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RPVSC Paper 37/2009-10
For Information
1
Progress Report of ECF Funded Research Projects
Purpose
This paper updates Members on the progress of the on-going
and recently completed research projects funded by the Environment and
Conservation Fund (ECF).
Progress
2. As at 30 September 2009, there are 29 on-going research
projects funded by ECF. A summary of these projects in respect of its
approved project schedule, approved grant and outstanding commitment is
given in Table 1. Detailed progress of each project is given in the
Appendices 1 to 29 for Members‟ reference.
3. During the period 1 April to 30 September 2009, three research
projects funded by ECF were completed. A summary of these projects in
respect of its project schedule and total actual expenditure is given in Table 2.
Detailed progress of each project is given in the Appendices 30 to 32 for
Members‟ reference.
Next Report
4. The Secretary will submit the next progress report in six
months‟ time.
Secretariat, Research Projects Vetting Subcommittee
October 2009
2
Appendix 1
Project Number 07/2006
Project Title
Mechanism of the elevated algal proliferation in
intertidal shrimp ponds (gei wais) of the Mai Po
Nature Reserve
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Ji-dong GU of School of Biological Sciences,
The University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to conduct an intensive on-site investigation to
identify the environmental condition(s)
responsible for the active algal proliferation and
elevation of organic contents in gei wais as
compared with open marine and fresh waters;
(b) to investigate the potential effect of suspended
solids on algal growth in gei wais with matrix
experiments; and
(c) to substantiate the role of sediments as a
sink-and-source of pollutants in association with
the water quality of gei wais with simulation
experiments.
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the completion report, final
research report and financial statement. EPD and
AFCD have commented on the reports. Research
Office of HKU has been invited to assist in
coordinating the provision of responses-to-comments
from the PI.
Assessment/Remark -
3
Appendix 2
Project Number 08/2006
Project Title
A Study of the Impact of Apple Snails on
Macrophytes, Nutrients and Chlorophyll in Local
Wetlands
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Jian-wen QIU of Department of Biology, Hong
Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to quantify the feeding of apple snails on local
wild macrophytes;
(b) to examine the plant traits that determine the
food preference in apple snails; and
(c) to assess the consequences of such destruction
in wetland plant diversity, nutrient level and
algal biomass.
Latest Progress AFCD considered the third progress report
completed satisfactorily. The fourth disbursement
of $59,660 has been settled.
Pending submission of completion report, final
research report and relevant financial statement.
Assessment/Remark -
4
Appendix 3
Project Number 11/2006
Project Title
Ecological sustainability of vegetated steep soil
cutslopes
Principal Investigator (PI)
Prof. CHU Lee-man of Department of Biology, The
Chinese University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to study plant performance and growth
attributes on steep soil cover cutslopes
including soil-nailed cutslopes;
(b) to examine the effects of soil types, weathering
extent, slope gradient and water regime on plant
growth and root development; and
(c) to select suitable ground cover species for
cutslope revegetation in terms of plant
coverage, erosion mitigation and rooting
characteristics.
Latest Progress After examining the first progress report, Civil
Engineering & Development Department (CEDD)
noted that there was project slippage and advised
the PI to take remedial measures proactively in
order to ensure timely project completion with solid
research findings. The second disbursement has
been held.
The PI has recently submitted the second progress
report and relevant financial statement for the
period ending 30.6.2009. Pending comments from
CEDD on the second progress report.
Assessment/Remark -
5
Appendix 4
Project Number 1/2007
Project Title
A Survey of Light Pollution in Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Chun-shing Jason PUN of Department of Physics,
The University of Hong Kong
Project Summary
This project consists of three components:
(a) night sky brightness data will be taken across
Hong Kong over a one-year period using a
simple and portable device called the Sky Quality
Meter (SQM), around 30 groups of contributors
pledged to participate in the data collection
campaign;
(b) a public webpage will be set up to serve both as a
data input and reporting interface, and an
educational resource for the general public about
the issue of light pollution; and
(c) the data reported by all observers will be
analyzed to generate a map of the night sky
brightness level in Hong Kong. The results will
be released to the public through the webpage.
