-
1ForewordPrepared by the Hong Kong Productivity Council under
the guidance
of the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards Working Group, this
guidebook A Guide to Green Construction Practices presents
practicable measures on how to develop a green culture in
the
management and operation of construction sites. Its
preparation
involved an examination of existing practices within Hong Kong
and
around the world to ensure its comprehensiveness. We encourage
all
construction companies to use this guidebook regardless of
whether
they are practising environmental measures or are just
interested in
starting. From a business standpoint the adoption of
resource
conservation measures is beneficial since it furthers the
sustainability
of internal operations. From an environmental perspective, a
green
construction culture can significantly help to limit negative
impact on
the environment and will therefore contribute to society as a
whole.
There are numerous potential benefits to adopting
environmental
protection measures in businesses, many of which have not yet
been
fully realized by construction contractors. We trust that
the
information contained in this guidebook will provide valuable
insights
to all those who wish to embark on a green construction
culture.
-
2AcknowledgementsThe Environmental Campaign Committee, in
collaboration with the Chinese
General Chamber of Commerce, the Hong Kong General Chamber of
Commerce
and the Hong Kong Productivity Council, would like to thank the
following
organisations for their support and useful suggestions :
Business Environment Council;
The Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong;
Consumer Council;
Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies;
Hong Kong Construction Association;
Hong Kong Council of Social Service;
Hong Kong Housing Authority; and
Hong Kong Housing Society.
2
-
33
Table of ContentsChapter 1 : Green Construction
1.1 Introduction 41.2 Why Green Construction? 41.3 How this
Guidebook Can Help You? 5
Chapter 2 : Green Leadership2.1 Leadership 62.2 Policy 62.3
Organisation and Resources 72.4 Environmental Communication 82.5
Environmental Training 92.6 Managing for Continual Improvement
10
Chapter 3 : Programme and Performance3.1 Regulatory Compliance
113.2 Environmental Programme Implementation 113.3 Air Pollution
Control 133.4 Noise Control 153.5 Water Pollution Control 173.6
Waste Management 203.7 Energy Conservation 243.8 Housekeeping 243.9
Other Environmental Considerations 25
Chapter 4 : Partner Synergy4.1 Clients 264.2 Suppliers and
Contractors 274.3 General Community 29
Chapter 5 : Working Your Way Towards Green Construction5.1
Cultivating a Green Construction Culture 305.2 Keep up the Good
Work 30
Appendix I : Examples of Local EnvironmentalConstruction
Initiatives 31
Appendix II : Environmental Ordinances / Regulations /
TechnicalMemoranda Relevant to Construction Operation 32
Appendix III : Checklist of Green Construction Tips 39Appendix
IV : List of Organisations for Assistance 49
-
4Chapter 1:
Green Construction
1.1 Introduction
The construction industry is one of the largest economic sectors
in Hong Kong, having a total workforce ofsome 84,000 persons and
the gross value of construction work performed by main contractors
was almostHK$122 billion in 2000. Despite the very substantial
economic contribution by the sector, its activities docreate some
environmental impacts. These environmental impacts may include dust
generation, effluentdischarge, noise problem, waste generation
destruction of habitats and so on.
Construction companies over the world including Hong Kong have
increasingly realised theirresponsibilities for environmental
protection in their construction activities. These "green"
constructioncompanies have initiated environmental measures for
themselves and are now experiencing benefits fromthe steps they
have taken. Companies that ignore environmental concerns will
jeopardise future opportunities.
Recognising the need to fostering a green construction culture,
government departments or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in
many countries have already established programmes,
initiatives,guiding documents that aim to encourage construction
contractors to adopt green construction measures.In Appendix I the
environmental construction initiatives in Hong Kong are
outlined.
1.2 Why Green Construction?
To gain the maximum benefit from green construction, a
construction company must be clear as to thepurpose and objectives
of its green construction initiatives. A company who adopts green
measures canexperience corporate benefits and avoid penalties. Its
actions will also benefit the community and theenvironment. These
benefits include :
Corporate Benefits
Compliance with environmental requirements Cost saving as a
result of efficient use of resources
and reduced waste Improved productivity & competitiveness
Attracting environmentally conscious clients
Environmental and Community Benefits
Enhancing environmental awareness of staff and the community
Preserving finite resources and reducing both local and global
environmental impacts International recognition of Hong Kong's
environmental efforts
-
5Businesses may be subject to the following consequences if they
fail to adopt environmentally friendly practices:
Risk of fines or even criminal prosecutions for gross violations
of the law - there are increasingly offenceswhich attach liability
to directors as well as the ultimate companies responsible for the
operation
Develop a negative brand image in the eyes of the public
Unprepared for increases in environmental costs or government fines
Low staff morale Experience difficulty in attracting business
partners
1.3 How this Guidebook Can Help You?
This guidebook is specially aimed at providing information and
guidance on green construction measureswith reference to both
international and Hong Kong experiences. After reading this
guidebook we hopereaders could:
Get an initial concept of green construction management; Realize
and adopt green tips given; and Know how to put green construction
management concept into practice.
The guidebook is structured in such a way as to maximise its
user-friendliness. It includes the followingchapters :
Chapter 2 : Green Leadership
Green leadership refers to the level of commitment made by a
company upper management towards thepursuit of environmental
objectives within the organisation and the commitment of managers
and staff tothe implementation of environmental initiatives. This
chapter describes the efforts of upper managementneeded in
cultivating a green culture in a construction company.
Chapter 3 : Programme and Performance
This category refers to the types of environmental programmes a
company should establish and theiraccomplishments. This chapter
describes various environmental tips that a construction company
can adopt.They include conservation of energy and water; reduction,
reuse and recycling of waste material; andimprovement of
environmental quality such as noise control and air quality.
Chapter 4 : Partner Synergy
Partner synergy looks at how a company explores opportunities to
inform suppliers and contractors aboutthe importance of
environmental management and encourage them to adopt their own
environmentalstrategies in their individual operations. Also
relevant is the extent to which the company participates
inenvironmental education for its customers and the general
community. This chapter provides various tipsfor construction
companies to enhance partner synergy in environmental
protection.
Chapter 5 : Working Your Way Towards Green Construction
This chapter concludes the guidebook with the provision of a
self-assessment checklist and useful contactinformation of
organisations for advice.
-
6Chapter 2 :
Green LeadershipThe manner in which upper management leads the
organisation is critical to whether a green andremunerative culture
can be established within the organisation. Managers should display
a strongcommitment to environmental conservation. They can show
this through example by acting as a role model,by establishing a
clear policy that defines the organisations values towards
environmental protection andby fostering a work environment that
facilitates staff awareness, communication and knowledge in order
toachieve improved environmental performance.
2.1 Leadership
In order to develop a green culture within an organisation, the
management are required to bothdemonstrate commitment and at the
same time use incentives to encourage employees to practise
greenmeasures. Attributes of a good leader include:
Strong planning and organisational skills; Strong communication
and interpersonal skills; and Assertiveness.
Tips - What Should I do as a Leader?
Be a role model - Practise what you preach by following the same
measuresyou expect your staff to follow. This will demonstrate your
commitment to yourcompanys environmental programme and turn you
into a good role model.
Get involved in environmental programmes and activities.
Communicate with your employees in a two-way manner. Establish
incentives to encourage environmental conservation within your
organisation (e.g. presenting
awards to those employees who are highly committed to
undertaking environmental measures).
2.2 Policy
Top management should create an environmental policy that
proclaims the commitment of the organisationto protecting the
environment. An organisations environmental policy is a statement
of intent that isdesigned to outline how it will reduce
environmental impacts and improve environmental performance.
All organisational activities have potential environmental
effects or impacts. The role of the environmentalpolicy is not to
list individual initiatives or projects to deal with each impact,
but to create a framework,around which such initiatives can be
developed, which will lead to improved overall environmental
performance.
-
7An environmental policy must not be viewed in isolation, but
should be seen as an integral part of theorganisations business
policies. In general terms, it should:
Demonstrate commitment to adopting good environmental practice.
Be company-wide: applies to all parts of the organisation and is
not restricted to particular aspects of the
organisations operations or focused on individual departments.
Be strategic: state the aims and objectives of the policy and
summarise reasonable activities and
procedures that shall be undertaken to achieve aims.
Tips - How Can It Be Prepared?
The environmental policy can be a simple concise statement that
is made known to all employees and bemade available to the general
public. In general, upper management and those employees
responsible for orinterested in environmental management can
jointly draw up a draft policy. Then all members of the
organisationshould be allowed to comment on it before it is
finalised. The environmental policy should containcommitments to
environmental conservation that can be turned into actions. Once
established theenvironmental policy should also be properly
displayed to staff, business partners and customers.
