The construction works of Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility was commenced on 18 November 2005. This first monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) report presents the EM&A works carried out during the period from 18 November to 14 December 2005 in accordance with the EM&A Manual.

Summary of construction works undertaken during this reporting period

The major works included site preparation works and marine piling works at Tuen Mun Area 38.

Environmental Monitoring and Audit Progress

Air and Noise monitoring was not required for the project. Water quality monitoring was not required as there was no dredging activity. Marine archaeological monitoring was not required as no dredging activity was implemented along the pipeline in the reporting period. Landscape and visual monitoring was not required as there was no landscaping work on site.

Marine mammal visual and acoustic spot monitoring were conducted for three days in November. No dolphin was observed visually or detected acoustically within the 500m exclusion zone. During the visual monitoring conducted for piling activities, Chinese White Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) were observed within the 500m exclusion zone on the 24^th and 25^th November 2005. No piling activity was conducted during the sightings and at least 30 minutes clearance time was implemented before piling commenced.

Construction Waste Management

Chemical wastes, C&D waste, general refuses and recyclables were produced during the reporting period.

Environmental Site Auditing

Three weekly environmental site audits were carried out by the ET in the reporting period. Details of the audit findings and implementation status are presented in Section 6.

Environmental Complaint

Two environmental complaints were received during and before the reporting period regarding dust emission from the site. Complaint logs were completed and sent to EPD accordingly. Details of the complaints and follow up actions are presented in Section 7.

Environmental Summons

No environmental summons was received in this reporting period.

Future Key Issues:

Key issues to be considered in the next one month will include:

· Impacts on dolphins due to piling works;

· Noise from operating machinery and equipment; and,

· Dust release and suppression.

1 Introduction

ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) was appointed by the Leighton Contractors (Asia) Limited (LCAL) as the Environmental Team (ET) to implement the Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) programme for the Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility (the Project) during construction works.

1.1 Purpose of the Report

This is the 1^st EM&A report which summarizes the monitoring results and audit findings for the EM&A programme during the reporting period from 18 November 2005 to 14 December 2005.

1.2 Structure of the Report

The structure of the report is as follows:

Section 1 : Introduction

details the scope and structure of the report.

Section 2 : Project Information

summarizes background and scope of the project, site description, project organization and contact details, construction programme, the construction works undertaken and the status of Environmental Permits/Licenses during the reporting period.

Section 3 : Environmental Monitoring Requirement

summarizes the monitoring parameters, monitoring programmes, monitoring methodology, monitoring frequency, monitoring location, Action and Limit Levels, Event Action Plans, environmental mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA report and relevant environmental requirements.

Section 4 : Implementation Status on Environmental Mitigation Measures

summarizes the implementation of environmental protection measures during the reporting period.

Section 5 : Monitoring Results

summarizes the monitoring results obtained in the reporting period.

Section 6 : Environmental Site Auditing

summarizes the audit findings of the weekly site inspections undertaken within the reporting period.

Section 7 : Environmental Non-conformance

summarizes any monitoring exceedance, environmental complaints, environmental summons and impact prediction review within the reporting period.

Section 8 : Key Future Issues

summarizes future key issues as assessed from works programme and work method statement as well as forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for next one month.

Section 9 : Recommendations and Conclusions

2 Project information

2.1 Background

The Project comprises of the following activities:

· Construction of a jetty to accommodate aviation fuel tankers;

· Construction of a tank farm for storage of aviation fuel; and

· Construction of twin sub-sea pipelines to transfer aviation fuel to the airport.

The potential environmental impacts of the Project have been studied in the following Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report:

(i) “Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility for Hong Kong International Airport” (EIAO Register No: AEIAR-062/2002). The EIA was approved with conditions on 2 August 2002 under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO). An Environmental Permit (EP-139/2002/E) associated with the constructionworks was also granted on 28 August 2002.

During the finalisation of the construction plans and designs for the Project, the need for minor changes to the detailed layout of the site and the site boundary were identified and consequently an Application for Variation to the Environmental Permit (VEP) (VEP-133/2004) was submitted to the Director of Environmental Protection (DEP) for approval of the following changes:

· A change in the detailed layout of the site, in particular the designed height and dimension of the tanks. The height of the tanks has been reduced in compliance with FSD’s specific requirements, where as the diameters of some tanks have been increased as a consequence of compliance with FSD’s tanks height reduction requirements in order to maintain the designed fuel storage capacity of the tank farm.

· To shift the whole site by 10 metres to the southeast to accommodate Land’s Department’s commitment of land extension to Shiu Wing Steel.

The VEP application (VEP-133/2004) was made by AAHK on 28^th January 2004 and the amended EP (EP-139/2002/A) was granted by DEP on 24 February 2004.

The EIA study concluded that no air and noise sensitive receivers were found, thus air and noise monitoring are not required. However, water quality EM&A is required during all dredging activities as well as when marine construction works are taking place within 1km of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park. The water quality monitoring stations are shown in Annex A.

Construction works (marine piling activity) commenced on 18 November 2005 and are scheduled to be completed by mid 2007.

2.2 Site Description

The site area is in Area 38 of Tuen Mun and the pipelines are located in Urmston Road between Tuen Mun Area 38 and Sha Chau. The site is illustrated in Annex B.

2.3 Project Organization

The project organization chart and contact details are shown in Annex C.

2.4 Construction Programme

The work programme for the Project is presented in Annex D. A summary of the major construction activities undertaken in this reporting period is shown in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Summary of Works Undertaken from 18 November to 14 December 2005

Area	Works undertaken
Tuen Mun Area 38	Marine Piling Works Site Preparation Works

Area

Works undertaken

Tuen Mun Area 38

Marine Piling Works

Site Preparation Works

2.5 Status of Environmental Approval Documents

A summary of the relevant permits, licences, and/or notifications on environmental protection for this Project as of June 2005 is presented in Table 2.2.

Table 2.2 Summary of Environmental Licensing, Notification and Permit Status

Permit/ Licenses/ Notification	Reference	Validity Period	Remarks
Environmental Permit	EP-139/2002	Throughout Project	Issued on 2 August 2002
	EP-139/2002	Throughout Project	Issued on 2 August 2002
Variation of Environmental Permit	VEP-133/2004	Throughout Project	Issued on 28 January 2004
Amended Environmental Permit	EP-139/2002/A	Throughout Project	Issued on 24 February 2004
Chemical Waste Producer Registration	WPN 5111-421-L2174-25	Throughout Project	Issued on 10 November 2005
Notification of Construction Works under Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation	001004989	Throughout Project	Notification on 5 November 2005 (Tank Farm at TM Area 38, Jetty at Urmston Road and Fuel Pipeline
Construction Noise Permit	PP-RW0024-05	12 Nov 05 to 31 Mar 06	Issued on 7 November 2005, for Hydraulic Hammer (single acting) driving steel pile
Construction Noise Permit	GW-RW0785-05	7 Dec 05 to 31 Mar 06	Issued on 7 December 2005, for General Works (Welding) at Jetty Area
Water Discharge License	--	--	To be applied

3 environmental monitoring requirements

3.1 Air Quality

As no air sensitive receiver is present in the vicinity of the project site, air quality monitoring is not required for either the construction or operation phase of the project. However, site inspection was conducted weekly to ensure that dust is avoided as practically as possible and mitigation measures were implemented to ensure that dust emission is reduced to a practical minimum.