Latest Progress
The PI has submitted the completion report and final
research report. Professional comments from Hong
Kong Space Museum considered the project
completed satisfactorily.
Pending submission of relevant financial statement for
arrangement of final disbursement.
Assessment -
6
Appendix 5
Project Number 2/2007
Project Title
Easy identification of dinoflagellates: Phase I –
Rapid Identification of Dinoflagellates With
Protein/peptide Mass Fingerprints Obtained Using
MALDI-TOF Mass spectrometry
Principal Investigator (PI)
Professor Samuel CL LO of Department of Applied
Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong
Kong Polytechnic University
Project Summary
The project aims to develop a fast identification
method using peptide fingerprints obtained with
matrix-assisted-laser-desorption-ionisation mass
spectrometry. It will assist to develop an early
warning system of the occurrence of harmful algal
blooms.
Latest Progress
RPVSC approved the variation of individual budget
items by circulation in May 2009. No additional
fund is required from ECF.
The PI has submitted the second progress report and
relevant financial statement for the period ending
30.6.2009. EPD considered the progress report
completed satisfactorily. Pending comments from
AFCD on the second progress report.
Assessment/Remark -
7
Appendix 6
Project Number 4/2007
Project Title
Stock and Ecological Status of Sea Urchins in Hong
Kong: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Marine
Protected Areas (MAPs) Using Sea Urchins as
Model Organisms
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Tak-cheung WAI of the Swire Institute of
Marine Science, Department of Ecology and
Biodiversity of the University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to conduct a comprehensive literature review of
the diversity, abundance, distribution and
habitat preference of echinoderm species in the
Hong Kong marine environment;
(b) to conduct underwater surveys to investigate the
diversity, abundance, distribution and habitat
preference of commercially exploited species
(Anthocidaris crassispina), and other urchin
species in rocky, coral and sandy habitats; and
(c) to conduct an ecological study to test the
hypothesis that the number of size classes (i.e.
size range) and abundance of urchin
populations within MPAs are higher than those
unprotected outside MPAs.
Latest Progress AFCD considered the second progress report
completed satisfactorily. Third disbursement of
$65,430 settled.
RPVSC approved by circulation in August 2009, the
project extension for 6 months up to 31.3.2010. No
additional fund is required from ECF. Pending
additional progress report for the period ending
30.9.2009.
Assessment/Remark -
8
Appendix 7
Project Number 5/2007
Project Title
On the Public‟s willingness-to-pay for improved
acoustics of residential environments
Principal Investigator (PI)
Professor TANG Shiu-keung & Dr. CHAU
Chi-kwan of the Department of Building Services
Engineering of the Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Project summary
The objective is to explore the awareness of the
Hong Kong general public on their surrounding
acoustical environment and to understand whether
they are willing to pay for any improvement of the
acoustical environment. An extensive noise survey
combined with a specially designed willing-to-pay
survey with a special focus to the Hong Kong need
will be carried out.
Latest Progress The PI has recently submitted the second progress
report and relevant financial statement for the period
ending 30.4.2009. EPD considered the progress
report completed satisfactorily. Third
disbursement of $66,980 would be arranged.
Due to unexpected repair and maintenance of sound
level meters, adverse weather conditions (heat
waves and continuous rainy periods during
summer), the PI stated that there was the need of
rescheduling the majority of street interviews from
weekdays to weekends to increase the response rates
etc, and thus there was a slippage in the progress of
survey. The PI proposed extension of the project
period for 6 months up to 30.4.2010.
Assessment/Remark Having examined the progress report, EPD agreed that
there was a need to extend the project period so as to
complete the task. Details of proposed variation of
project period are given in RPVSC Paper 38/2009-10.