An Example of Environmental Policy:
Our company is committed to taking action:
To undertake sound environmental practices throughout the entire
operation. To comply with all environmental legislation. To
minimise energy and water use. To minimise the amount of waste
produced and to re-use and recycle
whenever practicable. To adopt pollution control measures so as
to reduce environmental impacts. To invite customers, suppliers to
participate in our efforts to protect
the environment. To openly communicate our policy and practices
to interested parties. To continually monitor and record our
environmental impacts. To continually improve our environmental
performance by establishing
environmental objectives and targets.
2.3 Organisation and Resources
Appropriate allocation of both human and financial resources is
required for the successful implementationof environmental
initiatives within an organisation. The first step in implementing
your environmentalinitiatives is to secure the support of your
staff. This will increase the chance of programme success. Due
tothe diverse nature of most environmental management measures, all
members of your organisation willconceivably be required to help
run the programme. You are likely to see better results if all
staff join in theeffort than if only a few individuals participate
in the programme. Furthermore, by informing your staff aboutthe
programme before you implement measures, it will help them to
understand the benefits and rationalebehind the measures being
taken, while getting them involved in making decisions to ensure
that the programmeruns smoothly over the long term. Sometimes there
may be members in your organisation who may notfully co-operate
with you on environmental programme implementation. Finding out the
root cause for such
-
8behaviour of these people and then changing their attitude are
important. Communication clear andreasoned environmental
expectations to staff, monitoring staff environmental performance
and establishingan effective incentive/penalty mechanism are
usually keys to environmental success.
Tips - Where Do I Start?
You can appoint an environmental champion called a Green Manager
(GM) within your organisation.This individual shall be responsible
for encouraging staff to support environmental measures and
forco-ordinating programme implementation within your company. Your
selected GM should be committed tofulfilling programme requirements
and to protecting the environment. The GMs responsibilities will
varyaccording to the programme that you have designed. However, the
GM should assume a number offundamental duties that are listed
below.
Encourage staff to become involved in the programme. This can be
achieved by arranging informationdissemination sessions and by
encouraging staff participation in the creation of environmental
programmes.
Collect staff ideas and answer their questions or concerns
regarding the programme. Ensure that realistic objectives and
targets are set. Ensure effective implementation of the
environmental programme. Oversee internal checks and reviews.
Encourage staff to give suggestions and feedback. Communicate the
results of the environmental programme with the community.
You can refer to the Environmental Protection Departments
publication GreenManagers in Business to find out more information
on appointing a green manager.
In general, if all the members in your company take a little bit
of effort to help run the programme, you willexperience benefits.
To help boost programme participation, the GM can identify
enthusiastic colleaguesfrom different levels within the company to
help in programme implementation. The staff selected by theGM
should be capable of undertaking monitoring tasks and be committed
to undertaking environmentalmeasures within your company. One of
their key roles is to motivate and support staff members who
arerelatively less active in environmental work. The number of
individuals chosen to help guide programmeimplementation will
depend upon the size of your company and the number of construction
sites under yourmanagement. If your company is small in size, you
may need only one person to co-ordinate your
environmentalprogramme. However, if your company is substantial in
size or manages a number of sites, then it would bebest to
encourage colleagues from all levels to be involved in your
programme and to appoint SiteEnvironmental Representatives in
individual sites to coordinate environmental matters of individual
sites.
If your GM has enlisted a number of colleagues to help run your
programme, these members could form anEnvironmental Task Force. The
role of the Task Force would be to decide upon ways to
co-ordinateimplementation efforts. The Task Force could meet on a
regular basis (e.g. monthly) and discuss the progressof the
programme.
2.4 Environmental Communication
An organisation should develop channels that enable effective
and timely communication of yourenvironmental message and other
useful information. Two-way communication is encouraged and
canassume different forms including the following:
Vertical and horizontal communication - among all staff within
the organisation; and Communication with customers, business
partners and the community.
Green Manager
-
9Tips - What Should I Do?
Publicize your environmental policy, initiatives and
accomplishments (e.g. Notice Board, Newsletter,Annual Report,
Intranet/Internet Web page, etc.).
Collect feedback from all levels of staff as well as from
customers, business partners and communitymembers that you interact
with through various channels.
Recognize and reward staff for their environmental initiatives
through performance evaluation, awards, etc.
2.5 Environmental Training
Environmental training can enhance the competence of
employeesand lead to overall improvement in organisational
performance.
Aims of Environmental Training include:
Ensure all employees are acquainted with the organisations
environmental policy and environmental initiatives. Harness a
commitment to the implementation of an organisations environmental
policy. Secure co-operation in the functioning of the environmental
initiatives. Ensure all staff are aware of the legal liabilities
associated with their activities, both to themselves and their
employer. Raise staff awareness of the environmental impacts
associated with their particular activities. Improve environmental
performance and encourage a responsible attitude to environmental
protection. Encourage the development of practices that can reduce
environmental impacts. Improve communications on environmental
issues within the organisation.
Tips - How Should I Conduct Environmental Training?
You should first develop an environmental training plan. When
devising an environmental training plan anorganisation will need to
decide:
What should be taught? To whom the training should be given?
What level of competence is needed?
This can be answered by conducting a Training Needs Assessment.
The first step is to assess knowledgeand levels of competence of
employees. Staff whose work involve minimal environmental impacts
may onlyneed basic awareness training and understanding of the
organisations environmental policy and initiatives.For those
involved in procedural or operational activities, the assessment
should seek to clarify the skillsrequired to perform tasks in an
environmentally responsible manner. The next step is to devise a
trainingplan to those requiring environmental training in
accordance with the training needs identified.
Sample Procedures for Assessing Training Needs
Determine competencies for key roles (education, training or
experience level). Compare with education skills and experience of
employees. Identify training needs for individual positions (See
Training Needs Identification below for reference). Devise and
deliver appropriate training. Record details of training given.
Check the effectiveness of training in achieving its aim. Revise
contents of training material, if necessary.
-
10
Training Needs Identification (An Example for Reference)
Possible Training Areas Management Supervisory Staff Site
WorkersEnvironmental policy General environmental awareness
Environmental regulations and requirements Environmental management
system Environmental programme establishment Effective
environmental communication Licence and permit application Licence
and permit conditions Good site practices Proper use of equipment
and operational procedures Environmental mitigation measures
Environmental monitoring and audit Emergency response plan Green
purchasing policy & supplier management Sub-contractor
management
2.6 Managing for Continual Improvement
To encourage members of your organisation to strive for
continual improvement, you can use a number ofmechanisms to
encourage environmental initiatives. A regular check of an
organisations environmentalprogramme and the operational practices
can usually serve the purpose. Regular checks can help
anorganisation: -
Understand the overall effectiveness of the organisations
environmental activities or initiatives; Identify appropriate
corrective or preventive actions necessary to eliminate the causes
of identified problems;
and Identify further environmental initiatives that can be
implemented to achieve continual improvement.
Tips - Where Should I Start?
Devise a simple plan that outlines when environmental
initiatives will be checked and what procedures willbe followed
during each check.
Determine which staff members are most suited to conduct
checking on a regular basis and delegate theresponsibility of
checking to them.
Document checking reports in an organised, systematic manner so
that they can be referred to on aregular basis.
After completion of a check, examine the progress of improvement
actions. If necessary, determine whatother appropriate corrective
or preventive actions can be taken and implement new measures.
For contracts with specific Environmental Monitoring and Audit
(EM&A) requirements, follow the EM&Amanual or relevant
documents consistently.
-
11
Chapter 3 :
Programme and Performance
3.1 Regulatory Compliance
Construction activities in Hong Kong are under control of a
number of legal environmental requirements.Construction companies
must identify and comply with any relevant legal environmental
requirements.Companies should ensure that they are aware of all
relevant environmental legislation by establishing
suitableprocedures for identifying such requirements and ensuring
that key staff have the necessary knowledge toaccess this
information.
Tips - How Can I Establish And Maintain A Register Of
Environmental RequirementsFor My Construction Operation?
Identify and collect legal information from corporate sources,
relevant government authorities andindustry associations.
Establish a register of environmental requirements relevant to
your operation based on the informationcollected.
Establish a procedure to ensure that relevant staff have
continuous access to the legal requirements. Establish a procedure
to ensure relevant information on legal requirements is
communicated to employees
effectively. Establish a procedure to keep track of changes to
environmental requirements and to update the
environmental requirements accordingly.
Each construction firm will have its own list of relevant
environmental requirements to which it must complywith. The list
varies from firm to firm depending on a firms peculiar operation.
Appendix II is a summary ofenvironmental ordinances, regulations
and requirements relevant to construction operation, which is
notnecessarily comprehensive and is intended as guidance only. You
are advised to consult the relevant ordinances,regulations etc.
and/or seek legal advice regarding detailed interpretation.
