Tse confident of hitting all 'crucial' green targets

Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan expressed confidence on Saturday that Hong Kong could meet the four binding targets outlined in the city's first five-year plan. These objectives encompass reducing carbon intensity, expanding the share of zero-carbon energy in power generation, enhancing air and surface water quality.

Tse stated that environmental targets comprise the majority of the plan's binding goals due to their significance for Hong Kong's future development. Concrete measures are already underway to facilitate the green transition. To achieve the target of raising the share of zero-carbon energy in the electricity generation mix from the present 25% to 30% by 2030, and subsequently escalating it to 60% to 70% by 2035, Tse emphasized that favoring a larger proportion of energy derived from wind and solar sources would safeguard the city against potential energy crises and ensure a dependable supply.

One proposed initiative involves constructing a substantial facility at Tseung Kwan O, where zero-carbon energy could be extensively transmitted from the mainland. Tse disclosed that talks have commenced with certain enterprises to explore the prospect of procuring affordable zero-carbon energy. A dedicated working group has been established to pursue this objective, and Tse expressed confidence in achieving the goal of increasing the share of zero-carbon energy to 60 to 70% by 2035.

Another critical target is to attain a "zero landfill" status by 2035. Tse noted that the waste-charging scheme, which was discontinued in 2024, raised awareness of the urgency of waste reduction. Hong Kong has been actively working towards meeting this goal through various means, such as expanding recycling efforts. Tse highlighted the Green@Community mobile app, which currently boasts 1.2 million users.

He explained that while some individuals recycle primarily for the rewards, others have become motivated to recycle due to the environmental imperative. Consequently, the upcoming strategy will focus on enhancing the app's convenience, leveraging 24-hour smart recycling bins and machines. He concluded that greater convenience will likely encourage more individuals to participate in recycling efforts.