9
Appendix 8
Project Number 6/2007
Project Title
Investigation on the feasibility and enhancement
methods of wind power utilization in high-rise
buildings of Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. LU Lin, Vivien, of the Department of Building
Services Engineering of the Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to investigate the wind aerodynamics and wind
flows over the buildings in the urban areas for
wind power utilization; and to evaluate local
wind power over the buildings and potentials in
local urban areas;
(b) to address the strategies how to develop wind
power in local urban areas more effectively;
(c) to investigate and propose the optimal roof
shape (including its orientation) in favor of
wind power application;
(d) to study the buildings as a concentrator of the
wind for the Building Augmented Wind
Turbines (BAWT); and to propose the
utilization of the concentration effect of
buildings; and
(e) to provide informative data for local
government, urban planning, turbine
manufacturers, architects, civil engineers and
environmental engineers.
Latest Progress The PI has recently submitted the completion report
and final research report. EMSD has been invited
to comment on the report. Pending submission of
relevant financial statement from PI for arrangement
of final disbursement.
Assessment/Remark -
10
Appendix 9
Project Number 07/2007
Project Title
A study of the biodiversity of coral-associated
polychaetes in Sharp Island
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Jian-wen QIU of the Department of Biology of
the Hong Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The objectives of the study are:
(a) to establish a collection of voucher specimens for
coral-associated polychaetes, which can allow
retrospective examination;
(b) to provide detailed text description and
line-drawings of the key features to each species;
(c) to provide a list of polychaetes that are suitable
for live display, which can be used to enhance the
public appreciation of the beauty and diversity of
coral-associated animals;
(d) to produce an educational leaflet to show the
diversity and function of polychaetes in coral
ecosystems, and the common species in local
waters, and
(e) to provide information for AFCD to update the
webpages relating to the diversity of
coral-associated animals
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the second progress report and
relevant financial statement for the period ending
31.8.2009. Pending comments from AFCD on the
progress report.
Assessment/Remark -
11
Appendix 10
Project Number 08/2007
Project Title
Environmental education on river remediation and
ecological restoration: A case study on Shing Mun
River and Lam Tsuen River
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. K.C. Cheung of the Croucher Institute for
Environmental Science of the Hong Kong Baptist
University
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to quantify the sediment concentrations of
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs),
metalloid-arsenic (As), and heavy metals
including lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and chromium
(Cr);
(b) to investigate the fish and benthic
macroinvertebrate community structures in
relations to different sediment quality;
(c) to provide the communities with an access to
environmental knowledge, thus facilitating their
understanding of the important roles of
conservation and restoration.
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the first progress report and
relevant financial statement for the period ending
30.4.2009. EPD and AFCD have provided
comments on the progress report. The PI has just
provided his responses to the comments.
Assessment/Remark -
12
Appendix 11
Project Number 09/2007
Project Title
Enhancement of integrated heat pumps for energy
savings in hot water and air-conditioning at home
Principal Investigator (PI)
Prof. Michael K.H. LEUNG, Department of
Mechanical Engineering of the University of Hong
Kong
Project summary
The objective of this research is to develop compact,
energy-efficient integrated heat pumps for domestic
hot water and air-conditioning.
Latest Progress The PI has further refined the completion report and
provided relevant financial statement. Pending on
the PI‟s provision of the final research report and
record of seminar presentation before final payment
to be arranged.
Assessment/Remark -
13
Appendix 12
Project Number 10/2007
Project Title
Recycling of CRT glass from discarded computer
monitor and TV sets
Principal Investigator (PI) Prof. Chi Sun POON, Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering of the Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Project summary
To develop a technology to beneficially reuse glass
derived from recycling of cathode ray tubes (CRT)
generated from discarded computer monitors and TV
sets. The PI will assess the feasibility of replacing
natural aggregates by crushed CRT glass for preparing
concrete mixes and assess the radiation shielding
ability of the produced concrete mixes.
Latest Progress The project commencement has been deferred as the PI
reported difficulties in recruitment of suitable research
personnel. The project commenced on 3.8.2009.
Initial disbursement of $220,700 has been settled by
ECF and WWGF on equal-share basis.