To better understand the status of compliance with environmental
requirements, it is suggested to maintainrecord of non-compliance
and compile a monthly Compliance Report for management review.
Areas ofregular, repeated or significant non-compliance should be
identified and thoroughly remedied by takingappropriate corrective
and preventive actions.
3.2 Environmental Programme Implementation
Once management is committed to adopting environmental measures,
an environmental programme thatdefines the objectives, targets and
schedule of various environmental initiatives can be formulated.
Yourenvironmental programme should be designed to meet your
organisations specific needs. Setting up yourown environmental
programme makes good business sense. Such a programme can
streamline operations,cut costs, improve environmental performance
and improve your image in the eyes of your staff,
partners,regulatory authorities and the public.
The following section outlines the approach you can take to
create your environmental programme.
-
12
Tips- How Do I Design An Environmental Programme?
Understand the Environmental Needs - Carry out an environmental
review to determine the status ofyour organisation in relation to
the protection of the environment. (Hint : Use the Checklist in
AppendixIII in your review). The review results should help to show
you what your environmental strengths andweaknesses are and help
you to prioritise the actions that you need to take.
Define Your Objectives - Once you have identified the key areas
that need improvement, you can begin todetermine which priority
areas that you intend to make improvement.
Define Your Targets - According to the objectives, define
specific, practicable and measurable targets forimplementation.
Formulate Your Action Plan - Formulate in detail the measures
that will be taken to achieve the targets,schedule for
implementation and the indicator for progress monitoring. At the
same time determine thestaff that will be responsible for
undertaking different measures.
Monitor Your Programme - Keep track of the progress of the
programme defined. Review your Results - Review monitoring data to
identify if improvements are required.
Example of an Environmental Programme
Objective : To reduce the amount of surplus (waste) concrete for
ContractNo. XXX
Target : To reduce the amount of surplus (waste) concrete for
ContractNo. XXX by 5% by (target completion date)
Actions Responsibility Completion Date Indicator(i) To review
Site Manager XXX Evidence of
current concreting schedule andschedule and practices
reviewedpractices
(ii) To formulate Site Manager XXX Evidence of
rationalisedrationalised concreting schedule and practicesschedule
and practices
(iii) To provide Green Manager / XXX Documented trainingstaff
training on Site Environmental record (e.g. programmme/operational
control Respresentative training materials,
schedule, participation list)
(iv) To conduct Relevant XXX Monitoring schedulemonitoring
Supervisors and recordsprogramme onconcreting
Now that you understand how to develop an environmental
programme, you can begin to determine themeasures that your company
can take. The Hong Kong Construction Association has published a
BestPractice Guide for Environmental Protection on Construction
Sites - Part I. In addition, the government hasproduced a number of
reference materials for the construction industry as indicated in
relevant sections ofthis chapter. You can refer to these reference
materials in establishing your environmental measures. Therest of
this chapter lists a series of salient tips for different
environmental considerations that could beimplemented by your
company.
-
13
3.3 Air Pollution Control
Construction sites can be significant sources of air pollutants.
Such air pollutants can include (1) particulateor dust emissions
from blasting, demolition, drilling, crushing, excavation, vehicle
movement, stockpiling andconcrete production; and (2) emissions of
smoke, combustibles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)from
construction site equipment and vehicles or the construction
process itself (e.g. welding, painting,gluing), with dust
generation being the major concern. Companies responsible for the
management ofconstruction sites can play a part in facilitating the
reduction of air pollution arising from those sites.
Tips - How Can I Control Potential Dust Problem On Construction
Sites Under My Management?
The Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation has a
clear statutory Schedule detailing the dustcontrol requirements for
various construction activities. The contractor responsible for a
construction sitewhere governed works are being carried out shall
ensure that the works are carried out in accordance withthe
Schedule. The following tips are essentially highlighted from
general good site practices. Where morestringent requirements from
the Regulation apply, the contractor should observe these
regulatoryrequirements.
Site Preparation
Where a site boundary adjoins a road, street, service lane or
other area accessible to the public, providehoarding of not less
than 2.4 m on height along the entire length of that portion of the
site boundary.
Provide effective dust screen, sheeting or netting to enclose
any scaffolding built around the perimeter ofa building.
Materials Handling
Use fixed or mobile water sprays for watering of unpaved areas,
access roads, construction areas and dustystockpiles regularly to
keep dusty surfaces wet. If necessary, use suitable wetting agents
such as dustsuppression chemicals during dry seasons.
Use effective water sprays during the delivery and handling of
all raw sand and aggregate,and other similar materials, to dampen
all stored materials during dry and windyweather.
Enclose on three sides all stockpiles of sand, aggregate or any
other dusty materials,with walls extending above the pile and 1
meter beyond the front of the pile, andapply water in dry or windy
conditions whereappropriate.
To fit the conveyor belts within windboards and beltcleaners and
to enclose conveyor transfer points andhopper discharge areas to
minimize dust emission.
Minimize the heights from which excavatedmaterials are dropped
in order to limit fugitive dustgeneration during loading /
unloading of these materials.
Where dusty materials are being discharged to vehicles from a
conveying systemat a fixed transfer point, provide an enclosure
with a flexible curtain across theentry.
Do not operate your plant, activity or process when any air
pollution controlsystem or equipment has broken down.
-
14
Excavation
Ensure that the working area of any excavation or earth moving
operation is sprayed with water immediatelybefore, during, and
immediately after the operation in order to maintain the entire
surface wet.
Properly treat exposed earth by compaction, turfing,
hydroseeding, vegetation planting or sealing withlatex, vinyl,
bitumen or other suitable surface stabilizer within 6 months after
the last construction activityon the construction site.
If spoil, silt or debris has been found deposited on adjacent
land, remove all spoil, slit or debris immediatelyand restore the
affected land and stream to their natural state.
Store the stockpiles in sheltered areas if spoil cannot be
immediately transported out of the sites.
Vehicle Movement
Establish a paved surface which has to be kept clear of loose
surface material if there is a regular movementof vehicles.
Restrict all motorized vehicles within construction sites to a
maximum speed (e.g. 8 km per hour) andinstall speed limit signage
at appropriate locations.
Ensure that vehicle engines are turned off when they are not in
use. Confine haulage and delivery vehicles to designated roadways
inside the sites. Ensure that vehicles transporting dusty materials
are fitted with side and tailboards. Cover materials transported by
vehicles, with the cover properly secured and extended over the
edges of
the side and tailboards. Dampen dusty materials before
transportation. Provide wheel washing facilities, including a high
pressure water jet, at the exits from work areas. Provide a hard
surface road between any washing facility and the public road.
Inspect vehicles regularly to ensure that exhaust emissions are not
causing nuisance, such as dark smoke
emission.
Demolition Work
Ensure that the area at which demolition activities take place
is sprayed with water immediately prior to,during, and immediately
after the demolition activities in order to maintain the entire
area wet.
Use impervious dust screens or sheeting to enclose the whole
wall to a height of at least 1 meter higherthan the highest level
of the structure being demolished.
Cover all demolished items that may dislodge dust particles
entirely by impervious sheeting or place themin an area sheltered
on the top and the 3 sides.
Wet with water any dusty materials remaining after a stockpile
is removed and clear them away from thesurface of roads or
streets.
Follow the Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation and
Disposal of Asbestos Waste published byEnvironmental Protection
Department if asbestos containing materials are found in the
buildings or structures.
Drilling and Blasting
Ensure watering is undertaken to reduce dust emission where
breaking of rock or concrete is required. Ensure that wire meshes,
gunny sacks, sandbags, blast nets and other appropriate covers are
used on top
of the blast area on each shot to prevent the flying off of
rocks and to suppress dust generation. Wet areas with water in the
vicinity of blasting operation (e.g. 30m from the blasting area)
before blasting
is conducted. Do not carry out blasting (or any other dust
generating activity) when environmental conditions are such
that dust generation will be exacerbated (e.g. when the strong
wind signal or tropical cyclone warningsignal No. 3 or a higher
cyclone signal is in effect).
-
15
Tips - How Can I Control Potential Emissions Of Smoke And
Combustibles On Construction SitesUnder My Management?
Do not carry out open burning for the purpose of clearance of a
site in preparation for construction workor for the disposal of
construction waste.
Consider the use of low emission products and materials. If a
power generator is used on-site, maintain it regularly and properly
to avoid dark smoke emission.
