Government keen on water conservation
I refer to the letter by Nigel Lam ('Water recycling efforts rejected', December 8).
The government is committed to implementing a holistic management of water resources in a bid to promote sustainable use of water. Since 2008, the government has promulgated a total water management strategy, with emphasis on containing the growth of water demand through conservation while water supply management will also be strengthened. Under this strategy of demand management, the Water Supplies Department has been stepping up public education of water conservation, promoting the use of water saving devices, reducing water leakage through active leakage control and extension of seawater for flushing whenever it is economically justified.
As regards water supply management, while monitoring closely the technological advancement in sea water desalination, the government is investigating the feasibility of providing reclaimed water from Shek Wu Hui sewage treatment works for consumers in Sheung Shui and Fanling for toilet flushing and other non-potable uses. Reuse of grey water and rainfall harvesting are also being promoted in both public and private developments wherever practicable.
The government has been working through the Hong Kong Green Building Council to promote sustainable buildings, covering initiatives in respect of air, noise, waste, water and energy conservation. Grey water reuse forms part of such initiatives. A good example is EcoPark in Tuen Mun which has been using grey water for irrigation and cleaning.
Chin Chu-sum, assistant director, customer services, Water Supplies Department