3.2 Noise

As no noise sensitive receiver is present in the vicinity of the project site, noise monitoring is not required during the construction phase of the project. However, site inspection was conducted weekly to ensure that noise impact should be reduced as far as practicable and unnecessary noise impact is avoided.

3.3 Waste Management

Wastes generated from this Project included construction and demolition (C&D) materials including C&D wastes and public fill, chemical waste and general refuse. Waste Management Plan (WMP) is required within one month of the commencement of the project. The WMP should include recommendations on the procedures for handling of C&D materials, excavated materials, chemical waste and general refuse. However, we have not received contractor’s WMP at the time of preparing this report, and the contractor indicated that the WMP for this project would be available shortly.

Weekly site inspection was conducted on site which included waste management issues, to ensure that all wastes produced during the construction phase are managed in accordance to good waste management practices and statutory regulations and requirements.

From the Contractor’s information, the Project is expected to generate the following during the construction phase:

· Dredged marine mud (274,000m³ of uncontaminated mud);

· Excavated materials suitable for reclamation and public fill (estimated at 66,000m³, much of which will be re-used on site);

· C&D materials (expected to be minor);

· Chemical waste (not expected to generate large quantities during construction); and,

· Sewage which will be generated, collected and disposal offsite appropriately.

3.4 Water Quality

3.4.1 Introduction

In accordance with the recommendations of the EIA and conditions of approval from Country and Marine Parks Authority (CMPA), water quality EM&A is required during all dredging activities as well as when marine construction works are taking place within 1 km of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park. In addition, baseline water quality monitoring will be required prior to the commencement of construction activities. The following Section provides details of the water quality monitoring to be undertaken by the ET to verify the distance of sediment plume dispersion and to identify whether the potential exists for any indirect impacts to occur to ecological sensitive receivers. The water quality monitoring programme will be carried out to ensure that any deteriorating water quality is readily detected and timely action taken to rectify the situation.

3.4.2 Sampling Methodology

Water Quality Parameters

Measurements of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration (mg L^-1), DO saturation (%), Salinity (mg L^-1), Temperature (°C) and Turbidity (NTU) will be taken in situ by the ET at monitoring stations identified in Section 6.4 below. Water samples for the measurement of SS (mg L^-1) will also be collected for laboratory analysis.

In addition to the water quality parameters, other relevant data will also be measured and recorded in field monitoring logs (Annex E), including the location of the sampling stations, water depth, time, weather conditions, sea conditions, tidal stage, current direction and speed, special phenomena and work activities undertaken around the monitoring and works area that may influence the monitoring results. Observations on any special phenomena and work underway at the construction site at the time of sampling will also be recorded.

Sampling Procedures and Monitoring Equipment

For water quality monitoring, the following equipment will be supplied and used by the Contractor:

· Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Measuring Equipment - The instrument will be a portable, weatherproof dissolved oxygen measuring instrument complete with cable, sensor, comprehensive operation manuals, and will be operable from a DC power source. It will be capable of measuring: dissolved oxygen levels in the range of 0 - 20 mg L^-1 and 0 - 200% saturation; and a temperature of 0 - 45 degrees Celsius.

It will have a membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation complete with a cable of not less than 35 m in length. Sufficient stocks of spare electrodes and cables will be available for replacement where necessary (for example, YSI model 59 metre, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A submersible stirrer with reel and cable or an approved similar instrument).

· Turbidity Measurement Equipment - Turbidity within the water will be measured in situ by the nephelometric method. The instrument will be a portable, weatherproof turbidity-measuring unit complete with cable, sensor and comprehensive operation manuals. The equipment will be operated from a DC power source, it will have a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU and will be complete with a cable with at least 35 m in length (Hach 2100P or an approved similar instrument).

· Salinity Measurement Instrument - A portable salinometer capable of measuring salinity in the range of 0 - 40 ppt will be provided for measuring salinity of the water at each monitoring location.

· Suspended Solid Measurement Equipment - A water sampler (eg Kahlsico Water Sampler), which is a PVC cylinder (capacity not less than 2 litres), which can be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends, will be used for sampling. The sampler will have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth. Water samples for suspended solids measurement will be collected in high-density polythene bottles, packed in ice (cooled to 4°C without being frozen), and delivered to the laboratory in the same day as the samples were collected.

· Water Depth Gauge - A portable, battery-operated echo sounder (Seafarer 700 or a similar approved instrument) will be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station. This unit will either be hand-held or affixed to the bottom of the work boat if the same vessel is to be used throughout the monitoring programme.

· pH Measuring Equipment - A portable pH meter capable of measuring a range between 0.0 and 14.0 will be provided to measure pH under the specified conditions (eg. Orion Model 250A or an approved similar instrument).

· Positioning Device - A hand-held or boat-fixed type differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) or other equivalent instrument of similar accuracy will be used during monitoring to ensure the accurate recording of the position of the monitoring vessel before taking measurements. Marine anchors will not be used when sampling the impact stations within or on the boundaries of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park.

· Water Sampling Equipment - A water sampler, consisting of a PVC or glass cylinder of not less than two litres, which can be effectively sealed with cups at both ends, will be used (Kahlsico Water Sampler 13SWB203 or an approved similar instrument). The water sampler will have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth.

All in-situ monitoring instruments will be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes will be checked with certified standard solutions before each use. Wet bulb calibration for the DO meter will be carried out before measurement at each monitoring location. The turbidity meter will be calibrated to establish the relationship between turbidity readings (in NTU) and levels of SS (in mg L^-1) where possible.

For the on site calibration of field equipment, the BS 1427:1993, "Guide to Field and on-site test methods for the analysis of waters" will be observed.

Sufficient stocks of spare parts will be maintained for replacements when necessary. Back-up monitoring equipment will also be available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when some equipment is under maintenance, calibration, etc.

3.4.3 Laboratory Measurement and Analysis

Analysis of suspended solids will be carried out in a HOKLAS or other international accredited laboratory. Water samples of about 500mL will be collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the laboratory SS determination. The SS determination work will start within 24 hours after collection of the water samples. The analyses will follow the standard methods as described in APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition, unless otherwise specified (APHA 2540D for SS) with a detection limit of 1 mg L^-1 or less.

The submitted information should include pre-treatment procedures, instrument use, Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) details (such as blank, spike recovery, number of duplicate samples per-batch etc), detection limits and accuracy. The QA/QC details will be in accordance with requirements of HOKLAS or another internationally accredited scheme. The limits of detection for the in-situ and laboratory measurements that will be obtained are shown in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1 Detection Limits and Precision for Water Quality Parameters

Parameter	Limit of Detection
Dissolved Oxygen	0.1 mg L^-1
Salinity	0.01 ppt
Temperature	0.1 °C
PH	0.01 units
Turbidity (NTU)	0.1 NTU
Suspended Solids	1 mg L^-1

3.4.4 Monitoring Locations

Water quality monitoring will be conducted during all dredging activities as well as when marine construction works are taking place within 1 km of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park. Monitoring stations are discussed below.

Monitoring Stations During Dredging Activities

Water quality impact monitoring stations shall be positioned 500m to the north/northwest and south/southeast of any dredger when operating at a distance greater that 1 km from the boundary of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park. These stations will provide data on water quality when dredging is in progress outside the Marine Park. These stations shall be located upstream (IMO1) and downstream (IMO2) of the dredger and shall move on a daily basis so that they are in current streams that could be affected by the dredging.