Suggested further readings :
- Cut Down Construction Dust issued by Environmental
ProtectionDepartment
- Environmental Asbestos Control issued by Environmental
ProtectionDepartment
- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction
Contractsissued by Environmental Protection Department
3.4 Noise Control
Construction sites can be significant sources of noise
emissions. Noise generating activitieson a construction site can
include road laying/breaking/drilling, loading, unloading or
handlingof rubble, compacting, concrete mixing & pumping,
hammering, site clearance, scaffold erection and removal. Excessive
noise can be irritating and harmful to human health. Companies
responsible for themanagement of construction sites should take
measures to minimise noise arising from those sites.
Tips - What Can I Do To Reduce Noise Problems?
Planning
Avoid noisy activities at restricted hours (weekdays : 1900-0700
hrs or holidays whole day). Restrict night time working to low
noise activities to ensure no exceedance of acceptable noise level.
Avoid simultaneous operation of several noisy activities close to a
receiver to reduce cumulative impacts. Schedule noisy activities at
times when dwellings are more likely to remain unoccupied. Consider
mitigation measures or alternative plant as detailed below:
Plant Noise Mitigative Measures Alternative Plant
Hammer drive Enclose hammer head and Bored piling using crane or
tripodpiling equipment top of pile in acoustic screen. winch
vibratory system.
Use resilient pad betweenpile & hammer.
Earth-moving plant Fit more efficient mufflers. Super silenced
plant may be(e.g. dump truck) Enclosure panel kept closed &
available from manufacturers.
lined with 50mm fiberglass Use conveyors rather thantrucks and
dumpers.
Compressors & Fit more efficient mufflers. Super silenced
plant may begenerators Enclosure panel kept closed & available
from manufacturers.
lined with 50mm fiberglass Electric-powered compressorsare
available.
-
16
Employ off-site concrete batching plant rather than on-site
production, whenever appropriate. Dispose of rubble through plastic
(rubber) chutes instead of metal chutes (or use rubber linings in
chutes
and dumpers to reduce impact noise). Use particular models of
powered mechanical equipment (PME) that are quieter than standard
types given
in Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work Other
Than Percussive Piling. Examples of soundpower levels for specific
silenced PME, which are known to be available in Hong Kong, are
given below :
Items of Powered Mechanical Equipment Sound Power Level
(dB(A))
Bulldozer 110 dB(A) max
Breaker (Hand-held) 110 dB(A) max
Compressors 100 dB(A) max
Concrete pumps 105 dB(A) max
Dump truck 109 dB(A) max
Excavator 105 dB(A) max
Generator 100 dB(A) max
Lorry 105 dB(A) max
Loader 105 dB(A) max
Poker vibrator 110 dB(A) max
Control of Noise Propagation
Use one or more of the following noise propagation measures.-
Erect noise barriers either close to sources or receivers that can
achieve a noise reduction of 5-10dB(A);- Construct silencer baffles
or sound proof enclosure, whenever technically feasible, to enclose
noisy site
activities;- Erect partial enclosures at sources that can
achieve a noise reduction of up to 15dB(A);- Provide full
enclosures fitted with sufficient ventilation at noise sources that
can achieve a noise
reduction of more than 20dB(A). Properly maintain noise barriers
and enclosures to ensure that they are free of gaps. Measure the
general construction noise at critical locations at regular
intervals with hand held noise
monitoring instruments.
Good Site Practices
Locate equipment away from receivers (doubling distance will
result in a 6dB(A) reduction). Position equipment that emits
excessive noise in one direction (e.g. ventilation fan) such that
noise is
directed away from nearby receivers. Locate equipment behind
large obstruction (e.g. site offices, containers, soil mounds,
material stockpiles). Avoid prolonged operation of noisy equipment
close to dwellings and schools. Switch off or throttle down
equipment when not required. Regular maintenance of all plant and
equipment to avoid noise from abnormal operation (e.g. check
efficiency of mufflers, lubricate bearings). Avoid steep
gradients of internal haul routes. Minimise drop height of
materials. Start up plant & vehicles sequentially rather than
all together. Ensure engine panels are closed.
-
17
Suggested further readings :
- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for
ProfessionalPersons (Noise from Construction Activities -
Statutory)(ProPECC PN 1/93)
- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for
ProfessionalPersons (Noise from Construction Activities -
Non-statutory Controls)(ProPECC PN 2/93)
- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for
ProfessionalPersons (Use of Quiet Construction Equipment for Road
Opening Worksduring Non-Sociable Hours) (ProPECC PN 1/96)
- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction
Contractsissued by Environmental Protection Department
3.5 Water Pollution Control
Construction activities may potentially cause water pollution
from dredging/filling activities and,construction run-off and
drainage. These activities may cause physical, chemical and
biological effects. Thephysical effects could arise from any
increase in suspended solids from the site which could cause
blockageof drainage channels and associated local flooding when
heavy rainfall occurs. Possible chemical effects mayinclude
localised increases in turbidity and discolouration, localised
elevations in pH and accretion of pHsolids. They may also cause
biological effects to marine biota due to elevated pH values,
reduced decay ratesof faecal microorganisms due to decreased light
penetration, and a localised increase in the proportion ofunionised
ammonia.
Water Conservation
Minimising consumption of water in construction sites not only
cuts down the water cost, but also reducesthe burden and cost of
wastewater treatment. Companies operating the construction
activities shouldfirstly consider ways to conserve water, and then
adopt measures to control discharge of wastewater.
Tips - How Can I Conserve Water?
When employing a sub-contractor, include language in
construction documents thatpromotes water conservation and holds
the sub-contractor financially responsiblefor resource
consumption.
Monitor water usage to identify areas of waste and abuse, then
reduceresource consumption and cost.
Install flow restrictors, automatic shut off-systems
andappliances for reduced water use duringconstruction.
Reuse captured stormwater and/or constructionwastewater on the
construction site.
Recycle wastewater from wheel washing bayor treatment facilities
of the concrete batchingplant.
-
18
Dredging, Transport and Dumping of Marine Mud
Dredging practices create a number of environmental concerns
including:
Direct effects on the local hydrodynamic environment e.g.
intrusion of salt wedge further upstream,increased shoreline wave
action, changes to tidal range and tidal current.
Re-suspension and settlement of sediment on sensitive aquatic
ecosystems which can have impacts on thediversity and growth rate
of the flora and fauna. Problems arise in particular where
contaminatedsediments which were locked into the seabed are
released by the dredging process.
Where underwater blasting is involved, explosive charges used to
break up rock formations can destroybottom habitats, injure or
disable marine life, force mobile marine life to move from the
blasting site anddamage shorezone bulkhead structures.
Tips - How Can I Control And Minimise The Environmental Impacts
Of Dredging, Transport andDumping Of Marine Mud?
Apply for, and comply with conditions of, dumping permits
obtained from the Environmental ProtectionDepartment.
Knowledge of the areas hydrography (tidal and river flows) prior
to starting work is essential in identifyingareas most likely to be
affected by the work.
Use silt curtains if practical to limit the dispersion of
sediments. Underwater blasting schedule should take into account
migratory pathways of important fisheries. Pay attention to
proximity and condition of nearby shorezones, bulkheads and other
structures to ensure
that use of explosives in underwater blasting does not pose a
threat to their integrity. Determine whether possible current
pattern changes will jeopardize or encourage resettlement of
the
original bottom life and associated fishery resources. Design
and maintain all equipment to minimise the risk of release of silt
and other contaminants into the
water column or locations other than designated location. Use
properly sized vessels to allow adequate clearance between vessels
and the seabed at all states of tide
to avoid undue turbidity caused by turbulence from vessel
movement or propeller action. Maintain adequate freeboard on barges
to ensure that decks are not washed by wave action. Monitor all
vessels transporting material to avoid deliberate dumping of
dredged material outside the
approved location or loss of material during transportation.
Conduct marine monitoring at the downstream location of the dumping
site where applicable. Follow any additional government
requirements if contaminated marine mud is handled. Consider the
practical availability of alternative land-based methods of
treatment or disposal to render the
matter less harmful for dumping at sea.
Land-based Activities
Land-based construction works may have the potential to cause
water pollution if uncontrolled. Potentialsources of water
pollution from land-based constructionsite run-off may include
:
Run-off from site surfaces, drainage channels, earthworking area
and stockpiles.
Contaminated groundwater from any dewateringactivities.
Water spray for dust removal. Wash water from site cleaning and
vehicle wheel
cleaning facilities.
-
19
Water and sewage from toilet and kitchens. Release of any
bentonite slurries and other grouting materials with run-off, storm
water or groundwater
dewatering process. Release of fuel, oil and lubricants from
maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment.
Tips - How Can I Control Wastewater Discharged At The Land Based
Construction Sites UnderMy Management?
Provide information and/or training to all site workers on the
effluent discharge routes and points andwastewater management
facilities at the site.
