Revision History

C

Updated Appendix D

8 March 2024

B

Revision based on AFCD¡¦s comment

17 Jan 2020

A

First Submission

06 Dec 2019

Rev.

Description of Modification

Date

 

 

Content

 

1.     Basic Project Information. 5

2.     Marine Water Quality Monitoring. 9

3.     Noise Monitoring. 16

4.     Waste. 21

5.     Coral 23

6.     Marine Mammal 31

7.     White-Bellied Sea Eagle. 38

8      Summary of Monitoring Exceedance, Complaints, Notification of Summons and Prosecutions  40

9.     EM&A Site Inspection. 41

10.   Conclusion and Recommendations. 42

 

 

Appendix A

Master Programme

Appendix B

Summary of Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation

Appendix C

Water Quality Monitoring Data Trending

Appendix D

Noise Monitoring Data Trending

Appendix E

Waste Flow Table

Appendix F

Photo Records for Coral Monitoring

Appendix G

Photo Records for Marine Mammal Monitoring

Appendix H

Photo Records for White-bellied Sea Eagle Monitoring

Appendix I

Complaint Log

Appendix J

Land-based Theodolite Tracking Report

 

 


Executive Summary

 

A1.       The Project, Integrated Waste Management Facility (IWMF), is a Designated Project under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) (EIAO) and is currently governed by a Further Environmental Permit (FEP No. FEP-01/429/2012/A) for the construction and operation of the Project.

A2.       In accordance with the Updated Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual for the Project, EM&A works for marine water quality, noise, waste management and ecology should be carried out by Environmental Team (ET), Acuity Sustainability Consulting Limited (ASCL), during the construction phase of the Project.

A3.       This is the 5th Quarterly EM&A Report, prepared by ASCL, for the Project summarizing and concluding the monitoring results and audit findings of the EM&A programme at and around Shek Kwu Chau (SKC) during the reporting period from 1 July 2019 to 30 September 2019.

A4.       The EM&A works for construction noise, water quality, construction waste, coral, marine mammal and White-Bellied Sea Eagle (WBSE) were conducted during the reporting period in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual.

A5.       Weekly site inspections of the construction works were carried out by ET to audit the mitigation measures implementation status. Monthly joint site inspections were carried out by ET and IEC.


 

1.         Basic Project Information

1.1.           The Reporting Scope

1.1.1          This is the 5th Quarterly EM&A Report for the Project which summarizes the key findings of the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 1 July 2019 to 30 September 2019.

1.2.           Project Organization

1.1.2          The Project Organization structure for Construction Phase is presented in Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.1 Project Organization Chart

1.1.3          Contact details of the key personnel are presented in Table 1.1 below:

 

Table 1.1 Contact Details of Key Personnel

Party

Position

Name

Telephone no.

Environmental Protection Department

Project Proponent

Cheng Tak-Kuen

2594-6111

Keppel Seghers ¡V Zhen Hua Joint Venture

Project Manager

Kenny Yu

2192-0606

Acuity Sustainability Consulting Limited

Environmental Team Leader

Robin Ho

2698-6833

ERM-Hong Kong, Limited

Independent Environmental Checker

Mandy To

2271-3000

1.3.           Summary of Construction Works

1.1.4          Details of the major construction activities undertaken in this reporting period are shown in Table 1.2 below. The construction programme is presented in Appendix A.

Table 1.2 Summary of the Construction Activities Undertaken during the Reporting Period

Location of works

Construction activities undertaken

Remarks on progress

Seawall and

breakwater

locations

¡P      Marine site investigation works

¡P      Laying of Geotextile and Sand Blanket

¡P      Completed

¡P      On-going for Sand Blanket Laying

¡P      On-going for laying geotextiles

Location of DCM Site Trial

¡P      Coring of DCM samples

¡P      Completed

 

Seawall Locations

¡P      Collecting of Marine Sediment Samples

¡P      Completed

Location of DCM static Loading Test

¡P      DCM installation

¡P      Completed

Seawall and berth area

¡P      Coring of DCM samples

¡P      51 nos. of sample were taken

 

¡P      DCM installation

¡P      6149 out of 6491 DCM injections were completed

 

¡P      Dredging operation

 

¡P      36,040.8842 m3 of dredged sediment in bulk quantity was dumped at relevant dumping site in total

 

¡P      Rock filling of foundation

 

¡P      Laying of Geotextile and Sand Blanket

¡P      On-going

 

¡P      Completed for Sand Blanket Laying

¡P      On-going for laying geotextiles

 

Shek Kwu Chau Southwest Shoreline with Identified Coral Colonies

¡P      Installation of floating silt curtain

¡P      On-going

 

1.1.5          The status for all environmental aspects is presented in Table 1.3.

Table 1.3 Summary of Status for Key Environmental Aspects under the Updated EM&A Manual

Parameters

Status

Water Quality

Baseline Monitoring under Updated EM&A Manual and Detailed Plan on DCM

The baseline water quality monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under FEP Condition 3.4

Impact Monitoring

On-going

Regular DCM Monitoring

On-going

Initial Intensive DCM Monitoring

Completed over 11 February 2019 to 10 March 2019, to be resumed whenever DCM related parameter exceeded the AL/LL

Baseline Water Quality of wet season

Completed over 13 August 2018 to 7 September 2018

Noise

Baseline Monitoring

The baseline noise monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under FEP Condition 3.4

Impact Monitoring

On-going

Waste Management

Mitigation Measures in Waste Monitoring Plan

On-going

Coral

Pre-translocation Survey and Coral Mapping

The Coral Translocation Plan was submitted and approved by EPD under EP Condition 2.12

Coral Translocation

Completed on 28 March 2018

Post-Translocation Coral Monitoring

Survey obstructed due to missing of translocated and tagged coral colonies after typhoons in September 2018; the last post-translocation coral monitoring completed on 28 Mar 2019

Pre-construction Coral Survey and Tagging

Completed on 26 June 2018

Tagged Coral Monitoring

Survey obstructed due to missing of tagged coral colonies after typhoons in September 2018

Coral Survey and Re-tagging

Re-tagging at Indirect Impact Site was conducted on 23 November and Re-tagging at Control Site was conducted on 3 December 2018

Post Re-tagging Coral Monthly Monitoring

On-going

Marine Mammal

Baseline Monitoring

The baseline marine mammal monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under FEP Condition 3.4

Impact Monitoring

On-going

Land-based Theodolite Tracking

30 days of theodolite surveys were started at 21 Feb 2019 and completed in May 2019

Passive Acoustic Monitoring

30 days of PAM surveys were started at 1 May 2019 and completed until the end of May 2019

White-bellied Sea Eagle

Baseline Monitoring

The baseline WBSE monitoring result has been reported in Baseline Monitoring Report and submitted to EPD under FEP Condition 3.4

Impact Monitoring

On-going

Environmental Audit

Site Inspection covering Measures of Air Quality, Noise Impact, Water Quality, Waste, Ecological Quality, Fisheries, Landscape and Visual

On-going

Mitigation Measures in Marine Mammal Watching Plan (MMWP)

On-going

Mitigation Measures in Detailed Monitoring Programme on Finless Porpoise (DMPFP)

On-going

Mitigation Measures in Vessel Travel Details

On-going

Daily Site Audit and Monitoring for Dredging Work

On-going

1.1.6          Other than the EM&A works by ET, environmental briefings, trainings and regular environmental management meetings were conducted, in order to enhance environmental awareness and closely monitor the environmental performance of the contractors. 1.1.7          The EM&A programme has been implemented in accordance with the recommendations presented in the approved EIA Report and the Updated EM&A Manual. A summary of updated implementation status of the environmental mitigation measures for the construction phase of the Project during the reporting period is provided in Appendix B.