Monitoring Stations During Construction Activities (including Dredging) within 1 km of the Marine Park

When construction works, including dredging, are taking place within 1 km of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park water quality monitoring will take place at impact and control stations. These stations are shown in Annex A and detailed in Table 3.2.

Table 3.2 Location of Marine Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station Identification	Type	Location	Northing	Easting
MPB1	Impact	Northeast Sha Chau	824172	807060
MPB2	Impact	East Sha Chau	823184	807212
MP	Impact	North Sha Chau	824753	806140
C1 (NM3)	Control	South Tuen Mun	824049	812527
C2 (NM5)	Control	East Lung Kwu Chau	827245	807707
C3 (NM6)	Control	North Airport	820288	807584

The status and locations of water quality sensitive receivers and the marine works location may change after issuing the EM&A Manual. If required, the ET in consultation with the Contractor will propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from the FSR, the IEC and the DEP.

Impact stations MPB1 and MPB2 have been selected at positions on the Marine Park boundary 500m from the nearest dredging point to assess any potential impacts that may be caused by the works. An additional impact station, MP is located within the main body of the Marine Park at a point approximately equidistant between the Sha Chau island cluster and Lung Kwu Chau.

The control stations have been selected to be within the same body of water as the impact monitoring stations but will be outside the area of influence of the works and, as far as practicable, not affected by any other works. It should be noted that the control stations are located at the exact same co-ordinates as EPD’s routine monitoring stations NM3, NM5 and NM6. This will facilitate reference to a substantial volume of baseline data should this later be found necessary.

3.4.5 Baseline Monitoring

Baseline monitoring will be conducted to collect representative water quality data from the key areas along the pipelines alignment. This baseline monitoring will provide data for comparison with water quality data collected during dredging works.

Baseline monitoring will be conducted at each impact (MPB1, MPB2 and MP) and control station (C1 to C3) on a daily basis on flood and ebb tides for a period of 1 week prior to the commencement of marine works. Baseline monitoring will commence no earlier than two months before construction works are due to commence.

During baseline monitoring, measurements will be taken at each station at three depths, 1 m below the sea surface, mid depth and 1 m above the seabed.

The ET will be responsible for undertaking the baseline monitoring and submitting the results within 10 working days from the completion of the baseline monitoring work to the IEC for certification.

3.4.6 Impact Monitoring

Impact water quality monitoring will be conducted when dredging activities are taking place at a distance greater than 1 km from the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park as well as when marine construction works are taking place within 1 km of the park boundary. As with baseline monitoring, measurements during monitoring of dredging works will be taken at all designated monitoring stations on a daily basis on both flood and ebb tides (during dredging). However, during Marine Park monitoring, only stations within the Marine Park boundary (ie MPB1, MPB2 and MP) will be sampled on both the flood and ebb tides. Control stations to the south and east of the works area (ie C1 and C3) will be sampled on the flood tide only. The Control station to the northwest of the works area, C2, will be sampled on the ebb tide only. If sediment laden plumes from the works area or elsewhere are observed in the vicinity of the control stations during sampling, this will be recorded and brought to the immediate attention of the ET.

3.4.7 Water Quality Compliance

Water quality monitoring will be evaluated against Action and Limit Levels. The key assessment parameters are dissolved oxygen and suspended sediment and thus Action and Limit Levels based on the assessment criteria are identified for these. However turbidity can also provide valuable instantaneous information on water quality and thus an Action Limit is also recommended for this parameter to facilitate quick responsive action in the event of any apparent unacceptable deterioration attributable to the works. The proposed Action and Limit Levels are shown in Table 3.3.

Action and Limit levels are used to determine whether operational modifications are necessary to mitigate impacts to water quality. In the event that the levels are exceeded, appropriate actions in Event and Action Plan (Annex E) should be undertaken and a review of works should be carried out by the Contractor.

Any noticeable change to water quality will be recorded in the survey reports and will be investigated and remedial actions will be undertaken to reduce impacts. Particular attention will be paid to the Contractor’s implementation of the recommended mitigation measures.

Table 3.3 Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameters	Action (mg/L)	Limit (mg/L)
DO in mg/L (Depth Average & Bottom) DO in mg/L (Depth Average & Bottom)	Depth Average 4.5 mg/l and upstream control stations’ mean DO (at the same tide of the same day) Bottom 2.5 mg/l and upstream control stations’ mean DO (at the same tide of the same day)	Depth Average 4.0 mg/l and upstream control stations’ mean DO (at the same tide of the same day) Bottom 2.0 mg/l and upstream control stations’ mean DO (at the same tide of the same day)
Suspended Solids (Depth averaged)	30 mg/l and 130% of upstream control stations’ mean SS (at the same tide of the same day)	39 mg/l and 130% of upstream control stations’ mean SS (at the same tide of the same day)
Turbidity in NTU (Depth averaged)	130% of upstream control stations’ mean Turbidity (at the same tide of the same day)	N/A

*Notes:* - For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits. - For SS, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits. - All the figures given in the table are for reference only and these may be amended with the agreement of DEP. - “Depth Averaged” is calculated by taking the arithmetic mean of the in-situ parameters readings at all three depths. For suspended solids “depth averaged” is calculated by combining all three samples into one mixed sample which is analysed to produce a physical arithmetic mean.

It should be noted that all Action Limit levels presented in Table 3.3 may be revised based on the baseline data to be collected in advance of construction works. If deemed necessary, the ET in consultation with the Contractor will propose revised Action Limit levels and seek approval from the FSR, the IEC and the DEP.

The IEC will be empowered to audit the environmental performance of construction, all aspects of the EM&A programme, validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring locations and procedures. If any exceedance occurs, the ET, IEC, FSR and the Contractor will follow the actions stated in the Event and Action Plan (Annex E).

3.4.8 Water Quality Mitigation Measures

The EIA report has outlined a variety of recommended water quality mitigation measures. These are summarised in the Implementation Programme of Mitigation Measures (Annex H). Specifically the Contractor will be responsible for the design and implementation of the following measures:

Works within Marine Park

· No construction work shall be carried out from shore or land within the Marine Park;

· No hydraulic dredging (trailer suction dredging) shall be carried out within the Marine Park; and

· Pipeline trench digging within the Marine Park shall be scheduled to coincide with maintenance dredging for the marine access channel for the Sha Chau Aviation Fuel Receiving Facility (AFRF).

Dredging

· No more than one dredger shall be in operation at any time during construction;

· No Lean Material Overboard (LMOB) system shall be used;

· No hopper dredger leaking pipe shall be used during construction;

· Bottom openings from barges and hopper dredgers shall be tightly sealed to prevent leakage of dredged materials. Freeboard on barges shall be provided to ensure that decks are not washed by wave action;

· No dredged material shall be splashed to the surrounding water during loading of dredged material to barges and hopper dredgers;

· No dredged material shall be overflowed from barges and hopper dredgers during loading or transportation; and

· Mechanical grabs will be designed and maintained to avoid spillage and should seal tightly while being lifted;

· Barges and hopper dredgers will have tight fitting seals to their bottom openings to prevent leakage of material;

· Any pipe leakages will be repaired quickly. Plant should not be operated with leaking pipes;

· Loading of barges and hoppers will be controlled to prevent splashing of dredged material to the surrounding water. Barges or hoppers will not be filled to a level which will cause overflow of materials or pollution of water during loading or transportation;

· Excess material will be cleaned from the decks and exposed fitting of barges and hopper dredges before the vessel is moved;

· Adequate freeboard will be maintained on barges to ensure that decks are not washed by wave action;

· All vessels will be sized such that adequate clearance is maintained between vessels and the sea bed at all states of the tide to ensure that undue turbidity is not generated by turbulence from vessel movement or propeller wash; and

· The works will not cause foam, oil, grease or litter or other objectionable matter to be present in the water within and adjacent to the works site.