Instruct workers to properly collect, handle and dispose of
debris and rubbish on site to prevent thesewastes from entering
into nearby storm drain/watercourse.
Collect spent bentonite slurries or other grouts in slurry
collection system for reconditioning and reusewherever
practicable.
Install secondary containment for hazardous material storage
areas (e.g. fuel tanks) with a capacity equal to110% of the volume
of the largest tank.
Minimise exposed soil areas to reduce potential for
contamination of run-off due to increased siltation orerosion.
Stabilise all exposed earth as soon as possible after completion
of earthworks Identify, mark and surround the boundary of any
critical areas of earthworks (e.g. relatively low-level areas)
by dykes or embankments for flood protection. Where there is a
watercourse running through the work area, construct dykes along
segments of the
watercourse to prevent washing of earth into the watercourse.
Provide a site drainage system that may comprise temporary ditches,
drainage pipes and/or culverts to
collect site run-off for treatment. Route wastewater from
concrete mixing/batching areas to a properly designated effluent
treatment system. Provide adequate sanitary facilities (e.g.
portable chemical toilets, septic tanks for holding discharge
from
toilets, bathrooms and kitchens) and employ licensed contractor
to collect contents of these toilets/septictanks for disposal.
Maintain all sanitary facilities in good and running conditions
(e.g. clean all the sedimentation facilitiesperiodically or after
rainstorms).
Implement appropriate precautionary actions whenever a rainstorm
is likely or imminent. Cover the open stockpiles of construction
materials (e.g. aggregates, excavated materials, sand and fill
materials) with tarpaulin or similar fabric during rainstorms or
arrange for other measures to prevent thewashing away of
construction materials, soil, silt or debris into any nearby
drainage system.
Ensure that all manholes at the sites are adequately covered and
temporarily sealed to prevent washingdown of silt or debris into
the drainage system.
Provide an adequately designed wheel washing bay which should
have a wash water collection basin forremoval of settle and silt at
every site exit.
Ensure that all vehicles be cleaned by the wheel washing bay
prior to leaving the construction site.
Suggested further readings :
- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for
ProfessionalPersons (Construction Site Drainage) (ProPECC PN
1/94)
- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction
Contracts issuedby Environmental Protection Department
-
20
3.6 Waste Management
About 7,460 tonnes of construction and demolition waste are
disposed of at landfills each day in Hong Kong,constituting some
42% of the total daily solid waste generation in Hong Kong. These
include excess concrete,bricks, metals and aggregate, plastic
packaging and other plastic products, plasterboard and plaster and
paperand cardboard. Landfills are quickly becoming full. However,
since land in Hong Kong is a precious and scarcecommodity, there is
little space for the creation of new landfills. A portion of the
waste that is generatedevery day can be reduced through reuse or
recycling (for use as another product). Construction companiesare
encouraged to develop a Waste Management Plan detailing waste
avoidance, reduction, treatment anddisposal measures for any
construction site. The following section outlines measures that can
be taken toreduce the amount of waste that ends up in
landfills.
(1) Construction & Demolition Waste
Tips - How Can I Manage Construction And Demolition Waste
Effectively?
Avoidance
Purchase materials in a manner that minimises waste and
unnecessary costs. For example, size of materialspurchased should
agree with the dimensions of structure to avoid excessive
cut-offs.
Implement measures to minimise over-ordering and then wastage of
materials such as concrete, mortarsand cement grouts.
Check consistency of drawings and specifications to avoid
unnecessary hacking-off of concrete or un-wanted work.
Use durable, reusable hoarding to replace timber hoarding. Use
precast concrete units produced at a casting yard with high degree
of quality control. Use steel formworks as far as possible. Use
standard wooden panels for high reuse level if timber formworks are
unavoidable. Use interior drywall partition that requires low level
of skill and is easy to install. Practice effective material
control to minimise material loss and ensure the efficient use of
resources.
Examples are provided below:
Concrete loss control
Calculate the exact amount of ready-mix concrete required Try to
minimise spillage of concrete onto floor while concreting Control
the slab thickness by controlling the quantity of concrete Reuse
residual concrete for road paving or fabricating other concrete
products Maintain proper record of concrete usage
Steel reinforcement loss control
Review steel bar plan and bending and cutting schedule Calculate
and order the exact amount of steel reinforcement required Monitor
the bar cutting process Calculate and record the ratio of loss of
steel reinforcement Collect residual steel bar for recycling
-
21
Tiles loss control
Calculate the quantity of tiles required according to plans
Establish unit consumption of tiles Monitor unit consumption of
tiles Properly package residual tiles for reuse in different cycles
of works Calculate and record loss ratio of tiles
Storage, Collection and Transport
Ensure that any waste construction/demolition materials are
cleared as quickly as possible after demolitionto minimise
potential dust and water impacts.
Use a designated area for temporary waste storage and subsequent
segregation for ease of handling. Ensure that any waste
construction/demolition materials are properly covered to minimise
windblown
litter and dust during transportation.
Reuse, Recovery and Recycle
Develop a plan for an on-site reuse, recovery and recycling
system for waste materials. For example:- Collect spent bentonite
slurries or other grouts in slurry collection system for
reconditioning and
reuse whenever practicable;- Use pulverized fuel ash ;- Resale
of scrap metals;- Arrange waste collectors to retrieve waste with
recyclable values.
Instruct workers to adopt recycling and re-use of materials
salvaged from demolition. Track the actual wastes produced from
construction and measure waste-generation levels against
project
guidelines for materials recycling and reuse.
Treatment and Disposal
Deliver by licensed waste contractors inert materials to
approved public filling areas. Maintain delivery or pick-up
records.
(2) Excavated Materials
Tips - How Can I Manage Excavated Materials Effectively?
Avoidance
Ensure that excavation works are carried out in a controlled
manner to avoid excessive excavated materials.
Reuse, Recovery and Recycle
Use excavated materials for backfilling, slope stabilization and
reclamation. Transport excavated materials to other sites for
reuse. Maintain records of the quantity of excavated materials to
be reused on-site or off-site.
-
22
Treatment and Disposal
Ensure that contaminated mud generated on-site is disposed of at
designated contaminated mud pits.
(3) Chemical Waste
Tips - How Can I Manage Chemical Waste Effectively?
Avoidance
Research alternative products and practices which
generatereduced quantities or less dangerous types of chemical
waste.
Storage, Collection and Transport
Ensure that chemical wastes generated by the construction works
are properly labelled, packaged andtemporarily stored in a
designated chemical waste storage area.
Ensure that storage is in accordance with the Environment
Protection Departmnets Code of Practice on thePackaging, Handling
and Storage of Chemicals.
Develop and implement a contingency plan to deal with potential
spillage or accidents in the chemicalwaste storage area.
Reuse, Recovery and Recycle
Research with your supplier whether waste chemicals can be
returned to them for reuse, recovery orrecycling.
Treatment and Disposal
Employ a licensed chemical waste collector to collect and
dispose of the chemical wastes at licensedchemical waste disposal
facilities.
Maintain records of the type and quantity of chemical waste
removed from the site.
(4) General Refuse
Tips - How Can I Manage General Refuse Effectively?
Avoidance
Use products and materials with reduced packaging and/or
encourage manufacturers to reuse or recycletheir original packaging
materials.
Storage, Collection and Transport
Ensure that general refuse is stored in waste skips and garbage
bins with proper covers.
Reuse, Recovery and Recycle
Encourage staff to use reusable dishware. Reuse paper printed on
one side only. Provide recycling bins for paper, aluminium cans and
plastic bottles if the volumes are large enough to
warrant such collection.
-
23
Treatment and Disposal
Employ a reputable waste collector to remove general refuse from
the site to approved public landfillspreferably daily to minimise
odour, pest and litter impacts.
Maintain delivery or pick-up records.
(5) Contaminated Material
Sites previously used for petrol filling stations, boatyards and
vehicle repair/dismantling workshops and otherindustrial activities
could be contaminated as a result of the historical operations
carried out on the sites.
Tips - How Can I Manage Contaminated Waste Effectively?
Implement clean-up works of contaminated land in accordance with
the appropriate procedures as laiddown in any remediation action
plan endorsed by the Environmental Protection Department.
Appoint authorised or licensed waste hauliers for the
collection, transport and disposal of contaminatedsoil only.
Suitably cover the vehicles transporting contaminated materials
with their tailgates sealed to limit potentialdust emissions.
Dispose of contaminated materials at authorised disposal
facilities only.
(6) Asbestos Wastes
If asbestos waste is identified during demolition works, it
should be handled and disposed of in accordancewith the
Environmental Protection Departments Code of Practice on the
Handling, Transportation and Disposalof Asbestos Waste.