 


 

2.         Marine Water Quality Monitoring

2.1          Water Quality Parameters

2.1.1          Measurement of Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Turbidity, Suspended Solids (SS), Salinity and pH have been undertaken at the eleven monitoring stations during general water quality monitoring. Besides the above parameters, monitoring of Total Alkalinity, Current Velocity and Current Direction have been undertaken at all fourteen monitoring stations (including S1, S2 and S3) during regular DCM monitoring. 2.1.2          Current velocity and direction, DO, temperature, salinity, turbidity and pH were measured in-situ and the SS, Total Alkalinity were assayed in a HOKLAS laboratory. 2.1.3          In associate with the water quality parameters, other relevant data were also measured, such as monitoring location/position, time, water depth, sampling depth, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena or work underway nearby were also recorded. 2.1.4          Impact water quality monitoring was conducted 3 days per week in the reporting period. All parameters were monitored during mid-flood and mid-ebb tides at three water depths for general water quality monitoring. The interval between two sets of monitoring has not been less than 36 hours. 2.1.5          Table 2.1 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of the impact water quality monitoring.

 Table 2.1 Water Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Parameter, unit

Frequency

No. of Depths

¡P         Water Depth(m)

¡P         Temperature(oC)

¡P         Salinity(ppt)

¡P         pH (pH unit)

¡P         Dissolved Oxygen (DO)(mg/L and % of saturation)

¡P         Turbidity(NTU)

¡P         Suspended Solids (SS), mg/L

¡P         Total alkalinity (mg/L)

¡P         Current velocity (m/s)

¡P         Direction (in NESW)

General water quality monitoring and Regular DCM monitoring:

3 days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides

3 water depths: 1m below sea surface, mid-depth and 1m above sea bed.

If the water depth is less than 3m, mid-depth sampling only.

If water depth is less than 6m, mid-depth may be omitted.

 

 

2.2          Water Quality Monitoring Locations

2.2.1          Impact water quality monitoring was conducted at eleven monitoring locations during general water quality monitoring and fourteen water monitoring locations during regular DCM monitoring, as shown in Figure 2.1.

Figure 2.1 Water monitoring locations at Artificial Island near SKC


2.3          Action and Limit Levels

2.3.1          Based on the baseline monitoring data and the derivation criteria presented in the Baseline Monitoring Report, the Action/Limit Levels have been derived and are presented in Table 2.2 and Table 2.3 for both dry seasons (October ¡V March) and wet seasons (April ¡V September).

Table 2.2 Derived Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality Monitoring (Dry Season)

Parameters

Action

Limit

Construction Phase Impact Monitoring

DO in mg/L

≤ 7.13

≤ 4

SS in mg/L

≥ 8 or 120% of control station¡¦s SS at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

≥ 10 or 130% of control station's SS at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

Turbidity in NTU

≥ 5.6 or 120% of control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

≥ 12.81 or 130% of control station's turbidity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

Temperature in¢XC

1.8¢XC above the temperature recorded at representative control station at the same tide of the same day

2¢XC above the temperature recorded at representative control station at the same tide of the same day

Total Alkalinity in mg/L

≥116 or 120% of control station¡¦s Total Alkalinity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

≥ 118 or 130% of control station¡¦s Total Alkalinity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

Notes:  

         i.            "Depth-averaged" is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths.

        ii.            For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits.

      iii.            For turbidity, SS and Salinity, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

Table 2.3 Derived Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality (Wet Season)

Parameters

Action

Limit

Construction Phase Impact Monitoring

DO in mg/L

≤ 5.28

≤ 4

SS in mg/L

≥ 12 or 120% of control station¡¦s SS at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

≥ 14 or 130% of control station's SS at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

Turbidity in NTU

≥ 4.0 or 120% of control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

≥ 4.3 or 130% of control station's turbidity at the same tide of the same day of measurement, whichever is higher

Temperature in¢XC

1.8¢XC above the temperature recorded at representative control station at the same tide of the same day

2¢XC above the temperature recorded at representative control station at the same tide of the same day

Total Alkalinity in mg/L

 

≥ 116 mg/L or 120% of representative control station at the same tide of the same day, whichever is higher

≥ 118 mg/L or 130% of representative control station at the same tide of the same day, whichever is higher

 

Notes:

         i.            "Depth-averaged" is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths.

        ii.            For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits.

       iii.            For turbidity, SS and Salinity, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

 

2.4          Monitoring Results and Observations

2.4.1          DCM injection works and sand blanket laying works were conducted during the reporting period, thus both general water quality monitoring at the eleven monitoring stations and general DCM monitoring including monitoring stations S1, S2A and S3 were conducted. Monitoring results of 7 key parameters: Salinity, DO, turbidity, SS, pH, temperature and total alkalinity in each month of this reporting period, are summarized in Table 2.5, and results trending are presented graphically in Appendix C.

Table 2.5 Summary of Regular DCM Impact Water Quality Monitoring Results

Locations

Parameters

Salinity (ppt)

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)

pH

Turbidity (NTU)

Suspended Solids (mg/L)

Temp. (oC)

Total Alkalinity (mg/L)

Surface & Middle

Bottom

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

B1

Avg.

21.16

25.25

26.99

7.44

7.24

6.64

7.49

7.29

6.70

8.00

7.91

8.03

2.9

3.1

2.8

5.01

5.52

7.25

29.4

28.8

29.1

100.2

105.3

106.1

Min.

18.80

19.30

23.20

6.83

6.20

5.80

6.82

6.36

5.80

7.57

7.52

7.69

2.3

2.4

2.0

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.6

26.6

26.8

90.0

100.0

95.0

Max.

24.30

28.50

28.70

9.71

8.32

7.92

9.59

8.59

7.92

8.97

8.27

8.25

3.8

6.2

3.6

9.00

12.00

14.00

30.4

30.9

30.9

112.0

110.0

113.0

B2

Avg.

21.08

25.19

26.95

7.49

7.27

6.68

7.42

7.25

6.67

7.94

7.93

8.03

2.9

3.0

2.8

5.17

5.58

7.35

29.4

28.8

29.1

100.3

105.1

106.2

Min.

18.90

17.90

23.41

6.89

6.15

6.02

6.79

6.13

5.86

7.50

7.48

7.75

2.4

2.3

2.3

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.6

26.6

27.0

90.0

100.0

98.0

Max.

24.20

28.60

28.86

9.61

8.41

7.76

9.42

8.42

7.78

8.90

8.30

8.34

3.8

6.8

3.6

11.00

14.00

15.00

30.4

30.8

30.8

112.0

110.0

112.0

B3

Avg.

21.19

25.44

27.01

8.79

6.98

6.76

8.78

7.00

6.68

8.36

7.85

8.06

2.8

3.2

3.0

5.60

5.69

7.41

29.3

28.6

29.2

100.2

105.1

106.3

Min.

19.40

19.30

23.45

6.91

6.15

5.95

7.09

5.62

6.02

7.49

7.15

7.76

1.7

1.9

2.1

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.4

26.4

27.0

90.0

100.0

99.0

Max.

23.30

28.90

28.58

9.95

8.29

8.18

10.23

8.29

8.19

9.64

8.31

8.47

3.9

9.8

7.2

12.00

13.00

16.00

30.5

30.6

30.8

112.0

109.0

112.0

B4

Avg.

21.29

25.44

27.00

8.74

7.03

6.73

8.53

7.10

6.61

8.34

7.86

8.04

2.8

3.3

3.0

5.31

5.32

7.91

29.3

28.7

29.2

100.2

105.1

106.2

Min.

19.30

18.40

23.45

6.81

6.31

5.94

8.01

5.69

5.34

7.56

7.24

7.77

1.5

2.0

2.1

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.4

26.4

26.9

90.0

99.0

98.0

Max.

23.40

29.30

28.86

10.29

8.32

8.27

9.92

8.73

8.01

9.59

8.22

8.46

4.0

10.0

6.9

11.00

11.00

18.00

30.5

30.8

30.9

112.0

109.0

112.0

C1A

 

Avg.

21.16

25.01

26.96

7.42

7.24

6.66

7.47

7.21

6.68

7.99

7.93

8.03

2.9

3.2

2.9

5.48

5.69

7.05

29.4

28.7

29.1

100.7

104.9

105.9

Min.

18.80

17.50

23.26

6.77

6.23

5.83

6.81

6.10

5.80

7.58

7.48

7.70

2.4

2.3

2.4

2.00

2.00

3.00

28.5

26.5

26.8

90.0

88.0

94.0

Max.