Assessments/Remarks -
14
Appendix 13
Project Number 11/2007
Project Title
Developing a fully automated Close-Proximity
vehicle for measuring tyre/road noise
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. HUNG Wing-tat, Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering of the Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to demonstrate the proper application of tyre/road
measuring method as stipulated in the draft
ISO11819-2 locally in Hong Kong;
(b) to develop a full automated CPX tyre/road noise
measuring vehicle which can perform efficient
noise measuring, especially in the local narrow
road configurations of Hong Kong;
(c) to devise experimental setups to perform
certification tests for the CPX tyre/road noise
measuring vehicle necessary to meet all the
requirements as specified in the draft ISO11819-2
except that the test tyre may be a locally available
tyre;
(d) to perform road worthiness tests and trial runs for
this CPX tyre/road noise measuring vehicle;
(e) to develop a manual for the development and use
of this CPX tyre/road noise measuring vehicle in
Hong Kong; and
(f) to disseminate all technological materials obtained
from this project through a dedicated web-site and
training programmes to local engineers and
professionals.
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the first progress report and
relevant financial statement for the period ending
30.6.2009. Highways Department (HyD) considered
the progress report completed satisfactorily. Pending
comments from EPD on the report.
Assessments/Remarks -
15
Appendix 14
Project Number 1/2008
Project Title
Current Status and Direction for Green Purchasing in
Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI) Ms Linda WP HO of Green Council
Project summary
This project will determine the current status of green
purchasing for business in Hong Kong. Further,
through supplementary research and consideration of
comparable green procurement efforts and
accomplishments by local large corporations and in
other jurisdictions, a series of recommendations on
how to proceed with strengthening and advancing
green procurement will be formulated and provided to
appropriate policy-makers, government procurement
officials, and other interested parties.
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the first progress report and
relevant financial record for the period ending
30.6.2009. EPD considered the progress report
completed satisfactorily.
After studying the financial record, the PI has been
invited to provide clarifications on some budget items.
Pending responses from PI on this matter before
further disbursement of funds would be arranged.
Assessments/Remarks -
16
Appendix 15
Project Number 4/2008
Project Title
Studying landbirds in important bird habitats of Hong
Kong, especially in the Important Birds Areas (IBAs)
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Cheung Ho-fai of the Hong Kong Bird Watching
Society
Project summary
To conduct a systematic and scientific landbird survey
in important bird habitats to understand the real picture
of bird trends in the important bird habitats. The
census will cover every species including breeding and
wintering birds throughout the year.
Latest Progress The PI has submitted the first progress report and
relevant financial record for the period ending
31.3.2009. AFCD considered the progress report
completed satisfactorily. Second disbursement of
$49,075 has been settled.
Assessments/Remarks -
17
Appendix 16
Project Number 9/2008
Project Title
Environmental payback time analysis of
building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications
in Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. LU Lin, Vivien, Department of Building Services
Engineering of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to introduce environmental payback time
indicators, i.e. EPBT and GPBT, to measure the
sustainability of a BIPV system instead of money
payback time;
(b) to estimate the sustainability of all different types
of BIPV systems under HK weather conditions.
Power performance, thermal performance and
building material replacement will be considered in
the project;
(c) to conduct „energy audit‟ and „carbon audit‟ of
BIPV system in its lifetime;
(d) to investigate the factors which are influencing the
system sustainability;
(e) to provide environmental payback time indicators
for local PV applications; and
(f) to develop a set of software package to estimate
EPBT and GPBT of different types of BIPV
systems in Hong Kong.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
27.5.2009 with an approved budget of $406,000.
The project commenced on 1.9.2009. Initial
disbursement of $203,000 has been settled.