Tips - How Can I Manage Asbestos Waste Effectively?
Storage, Collection and Transport
Ensure that the storage of asbestos waste should be at secured,
isolated areas with warning signs to alertpeople of the presence of
asbestos waste.
Appoint appropriately licensed contractors for the collection of
asbestos waste. Transport asbestos waste to disposal sites by
enclosed skips on open lorries or enclosed vehicles.
Disposal
Dispose of all asbestos waste at designated disposal facilities
only.
Suggested further readings :
- Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of
Chemical Wastesissued by Environmental Protection Department
- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction
Contractsissued by Environmental Protection Department
-
24
3.7. Energy Conservation
Construction projects typically use large quantities of energy
resources. Responsible management of energyresources reduces not
only operation cost but also environmental impact. Electricity is
the main form ofenergy used on most construction sites in Hong
Kong. Hong Kongs electricity is primarily generated throughthe
combustion of coal and gas. Both coal and gas are natural resources
that will eventually run out.Furthermore, coal burning can result
in the release of undesirable air pollutants. Actions to
reduceelectricity use will result in the preservation of natural
resources. Many measures can be taken to reduce theuse of energy,
most of which involve simple yet effective practices that require
minimal time and effort fromeveryone.
Tips - How Can I Conserve Energy On Construction Sites Under My
Management?
When employing a sub-contractor, include language in
construction documents that promotes energyconservation and holds
the sub-contractor financially responsible for energy
consumption.
Monitor energy usage to identify main areas of energy use and
loss, then reduce resource consumptionand cost.
Determine and implement measures to reduce the amount of energy
consumed on-site. These couldinclude:- Install temporary lighting
so that most other lighting can be turned off during
non-construction hours;- Install motion sensors for security
lighting;- Use energy efficient lamps and equipment for temporary
lighting.
3.8 Housekeeping
In general, the appearance and condition of the construction
sites that you manage will determine theworking environment for
your site staff and the public perception of your company. An
orderly and cleanconstruction site is synonymous with good health
and safety standards. All site staff and occupants ofsurrounding
facilities appreciate a safe work and living environment. In
addition, many construction andassociated materials (high emission
paints and glues, drywall compounds, fuel for construction plant)
havethe potential to cause harm, to site workers and the
environment, if they are not handled and storedcorrectly. Thus,
good cleaning, material storage and waste handling and removal
procedures are importantstrategies in creating a healthy and safe
working environment whilst at the same time reducing your impacton
the environment as a whole.
Tips - How Can I Handle And Store Materials Effectively?
Provide dedicated areas on the construction site for the storage
of materials. This is particularly importantfor materials with the
potential to harm people and the environment. Signage indicating
the storage ofpotentially harmful materials should also be
displayed in these areas.
Store potentially harmful materials with roofed, secondary
containment to ensure that any spills arecontained and to minimise
contaminated stormwater run-off.
Keep an inventory of all products stored on-site. This is
particularly important for products with thepotential to harm
people and the environment.
Obtain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) from material
suppliers and keep them on-site whereemployees can access them.
Post signs to inform site workers of good practices for handling
and storing materials.
-
25
3.9 Other Environmental Considerations
In some special construction projects, there may be some other
environmental concerns. Theseenvironmental concerns may include
:
Heritage and Ecological Resources Direct habitat loss of the
habitants or disturbance of the habitats due to increased human
activities. Direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting
the areas. Potential damage of any heritage resources.
Landscape and Visual Considerations Visual incompatibility with
surroundings. Visual obstruction such as blocking of views.
Tips - How Can I Address The Heritage, Ecological, Landscape And
Visual Considerations OnConstruction Sites Under My Management?
Inform appropriate authorities if any objects suspected to be
antiquities, archaeological remains ordeposits are discovered.
Instruct workers to avoid disturbing any flora, fauna and
habitats outside site areas. Properly control night time lighting
to minimise nuisance to neighbouring residents. Erect screen
hoarding and fencing around the site boundary. Follow relevant
requirements on height of temporary structures.
-
26
Chapter 4 :
Partner SynergyYour relationship with your clients, suppliers,
contractors and the general community often shapes
yourenvironmental programmes. This chapter provides some
suggestions on how to develop these relationships.Whether these
suggestions are implemented will often depend on the business case
for suchimplementation and will be specific to your company.
4.1 Clients
Clients Needs
When approaching construction from a sustainable perspective,
your client should ensure that theconstruction contract and
specifications address the design and construction teams
environmentalrequirements for the construction process. Being a
construction contractor many of these issues andpractices are
typically under your direct control. You are therefore in a strong
position to influence yourclient and show how meeting environmental
performance standards can be synonymous with meeting
projectobjectives.
When bidding for a project, you should :
Identify the potential environmental impacts clearly and include
environmental items in budgeting; Programme your construction work
practically with due consideration of time required for
environmental
provisions; and Express your companys environmental commitment,
environmental organisation & resources,
environmental programmes and your alternative green construction
methods, etc. in the tender documents.
Inclusion of the above items in tender documents may also gain a
higher chance of success in tender bidding,especially if contracts
are awarded from an environmentally conscious client.
Clients Support
Teamwork is the key ingredient in a successful construction
project. Together, a buildings or sites owner,architect, engineers
and contractor should develop environmental guidelines, plans,
goals and practices forthe construction process. This joint
approach will ensure that the all involved parties will understand
andembrace a projects goals and specifications before the work
begins. Your environmental programme willhave a higher chance of
success if it is co-designed with all the involved parties whose
participation isnecessary for the programme to succeed. You are
also suggested to report your environmentalperformance to your
clients, solicit feedback from them and take appropriate actions in
response to theirfeedback whenever appropriate.
-
27
4.2 Suppliers and Contractors
Employing Green Sub-Contractors
If you need to employ sub-contractors to undertake specialist
work as part of the construction project, youshould ensure that
where possible their performance standards meet the requirements of
yourenvironmental programme. You may include in your sub-contract
tender documents statements requiringthe sub-contractor to comply
with environmental regulations and other requirements pertaining to
thesub-contract work.
Tips - How Can I Select Green Sub-Contractors?
When evaluating sub-contractors bids for work, consider whether
they have an environmental programmein place. If not included in
their bid for work, contact them to discuss whether they have such
a programmein place and if they do what it includes.
If none of the contractors available to you have their own
environmental programmes in place, incorporateenvironmental
guidelines and responsibilities into their contract to work and
monitor their specificcompliance for the duration of their
contract. Indicate in these guidelines and statements of
responsibilitiesany environmental practices required by
environmental regulations.
Using Your Buying Power
You can contribute to environmental protection by purchasing
products that will result in a reduction inenvironmental impact.
Every product that you purchase, every construction site that you
manage andultimately every resulting building has the potential to
pollute the environment. You can reduce theenvironmental impacts
and generate savings by making careful purchasing decisions.
Tips - How Can I Select Green Products?
General rules for environmentally responsible product purchasing
include:
Avoid purchasing disposable items as much as possible. Purchase
products and materials with recycled content, as appropriate and
consistent with construction
plans and specification and health recommendations Buy products
and materials with reduced packaging and/or encourage manufacturers
to reuse or recycle
their original packaging materials Purchase products that are
reusable or contain reusable parts such as durable, reusable
hoarding, and
rechargeable batteries. Buy products that can be recycled, such
as uncoated paper bags that can be easily recycled. Buy products
that reduce the use of resources. For example, energy efficient
light fixtures should be
purchased over less energy efficient options. Choose products
that are designed to last longer than conventional items and are
easy to repair instead of
replace. Choose to purchase products that contain fewer toxic
pollutants such as low pollution water-based paint.
By using these types of products it will help to reduce safety
hazards in the workplace. Support the purchase of products that
bear certified eco-labels. Buy goods in bulk quantities to avoid
excessive individual packaging.
-
28
Purchasing procedures
If your company has a purchasing department, it should be
devoted to purchasing products and materialsthat are
environmentally friendly. If the department does not have any
policy guiding the purchase ofproducts, encourage them to design
one that favours their purchasing of environmentally friendly
products.This policy should be made known to suppliers and
contractors.
Encourage those colleagues responsible for purchasing goods to
conduct simple research into heavily usedproducts and materials
that could be substituted by other more environmentally friendly
options.
Encourage employees and contractors to suggest products that are
known to be more environmentallyfriendly than what you are
currently using.
Encourage ethical purchasing, the practice of avoiding products
that have been created as a result ofenvironmental degradation. For
example, do not buy products that have been manufactured out of
rainforestwood since the destruction of these forests contribute to
many environmental problems including globalwarming, deforestation,
biodiversity loss and more.