24.30

28.60

28.57

9.99

8.55

7.99

9.98

8.21

7.81

9.04

8.29

8.29

3.9

8.8

3.6

10.00

19.00

14.00

30.5

30.9

30.7

112.0

109.0

112.0

C2A

Avg.

21.25

25.44

26.99

8.79

7.01

6.72

8.75

6.95

6.65

8.34

7.82

8.05

2.9

3.5

3.0

5.32

6.02

7.05

29.3

28.6

29.1

100.7

105.1

105.9

Min.

19.30

18.20

23.24

7.02

4.76

5.84

6.86

3.30

5.54

7.43

7.24

7.75

1.6

1.7

2.3

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.4

26.4

26.8

90.0

99.0

95.0

Max.

23.40

32.09

28.73

10.17

8.78

8.32

10.20

9.22

8.14

9.52

8.22

8.38

4.1

13.2

7.2

10.00

19.00

13.00

30.5

30.5

31.0

112.0

113.0

112.0

CR1

Avg.

21.08

24.90

26.96

7.44

7.12

6.71

7.41

7.16

6.74

7.98

7.92

8.01

2.9

3.0

3.0

5.58

5.78

7.47

29.4

28.8

29.0

101.0

105.1

106.1

Min.

18.80

17.80

23.26

6.83

5.46

5.93

6.81

6.24

5.94

7.56

7.55

7.66

2.3

2.2

2.3

2.00

2.00

3.00

28.5

26.6

26.8

90.0

99.0

95.0

Max.

24.30

28.10

28.85

9.98

8.24

7.98

9.64

8.21

7.99

9.03

8.37

8.31

3.9

6.9

7.1

13.00

14.00

14.00

30.4

30.8

30.8

112.0

111.0

113.0

CR2

Avg.

21.08

25.07

26.97

7.38

7.09

6.71

7.46

7.12

6.70

7.98

7.92

8.01

2.9

3.0

3.0

5.11

5.48

7.56

29.4

28.8

29.1

101.1

105.1

105.9

Min.

18.80

17.80

23.29

6.78

5.60

5.83

6.86

6.22

5.83

7.55

7.50

7.56

2.4

2.2

2.4

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.5

26.5

26.9

90.0

99.0

94.0

Max.

24.00

33.27

28.67

9.79

8.22

7.90

9.86

8.32

7.90

9.00

8.28

8.34

3.9

7.8

7.3

10.00

14.00

14.00

30.5

30.9

31.0

112.0

111.0

114.0

F1A

Avg.

21.21

25.41

27.00

8.69

7.17

6.75

8.70

7.17

6.73

8.33

7.84

8.05

2.8

3.0

2.9

5.33

6.14

8.06

29.4

28.6

29.1

100.5

104.8

105.9

Min.

19.30

18.30

23.43

6.90

6.24

6.07

6.86

6.45

5.85

7.45

7.07

7.75

1.4

1.9

2.1

2.00

2.00

3.00

28.4

26.4

26.9

90.0

99.0

95.0

Max.

23.30

28.90

28.82

10.33

8.66

8.36

9.94

8.57

8.33

9.57

8.30

8.47

4.0

6.9

3.6

9.00

24.00

30.00

30.5

30.5

31.1

112.0

109.0

112.0

H1

Avg.

21.22

25.27

26.99

8.66

7.11

6.71

8.68

7.05

6.64

8.33

7.84

8.04

2.8

3.2

3.0

5.76

5.49

7.59

29.4

28.6

29.1

100.3

105.2

105.8

Min.

19.30

18.50

23.21

6.91

5.83

5.86

6.91

6.32

5.88

7.46

7.07

7.76

1.5

1.8

2.1

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.4

26.4

26.8

90.0

100.0

94.0

Max.

23.40

28.70

28.82

10.30

8.69

8.24

10.19

8.49

7.85

9.62

8.31

8.42

4.4

8.9

7.1

13.00

18.00

16.00

30.5

30.5

30.9

112.0

109.0

112.0

M1

Avg.

21.24

25.31

27.02

8.65

7.15

6.70

8.65

7.13

6.63

8.33

7.82

8.05

2.8

2.9

2.9

5.44

5.64

7.42

29.3

28.6

29.2

100.7

104.8

106.2

Min.

19.30

18.70

23.27

7.05

6.16

5.96

7.04

6.29

5.96

7.45

7.11

7.76

1.7

1.9

2.3

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.4

26.4

26.9

90.0

92.0

95.0

Max.

23.10

28.80

28.84

10.26

8.46

8.18

10.29

8.62

7.82

9.52

8.26

8.47

4.0

4.9

3.6

12.00

19.00

14.00

30.5

30.6

30.9

112.0

109.0

113.0

S1

Avg.

21.03

24.74

26.99

7.43

7.24

6.68

7.46

7.21

6.67

7.99

7.91

8.02

2.9

3.0

2.9

5.37

5.25

7.10

29.4

28.8

29.1

100.6

104.7

105.8

Min.

18.90

18.70

23.41

6.83

6.34

5.97

6.85

6.22

5.96

7.55

7.55

7.62

2.3

2.3

2.3

2.00

2.00

3.00

28.6

26.5

26.9

90.0

100.0

94.0

Max.

23.90

28.38

28.85

9.73

8.24

7.75

9.71

8.43

7.51

9.00

8.30

8.28

4.0

6.2

3.8

18.00

17.00

16.00

30.5

30.8

30.8

111.0

109.0

112.0

S2A

Avg.

20.90

24.96

26.97

7.43

7.13

6.72

7.29

7.10

6.64

7.98

7.91

8.01

2.9

3.1

2.9

4.96

5.17

7.13

29.4

28.8

29.2

100.5

105.1

105.9

Min.

20.70

18.20

23.26

6.77

5.57

5.93

6.85

5.79

5.80

7.55

7.49

7.59

2.3

1.5

2.3

2.00

2.00

2.00

28.5

26.5

27.0

90.0

94.0

95.0

Max.

24.30

29.04

28.65

9.87

8.32

7.86

8.87

8.27

7.68

9.04

8.26

8.34

4.0

6.0

3.5

11.00

14.00

15.00

30.4

30.8

30.9

111.0

114.0

114.0

S3

Avg.

21.12

25.02

27.01

7.41

7.09

6.74

7.44

7.10

6.72

7.98

7.90

8.03

2.9

3.1

3.0

5.41

5.19

7.52

29.4

28.8

29.1

100.9

105.0

105.7

Min.

18.80

18.40

23.39

6.79

5.40

5.97

6.83

5.64

5.93

7.55

7.53

7.59

2.4

2.0

2.4

2.00

2.00

3.00

28.5

26.7

26.8

90.0

97.0

93.0

Max.

24.10

30.08

28.84

9.50

8.44

7.89

9.62

8.11

7.78

8.98

8.23

8.31

3.9

7.9

7.2

12.00

13.00

15.00

30.5

30.8

31.1

112.0

114.0

113.0

 

Notes:  

        i.            "Avg", ¡§Min¡¨ and ¡§Max¡¨ is the average, minimum and maximum respectively of the data from measurements conducted under mid-flood and mid-ebb tides at three water depths, except that of DO where the data for ¡§Surface & Middle¡¨ and ¡§Bottom¡¨ are calculated separately.


      ii.             


2.4.2          Most of the monitoring results for temperature, turbidity and total alkalinity obtained in the reporting period complied with their corresponding Action and Limit levels, while numbers of result for DO and SS triggered their corresponding Action or Limit Levels, and investigations were conducted accordingly. For the salinity, pH, DO, turbidity, temperature, SS and total alkalinity, their trends were fluctuated independent to the site activities and presented in Appendix C. 2.4.3          No major pollution source and extreme weather which might affect the results were observed during the impact monitoring. 2.4.4          During the regular DCM impact monitoring period for July to September 2019, seven (7) exceedances of the Action Level for SS were recorded and eight (8) of the monitoring results for SS obtained during the reporting period had exceeded the relevant Limit Level. None of the General & Regular DCM water quality results of bottom dissolved oxygen (DO) obtained during the reporting period had exceeded Action Level. One of monitoring results in control stations had exceeded the relevant Limit Level of bottom DO during the reporting period. Investigations were conducted, and results indicated the SS & DO exceedances were not attributable to the Project works. Details of the exceedance are presented in Section 8. 2.4.5          Implemented mitigation measures minimizing the adverse impacts on water are listed in the implementation schedule given in Appendix B.

