Environmental protection is a major policy area for the third term of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. At the press conference on the announcement of Principal Officials for the new term of government, I have pledged to lead the work in enhancing the living environment for the Hong Kong people. I will continue to count on the diligence and professionalism of my civil service colleagues in the Bureau and the relevant departments to help implement the environmental policy agenda laid out by the Chief Executive.

I will also work closely with environmental groups, non-government organisations and academia, seeking their advice on ways and means to improve our environment. In Hong Kong, we breathe the same air and live under the same air shed with our neighbouring provinces. We must work hand in hand with the Mainland in reaching our mutually agreed emission-reduction targets by 2010. Last, but not least, my colleagues and I will spare no efforts in reaching out to the community to hear what you want in shaping Hong Kong’s environmental policy.

I look forward to your views on how we can join hands in making Hong Kong a better place to live.

Edward Yau
Secretary for the Environment