Assessments/Remarks -
18
Appendix 17
Project Number 11/2008
Project Title
Antibiotics and antibiotic resistant genes in potable
water and soil environment of Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Kelvin Sze-yin LEUNG of Department of
Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The project aims to ensure the safety use of Hong Kong
potable water in relation to antibiotics and antibiotic
resistant genes (ARGs). In order to determine the
concentrations of selected antibiotics, samples would be
collected at various locations in the upper East River
above the pumping of water to Hong Kong, in the water
before and after the treatment in Muk Wu Water
Treatment Plant and water from households in Hong
Kong.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
10.9.2009 with an approved budget of $465,680.
Pending PI‟s confirmation on the project
commencement date.
Assessments/Remarks -
19
Appendix 18
Project Number 12/2008
Project Title
The Impacts of South China Monsoon Climate
Variability and EI Nino on Hong Kong Air Quality
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Wen ZHOU of Department of Physics and
Material Science, City University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The project aims to study the relationships between
climate conditions and air quality in Hong Kong.
The differential and synergistic effects of
summer/winter monsoon climate, and the EI Niño/La
Niña will be investigated for their impacts on Hong
Kong air quality. An air quality warning system will
also be developed based on the relationship between
air pollution index (API) and South China monsoon
circulations.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
24.2.2009 with an approved budget of $249,880.
The project commenced on 16.4.2009. Initial
disbursement of $124,940 settled by ECF and WWGF
on equal-share basis.
Assessments/Remarks -
20
Appendix 19
Project Number 13/2008
Project Title
The Building Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP):
Initial Phase of Development
Principal Investigator (PI) Prof. Francis WH YIK of Department of Building
Services Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic
University
Project summary
The project aims to carry out necessary ground works
in preparation for launching the proposed Building
Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP), which aims at
enabling achievement of substantial improvements to
the energy efficiency of buildings in Hong Kong. It
includes the building energy simulation software
development and verification of its predictions.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
27.5.2009 with an approved budget of $1,983,120.
The project commenced on 1.9.2009. Initial
disbursement of $991,560 has been settled.
Assessments/Remarks -
21
Appendix 20
Project Number 15/2008
Project Title
Questionnaire on public usage of plastic bags before
and after the implementation of Plastic Bags Levy
Principal Investigator (PI) Ms Micelle AU Wing-tse of The Friends of the Earth
(HK)
Project summary
The project aims to evaluate the effectiveness and
public acceptability of Plastic Bags Levy by studying
public usage of plastic bags before and after the
implementation of scheme.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
24.2.2009 with an approved budget of $244,800.
The project commenced on 1.4.2009. Initial
disbursement of $122,400 has been settled.
The PI has submitted the first progress report and
relevant financial record for the period ending
30.9.2009. Pending comments from EPD on the
report before further disbursement to be arranged.
Assessments/Remarks -
22
Appendix 21
Project Number 17/2008
Project Title
Development of an Automatic Switching Off System
for Idling Engine to Achieve Enhanced Fuel Economy
and Improved Environment
Principal Investigator (PI) Mr. Kenny Siu-wai WONG of Hong Kong
Productivity Council
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to develop an automatic switching off (i.e. idle
stop) system for idling engine;
(b) to conduct research on identifying the most cost
effective technology and market available
alternative air conditioning system, and integrate
with the automatic engine switching off system;
and
(c) to integrate the automatic switching off system and
the new air conditioning sub-system to achieve fuel
saving and emission reduction
Latest Progress ECFC approved the project by circulation on
22.7.2009 with an approved budget of $3,008,150.
The project commenced on 5.10.2009. Initial
disbursement of $1,200,000 has been arranged by ECF
and WWGF on equal-share basis.
Assessments/Remarks -
23
Appendix 22
Project Number 18/2008
Project Title
2nd International Climate Change Conference
Principal Investigator (PI) Ir. Otto POON of Hong Kong Climate Change Forum
Limited
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to organise and conduct an international conference
on climate change;
(b) to build capacity and educate the Hong Kong
public and engage participating Hong Kong
professionals and students on the risks, solutions,
costs, benefits of mitigating greenhouse gas
emissions and preparing for adaptation to global
climate change;
(c) to facilitate Hong Kong participants to form
climate change knowledge and action networks
with their counterparts outside Hong Kong; and
(d) to communicate key messages to participants and
the Hong Kong public regarding scientific evidence
of the pace of climate change, and its relevance to
the current generation, and thereby strengthen
motivation for urgent action, locally and globally
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
24.2.2009 with an approved budget of $400,000.