 

 

3.         Noise Monitoring

3.1          Noise Monitoring Parameters

3.1.1          Impact noise monitoring was conducted weekly in the reporting period between 0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays. Additional impact noise monitoring was conducted weekly in the reporting period between 1900-0700 hours on all days as well as public holidays and Sundays. 3.1.2          Construction noise level measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (LAeq). Leq 30min was used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays. Leq 5mins was used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 1900 and 0700 hours as well as public holidays and Sundays. Table 3.1 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of the impact noise monitoring and additional impact noise monitoring.

 Table 3.1 Noise Monitoring Parameters, Time, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Station

Time

Duration

Parameters

M1/ N_S1,

M2/ N_S2,

M3/ N_S3

Day time:

0700-1900 hrs

(during normal weekdays)

Once per week

Leq 5min/Leq 30min (average of 6 consecutive Leq 5min)

Leq, L10 & L90

M1/ N_S1,

M2/ N_S2,

M3/ N_S3

Evening time:

1900-2300 hrs (including normal weekdays, also public holidays and Sundays)

Once per week

Leq 5min (3 sets of Leq 5min)

Leq, L10 & L90

M1/ N_S1,

M2/ N_S2,

M3/ N_S3

Night time:

2300-0700 hrs (including normal weekdays, also public holidays and Sundays)

Once per week

Leq 5min (3 sets of Leq 5min)

Leq, L10 & L90

 

3.2          Noise Monitoring Locations

3.2.1          Three noise monitoring locations for impact monitoring and additional impact monitoring at the nearby sensitive receivers are shown in Figure 3.1


Figure 3.1 Noise monitoring locations at SKC


3.2.2          M1, M2 and M3 are Shek Kwu Chau Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre Hostel 1, 2 and 3 respectively of The Society for the Aid and Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers (SARDA) located at southern part of Shek Kwu Chau. 3.2.3          Measurements at M1 & M3 were conducted at a point 1m from the exterior of the sensitive receivers building façade and at a position 1.2m above the ground. Measurement setup at M3 has been varying with minor adjustment to minimize the disturbance to the users of Treatment Centre. Measurement at M2 was conducted at a point 1m from building façade of the ceiling of 1st floor level for avoidance of mutual disturbance with users of Treatment Centre. The minor adjustment of monitoring locations, which were in favour to mutual convenience with the users of Treatment Centre, were found with no effect on monitoring result based on on-site observation and experience from the Baseline monitoring of the Project. The noise monitoring stations are summarized in Table 3.2 below.

Table 3.2 Noise Monitoring Location

Station

NSR ID in EIA Report

Noise Monitoring Location

Type of sensitive receiver(s)

Measurement Type

M1

N_S1

Shek Kwu Chau Treatment & Rehabilitation Centre Hostel 1

Residential

Façade

M2

N_S2

Shek Kwu Chau Treatment & Rehabilitation Centre Hostel 2

Residential

Façade

M3

N_S3

Shek Kwu Chau Treatment & Rehabilitation Centre Hostel 3

Residential

Façade

 

3.3          Action and Limit Levels

3.3.1          The Action/Limit Levels in line with the criteria of Practice Note for Professional Persons (ProPECC PN 2/93) ¡§Noise from Construction Activities ¡V Non-statutory Controls¡¨ and Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process  issued by HKSAR Environmental Protection Department [¡§EPD¡¨] under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance, Cap 499, S.16 is presented in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3 Action and Limit Levels for Noise per Updated EM&A Manual

Time Period

Action

Limit (dB(A))

0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received

75 dB(A)

Notes:      If works are to be carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated in the Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority have to be followed.

 

3.4          Monitoring Results and Observations

3.4.1          Impact monitoring for noise impact was conducted in the reporting period. The impact noise levels at Noise Monitoring Stations at SKC (i.e. M1/ N_S1 to M3/ N_S3) are summarized in Table 3.5. Additional impact monitoring during restricted hours was conducted in the reporting period. The additional impact noise levels at Noise Monitoring Stations at SKC (i.e. M1/ N_S1 to M3/ N_S3) are summarized in Table 3.6 and Table 3.7 respectively. Trending of the noise monitoring results is presented graphically in Appendix D. 3.4.2          Major construction activity, major noise source and extreme weather which might affect the results were recorded during the impact monitoring. 3.4.3          According to our field observations, the major noise source identified at the designated noise monitoring station in the reporting month are summarised in Table 3.4:

Table 3.4 Summary of Field Observation

Monitoring Station

Major Noise Source

M1

Nil

M2

Nil

M3

Air-conditioning units nearby

3.4.4          No data from impact monitoring during daytime has exceeded the stipulated limit level at 75 dB(A).

Table 3.5 Summary of Impact Noise Monitoring Results during Daytime (0700 ¡V 1900 hrs)

Location

Noise in dB(A)

Range of Leq 30min

Range of L10 5min

Range of L90 5min

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

M1

47.5 ¡V 55.3

60.7 ¡V 65.5

53.4 ¡V 64.9

48.4 ¡V 58.5

60.9 ¡V 72.2

54.1 ¡V 66.1

43.8 ¡V 51.4

58.8 ¡V 60.6

50.0 ¡V 62.6

M2

47.1 ¡V 56.9

61.8 ¡V 69.0

62.4 ¡V 66.7

47.5 ¡V 65.7

62.1 ¡V 75.8

63.7 ¡V 67.4

41.6 ¡V 57.0

58.5 ¡V 63.8

56.8 ¡V 64.8

M3

43.6 ¡V 55.6

61.5 ¡V 64.9

58.5 ¡V 67.8

44.6 ¡V 64.4

61.7 ¡V 69.2

58.8 ¡V 69.1

40.1 ¡V 53.7

59.5 ¡V 64.1

53.8 ¡V 66.9

3.4.5          Applicable mitigation measures for construction works are fully implemented as shown in Appendix B, where double-glazed windows and air conditioning system were also installed and confirmed operable for the NSRs (N_S1, N_S2 & N_S3).

3.4.6          During the noise monitoring event, frontline staff of ET have inquired the treatment centre users on any noise disturbance from the construction activities at evening and night time, where no complaint and adverse opinions was received.

3.4.7          Data from impact monitoring during evening time and night time were compared with the NCO criteria. Where site inspection and auditing on Contractor¡¦s record have shown that the conditions stipulated in the Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority for construction works during restricted hours were followed. No inappropriate practice were spotted during evening time and night time construction works, thus the stipulated requirement on noise impact control during night time and evening time was achieved.

Table 3.6 Summary of the Additional Impact Noise Monitoring Results during Evening Time (1900-2300 hrs)

Location

Noise in dB(A)

Range of Leq 5min

Range of L10 5min

Range of L90 5min

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

M1

47.2 ¡V 57.9

58.3 ¡V 62.8

52.4 ¡V 58.9

49.1 ¡V 59.9

58.9 ¡V 64.4

53.8 ¡V 60.1

45.2 ¡V 52.9

57.6 ¡V 60.9

50.4 ¡V 58.1

M2

45.8 ¡V 53.6

58.4 ¡V 63.1

53.0 ¡V 62.8

46.7 ¡V 55.1

58.9 ¡V 64.7

53.9 ¡V 64.7

44.3 ¡V 51.7

57.7 ¡V 60.8

52.8 ¡V 61.8

M3

48.9 ¡V 56.1

58.9 ¡V 62.7

53.2 ¡V 57.8

49.8 ¡V 58.0

59.6 ¡V 65.6

54.2 ¡V 59.4

46.4 ¡V 53.1

57.7 ¡V 61.3

52.1 ¡V 57.1

 

Table 3.7 Summary of Additional Impact Noise Monitoring Results during Night Time (2300 ¡V 0700 hrs)