Works on Land

· Wastewater from temporary site facilities should be controlled to prevent direct discharge to surface or marine waters;

· Sewage effluent and discharges from on-site kitchen facilities will be directed to Government sewer in accordance with the requirements of the WPCO or collected for disposal offsite. The use of soakaways will be avoided;

· Storm drainage will be directed to storm drains via adequately designed sand/silt removal facilities such as sand traps, silt traps and sediment basins. Channels, earth bunds or sand bag barriers should be provided on site to properly direct stormwater to such silt removal facilities. Catchpits and perimeter channels should be constructed in advance of site formation works and earthworks;

· Silt removal facilities, channels and manholes will be maintained and any deposited silt and grit will be removed regularly, including specifically at the onset of and after each rainstorm;

· Temporary access roads should be protected by crushed stone or gravel;

· Rainwater pumped out from trenches or foundation excavations should be discharged into storm drains via silt removal facilities;

· Measures should be taken to prevent the washout of construction materials, soil, silt or debris into any drainage system;

· Open stockpiles of construction materials (eg aggregates and sand) on site should be covered with tarpaulin or similar fabric during rainstorms;

· Manholes (including any newly constructed ones) should always be adequately covered and temporarily sealed so as to prevent silt, construction materials or debris from getting into the drainage system, and to prevent storm run-off from getting into foul sewers;

· Discharges of surface run-off into foul sewers must always be prevented in order not to unduly overload the foul sewerage system;

· All vehicles and plant should be cleaned before they leave the construction site to ensure that no earth, mud or debris is deposited by them on roads. A wheel washing bay should be provided at every site exit;

· Wheel wash overflow will be directed to silt removal facilities before being discharged to the storm drain;

· The section of construction road between the wheel washing bay and the public road should be protected with crushed stone or coarse gravel;

· Wastewater generated from concreting, plastering, internal decoration, cleaning work and other similar activities, will be screened to remove large objects;

· Vehicle and plant servicing areas, vehicle wash bays and lubrication facilities will be located under roofed areas. The drainage in these covered areas will be connected to foul sewers via a petrol interceptor in accordance with the requirements of the WPCO or collected for off site disposal;

· The contractors will prepare an oil / chemical cleanup plan and ensure that leakages or spillages are contained and cleaned up immediately;

· Waste oil should be collected and stored for recycling or disposal, in accordance with the Waste Disposal Ordinance;

· All fuel tanks and chemical storage areas should be provided with locks and be sited on sealed areas. The storage areas should be surrounded by bunds with a capacity equal to 110% of the storage capacity of the largest tank; and

· Surface run-off from bunded areas should pass through oil/grease traps prior to discharge to the stormwater system.

3.5 Ecology

3.5.1 Introduction

The constraints on dredging and piling works defined within the EIA and Environmental Permit will act as appropriate mitigation measures to control the environmental impacts to marine ecological resources to within acceptable levels. Apart from the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin, impacts of construction activities will be monitored through impacts to water quality.

In accordance with the recommendations of the EIA, ecology EM&A is required pre- and post-construction works and during piling and dredging activities for the PAFF jetty. The following section provides details of the ecology monitoring to be undertaken by the ET to ensure that the ecological works and construction mitigation procedures recommended in the EIA for the protection of the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) are carried out as specified and are effective.

3.5.2 Construction Phase EM&A

The ET will be required to undertake the followings:

· Acoustic monitoring of dolphin presence/absence;

· Establishment of a dolphin exclusion zone;

· Undertake dolphin monitoring pre- and post-construction works and during piling and dredging activities for the PAFF jetty; and;

· Undertake underwater noise monitoring, with the assistance of suitably qualified specialists.

The ET will also be required to audit the effectiveness of the implementation of the ecological works, and other mitigation measures detailed below.

3.5.3 Dolphin Exclusion Zone: Around the Piling Barge

Visual Monitoring

A dolphin exclusion zone within a radius of 500m from the piling barge should be implemented during piling activities for the jetty. Piling should not begin until the qualifying person certifies that the area is continuously clear of dolphins for a period of 30 minutes (thereby adequately spanning the approximate maximum dive time of the dolphins of 4 minutes). Piling will cease if any dolphins move into the exclusion zone and will not resume until the qualified person confirms that the zone has been continuously clear of dolphins for a period of 30 minutes. The qualified person must be suitably trained in biology (minimum requirement of graduate qualification in marine biology of equivalent biological science with 5 yrs experience) and should be part of the ET.

Spot Acoustic Monitoring

Spot acoustic monitoring of the 500m dolphin exclusion zone during piling activities will be conducted for three days of the first week of piling to confirm that dolphins are not being missed by the visual monitoring carried out under Condition 3.22 of EP-139/2002/A. The monitoring would make use of specialist acoustic monitoring equipment and should be undertaken by a suitably experienced specialist. The qualified person for acoustic monitoring should be certified by the ET and verified by the IEC.

Dolphin Exclusion Zone: Around the Dredger in the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park

A dolphin exclusion zone within a radius of 250m of dredgers during dredging within the Marine Park should be implemented and the area visually inspected for dolphins prior to commencement of dredging. The dolphin exclusion zone should be monitored as described above for the piling barge by the qualified person(s) with an unobstructed, elevated view of the area. Dredging should not begin until the qualified person certifies that the area is continuously clear of dolphins for a period of 30 minutes. Should dolphins move into the area during dredging, cessation of dredging is not required.

3.5.4 Pre- and Post-Construction Dolphin Monitoring

Pre- and post-construction phase dolphin monitoring will be undertaken by a qualified person, to evaluate whether there have been any effects on the animals as a result of the construction works. The resulting data should be compatible with, and should be made available for, long-term studies of small cetacean ecology in Hong Kong.

Six, one-day survey events will be undertaken within 28 consecutive days for both the pre- and post-construction monitoring events ^([1]). Pre-construction monitoring should be completed at least one month before the commencement of marine construction works. Similarly, post-construction monitoring should commence no later than 6 months following the completion of marine construction activities. Prior to the commencement of construction works a review of all new available dolphin data for North Lantau waters should be conducted and reported.

Monitoring will be led by the qualified person with observer who will receive suitable training in advance of providing observational assistance. The IEC would be required to audit the work of the ET. Monitoring will be conducted following the methodology presented in Section 3.5.5.

Pre- and post construction dolphin monitoring will allow the assessment of the overall efficacy of the project-specific mitigation measures through the implementation of an Action Plan (Annex F). Should dolphin numbers be significantly different (taking into account naturally occurring alterations to distribution patterns such as due to seasonal change) to the pre-construction activity (following the post-construction monitoring) recommendations for a further post-construction monitoring survey will be made. Data should be then be re-assessed and the need for any further monitoring established.