Communication and Motivation
Once you have taken environmental measures in managing your
business, you should share your effortswith others. Your suppliers
and sub-contractors deserve to learn about the positive actions
that you arenow taking. Knowledge of your environmental programme
is valuable to others since seeing youraccomplishments can motivate
them to establish their own programme. In some instances, your
partnersmay have no knowledge of the benefits of establishing such
a programme. In other instances, they may beinterested in starting
up their own programme yet they need some initial guidance as to
how to begin. It istherefore important that your experience is made
available to interested parties. By assuming a proactivestance you
will encourage others to learn about environmental protection and
give your organisation moreexposure within the business
community.
Tips - Communicating With Sub-contractors
Some sub-contractors that you employ may not be likely to
implement environmental practices unless theyinvolve almost no
additional costs, have been required contractually, or they are
economically beneficial tothe sub-contractor. Sub-contractors may
therefore need education about environmentally preferablepractices
in order to take advantage of them. Help the sub-contractor
understand that an environmentallypreferable process can be more
economical than, or equivalent in cost to, a conventional one and
can beimplemented without a regulatory or contractual
requirement.
Tips - Communicating With Suppliers
A sound environmental programme will demand that, amongst
others, you purchase and use environmentallyfriendly products
whenever possible. Therefore, it is important that your suppliers
and other relevantpartners are made aware of your programme
requirements and are capable of meeting your needs. Thereare a
number of activities that you can undertake to clearly communicate
your requirements to your suppliers.
You should inform suppliers of your environmental policy and
provide them with your purchasing guidelines. If you have a
long-standing established relationship with your suppliers, you can
work with them to help
capture the type of products that you seek at a competitive
price. The best approach you can take is to askyour suppliers to
identify environmentally friendly products that can be substituted
for those you currentlyuse (at a comparable price). This will also
help to boost the suppliers business since they will now becapable
of supplying other purchasers with environmentally sound
products.
Encourage suppliers to provide you with documentation that
guarantees the environmentally friendlyauthenticity of the products
that you are purchasing.
-
29
4.3 General Community
Joining Hands with the Community
Everyone in Hong Kong experiences the effects of pollution. Many
people would like to help to improveenvironmental quality, however,
not everyone knows how to get involved. As a green
constructioncontractor, you deal with environmental management
issues on a daily basis. You are in an advantageousposition to help
guide community greening efforts. By helping the general community,
in return, you cangain satisfaction through knowing that your
efforts can improve the environment and give you goodstanding
within the general community. Furthermore, taking simple
initiatives including efforts to reportthe lessons that you have
learnt in setting up your programme and other useful information
can help inraising community awareness. There are a number of ways
that you can get involved.
Visit your site neighours (e.g. local schools, residential
blocks, local groups, etc.) and explain to theirrepresentatives
details of the construction project and environmental measures
adopted by theconstruction company to minimise nuisance to
them.
Establish an Environmental Hotline to receive environmental
complaints and suggestions forimprovement in environmental
performance.
Get involved and support local initiatives. Organising tree
planting campaigns. Report on your environmental initiatives within
magazines
and other publications. Apply for awards to gain formalised
recognition of your efforts.
H
otline
-
30
Chapter 5 :
Working Your Way Towards
Green Construction
5.1 Cultivating a Green Construction Culture
A sustainable construction company operates in such a way that
they meet the needs and demands of all itsstakeholders. One of the
keys to business success lies in effective communication.
Communication betweena construction company and its stakeholders
can result in greater stakeholder confidence in the companysability
to address potential environmental impacts resulting from its
operations. Furthermore, bycommunicating the message that your
company seeks to minimise and eliminate negative
environmentalimpacts, you demonstrate to stakeholders your strong
environmental responsibility.
The previous chapters of this guidebook have explained to you
various practicable environmental measuresthat you may adopt in
managing your construction sites. A checklist for self-assessment
is provided inAppendix III to assist construction companies in
examining whether or not these measures have beenproperly accounted
in construction sites.
5.2 Keep up the Good Work
Creating an environmental programme can be made easier if you
get a little help. In Appendix IV of thisguidebook is a list of
organisations that you can contact for advice. Many of them have
provided practicalinformation that may help you improve the
environmental performance of your construction sites. Byadopting
green practices you are on your way to improving environmental
quality and reaping the benefits ofyour actions. You are one of a
number of companies that care about our environment and people will
noticeand respect your efforts. Once your programme is up and
running you will be amazed at just how easy it isto turn your
construction sites green. We encourage you to voice your commitment
to the environmentin all aspects of business; this can include
applying for available awards or environmental certifications
orlending a helping hand within your community. Keep up the good
work!
-
31
Appendix 1 -Examples of Local Environmental
Construction Initiatives
Hong Kong
1. Environmental Protection Department
(http://www.info.gov.hk/epd)
The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has produced a
number of Technical Memoranda,reference booklets, fact sheets
relating to various environmental aspects for the construction
industry. Inparticular, the EPD has prepared a document called
Recommended Pollution Control Clauses forConstruction Contracts
which describe good engineering practices to minimise environmental
nuisance tonearby residents and other sensitive receivers. In
addition, the EPD formed with other relevant professionalbodies the
Professional Persons Environmental Consultative Committee (ProPECC)
to provide a forum forthe exchange of views on all environmental
matters related to the duties and practice of architects,
engineers,planners, surveyors and developers. The ProPECC has
examined a wide range of issues and has published anumber of
ProPECC Practice Notes (PNs) which have been widely distributed to
professionals andorganisations in relevant fields. Some ProPECC PNs
of particular relevance to construction operation are :
PN 1/93 - Noise from Construction Activities - Statutory PN 2/93
- Noise from Construction Activities - Non-statutory PN 1/94 -
Construction Site Drainage PN 3/94 - Contaminated Land Assessment
And Remediation PN 1/96 - Use of Quiet Construction Equipment for
Road Opening Works during Non-Sociable Hours PN 2/97 - Handling of
Asbestos Containing Materials in Buildings
2. Hong Kong Construction Association
(http://www.hkca.com.hk)
The Hong Kong Construction Association (HKCA), formerly Building
Contractors Association, wasestablished in 1920 with the aim of
improving the construction industrys standards in Hong Kong.
TheHKCA has set up an Environmental Committee to review relevant
environmental issues in different areas ofoperation and to make
proposals to government on matters affecting the industry. The HKCA
has producedthe Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection on
Construction Sites - Part I for the industry.
-
32
Appendix II -Environmental Ordinances / Regulations /
Technical Memorandum (TM) Relevant toConstruction Operation
Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)
Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability
Air Quality
Air Pollution ControlOrdinance(Cap 311)
The Ordinance provides for the control of airpollution from all
premises from which air pollutantsare emitted from any chimney,
engine, furnace, ovenor industrial plant. Levels of pollutants are
regulatedaccording to Air Quality objectives.
Also provides for the control of air pollutants when inthe
opinion of the Authority the pollutant constitutesa nuisance.
Control is achieved by issuing anAbatement Notice.
Use of diesel, fuel,dust emittingconstruction activities,smoke
emissions fromgenerators (refer toregulations below).
Technical Memorandum forIssuing Air PollutionAbatement Notices
to ControlAir Pollution from StationaryPolluting Processes
Specifies principles, methods, standards and guidelinesfor
assessing air pollution from stationary pollutingsources.
Air Pollution Control(Fuel Restriction) Regulations
The purpose of the regulation is to restrict the sulphurcontent
of both liquid and solid fuels used by industryin order to minimise
SO2 emissions to atmosphere.
These regulations prohibit the use of fuel with highsulphur
content by industry throughout the SAR.Liquid fuels with a sulphur
content of more than 0.5%by weight and with a viscosity of more
that 6 centistokesat 40 degrees Celsius, or of solid fuels with a
sulphurcontent of more than 1% by weight are prohibited
fromuse.
Use of diesel fuel forstationery combustionsources e.g.
dieselgenerators.
Air Pollution Control (Smoke)Regulations
These regulations control smoke emissions fromstationary
combustion sources including chimney,ovens, and furnaces.
The regulations stipulate that dark smoke emissions(i.e. smoke
which is as dark or darker than No.1 onthe Ringlemann Chart) from
any relevant plant mustnot exceed :- 6 minutes in a period of 4
hours; or 3 minutes continuously at any one time.
Use of fuel-poweredmachineryeg. diesel generator,air compressor,
bulldozerand crane.
Air Pollution Control (SpecifiedProcesses) Regulations
The regulations provide details of the licensingrequirements of
new specified processes andregistration of existing ones.
Carrying outcement works.
Air Pollution Control(Specified Processes)(Removal of
Exemption)Order 1993 and 1994
Removes the exemption granted to the owner ofpremises for
conduct of certain specified processes.