Location

Noise in dB(A)

Range of Leq 5min

Range of L10 5min

Range of L90 5min

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

Jul

Aug

Sep

M1

45.4 ¡V 55.1

58.5 ¡V 62.5

49.9 ¡V 59.8

45.8 ¡V 55.8

59.2 ¡V 64.2

50.7 ¡V 60.9

44.1 ¡V 50.8

57.6 ¡V 60.6

47.5 ¡V 58.1

M2

46.2 ¡V 57.2

58.8 ¡V 63.1

53.2 ¡V 60.3

46.8 ¡V 61.0

59.4 ¡V 65.1

55.3 ¡V 62.7

44.5 ¡V 51.3

58.1 ¡V 61.5

51.2 ¡V 58.8

M3

49.2 ¡V 57.5

58.2 ¡V 66.1

53.7 ¡V 58.9

50.1 ¡V 59.2

58.8 ¡V 70.5

54.6 ¡V 59.7

45.3 ¡V 54.0

57.6 ¡V 60.2

51.2 ¡V 57.3

 


 

 


4.         Waste

4.1          The waste generated from this Project includes inert construction and demolition (C&D) materials, and non-inert C&D materials. Non-inert C&D materials are made up of general refuse, vegetative wastes and recyclable wastes such as plastics and paper/cardboard packaging waste. Steel materials generated from the project are also grouped into non-inert C&D materials as the materials were not disposed of with other inert C&D materials.

 

4.2          As advised by the Contractor, for C&D waste, no metals were generated and collected by registered recycling collector. 0 tonnes of paper was generated on site and collected by registered recycling collector. No plastic waste was collected by registered recycling collector. 8,400 L of chemical waste was collected by licensed chemical waste collector. 19.5 m3 of other types of wastes (e.g. general refuse) were generated on site and disposed of at Landfill. 8,685.6 m3 of fill sand and 18,011.8 m3 of fill rock were imported during the reporting period.

 

4.3          2,714 m3 of dredged sediment in bulk quantity was dumped according to its dumping permit (EP/MD/19-094) during the reporting period.

 

4.4          Chemical waste generated from the cleaning of oil stain and leakage on deck of barges was stored in the chemical waste storage area on the barges.

 

4.5          With reference to relevant handling records and trip tickets of this Project, the quantities of different types of waste generated in the reporting period are summarised in Table 4.1. Details of cumulative waste management data are presented as a waste flow table in Appendix E.

 


Table 4.1 Quantities of Waste Generated from the Project

Reporting Month

Actual Quantities of Inert C&D Materials Generated Monthly

Actual Quantities of C&D Wastes Generated Monthly

Total Quantity Generated

Hard Rock and Large Broken Concrete (see Note 1)

Reused in the Contract

Reused in other Projects

Disposed as Public Fill

Imported Fill

Metals

Paper / cardboard packaging

Plastics (see Note 2)

Chemical Waste

Others, e.g. general refuse (see Note 3)

Sand

Public Fill

Rock

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000m3)

(in ,000kg)

(in ,000kg)

(in ,000kg)

(in ,000kg)

(in ,000L)

(in ,000m3)

 Jul 2019

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0.4289

0

0

0

0

8.4

0.013

Aug 2019

0

0

0

0

0

2.5775

0

10.56

0

0

0

0

0

0

Sep 2019

0

0

0

0

0

6.1081

0

7.0229

0

0

0

0

0

0.0065

Notes:

1.       Broken concrete for recycling into aggregates.

2.       Plastic refer to plastic bottles / containers, plastic sheets / foam from packaging materials.

3.       Use the conversion factor: 1 full load of dumping truck being equivalent to 6.5m3 by volume.

 

4.6          Although there is not much waste generation in the reporting period from the Project, the Contractor is reminded to sort and store any solid and liquid waste on-site properly prior to disposal.

 

5.         Coral

5.1          Coral Monitoring Parameters

5.1.1          Ten (10) tagged coral colonies at each site of suggested control site and indirect impact site are being monitored weekly for the first month and followed by monthly monitoring for three months. The selected Control Site is located at Yuen Kong Chau of Soko Islands about 7 km away from the project area. After the hitting of super typhoon Mangkhut in mid-September 2018, the coral re-tagging activities at indirect impact site and control site were conducted in November and December 2018 respectively. Tagged coral colonies at the proposed recipient site are being monitored quarterly for one year and the last post-translocation coral monitoring was completed on 28 Mar 2019. The selected recipient site R3 is located the opposite side of the Project area at about 2 km away. 5.1.2          Monitoring recorded the following parameters (using the same methodology adopted during the pre-translocation survey); the size, presence, health conditions (percentage of mortality/bleaching) and percentage of sediment of each trans-located coral colony. The general environmental conditions including weather, sea, and tidal conditions of survey sites were monitored. 5.1.3          Health status of coral was assessed by the following criteria:

Hard coral: Percentage of surface area exhibiting partial mortality and blanched/bleached area of each coral colony and degree of sedimentation.

 

5.2          Coral Monitoring Locations

Location of the ten tagged coral colonies at each of the proposed indirect impact site, control site, the recipient site R3 and REA transect at proposed indirect impact site are shown in Figure 5.1, Figure 5.2 and Figure 5.3 respectively:

Figure 5.1 Tagged Natural Corals at Indirect Impact Site Near SKC for re-tagging after typhoon Mangkhut

Figure 5.2 Tagged Natural Corals at Control Site Near Yuen Kong Chau for re-tagging after typhoon Mangkhut

Figure 5.3 Tagged Translocation Corals at Recipient Site R3 near SKC

5.2.1          The GPS coordinates of the tagged coral colonies and retagged coral colonies at both indirect impact site, control site and recipient site R3 were shown in Table 5.1, Table 5.2 and Table 5.3 respectively.

 

Table 5.1 Tagged Natural Corals during Baseline and Re-tagged Natural Corals after Typhoon Manghkut at Control Site near Yuen Long Chau

Coral # note i

GPS Coordinates

1

N22¢X09¡¦45.96¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦57.81¡¨

2R

N22¢X11¡¦29.12¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.01¡¨

3

N22¢X09¡¦45.81¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦57.78¡¨

4

N22¢X09¡¦45.70¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦57.95¡¨

5R

N22¢X11¡¦29.10¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.18¡¨

6

N22¢X09¡¦45.75¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦58.02¡¨

7R

N22¢X11¡¦29.17¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.86¡¨

7

N22¢X09¡¦45.65¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦57.94¡¨

8

N22¢X09¡¦45.53¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦57.90¡¨

9

N22¢X09¡¦46.23¡¨

E113¢X54¡¦54.70¡¨

10R

N22¢X11¡¦29.18¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.91¡¨

Notes:

i.                The re-tagged corals were marked as ##R.

 

Table 5.2 Re-tagged Natural Corals after Typhoon Manghkut at Indirect Impact Site near SKC

Coral # note i

GPS Coordinates

11R

N22¢X11¡¦29.14¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.92¡¨

12R

N22¢X11¡¦29.12¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.01¡¨

13R

N22¢X11¡¦29.11¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.07¡¨

14R

N22¢X11¡¦29.13¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.12¡¨

15R

N22¢X11¡¦29.10¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.18¡¨

16R

N22¢X11¡¦29.07¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦09.23¡¨

17R

N22¢X11¡¦29.17¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.86¡¨

18R

N22¢X11¡¦29.14¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.94¡¨

19R

N22¢X11¡¦29.20¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.81¡¨

20R

N22¢X11¡¦29.18¡¨

E113¢X59¡¦08.91¡¨

Notes:

i.                The re-tagged corals were marked as ##R.

 

Table 5.3 GPS Coordinates of Recipient Site R3

Site

GPS Coordinates

R3

N22¢X11¡¦43.69¡¨

E113¢X28.99¡¨

 

5.3          Action and Limit Levels

5.3.1          Monitoring result was reviewed and compared against the below Action Level and Limit Level (AL/LL) as set with the below Table 5.4 and Table 5.5.