3.5.5 Vessel-based Observations

Line transect surveying techniques have now been standardised in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Waters so that data from all surveys are directly comparable. The study area with line transects is presented in Annex F. In order to provide a suitable long-term dataset for comparison, pre-and post construction phase dolphin monitoring will employ an identical methodology and follow the same line transects as those presented in Annex F.

On each survey day, the survey vessel departed from Tung Chung New Pier. Observation for incidental sighting began immediately on departure from the assigned pier and continued until the vessel reached the survey area.

The survey vessel had an open upper deck, allowing for observer eye heights of 4 to 5m above water level and relatively unobstructed forward visibility between 270° and 90°. When on-effort, the vessel travelled along the survey lines at a speed of approximately 7 to 8 knots (13 to 15 km/hr). The direction of the survey was alternated on different days to avoid possible biases related to the timing of the survey coverage.

Vessel-based transect observations by a three-person team were conducted by searching the 180° swath in front of the survey vessel (270° to 90°). The area behind the vessel was not searched, although dolphins observed here were recorded as off-effort sightings. A primary observer scanned the entire search path (270° to 90°) continuously with Fujinon 7X50 marine binoculars or equivalent as the second member of the team, designated the data “recorder”, scanned the same area with the naked eye and occasional binocular check. The third observer on the boat rotated into the observation team after half an hour, thus relieving one of the initial team. Observers rotated every half an hour. While on-effort, observers were instructed to ignore potential sighting cues that could bias the sighting distance calibration (eg pair-trawl fishing vessels).

A critical consideration in the survey was to ensure a strict timed quantification of “sighting effort” in order to maximise the comparative value of the field survey results. The time and position for the start and end of a period of intensive, uninterrupted effort, and the sighting conditions such as visibility range and Beaufort scale associated with it were recorded. The collection of effort data allowed comparisons within a single study as well as between studies. Strict recording of time and speed travelling along the assigned transect (“on-effort”) was always therefore recorded. Time spent during any deviation from the transect was recorded as “off-effort”.

During periods of poor weather, when visibility is hindered (eg below 1km) or when Beaufort force 5 is reached, the survey would normally be postponed. Such conditions did not occur during the survey.

Sightings distant to 500m perpendicular distance and sightings of single dolphins that were hard to track were not pursued (although those distant to 500m ahead of the vessel were pursued). The initial sighting distance between the dolphin and the survey vessel and sighting angle was recorded in order to estimate the positions of the dolphins. These and other details of the sighting, include the exact location of the sighting, number of individuals were on every occasion discussed among the observation team and recorded immediately. Distances and angles were made as accurately as possible.

A global positioning system was available on board and used during every field survey. A sighting record was filled out at the initial sighting with time, position, distance and angle data filled in immediately and verified between primary observer and recorder. All other information on sea state, weather conditions (Beaufort Scale), as well as notes on dolphin appearance, behaviour, and any other information were completed at the end of the sighting.

A summary of equipment requirement is summarized in Table 3.4.

Table 3.4 Summary of Equipment Requirement

Equipment	Type
Vessel for Monitoring	A monitoring boat which should have a flying bridge or upper deck with a relatively unobstructed forward visibility (270^o – 90^o) allowing for observer eye height of 4-5m above water

Observation	Fujinon 7X50 marine binoculars (or similar) with compass/reticule

Calibration	Leica Geovid laser range finder binnacles or equivalent

Records	Clipboard

Navigation and Positioning	Global Positioning System Device (Magellen NAV 5000D or similar approved) (+ spare batteries)

Data Monitoring

Completed sighting forms will be compiled and subjected to a quality control review before being entered into a database/spreadsheet programme. All data will be made available for long term studies of dolphin population.

3.5.6 Underwater Noise Monitoring

In order to determine whether the underwater noise levels indicated in Environmental Permit are achieved, recording of noise levels due to the PAFF piling is also required. Noise (dB) recording procedures should be based on the methods briefly described in Würsig et al. (2000) as summarised below.

Methodology and Frequency

Calibrated hydrophones should be used to gather sound recordings during the piling activity and an estimate of the efficacy of the bubble curtain at mitigating noise determined. As for the acoustic monitoring described above, this work should only be undertaken by suitably qualified personnel who have shown to be competent in this type of monitoring. The monitoring will be conducted using three survey vessels to record the level of sounds emitted both with and without the bubble jacket operating.

Noise from the survey vessels should be kept to a minimum (eg by switching off the engine and pumps together with other sources of noise interference) in order to avoid sounds from the boats influencing the noise recordings. Each survey vessel should have a DGPS and prior to any monitoring should inter-calibrate their recording equipment by anchoring next to each other at a suitable distance (eg 150m) from the pile driver to simultaneously record the sound levels using all three systems.

Following the inter-calibration exercise the survey vessels should position themselves at the three testing locations from the pile driver, namely 250, 500 and 1000m intervals west of the pile driver.

Recordings should be gathered over the initial three days of the first week of piling.

Bubble Jacket

As required under Condition 3.24 of EP-139/2002/A, bubble jacket should be used for piling work to reduce underwater piling noise and hence achieve the underwater mitigated noise levels. The mitigated noise levels are presented in Table 3.5.

Table 3.5 The Mitigated Noise Level

Distance from Piling Work (m)	Noise Level (dB)
250	162
500	152
1000	145

Two months prior to construction, a trial of bubble jacket shall be carried out to demonstrate noise attenuation effect. The results should be submitted for approval.

“Ramping-up” of Piling Hammer

As required under Condition 3.26 of the EP-139/2002/A, the piling hammer at the beginning of each piling session will be ramped up gradually. Piling activities will be continuous without short-break and will avoid sudden random loud noise emission. Piling activities will occur on a regular basis, be scheduled to occur with similar activities and commence at the same time each day. No pilling works will be carried out during 11:00pm to 7:00am of the following day.

3.5.7 Mitigation Measures

Mitigation measures to minimise impacts on the Indo-Pacific Humpbacked Dolphin have been recommended in the EIA for implementation during the piling activities for the jetty and for all dredging works in the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park. No other significant ecological impacts are predicted as a result of the project; however, measures recommended to minimise impacts on water quality will also reduce impacts on ecological resources. The ecological mitigation measures to be implemented during the construction phase are as follows:

· Use a bubble jacket to contain each pile;

· Implementation of 500m dolphin exclusion zone during piling activities;

· Implementation of a 250m dolphin exclusion zone during dredging in the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park;

· Acoustic dolphin monitoring for 3 days of the first week of piling;

· Underwater noise monitoring during the initial three days of the first week of piling operations;

· Do not undertake piling during April to June to avoid peak calving periods of dolphin;

· Use acoustic decoupling methods to minimise noise being transmitted through the piling barge;

· Instigate “ramping-up” of the piling hammer to provide an advanced warning system to dolphins in the vicinity;

· Activities will be continuous without short-breaks and avoiding sudden random loud noise emissions;

· Events will be scheduled to occur on a regular basis with similar activities scheduled for the same time each day to minimise impacts attributed to elevated noise levels;

· The piling will be scheduled to allow an approximate rest period of 7 hours during the night time;

· All mitigation measures noted above should be reassessed to check they are effective. If there is evidence of a significant increase in dolphin mortality immediately following the beginning of construction work, piling work should be suspended until the causes of such mortality can be ascertained;

· Undertake a review of available long-term dolphin monitoring dataset prior to the construction works to ensure that future dolphin distribution patterns are consistent with the current assessment.