The project commenced on 15.3.2009. Initial
disbursement of $200,000 has been settled.
Pending submission of first progress report and
relevant financial record.
Assessments/Remarks -
24
Appendix 23
Project Number 19/2008
Project Title
Waste Heat Powered Air-conditioning System for
Automobile
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. LAI Chi-keung of Department of Building and
Construction, City University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The project aims to promote the sustainable energy
use in transportation in Hong Kong by developing an
experimental adsorption-type automotive cooling
system that uses waste exhaust gas as heat (energy)
input.
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project by circulation on
27.4.2009 with an approved budget of $249,135.
The project commenced on 15.10.2009. Initial
disbursement of $124,560 has been settled.
Assessments/Remarks -
25
Appendix 24
Project Number 20/2008
Project Title
Quantitative measurement of acidic ultrafine particles
in the atmosphere
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. GUO Hai of Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to develop a novel method which can measure
ambient acidic ultrafine particles
(b) to assist in providing air quality assessment tools
specific to ultrafine particles
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project by circulation on
12.8.2009 with an approved budget of $1,279,360.
The project would commence on 1.12.2009. Initial
payment to be arranged accordingly.
Assessments/Remarks -
26
Appendix 25
Project Number 22/2008
Project Title
Study on the Feasibility and Cost-effectiveness of a
Hybrid Desiccant and Evaporative Cooling System
Applied in Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Fu XIAO of Department of Building Services
Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Project summary
The project aims to study a hybrid desiccant and
evaporative cooling system dedicated to application in
Hong Kong
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project by circulation on
12.8.2009 with an approved budget of $204,000.
The project will commence on 4.1.2010. WWGF has
agreed to share the funding with ECF on equal-share
basis. Initial payment to be arranged nearer the time
accordingly.
Assessments/Remarks -
27
Appendix 26
Project Number 25/2008
Project Title
Impact of Sea Urchin Bioerosion on Coral
Communities in Hong Kong
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Jian-wen QIU of Department of Biology, Hong
Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to determine the abundance and size-structure of
Diadema steosum and coral-eating gastropods, as
well as percent coverage of corals;
(b) to determine the size-dependent Diadema steosum
rate;
(c) to quantify the contribution of various biotic and
abiotic factors to sea urchin bioerosion; and
(d) to assess whether management intervention is
required to control sea urchin bioerosion in the
study sites
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project be circulation on
23.6.2009 with an approved budget of $249,940.
The project commenced on 1.8.2009. Initial
disbursement of $124,970 settled.
Assessments/Remarks -
28
Appendix 27
Project Number 05/2009
Project Title
Characterization of Bacterial Community Associated
with Skeletal Tissue Growth Anomalies in the Coral
Platygyra carnosus
Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. CHIU Man-ying of Department of Biology and
Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The objectives of this study are:
(a) to characterize and compare the bacterial
communities between healthy Platygyra carnosus
coral tissues and diseased ones with skeletal tissue
growth anomalies using conventional and
molecular microbial tools; and
(b) to generate important data for future coral
conservation and management purposes in local
waters
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
10.9.2009 with an approved budget of $249,960.
The project would commence on 14.11.2009. Initial
disbursement of $124,980 would be arranged
accordingly.
Assessments/Remarks -
29
Appendix 28
Project Number 14/2009
Project Title
International Conference on Solid Waste Management
for Sustainability in Resource Management
Principal Investigator (PI) Prof. Jonathan WC WONG of Sino-Forest Applied
Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment,
Hong Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The conference will deliberate on various issues
including:
(a) the strategies, planning and regulatory guidance
that would facilitate sustainable resource
management;
(b) technological developments that would facilitate
resource recovery from waste; and
(c) partnerships among the various stakeholders for
successful resource recovery programmes
Latest Progress RPVSC approved the project at the meeting on
10.9.2009 with an approved budget of $400,000.