 

Table 5.4 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Phase Coral Monitoring

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

Mortality

If during Impact Monitoring a 15% increase in the percentage of partial mortality on the corals occurs at more than 20% of the tagged indirect impact site coral colonies that is not recorded on the tagged corals at the control site, then the Action Level is exceeded.

If during Impact Monitoring a 25% increase in the percentage of partial mortality on the corals occurs at more than 20% of the tagged indirect impact site coral colonies that is not recorded on the tagged corals at the control site, then the Limit Level is exceeded.

 

Table 5.5 Action and Limit Levels for Post-Translocation Coral Monitoring

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

Mortality

If during Post-Translocation Monitoring a 15% increase in the percentage of partial mortality on the corals occurs at more than 20% of the translocated coral colonies that is not recorded on the original corals in the recipient site, then the Action Level is exceeded.

If during Post-Translocation Monitoring a 25% increase in the percentage of partial mortality on the corals occurs at more than 20% of the translocated coral colonies that is not recorded on the original corals in the recipient site, then the Limit Level is exceeded.

 

5.4          Monitoring Results and Observations

5.4.1          Ten (10) hard coral colonies were monitored at each site of Control and Indirect Impact sites as suggested in the Construction Phase Monitoring Plan.  The general health conditions (size, mortality, bleaching and sediment) were recorded and summarized in Table 5.7 and Table 5.8. Photos of each tagged coral colonies were taken during the monitoring activities and shown in Appendix F. 5.4.2          The 3rd quarterly coral monitoring during construction phase at both Indirect Impact Site and Control Site was conducted on 18th September 2019 and the weather condition was summarized in Table 5.6.

Table 5.6 Weather Condition for the 3rd Quarterly Coral Monitoring during Construction Phase at both Indirect Impact Site and Control Site

Date

Condition

Average Underwater Visibility

18 September 2019

-          Southwest wind force 3

-          Sunny period

Less than 0.5m

 

 


Table 5.7 Sizes, Condition, Mortality, Bleaching and Sediment of 10 Natural Coral Colonies at Control Site of 3rd Quarterly Coral Monitoring (18 Sep 2019) during 13th to 15th Months Construction Phase Monitoring

Coral #

Species

Size (cm) ¡V Max. Diameter

Condition

Mortality (%)

Bleaching (%)

Sediment (%)

Baseline

(26 Jun 2018 & 3 Dec 2018)

18 Sep 2019

Baseline

(26 Jun 2018 & 3 Dec 2018)

18 Sep 2019

Baseline

(26 Jun 2018 & 3 Dec 2018)

18 Sep 2019

1

Goniopora stutchburyi

25

Fair

0

0

0

0

0

0

2R

Goniopora stutchburyi

10

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

3

Psammocora superficialis

18

Fair

0

0

0

0

0

0

4

Turbinaria peltata

13

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

5R

Goniopora stutchburyi

18

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

6

Cyphastrea serailia

43

Fair

0

0

0

0

0

0

7R

Coscinaraea sp.

15

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

8

Goniopora stutchburyi

21

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

9

Goniopora stutchburyi

11

Fair

0

0

0

0

0

0

10R

Goniopora stutchburyi

20

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

Notes:

        i.            The re-tagged corals were marked as ##R.


 


Table 5.8 Sizes, Condition, Mortality, Bleaching and Sediment of 10 Natural Coral Colonies at Indirect Impact Site of 3rd Quarterly Coral Monitoring (18 Sep 2019) during 13th to 15th Months Construction Phase Monitoring

Coral #

Species

Size (cm) ¡V Max. Diameter

Condition

Mortality (%)

Bleaching (%)

Sediment (%)

Baseline

(23 Nov 2018)

18 Sep 2019

Baseline

(23 Nov 2018)

18 Sep 2019

Baseline

(23 Nov 2018)

18 Sep 2019

11R

Cyphastrea serailia

48

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

12R

Favites chinensis

27

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

13R

Turbinaria peltata

21

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

14R

Favites chinensis

8

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

15R

Goniopora stutchburyi

11

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

16R

Psammocora superficialis

27

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

17R

Favites chinensis

15

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

18R

Psammocora superficialis

39

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

19R

Psammocora superficialis

42

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

20R

Psammocora superficialis

29

Good

0

0

0

0

0

0

Notes:

        i.            The re-tagged corals were marked as ##R.


5.4.3          The re-tagging activity had been done at both Indirect Impact Site and Control Site on November 2018 and December 2018 respectively. A total of 20 tagged coral colonies (10 at control site and 10 at indirect impact site including the re-tagged coral colonies) were monitored. Similar to the baseline results performed in June, November and December 2018 and the results of the previous two quarterly coral monitoring during construction phase, the health condition of all tagged and re-tagged coral colonies at Indirect Impact Site and Control site were good in general. No increased mortality was recorded during the survey in September 2019. 5.4.4          No sediment, bleaching or increased mortality in the general condition of coral colonies were observed during the 3rd quarterly coral monitoring period. No deterioration of the coral community was observed in the ecological monitoring results when compared with the baseline ecological monitoring results. There is no AL/LL exceedance during the monitoring period. Photos of each tagged corals colonies were taken and shown in Appendix F.  

6.         Marine Mammal

6.1          Survey Methods

6.1.1          Vessel-based Line-transect Survey

For the vessel-based marine mammal surveys, the monitoring team adopted the standard line-transect method (Buckland et al. 2001) as same as that adopted during the EIA study and pre-construction phase monitoring to allow fair comparison of marine mammal monitoring results.

Eight transect lines are set at Southeast Lantau survey area, including Shek Kwu Chau, waters between Shek Kwu Chau and the Soko Islands, inshore waters of Lantau Island (e.g. Pui O Wan) as well as southwest corner of Cheung Chau as shown in Figure 6.1 below:


line transect

Figure 6.1 Line Transects for Marine Mammal Surveys

In comparison to the baseline monitoring results, results from the analyzed construction phase monitoring data would allow the detection of any changes of their usage of habitat, in response to the scheduled construction works.

6.1.2          Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM)

The PAM aims to study the usage of an area by Finless Porpoise by using an array of automated static porpoise detectors (e.g. C-POD) which would be deployed at different locations to detect the unique ultra-high frequency sounds produced by Finless Porpoise. During the construction period, the PAM survey will be conducted including placement of two passive porpoise detectors outside the Project Area as control site (i.e. within Pui O Wan and to the south of Tai A Chau) and one porpoise detector within the Project Area (i.e. near Shek Kwu Chau) as shown in Figure 6.2 below.

 

Alternative PAM location in Shek Kwu Chau*

Note*: The alternative PAM device adjacent to the Project site was deployed from 5 Mar to 11 Apr 2019, which contained a full 37 days acoustic monitoring data set. After the confirmation of loss of the original PAM within the Project site, this data set was proposed to replace that of the original one, as consulted with AFCD accordingly.

Figure 6.2 Locations of Passive Acoustic Monitoring

These three detectors will be deployed on-site to carry out 24-hours monitoring for a period listed as Table 6.2 below during the construction phase.

Table 6.2 PAM Deployment Period

Season

Months

Deployment Period

Peak Season

December, January, February, March, April or May

At least 30 days during the peak months of porpoise occurrence in South Lantau waters

 

6.1.2.1         The automated static porpoise detectors shall detect the presence and number of finless porpoise and Chinese White Dolphins respectively over the deployment period, with the false signal such as boat sonar and sediment transport noise distinguished and filtered out. The detectors shall be deployed and retrieved by professional dive team on the seabed of the three selected location shown in Figure 6.2. During each deployment, the C-POD unit serial numbers as well as the time and date of deployments shall be recorded.  Information including the GPS positions and water depth at each of the deployment locations shall also be obtained.

 

6.1.2.2         The diel patterns (i.e. 24-hour activity pattern) of finless porpoise occurrence among the three sites at Shek Kwu Chau, Tai A Chau and Pui O Wan shall be analyzed.  Peaks and troughs of finless porpoise occurrence per hour of day would be identified and compared with the results obtained from pre-construction monitoring.