Details of the recommended mitigation measures are included within Annex G (Implementation Schedule) and the mitigation measures will be audited once per week as part of the site audit programme.

3.6 Cultural Heritage

3.6.1 Introduction

This section will provide details of the cultural heritage monitoring to be undertaken during the Project period.

3.6.2 Background

As part of the Environmental Permit Condition for this project (EP-139/2002/A), a marine archaeological investigation of the pipeline route undertaken by a qualified marine archaeologist is required. A geophysical survey was carried out at the same time as the site investigations for the engineering design.

In October 2002, a Phase 1 Marine Archaeological Investigation (MAI) was undertaken by a qualified marine archaeologist. The work comprised a desktop review, review of geophysical survey data and establishment of archaeological potential. A Phase 1 findings report was prepared and recommended a Phase 2 dive inspection to be undertaken at area potentially of archaeological importance to determine their archaeological significance. The Phase 2 dive inspection was undertaken in November 2002 and the findings confirmed the targets that could be examined by dive inspection were of no archaeological interest. However, two targets, which could not be examined by dive inspection, would need to be monitored during dredging of pipe trench. As such, mitigation measures will need to be employed during dredging.

3.6.3 Mitigation Measures

The outstanding requirement for mitigation measures is detailed as follows:

· During the dredging of the pipe trench, a watching brief will be implemented where the trench intersects sub-surface targets SS1 and SS2. The details of the SS1 and SS2 are shown in Table 3.6.

Table 3.6 Sub-surface Targets

Target	Approximate Depth	Depth below sea bed (m)	Length (m)	Height (m)	Latitude	Longitude
SS1	19	2.5	30	4	22°21.9263’N	113°55.3930’E
SS2	21	Exposed⁽¹⁾	18	2.5	22°21.8318’N	113°55.2557’E

(1) MAI Report does not specify the depth.

The watching brief will have the following components:

· Dredge operators to be made aware of the likely presence of a shipwreck near the coordinates given for SS1 and SS2 and are to report any unusual resistance or slowing down of the dredging in these areas.

· Dredging to cease in the nominated areas, SS1 and SS2, once dredging has reached –2m below original seabed surface. Divers, under the supervision of a licensed maritime archaeologist, are then to examine the trench for possible cultural remains of significance. If no targets of archaeological significance are found during the examination, dredging can re-commence. However, dredging is again to be ceased in the nominated areas once the dredging has reached –3m below the original seabed surface. Divers are to then again examine trench for targets of possible archaeological significance.

3.6.4 Construction Phase Audit

All mitigation measures which are recommended by the MAI will be undertaken by the Contractor and will be audited by the qualified archaeologist, from the ET, to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the recommended mitigation measures.

3.7 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

3.7.1 Introduction

This Section defines the EM&A requirements that have been recommended to ensure that the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures are effectively implemented during the construction and operational phases.

3.7.2 General

The EIA has recommended the EM&A for landscape and visual resources is undertaken during both construction and operational phases of the project. The implementation and maintenance of landscape mitigation measures is a key aspect of this and should be checked to ensure that they are fully realised and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest possible date and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures.

According to the Condition 3.8 of the EP-139/2002/A, three sets of Landscape Plans for the Project should be deposited to the EPD within one month before the commencement of landscape works of the Project. The Landscape Plan will include the locations, design details, implementation schedules, and drawings in the scale of 1:1000 or other appropriate scale showing the landscape and visual mitigation measures. The Landscape Plan will be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC as conforming to the requirements set out in Section 8.10 of the approved EIA Report before deposit.

3.7.3 Design Phase Audit

The landscape measures proposed within the EIA to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the scheme should be embodied into the detailed landscape design drawings and contract documents including the protection of existing trees where possible, the transplanting of existing trees and the planting of new trees and shrubs. Designs should be checked to ensure that the measures are fully incorporated and that potential conflicts with civil engineering, geo-technical, structural, lighting, signage, drainage, underground utility and operational requirements are resolved prior to construction. The designs should include a 1.5m high perimeter landscaped bund, 4m high landscape mound and landscape works for the area of the site that is not required for fuel tanks.

The design phase EM&A requirements for landscape and visual resources comprise the audit of the detailed landscaping and visual specifications to be prepared during the detailed design together with ensuring that the design is sensitive to landscape and visual impacts and that landscape resources are retained as far as practicable. Monitoring of design works against the recommendations of the landscape and visual impact assessments within the EIA should be undertaken as and when the designs are produced to ensure that they fulfil the intentions of the mitigation measures.

The landscape and visual auditor shall review the designs as and when they are prepared and liaise with the landscape architect and design engineer to ensure all measures have been incorporated in the design in a format that can be specified to the Contractor for implementation. In the event of a non conformity, the Event/Action plan as detailed in Annex G below should be followed.

3.7.4 Baseline Monitoring

Baseline monitoring for the landscape will comprise a vegetation survey of the vegetation and trees on the site. Representative vegetation types will be identified along with typical species composition.

The landscape and visual baseline will be determined with reference to the landscape and visual impact assessments included in the EIA Report.

3.7.5 Construction and Operational Phase Audit

A specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor should be employed by the Contractor for the implementation of landscape construction works and subsequent maintenance operations during the 24 month establishment period. It is proposed that as the majority of the planting works in the area are not developed initially, the planting should be conducted within the first half of the construction contract. Thus, the establishment works will be undertaken through the latter half of the construction contract.

All measures undertaken by both the Contractor and the specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor during the construction phase and first year of the operational phase shall be audited by a Registered Landscape Architect of the ET, ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures. Site inspections should be undertaken at least once every two weeks throughout the first half of the construction period when planting works are being undertaken. The operational phase audit (bimonthly for 12 months) will be commenced immediately after the completion of landscape planting works. The broad scope of the audit is detailed below but should also be undertaken with reference to the more specific checklist provided in Annex G. Operational phase auditing will be restricted to the last 12 months of the establishment works of the landscaping proposals and thus only the items below concerning this period are relevant to the operational phase.

· the extent of the agreed works areas should be regularly checked during the construction phase. Any trespass by the Contractor outside the limit of the works, including any damage to existing trees shall be noted;

· the progress of the engineering works should be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken;

· all existing trees and vegetation within the study area which are not directly affected by the works are retained and protected;

· the methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the Contractor are acceptable and enforced;

· preparation, lifting transport and re-planting operations for any transplanted trees;

· all landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the specifications;

· the planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers, ferns, grasses and other plans, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees are carried out properly and within the right season; and

· all necessary horticultural operations and replacement planting are undertaken throughout the Establishment Period to ensure the healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly established plants.

In the event of non-compliance the responsibilities of the relevant parties is detailed in the Event /Action plan provided on Annex G.

3.8 LAND CONTAMINATION, HAZARD TO LIFE AND FUEL SPILL RISK

3.8.1 Introduction

This Section defines the EM&A requirements that have been recommended to ensure that appropriate measures to minimise land contamination, hazard to life and environmental risk be undertaken during the design phase of the project. A design phase audit is recommended to ensure that the design of the PAFF, including the spill response plan, comprise the necessary elements to control, detect, contain, clean up, handle and dispose any material that could lead to contaminated land or pose a risk to life or the environment.

