Successful prosecutions by EPD against contractor and lorry driver for illegal horticultural waste disposal in Tai O

     An arboricultural contractor and a lorry driver illegally deposited waste wood and soil in Tai O on Lantau Island. They were fined a total of $15,000 at Eastern Magistrates' Courts today (January 14) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

     Last June, a member of the public reported to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) that someone unloaded waste tree cuttings and soil from a lorry at Lung Shing Street in Tai O, covering an area of about 10.5 square metres. It posed danger and inconvenience to pedestrians and caused environmental hygiene problems. With the licence plate information provided by the member of the public, the EPD was able to trace the arboricultural contractor and the lorry driver involved. The department subsequently prosecuted them in accordance with the WDO after collecting sufficient evidence.

     The EPD spokesman reminded contractors and members of the transportation sectors to dispose of construction or other commercial and industrial waste to the Government waste management facilities in accordance with the law, otherwise, they may be prosecuted by the EPD.  According to the WDO, first-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. A maximum fine of $500,000 and six months' imprisonment may be imposed on the second or subsequent convictions.

     The spokesman urged the public to make a report to the department if they witness any illegal disposal of construction or other commercial and industrial wastes. They can record videos or take photos and call the EPD hotline at 2838 3111.