-
33
Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)
Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability
Air Quality (contd)
Air Pollution Control(Dust and Grit Emission)Regulations
The regulations stipulate the emission standards,procedures and
requirements for assessing particulateemissions from stationary
combustion sources.
Use of diesel fuel forstationary combustionsources e.g.
generator.
Air Pollution Control(Vehicle Design Standards)(Emission)
Regulations
The regulations specify emission standards for
vehicleengines.
Purchase/use of vehicles.
Air Pollution Control(Asbestos) (Administration)Regulation
The regulation provides for the qualifications and feesfor
registration of asbestos consultants, contractors,supervisors and
laboratories.
Handling of Asbestos.
Air Pollution Control(Open Burning) Regulation
The regulation prohibits open burning of constructionwaste,
tyres and cables for metal salvage.
General site activities.
Air Pollution Control(Construction Dust)Regulation
The regulation specifies mitigation (dust suppressionmeasures)
for specific types of construction worksincluding road opening and
re-surfacing works and otherregulatory works including building
construction.
Carrying out dust-emitting constructionactivities e.g.
roadopening and resurfacingworks, buildingconstruction works
etc.
Ozone Protection LayerOrdinance (Cap 403)
Gives effect to Hong Kongs international obligationsunder the
1985 Vienna Convention and the 1987Montreal Protocol. Requirements
relate to restrictingthe import, export and manufacture of ozone
depletingsubstances.
A phase out programme for ozone depleting(scheduled) substances
is stipulated.
See also A Guide to the Control of Ozone DepletingChemicals in
Hong Kong
Use of scheduledsubstances for airconditioners (includingR12 and
R22).
Ozone Layer Protection(Controlled Refrigerants)Regulations
Controls the release of Controlled refrigerants intothe
atmosphere from large-scale installations andmotor vehicles.
Bans the venting of Controlled Refrigerants (CFC-11,CFC-12,
CFC-115) used in large-scale refrigeration(>50kg refrigerant
charge) and motor vehicles toatmosphere. Any person who allows any
controlledrefrigerant used for refrigeration equipment or amotor
vehicle to escape into the atmosphere commitsan offence.
See also A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer
Protection(Controlled Refrigerants) Regulations
Use of Controlledrefrigerants (R12)
forair-conditioningsystems.
-
34
Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)
Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability
Noise Emissions
Noise Control Ordinance(Cap 400)
Provision of statutory controls to restrict and reducethe
nuisance caused by environmental noise. TheOrdinance deals with
noise from industrial premisesconstruction sites as well as from
intruder alarmsystems.
NOISE FROM INDUSTRIAL PREMISES:-Noise emanating from places such
as industrial,commercial, trade or business premises is
controlledby means of a Noise Abatement Notice.
The means whereby the authority assesses whether anAbatement
Notice is required are stipulated in aTechnical Memorandum.
Noise generated fromoffice operation.
Noise from industrial andcommercial premises aswell as
constructionactivities. (Refer toTechnical Memorandumand
Regulations below)
Technical Memorandum forthe Assessment of Noise fromPlaces Other
than DomesticPremises, Public Places orConstruction Sites
This memorandum contains technical procedures to befollowed by
the Authority when investigating a noisecomplaint concerning
commercial/ industrial premisesas part of the decision as to
whether to serve a noiseabatement notice. Compliance with
Acceptable NoiseLevels will only be required after a noise
abatementnotice has been served.
NOISE FROM CONSTRUCTION WORKS:Construction works are controlled
through aConstruction Noise Permit (CNP) system, theprinciples of
which are contained in TechnicalMemorandum (TM). The stipulations
to controllingconstruction work through the CNP are listed
below:
Applicable to anyoperational activitiesother than
constructionactivities. In the event ofa noise complaint, anoise
abatement noticemay be received.
Applicable toconstruction works.
Technical Memorandum onNoise from ConstructionWork other than
PercussivePiling
The TM prescribes maximum noise levels through theCNP system for
all construction activities (withinrestricted hours) that include
Powered MechanicalEquipment (PME) other than those required
forpercussive piling. Basic Noise Levels (BNLs) are setout
according to an Areas Sensitivity Rating (ASR).
Works using PME during restricted hours (1900 - 0700)or at any
time on general holidays (including Sunday) isprohibited unless a
CNP is in force.
Carrying out constructionactivities involving the useof Powered
MechanicalEquipment.
Technical Memorandum onNoise from ConstructionWork in Designated
Areas
The TM details the procedures that should be adoptedfor the
control of noise generated by the use ofSpecified Powered
Mechanical Equipment (SPME) otherthan percussive piling and/or the
carrying out ofPrescribed Construction Work (PCW).
Works in Designated Areas using SPME and PCWduring restricted
hours (1900 - 0700) or at any time onpublic holidays, (including
Sunday) is prohibited, unlessa CNP is in force.
Carry out PrescribedConstruction Works orconstruction
activitiesusing Specified PoweredMechanical Equipment ina
Designated Area.
-
35
Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)
Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability
Noise Emissions (contd)
Technical Memorandum onNoise from Percussive Piling
The TM details the procedures that should be adoptedby the
Authority for determining any permitted hoursof operation for
percussive piling, for the issuing of CNPfor percussive piling and
for determining whether or notany CNP for percussive piling is
being complied with.
Works using percussive piling between 1900-0700 andon public
holidays is prohibited (unless specificallyexempted). Percussive
piling during daytime hours 0700-1900 is prohibited unless a CNP is
in force.
Construction activitiesinvolving the usepercussive piling.
Noise Control (General)Regulations
This regulation stipulates the forms required forapplication of
a CNP, and provides examples of the CNPonce issued and also of a
Noise Abatement Notice.
Application for a CNP.
Noise Control(Construction Work)Regulation
This regulation prescribes construction works (inaddition to PME
and percussive piling) which arecontrolled through the Noise
Pollution ControlOrdinance and Technical Memorandum.
Applicable in the eventof construction workinvolving
Erection or dismantlingof scaffolding orformwork
Loading, unloading orhandling of rubble,wooden boards,
steelbars, wood orscaffolding material
Harmmering
Noise Control (ConstructionWork Designated Areas)Notice
This notice defines the designated areas in which theuse of
specified mechanical equipment and/or carryingout of prescribed
construction works is controlled(using the CNP system).
Prescribed constructionwork and constructionworks using SPME in
anyDesignated Area.
Noise Control(Air Compressors)Regulations
The regulations require hand and portable aircompressors to
comply with specified noise emissionstandards and to be fitted with
noise emission labelswhen in use. Such labels are obtained
throughapplication to the Authority.
Use of air compressorsduring constructionworks.
Noise Control(Hand Held PercussiveBreakers) Regulations
These regulations require hand held percussivebreakers to comply
with specified noise emissionstandards and to be fitted with noise
emission labelswhen in use. Such labels are obtained
throughapplication to the Authority.
Use of hand-heldpercussive breakersduring constructionworks.
-
36
Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)
Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability
Waste Management
Waste Disposal Ordinance(Cap 354)
The Ordinance prohibits the unauthorised disposal ofwaste and
provides for the licensing of collectionservices and disposal
facilities for all types of waste.
Disposal of general solidwaste and production/storage/disposal
ofchemical waste.
Waste Disposal(Chemical Waste) (General)Regulations
This regulation requires chemical waste producers tobe
registered with EPD and specifies requirements forcontrol on all
aspects of chemical waste disposalincluding storage, collection,
transport, treatment andfinal disposal. It is an offence to
indiscriminately dischargechemical waste into sewers.
Each registered chemical waste producer has theobligation to
inform EPD of any change in theparticulars of the registration as
soon as practicable.
The Regulations require waste producers to arrangefor proper
disposal of their wastes at licensed facilitiesand to engage a
licensed collector to remove andtransport the waste. It also
requires that all chemicalwaste must be properly stored, packaged
and labelled.
Part IV Storage of Chemical Waste, requires that
wastepacked/stored in a containers exceeding 450 litresrequires
approval from the Director of EnvironmentalProtection.
Production, storage anddisposal of chemicalwaste arising
fromconstruction activities.
The Waste Disposal(Charges for Disposal ofWaste) Regulation
The regulation requires payment of charges fordisposal of solid
waste at landfills thus creating aneconomic incentive towards waste
minimisation.
(This regulation does not currently enforce.)
Disposal of solid wasteto landfill.
The Waste Disposal(Charges for Disposal ofChemical Waste)
Regulations
This applies to the disposal of chemical waste at theChemical
Waste Treatment Centre (CWTC). Chargesvary according to the type
and quantity of waste treatedas specified in the Regulations.
Disposal of chemicalwaste to CWTC.
Dumping at Sea Ordinance(Cap 466)
The Ordinance provides for control of marine dum