3.8.2 Mitigation Measures

A series of mitigation measures were recommended to be integrated into the design, concerning considerations of land contamination, hazard to life and fuel spill risk. These mitigation measures were developed to minimise the likelihood of the loss of fuels from the system, hence minimise the associated contamination, hazard and risk. These measures are based on the need to specify procedures for detecting a leak and containing a leak if it occurs, and to define methods for clean up and disposal of the leak.

These measures are summarised in the Implementation Programme of Mitigation Measures (Annex H):

3.8.3 Spill Response Plan

Among those mitigation measures, the Spill Response Plan (SRP) should be noted specifically. It was predicted in the EIA report that some key sensitive marine ecological receivers were likely to be affected by the fuel spill accident from the PAFF. Therefore, the contingencies should be included in the SRP that any oil spill occurred in the following locations should adopt a rapid use of booms:

· Ma Wan fish culture zone;

· Lung Kwu Tan beach and horseshoe crab nursery area;

· Tai Ho Wan mangroves and seagrass stands;

· Tai O mangrove stand;

· gazetted beaches in Castle Peak Bay and along the coast to Sham Tseng; and

· coastline of Lung Kwu Tan, Sha Chau and Tree Island.

The SRP should also include, but not limited to the following elements:

· organisation of the oil spill response team and the responsibilities of each member;

· response strategies/procedures to be adopted in the case of an oil spill, including:

- reporting to relevant Authorities;

- identification of the source of spill;

- containment of leaking fuel;

- recovery and processing of free fuel;

- clean up methodology; and

- handling and disposal protocols.

· risk assessments to identify the maximum credible spill scenario for PAFF and other operational spill scenarios and the fate of a fuel spill;

· setting up of emergency centre in PAFF;

· communication means during oil spill and 24-hours emergency contact list;

· training and competence level requirement of PAFF staff;

· oil spill equipment required;

· sub-contracting services;

· drills and exercise requirements; and

· follow-up procedures.

Appropriate oil spill response training should be provided to the operating personnel on a regular basis and oil spill response drills be conducted to test the effectiveness of the SRP.

3.8.4 Design Phase Audit

The measures proposed within the EIA to mitigate for land contamination and risk to life and the environment should be embodied into the detailed design drawings and contract documents. Designs should be checked to ensure that the measures are fully incorporated and that potential conflicts with civil engineering, geo-technical, structural, lighting, signage, drainage, underground utility and operational requirements are resolved prior to construction.

The EM&A requirements for land contamination, hazard to life and risk to the environment comprise the audit during design phase. The audit should be focus on the integration of fuel spill control, leakage detection and leakage/spill containment into detailed engineering design.

Monitoring of design works should be undertaken as and when the designs are produced to ensure that they fulfil the integration of the mitigation measures. The design items for audit will include:

· pipeline leak detection and automatic shut-off system;

· pipeline rock armour protection;

· tank high level automatic shut-off system;

· bunding of tank;

· tank leak drainage isolation and containment system;

· on-site fire fighting equipment and system;

· jetty protection; and

· fuel delivery shut off valves.

The land and marine spill response plan should be audited to ensure its effectiveness in the event of an accident.

The ET should carry out the audit, review the designs as and when they are prepared and liaise with the design engineer to ensure all measures have been incorporated in the design in a format that can be specified to the Contractor for implementation.

4 Implementation Status on environmental protection requirements

The implementation status of environmental mitigation measures and requirements as stated in the EIA Report, Environmental Permits and EM&A Manual during the reporting period is summarized in Annex H.

However, the updated Implementation Status of the reporting period has not been received at the time of preparing the report.

5 Monitoring Results

5.1 Air and Noise Monitoring

Air and noise monitoring are not required for the project. However, weekly site inspection included the air and noise issues.

5.2 Water Quality

Water quality monitoring at the monitoring stations is only required during the dredging phase of the project. No dredging activity was conducted during the report period, thus water quality monitoring was not required.

5.3 Ecological Monitoring

5.3.1 Baseline (Pre-Construction) Monitoring

A baseline marine mammal monitoring was conducted before marine construction works for the Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility commence in accordance with the Environmental Permit (EP-139/2002/A). The baseline survey was conducted within 28 days of the construction works. Six, one-day surveys were conducted between 27^th October and 1^st November 2005. During the surveys, only one type of marine mammal, the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) or Chinese White Dolphin was observed. Sightings occurred throughout the entire survey area; however, more sightings occurred towards the north of the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park. Sightings of the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin were made during all of the survey days, with a minimum of 3 and maximum of 11 sightings recorded. The number of individuals ranged from 1 individual to a group size of 8 individuals; however, the majority (over 55%) were in group sizes of 1 to 2 individuals. All age classes of humpback dolphins were recorded including calves. For details, please refer to the ‘Baseline Review and Pre-Construction Phase Dolphin Monitoring Report’.

5.3.2 Spot Acoustic Monitoring

Acoustic monitoring took place on 18^th, 19^th and 21^st of November 2005 in Area 38, Tuen Mun from a piling barge. Acoustic and visual monitoring began at least 30 minutes prior to piling activities and continued until the piling work ceased. A total of 8 hours of acoustic monitoring took place over the 3 day period. During this time, no dolphins were detected within the 500m dolphin exclusion zone visually or acoustically.

The purpose of this study was to verify that visual monitoring of the 500m dolphin exclusion zone was effective. As no dolphins were detected within the 500m exclusion zone through out the survey period, it is not possible verify the visual observations within the conditions outlined. However, on 22^nd of November, one adult and one spotted juvenile were visually observed at a distance of 780m from the observation site and approximately 500m apart. No vocalisations were detected during this time on the hydrophone. Whilst certainly not quantitative, with the lack of any other data, this event could suggest that in this area of Hong Kong, under the survey conditions, the visual monitoring was more effective than acoustic monitoring for dolphin presence.

Although unlikely, it is possible that due to the heavy boat traffic across Urmston Rd and other construction activities taking place in Tuen Mun, vocalisations with in the 500m exclusion zone could have been masked by background noise. Previous acoustic studies of S. chinensis in this area have proven unsuccessful due to the levels of back ground noise in the area[2]. This survey was further hindered by the positioning of the tug-boat within metres of the hydrophone during acoustic surveying. The engine noise produced during this time would have masked any dolphin acoustic activity from a short distance.

Whilst this spot acoustic monitoring method could be useful in quieter areas of Hong Kong, it is unlikely under such acoustically challenging circumstances that this methodology would successfully confirm visual monitoring of the dolphin exclusion zone.

5.3.3 Underwater Noise Monitoring

Underwater Noise Monitoring was conducted for three days between 23^rd and 25^th November 2005 during the PAFF piling activity. However, the data is currently being processed and shall be available in the next EM&A Monthly report.

5.3.4 Visual Monitoring

As the piling activities were only conducted at Tuen Mun Area 38 during the reporting period, 500m exclusion zone was used for the marine mammal monitoring.

