Promoting Environmental Protection and Conservation

123.    Environmental protection and conservation is one of the major policy areas in the Policy Address.  Improving the environment is vital to the sustainable development of Hong Kong, for which we need the shared commitment of both the community and the Government.  Our next priority will be to improve roadside air quality.

124.    In his Policy Address, the Chief Executive proposed setting aside $10 billion as subsidies, coupled with regulatory measures, to progressively phase out heavily polluting pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles.  I have already earmarked resources for this proposal on which the Environment Bureau is now consulting this Council, the relevant transport trades and other stakeholders.

125.    The Chief Executive also proposed in his Policy Address to inject $5 billion into the Environment and Conservation Fund to provide support for green projects initiated by the community.  I have made a provision for the Fund to further enhance public awareness of environmental protection, conduct related scientific research, and encourage public participation in environmental protection activities.