Mainland plot available for construction waste disposal

Authorities will consult mainland China for assistance with the waste generated in local construction works. The acting director of the Environmental Protection Bureau, Vai Hoi Ieong, told media yesterday that Guangdong’s Taishan city has reserved a 164-hectare landfill for disposal and treatment of Macau’s inert construction and demolition materials. The cooperation is expected to meet Macau’s demand in inert waste disposal for the next ten years.
When asked whether the scheme meant the authorities would pay the bill for waste production, Vai said the government would study a charging system to be imposed to the developers responsible for the construction works, and consult the public this year, as currently the city has no charge for the production of inert waste. Vai estimated about eighty percent of the aforementioned inert waste could be reused for land reclamation.
“Bigger issues may occur if they treat [the inert waste] by themselves. The government will probably need to assume full responsibility in the end, because there are certain requirements such as the materials’ composition or radiation measurement. In that case, it might be harder for the government to regulate. Taking reference from neighboring regions, if the waste producers submit fees, the government has the responsibility to strengthen out the final materials. It’s just a question of charging in which stage,” he explained.
The official presided over an annual community event to mark World Environment Day at Tap Seac Square yesterday, promoting the awareness of “waste reduction at source” in local society.
Vai stated during the event that this year’s World Environment Day theme is “sustainable consumption and production” with the slogan “Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care.”
He appealed to citizens to reduce unnecessary waste, reduce use of plastic bags, and to support recycling.
The event, a joint campaign under the environmental cooperation between Macau, Hong Kong and three neighboring cities in Guangdong, drew a large group of residents to its stage performances, family-friendly games booths and themed workshops.