A qualified person was present to conduct the visual monitoring during and at least 30 minutes before the marine piling activities which were commenced. The ‘Begin Effort’ time, which was determined by the contractor, was the time the visual monitoring commenced. “Begin Effort’ time varied from 30 minutes to few hours before the actual piling activities began. Only Chinese White Dolphins (Sousa chinensis) have been spotted occasionally at or close to the site during the reporting period. Dolphins were spotted mostly outside the 500m exclusion zone, except two occasions (24^th and 25^th November 2005) that dolphins were found within the 500m exclusion zone. On the 24^th November sighting, no piling activity was conducted during the dolphin sighting and no dolphin was spotted during the dolphin clearance time. On the 25^th November sighting, no piling activity was conducted at the time of dolphin sighting and piling activities only began 30 minutes after no dolphin was present within the exclusion zone. The records of the visual monitoring conducted are presented in Annex I.

5.4 Waste Management

Auditing the contractor’s Waste Management Plan (WMP) is part of the EM&A requirements but we have not received the WMP at the time of preparing this monthly report. WMP will be audited upon the contractor’s submission.

5.5 Cultural Heritage

From the Marine Archaeological Investigation Report, two targets, which could not be examined by dive inspection, would need to be monitored during dredging of pipe trench. During the dredging of the pipe trench, a watching brief will be implemented where the trench intersects sub-surface targets SS1 and SS2.

As no dredging activity was conducted along the pipe trench during the reporting period, marine archaeological monitoring was not required.

5.6 Landscape and Visual

According to the EIA report and EM&A manual, mitigation measures and site inspection are required during the landscaping/planting works. However, no landscaping or planting works were conducted on site during the reporting period.

Our weekly site inspection included audits on landscape and visual issues to ensure that the site was in orderly acceptable manner.

5.7 Land Contamination, Hazard to Life and Fuel Spill Risk

According to the EIA report and EM&A manual, mitigation measures and design phase audit are required to minimise the risk of fuel spill and hazards. As there was no construction works related to such issues in the reporting period, audit on the mitigation design and measures was not required. However, weekly site inspection covered the waste management aspects which included measures to prevent land contamination by chemical wastes.

6 Environmental Site Auditing

· Weekly site inspections were carried out by the ET on the 21^st November, 3^rd and 10^th December 2005. The site was in good orderly manner and no non-compliance was found. However, water ponding was observed on the 10^th December near the pier.

Summary of Findings over the three site inspections:

Air Quality

· No noticeable dust emission was observed during the stockpile loading activity and vehicle movement within the site;

· Stockpiles were wetted at least twice a day to avoid dust emission;

· Stockpiles storage was concentrated in particular area to minimize potential wind erosion;

· Unpaved road was wetted regularly;

· Site temporary entrance/exit was paved and wheel-washing facility was provided at the site exit to avoid dust deposit in the access road;

Noise

· No noisy activity was found during the audit;

· Construction Noise Permit was issued for the marine piling activity;

· Silenced generator was used on the piling barge to reduce noise emission;

· Bubble jacket was used during the marine percussive piling activity;

Water Quality

· Wastewater treatment facility had not been installed on site. However, no wastewater discharge was found on site. According to the contractor, wastewater discharge license will be applied;

· Water ponding was observed at the pier near the piles storage;

· Manholes outside the site were free of sand;

· Chemical toilets were installed on site;

· No sediment plume was observed during the marine piling activities;

· Chemical waste was stored with drip tray in accordance with the code of practice;

7 Environmental Non-conformance

7.1 Summary of Environmental Non-compliance

No environmental non-compliance was found during the reporting period.

7.2 Summary of Environmental Complaint

Two environmental complaints were received during and before the reporting period. The ET’s Interim Reports and Complaint Logs of the two complaints were sent to EPD on the 25^th November and 5^th December 2005 respectively. A copy of the Interim Reports and Complaint Logs are attached in Annex J. A statistical summary of environmental complaints since project commencement is presented in Table 7.1.

Table 7.1 Statistical Summary of Environmental Complaints

Reporting Period	Complaint Statistics
	Frequency	Cumulative	Complaint Nature
Before construction works	1	1	Dust
18/11/05 – 16/12/05	1	2	Dust

7.3 Summary of Environmental Summons

No summons was received in this reporting period. A statistical summary of legal proceeding since project commencement is presented in Table 7.2.

Table 7.2 Statistical Summary of Environmental Summons

Reporting Period	Environmental Summons
	Frequency	Cumulative	Summon Nature
18/11/05 – 16/12/05	0	0	--

8 Future Key Issues

8.1 Key Issues for the Next One Month

Key issues to be considered in the next one month will include:

· Impacts on dolphins due to piling works;

· Noise from operating machinery and equipment; and,

· Dust release and suppression.

8.2 Impact Prediction for the Next One Month

Provided that environmental mitigation measures including good on-site practises are properly implemented, unacceptable adverse impacts are not expected to arise.

8.3 Works and Monitoring Programme for the Next One Month

Work programme for the next one month includes piling works. Monitoring of dolphin exclusion zone and bubble curtains will be conducted daily, as required. Regular site inspections will also be undertaken.

9 Recommendations and conclusions

9.1 Conclusions

The Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report presents the EM&A works undertaken during the period from 18 November to 15 December 2005 in accordance with EM&A Manual and the requirement under EP-139/2002, VEP-133/2004 and EP-139/2002/A.

Air and Noise monitoring were not required for the project. Water quality monitoring was not required as no dredging activity was implemented during the reporting period.

Marine Mammal Monitoring

Visual Monitoring and Acoustic Spot Monitoring were conducted for a total of three piling days in November 2005. No dolphin was spotted or detected within the 500m exclusion zone from the piling barge. Two Sousa chinensis were spotted visually at a distance of 780m from the barge but no vocalisation was detected by the acoustic monitor.

During the visual monitoring of marine mammal on the 24^th and 25^th November 2005, Sousa chinensis were found within the exclusion zone. No piling was conducted at the time of sighting and piling activities began at least 30 minutes after dolphin clearance from the exclusion zone.

Underwater Noise Monitoring

Underwater Noise Monitoring was conducted for three consecutive days in November. However, the data is still in process and the monitoring results will be discussed in the next EM&A monthly report.

Construction Waste Management

The contractor has not submitted the Waste Management Plan at the time of preparing this report.

Environmental Complaint

Two environmental complaints were received during and before the reporting period (31^st October and 24 November 2005) regarding dust emission from the site. EPD inspected the site on the 2^nd November 2005 and issued a record of inspection to the contractor for dust generation when vehicles were driven inside the site.

Environmental Summons

No environmental summons was received in this reporting period.

9.2 Follow up Action and Recommendation

The contractor is advised to implement suitable mitigation measures, in particular to ensure dust emission is avoided on site. Water truck was used at least twice a day to wet the soil and stockpile to avoid dust emission from wind erosion, loading activity and vehicle movement. The stockpiles were stored in particular area, rather than scattered places on site to minimise wind erosion. The use of tarpaulin sheet is also considered by the contractor for large quantities of stockpile storage.

The contractor indicated that wastewater discharge license for site drainage on site will be applied.

The ET will keep track on the EM&A programme to ensure compliance of environmental requirements and the proper implementation of all necessary mitigation measures.

^{([1]) Jefferson, T.A. and Leatherwood S (1997)
Distribution and abundance of Indo-Pacific hump-backed dolphins (Sousa
chinensis Osbeck, 1765) in Hong Kong waters.
Asian Marine Biology 14(1997):93-110.}

^{([2]) Ruxton, J., (2002) Vocal Repertoire of the Indo-Pacific
Humpback Dolphin, Sousa chinensis
(Osbeck 1765), in Hong Kong Waters. MSc Thesis, University
of Wales, Swansea.}