Pending confirmation from PI on the project
commencement date.
Assessments/Remarks -
30
Appendix 29
Project Number 21/2009
Project Title
Climate Change Creativity - Creating a Low Carbon
Economy for Low Carbon Living - Climate Change
Conference 2010
Principal Investigator (PI) Ms Christine LOH of Civic Exchange
Project summary
The objectives of the project are:
(a) to raise awareness in Hong Kong about the
urgency, scale, risks, opportunity and global nature
of climate change;
(b) to highlight action and opportunities for further
action by showcasing public private initiatives in
Hong Kong to tackle climate change;
(c) to raise Hong Kong‟s international profile as a
centre for climate change “thought-and-action” and
as an innovator of low carbon living;
(d) to build capacity amongst local experts and
professionals through exchange of best practice,
expertise and experience with international
counterparts;
(e) to engage various sectors of the Hong Kong
community in climate change issues, including
youths; and
(f) to encourage discussion on the transformation of
the Greater PRD into a low carbon high quality
living region
Latest Progress ECFC approved the project at the meeting on
23.9.2009 with an approved budget of $5,421,319.
Assessments/Remarks -
31
Appendix 30
Project Number 16/2003 (Completed)
Project Title The use of biomarkers for ecotoxicological
assessments of persistent organic pollutants (POPs)
and heavy metals on birds at Mai Po Inner Deep Bay
Ramsar Site and other wetlands
Principal Investigator (PI) Prof M.H. WONG, Department of Biology of the
Hong Kong Baptist University
Project summary
The major aim of the proposal is to investigate the
potential use of feather and eggshells, instead of
eggs, to setup and evaluate biomarkers in birds for
risk assessment of POPs and heavy metals at Mai Po
Marshes. If significant correlations can be
established between the two (eggshells and feather,
with eggs), future biomarkers can be performed on
eggshells and/or feather, instead of eggs, which will
be more convenient and less invasive.
Summary of findings Distribution of metals and POPs in the sediments at
Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site shows that the source
of contamination was the nearby rivers (Kam Tin
River and Shenzhen River) and the Pearl River. High
biota-sediment accumulation factors (BSAFs) were
observed for bottom-dwelling and sediment-feeding
species, including both tilapia and mud carp,
indicating that POPs such as PAHs and OCPs could
be readily bioaccumulated in the bodies of these fish
species. The OCPs and PAHs data for ardeids in
Jiangsu Province revealed bioaccumulation of the
pollutants via exposure to both contaminated
sediment and fish. A significant linear regression
was obtained between OCPs concentrations in
ardeids eggs and prey fish, and the equation was
useful for estimating OCPs concentrations in ardeids
of at Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site. Significant (p <
0.05) linear regressions were also found between
heavy metal contents in different tissues of birds and
fish, including: eggshell-egg (for Cr and Pb),
feather-fish (for Cd and Cu) and eggshell-fish (for
Ni), which are useful for extrapolating heavy metal
contents in different waterbirds, including
endangered species. Biomagnification of methyl-Hg
from sediments to fish and finally to bird
eggs/feathers was identified in samples from Jiangsu
Province and the Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site.
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Although the Inner Deep Bay Ramsar site contained
the highest levels of total PCDD/Fs in the sediments
and fish compared with the sampling sites in Jiangsu
Province, bioaccumulation of dioxins in the feathers
of the birds at the Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site was
not as high as that at Jiangsu Province.
A battery of toxicity tests using different trophic
organisms, including bacteria, algae,
microcrustacean and plant, was used to evaluate
toxicity of sediments of Mai Po. Sediments (and
corresponding elutriates) of mudflat and gei wai 24g,
respectively, were shown to be the most and least
toxic in all tests (except the algal growth inhibition
test). The highest toxicity of the mudflat appeared to
be related to the higher concentrations of heavy
metals, PAHs and OCPs in the sediments. The
MicrotoxR solid phase test, Daphnia mortality test
and ryegrass seed germination / root elongation test
are suggested to be useful tools to evaluate sediment
toxicity of Mai Po and potential biological impacts
of the contaminated sediments to organisms. Intake
of heavy metals from artificial fish feeds led to
significant increase in hepatic MTs in tilapia.
