used to provide heating for the spa pools within the Environmental Education Centre at T‧PARK, which people

can enjoy for free.

Innovation and Technology (I&T) for a Green Future

–  The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department has been working with the trade and academia to promote I&T related to electrical and mechanical (E&M) services.

–  E&M InnoPortal lists the service needs of various government departments, public organisations and the E&M trade. Universities and start-ups can propose related I&T solutions for matching.

–  A $200 million Green Tech Fund is set up to support the R&D and application of decarbonisation and green technologies. The 2022-23 Budget will inject an additional $200 million into the Fund.

Waste Management

–  Waste Blueprint for Hong Kong 2035 was promulgated in early 2021. Advocating the vision of “Waste Reduction‧Resources Circulation‧Zero Landfill”, the Government will promote six major areas of action: Waste Reduction, Waste Separation, Resources Circulation, Industry Support, Innovation and Co-operation, and Education and Publicity, with a view to building a circular

economy.

–  The Government will introduce municipal solid waste (MSW) charging to achieve waste reduction by driving behavioural changes, and develop “GREEN@COMMUNITY” recycling facilities in the entire territory to enhance support for waste separation at sources and clean recycling. The bill to implement MSW

charging was passed by the Legislative Council in August 2021. The preparatory period of 18 months as a basic arrangement has begun. The Government is now actively taking forward relevant preparatory work to enable itself, various stakeholders and the public to prepare for the implementation of MSW charging.

–  Premising on the principle of “polluter pays” and the element of “eco-responsibility”, the Government has been putting forward various producer responsibility schemes (PRSs), including the

Plastic Shopping Bag Charging Scheme, the PRS on waste electrical and electronic equipment and the PRS on glass beverage containers, to promote waste reduction at source and facilitate the development

of a circular economy. Besides, the Government is preparing to introduce a PRS on plastic beverage containers. To pave way for the PRS, a pilot scheme has been rolled out to assess the application of

reverse vending machine in collection of plastic beverage containers in Hong Kong.

–  A “food wise and waste less” culture is being promoted to reduce food waste at source.

–  Under the Food Waste Plan, the Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 1 (O∙PARK1) started receiving commercial and industrial food waste since July 2018. O∙PARK1 can treat and convert 200 tonnes

of food waste per day into biogas for power generation, and process the digestate to produce compost. O∙PARK1 can generate about 14 million kWh of surplus electricity annually, which is exported to the grid and enough to power about 3,000 households. The Organic Resources Recovery Centre Phase 2 (O∙PARK2), with daily treatment capacity of 300 tonnes of food waste, is scheduled for commissioning in 2024.

–  Additional funding of $1 billion was injected into to the Recycling Fund in April 2021 to upgrade and transform operations of the recycling industry through better use of technologies. The Fund has been extended until 2027 to benefit more than 1,000 SME recycling businesses.

–  Starting from 2020-21, no less than $300 million is reserved each year for implementing the territory-wide waste paper collection and recycling services to enhance the quality and quantity of local

waste paper and promote the sustainable development of the local waste paper recycling industry.

–  The Government has invited tender for the development of a modern pulping facility in EcoPark, Tuen Mun, to diversify recycling outlets and transform local waste paper into resources more effectively. The facility is expected to commence operation by 2024.

–  The Government launched in late 2021 a two-year voluntary scheme for phasing out personal care and cosmetic products containing microbeads, aiming to encourage the trade to stop the production,

importation and sale of these products, and to assist consumers choose microbead-free products.

Water Quality Management

–  A total investment of $6.6 billion over the past three years in providing and upgrading sewerage and

wastewater treatment infrastructure for further improvement of water quality in all areas of Hong Kong, in particular Victoria Harbour.

–  Since the formation of the Inter-departmental Working Group on Marine Environmental Management in 2012, additional annual funding of about $150 million has been allocated to clean shoreline work. Hong

Kong has a long coastline of about 1,178 km in length. To upkeep its cleanliness for public enjoyment, member departments of the working group closely monitor more than 180 hot spots vulnerable to accumulation of marine refuse and carry out clean up actions from time to time.

Reference : https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/en/media-centre/useful-information/factsheets?utm_source=bali&utm_medium=anzw&utm_campaign=arti&utm_content=nu05-green

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