Climate change brings about more severe weather and poses an unprecedented challenge for us. Scientists told us that if we make concerted and imminent mitigation efforts, we could avert the impact at lower cost.

Being part of the international community, we should contribute to the solution. In the 2008/09 Policy Address, the Chief Executive announced that the Government will make early preparations to meet the challenge of climate change. In particular, we will enhance energy efficiency which will not only reduce energy usage, but also save on energy bills. At the same time, using clean fuels and relying less on fossil fuels also help reduce our carbon footprint. Across the world, promoting low carbon economy – an economy based on low energy consumption and low pollution – has emerged as a new driver of economic growth.

The Environmental Protection Department commissioned a consultancy study in 2008 to review and update the local inventories of greenhouse gas emissions and removals; assess the impacts of climate change in Hong Kong; and recommend long-term strategies and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as to adapt to the unavoidable effects of climate change. The Consultants have carried out a series of topical studies and taken into account views of major stakeholders expressed at technical workshops.

This consultation paper presents the proposals drawn up from the consultancy study. We would like to seek comments from the people of Hong Kong on our city’s climate change strategy and action agenda for the coming decade, including our proposal on a carbon intensity reduction target for Hong Kong by 2020. The delivery of the target requires joint efforts of the community. I look forward to your input and support as we chart the way forward for Hong Kong as a low carbon city.

Edward Yau
Secretary for the Environment
September 2010