6.1.3          Land-based Theodolite Tracking

6.1.3.1         The Land-based Theodolite Tracking study would use the same station as in the AFCD monitoring study(same as the baseline monitoring location), which is situated at the southwest side of Shek Kwu Chau (GPS position: 22o11.47¡¦ N and 113o59.33¡¦ E) as shown in below Figure 6.3. The station was selected based on its height above sea level (at least 20 metres), close proximity to shore, and relatively unobstructed views of the entire Project Area to the southwest of Shek Kwu Chau. The height of the Shek Kwu Chau Station established by the HKCRP team is 74.6 m high at mean low water, and only a few hundred metres to the IWMF reclamation site, which is ideal for the purpose for the present behavioural and movement monitoring of finless porpoises as well during construction phase considering there as an un-obstructed vantage point at a height above the Project Site.

 

 


Figure 6.3 Locations of Land-based Theodolite Tracking

6.1.3.2          During the construction phase, Land-based Theodolite Tracking will be carried out for approximately six hours of tracking for each day of field work for a period listed as Table 6.3 below, preferably at the initial stage of the construction period (i.e. December 2018 to May 2019).

Table 6.3 Land-based Theodolite Tracking Survey Period

Season

Months

Survey Period

Peak Season

December, January, February, March, April or May

30 days during the peak months of porpoise occurrence in South Lantau waters

 

6.1.3.3         The monitoring period for land-based theodolite tracking will be proposed to be overlapped with the PAM. The monitoring team consists of one experienced theodolite operator and at least two field observers for assistance. To conduct theodolite tracking, the observers will search systematically for Finless Porpoise using the unaided eye and 7 x 50 handheld binoculars on each survey day throughout the study area. When an individual or group of porpoises is located, a theodolite tracking session will be initiated and focal follow methods will be used to track the porpoise(s). Behavioural state data (i.e. resting, milling, travelling, feeding and socializing) shall also be recorded every 5 minutes for the focal individual or group. Positions of porpoises and boats shall be measured using a digital theodolite connected to a laptop computer. This tracking survey will be conducted during the peak season between December 2018 and May 2019 for 30 surveys spanning across 15-16 weeks during the peak season to provide good temporal coverage during the initial stage of the construction period.

 

6.2          Specific Mitigation Measures

6.2.1          Monitored exclusion zones

During the installation/re-installation/relocation process of floating type silt curtains, in order to avoid the accidental entrance and entrapment of marine mammals within the silt curtains, a monitored exclusion zone of 250 m radius from silt curtain should be implemented and monitored by competent Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs). Marine Mammal Exclusion Zone (MMEZ) would also be implemented for precautionary purpose for DCM works.

6.2.2          Marine mammal watching plan

Upon the completion of silt curtain installation/re-installation/relocation, marine mammal watching plan would be implemented to observe the presence of any marine mammal around the localized silt curtain or being trapped by the localized silt curtain.

 

6.3          Results and Observations

6.3.1          Vessel-based Line-transect Survey  

6.3.1.1          Three monthly surveys were conducted during the reporting period. As this is covering designated off-peak season (June ¡V November), one survey was completed in each month. A total on effort (transects only) survey length of 122.6 km was completed, 105.1 km at Beaufort Sea State 2 or better (Table 6.4). No sightings were recorded.

Table 6.4 Summary of Vessel-based Line-transect Survey Effort

Date

Area*

Beaufort

Effort (km)

Season

Vessel

Effort Type**

30-07-2019

SEL

2

41.3

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

13-08-2019

SEL

1

9.3

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

13-08-2019

SEL

2

13.2

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

13-08-2019

SEL

3

14.7

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

13-08-2019

SEL

4

2.8

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

09-09-2019

SEL

1

41.3

SUMMER

SMRUHK

P

*         As shown in Figure. 6.1

**       P (from AFCD) denotes the ON EFFORT survey on the transect line, not the adjoining passages

 


Figure 6.4         Plot of encounter rate during July to September in 2009 ¡V 2019 from different surveys

6.3.1.2         A review of the long term AFCD marine mammal monitoring programme, the EIA and the pre-construction baseline monitoring report for this project was conducted. Both the EIA and the pre-construction baseline monitoring were conducted during the peak porpoise months Dec 2008 to May 2009 and Feb to April 2018, respectively. The AFCD long term monitoring data and impact monitoring in 2018 should be compared directly to Impact Survey results of the reporting periods.

6.3.1.3         A review of the Beaufort Sea state survey conditions between 2009 and 2018 (only data available from AFCD at time of writing; (AFCD 2018; 2017; 2016; 2015; 2014; 2013; 2012; 2011; 2010)) shows that survey conditions in July to September 2019 were within the % limits of previous AFCD surveys, similar to impact monitoring surveys conducted in 2018.

6.3.1.4         A review of all the porpoise sightings in the survey area for July to September between 2009-2018 indicates that there is no sighting usually recorded in July to September. Given the similar survey conditions and the encounter rate recorded for porpoise in the project area during the reporting period, the encounter rate for July to September 2019 was 0 km-1 respectively (see Figure 6.2), it is noted that the encounter rate of impact survey is low when compared to other years. It is noted that the non-peak season of finless porpoise is coming to start and that works at IWMF are increasing, both which may impact encounter rates. It is also noted that the impact survey focuses on a relatively small populations of highly mobile individuals and the survey area conducted for this monitoring is very small. For July to September 2019, there were no recorded sightings, as was the case in 2018 impact monitoring conducted by ET and some of long-term monitoring data conducted by AFCD.

6.3.1.5         Data and records of the implemented mitigation measures, including construction vessel routing and speed control, marine mammal watching plan and avoidance of noisy work during the peak season, are collected form the Contractor and now under detail review. As surveys continue for this project, data shall be constantly re-evaluated across survey months to discern trends and impacts, if any.

6.3.2          PAM and Land-based Theodolite Tracking

6.3.2.1         30 days of PAM surveys were started at 1 May 2019 and completed until the end of May 2019. Multiple PAM systems were deployed at three sites. The PAM system located at the IWMF was lost, however, an alternative data set has been identified. The PAM systems at the two control sites Tai A Chau and Pui O were recovered on 3 August 2019. A summary of marine mammal detections (see Table 6.5) shows that porpoise were recorded every day of deployment at each site, but at varying frequencies. Per the latest update from the specialist, detailed theodolite result is presented in Appendix J while the PAM result is under reviewing by the marine mammal specialist and it shall be presented in 6th Quarterly EM&A report (October to December 2019).

6.3.2.2         Whereas detailed diurnal analyses are still underway, each PAM site, including that adjacent to the Project site, records acoustic detections every day during PAM deployment, at varying frequencies. A comparison to baseline monitoring will be presented in subsequent reports.

Table 6.5 The total number of Finless Porpoise and Chinese White Dolphin acoustic detections

Location

No. of Days Detections_FP

No. FP_Detections

No. of Days Detections_CWD

No. CWD_Detections

Pui O

42 (every day)

773

1

1

Tai A Chau

42 (every day)

247

0

0

Shek Kwu Chau

37 (every day)

258

0

0

6.3.2.3         Theodolite surveys were completed in May 2019. In total, thirty four days of theodolite tracking were completed between February - May 2019, comprising 167 hours and 49 minutes of observation. No Chinese white dolphin was observed and only one finless was recorded. The finless porpoise encounter rate was calculated as 0.006 finless porpoise per hour, in all weather conditions.

6.3.2.4         A total of 2620 vessels of ten different types were observed and tracked within or in the proximity of the IWMF construction site. These comprised fishing boats (236), speed boats (29), container boats (155), government boats (22), high speed ferries (53), others (13) and IWMF-Related construction platforms (974), tug boats(240), transportation boats (363), construction boats (531 and approximately 8 buoys were present marking the site boundary. The detailed Land-based Theodolite Tracking Report is presented in Appendix J.

6.3.2.5         The baseline theodolite tracking was conducted immediately prior to and during the site preparation activities of the site. The baseline data records a decrease in porpoise sightings as site preparation activities commenced and notes that the decrease was most likely due to the onset of site preparation activities. The impact theodolite tracking conducted for this study records a marked increase in the number of Project related vessels and platforms and, in agreement with baseline conclusions, shows a concomitant decrease in finless porpoise sightings.