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Appendix 31
Project Number 09/2005 (Completed)
Project Title
Development of a novel and low-cost membrane
bioreactor (MBR) for treating Hong Kong village
sewage
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Guang-hao CHEN, Department of Civil
Engineering of the Hong Kong University of
Science & Technology
Project summary
The aim of the project is to develop a novel and
low-cost MBR system for treating village sewage by
using recycled non-woven materials as the
membrane. The use of cheap membrane built from
recycled non-woven materials with normal aeration
strength enables development of an inexpensive,
easy-to-operate, low-cost and small-scale MBR
system suitable for use in village developments in
Hong Kong.
Summary of findings The main objectives of this pilot trial of our low-cost
MBR are 1) to demonstrate the quality of the
effluent from the integrated bio-treatment process
consisting of an anaerobic zone and an aerobic zone,
2) to evaluate the membrane module performance,
and 3) to explore its feasibility in treating village
sewage.
Objective 1: the pilot plant produced stable effluent
quality that met the Hong Kong secondary sewage
treatment discharge standards under varying flow
rates, water temperatures and sludge concentrations,
even when the maximum treatment capacity
increased from 2 (design) to 4 m3/day (actual).
Objective 2: the low-cost module performed better
than expected: i) the permeate flux rate was doubled
as compared to the proposed flux rate (2 m/day); ii)
membrane backwash was only once per 48 hrs; iii)
the air-to-water ratio could be as low as 18 (m3/m3);
and iv) neither in-tank nor off-tank chemical
cleaning was conducted up to the date of this report.
Objective 3: In view of the stable and good effluent
quality, the low operational cost similar to
conventional activated sludge processes, based on
the low air-to-water ratio (18), the low membrane
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backwash frequency (once per 48 hrs using 1.3 %
effluent), the low trans-membrane pressure (<0.3
bars), a short HRT (6 hr), minimal excess sludge
production, and automated membrane backwash.
Therefore, the proposed MBR technology is feasible
for village sewage treatment.
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Appendix 32
Project Number 06/2006 (Completed)
Project Title
To establish a three dimensional real-time marine
environment monitoring system in Hoi Ha Wan
Marine Park with connection to the internet
Principal Investigator (PI)
Dr. Robin BRADBEER, Department of Electronic
Engineering of the City University of Hong Kong
Project summary
The objective of the project is to extend the existing
2-dimensional marine area monitoring system of the
City University to a 3-dimensional monitoring
system by adding two more data buoy units in the
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park. The work involves the
setting up of a small DataBuoy I network to monitor
3 areas in the Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park. The data
will be collected approximately once every minute
and displayed at the Hoi Ha Visitor centre (on a
Mimic Panel) and on the website of the City
University.
Summary of findings The first finding of the project was the need to
design a sensor box that was strong enough to
survive boat collisions. With the continued
commercial fishing within the Hoi Ha Wan marine
Park, especially at night, the buoys were regularly
being netted and struck by boats. This caused
problems with the first sensor designs.
It is important to understand that the data collection
period occurred over the commissioning period
only. The expiry of the lease at the centre meant that
the equipment had to be removed after
commissioning. Nevertheless valid data sequences
were collected and analysed. This proved the system
function.
The DataBuoy project revealed several marine
conditions that were hypnotized but not yet detected.
These had to do with cold water inversion layers and
low salinity groundwater seeping up through the
seabed. The net combined result was the creation of
deep water hypoxia. Within the localized area of the
DataBuoys, it was possible to predict a localized
deep water hypoxia based upon rainfall data and the
temperature of the seawater near the seabed.
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