Table 6.6 Porpoise, Vessel and Buoy Occurrence recorded by Land-based Theodolite during the IWMF Construction Stage, Feb ¡V May 2019

6.3.2.6         Photo records of the marine mammal monitoring taken during the reporting period are presented in Appendix G.

6.3.3          Specific Mitigation Measures 6.3.4          Silt curtains were deployed for sand blanket laying works and DCM trial during the reporting period. At least two MMO were on duty for continuous monitoring of the Marine Mammal Exclusion Zone (MMEZ) for DCM trial works and installation/re-installation/relocation process of silt curtains, and the marine mammal trapping checking and silt curtains inspection in accordance with the Detailed Monitoring Programme of Finless Porpoise and Marine Mammal Watching Plan respectively. Trainings for the MMO were provided by the ET prior to the aforementioned works, with a cumulative total of 98 individuals being trained and the training records kept by the ET. From the Marine Mammal Watching observation records and MMEZ monitoring log records, no Finless Porpoise or other marine mammals were observed within or around the MMEZ and silt curtains in the reporting month.

 

 

7.         White-Bellied Sea Eagle

7.1          WBSE Monitoring Parameters

7.1.1          Information to be collected included feeding, perching/roosting, preening, soaring, flying, nesting and territorial guarding and the time spent on each activity.  The responses and reactions to any disturbance to the WBSEs were also recorded and examined in conjunction with the construction noise and/or other events in the vicinity. Other disturbances such as weather condition, or invasion by other fauna species were also recorded.

 

7.2          Results and Observations

7.2.1          Three monitoring for monthly construction phase were conducted during the reporting period. Since there is no landing point along the western part of SKC, boat survey was used for the monitoring survey. In order to increase the chance of finding the WBSEs, monitoring survey was carried out either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The weather conditions of monitoring survey were shown in Table 7.1.

Table 7.1 Weather Conditions during the WBSE Monitoring (Monthly)

Date

Condition

Temperature (¢J)

26 Jul 2019

-          Southwest wind force 3 to 4

-          Sunny

30

23 Aug 2019

-          Southwest wind force 4

-          Sunny

30

26 Sep 2019

-          East wind force 3 to 4

-          Sunny

31

7.2.2          Two WBSE adults were recorded during each survey and appeared flying over SKC Island, next to the nest area on SKC Island during the survey in July to September 2019. During the reporting period, one chick was only recorded on the July¡¦s survey. No abnormal behaviour of the chick and adults were recorded during the reporting period. 7.2.3          Any disturbances from anthropogenic activities on the island were not recorded during the monitoring surveys. However, fishing boats moving close to the shore were recorded. Since the nest is about 160m away from the shore and it is not accessible, fishing boat activities did not show any direct disturbance to the WBSE nest.

 

Figure 7.1 Location of WBSE Nest on SKC

7.2.4          No invasion of other fauna species was recorded and no sign of using the construction site as a foraging ground was recorded as well. 7.2.5          During the reporting period, no abnormal behaviour of the recorded adults and chick was shown. All marine works during 13th to 15th month construction period did not show any influence on the WBSE. 7.2.6          Photo records of the WBSE taken during the reporting period are presented in Appendix H.

 

 

 

 


8.         Summary of Monitoring Exceedance, Complaints, Notification of Summons and Prosecutions

8.1          No exceedance of the Action and Limit Levels of the regular construction noise, coral and WBSE monitoring was recorded during the reporting period.

 

8.2          For general & regular DCM water monitoring, seven (7) of the water quality monitoring results for Suspended Solid (SS) recorded during the reporting period had exceeded the relevant Action Level and eight (8) of it had exceeded the relevant Limit Level. None (0) & one (1) of the water quality monitoring results for SS reported had exceeded the Action and Limit Level during July 2019 respectively, two (2) & two (2) of the water quality monitoring results for SS reported had exceeded the Action a& Limit Level during August 2019 respectively and five (5) & five (5) of the water quality monitoring results for SS reported had exceeded the Action & Limit Level during September 2019 respectively.

 

8.3          None of the General & Regular DCM water quality results of bottom dissolved oxygen (DO) obtained during the reporting period had exceeded Action Level. One of monitoring results in control stations had exceeded the relevant Limit Level of bottom DO in August 2019.

 

8.4          Investigations carried out immediately for each of the exceedance cases during the reporting period had shown that these exceedances were unrelated to the Project, however, environmental deficiencies of the Contractor on the implementation of silt curtain deployment system were spotted.

 

8.5          Further investigation was made with the Contractor on the silt curtain design and checking procedure as stated in the deposited Silt Curtain Deployment Plan. Rectification actions regarding to the improper implementation of silt curtain system shall be carried out immediately.

 

8.6          The Contractor has been reminded that all measures recommended in the deposited Silt Curtain Deployment Plan shall be fully and properly implemented for the Project as per Clause 2.6A of the FEP.

 

8.7          No notification of summons and prosecution was received in the reporting period.

 

8.8          Statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions are summarized in Appendix I.


 

 

9.         EM&A Site Inspection

9.1          Site inspections were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures under the Contract. Site inspections were carried out at the Site Portions 1, 1A & 1B and Portion 7 & 7A during the reporting period. Portions 1, 1A & 1B were the sites near SKC within the Site boundary and Portion 7 & 7A was the site at Tung Chung for stockpiling of construction materials.

 

9.2          Joint site inspection with IEC was carried out on a monthly basis.

 

9.3          Minor deficiencies were observed during weekly site inspection. Key observations during the site inspections are summarized below:

 

¡P            Site tidiness were not maintained properly

¡P            Prevention actions for oil/chemical spillage were not carried out properly

¡P            Silt curtains were not deployed properly

¡P            Damage of deployed silt curtains was found

¡P            Good housekeeping practice were not well-maintained

¡P            Damage of deployed noise barriers was found

¡P            Drainage system in Portion 7 was not properly maintained and regularly cleaned

 

9.4          The Contractor has rectified all of the observations identified during environmental site inspections in the reporting period.

 

9.5          During site inspection, installed silt curtains were found damaged for some idling works. The contractor was reminded to properly fix and maintain the deployed silt curtains prior to the operation of concerned construction works during the site walk by ET and IEC. The Contractor conducted the maintenance of deployed silt curtain immediately before resuming any construction works.

 

9.6          According to the EIA Study Report, Environmental Permit, contract documents and Updated EM&A Manual, the mitigation measures detailed in the documents, except the silt curtain system, are implemented as much as practical during the reporting period. An updated Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is provided in Appendix B.


 

 

10.     Conclusion and Recommendations

10.1      This 5th Quarterly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report summarizes the EM&A works undertaken during the period from 1 July 2019 to 30 September 2019 in accordance with the Updated EM&A Manual and the requirement under EP- 429/2012/A and FEP-01/429/2012/A.

 

10.2      Construction noise, water quality, construction waste, coral, marine mammal and White-Bellied Sea Eagle (WBSE) monitoring were carried out in the reporting period. No project-related exceedance of the Action and Limit Level was recorded during the reporting period, however, environmental deficiencies of the Contractor on the implementation of silt curtain deployment system were spotted.

 

10.3      Weekly environmental site inspections were conducted during the reporting period. Environmental deficiencies were observed during site inspection and were rectified.

 

10.4      According to the environmental site inspections performed in the reporting period, the Contractor is reminded to pay attention on maintaining site tidiness.

 

10.5      Regarding to the deployment of silt curtains as a principal water quality impact mitigation measures on various marine works, the Contractor has been reminded to follow strictly to the design and checking procedure as specified in the Silt Curtain Deployment Plan. As the scale of DCM works will be stepped up in the coming months, the Contractor has been reminded to pay extra attention on the status of deployed silt curtain. The Contractor is reminded that all measures recommended in the deposited silt curtain deployment plan shall be fully and properly implemented for the Project as per EP condition 2.6 of the FEP.

 

10.6      No environmental complaint was received in the reporting period.

 

10.7      No notification of summons or prosecution was received since commencement of the Contract.

 

10.8      The ET will keep track on the construction works to confirm compliance of environmental requirements and the proper implementation of all necessary mitigation measures.