The Crisis of Global Warming
37. Global warming has become a challenge to the international community. In light of their own economic, social and environmental characteristics, governments around the world have to formulate measures to strike a balance between economic development and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, with a view to achieving sustainable development. In the same vein, we should do our part to improve the regional environment. We have been taking vigorous measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. From 1995 to 2005, the energy intensity in Hong Kong, that is, energy consumed per unit GDP, dropped by 13%.
38. We welcome the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Leaders' Declaration on Climate Change, Energy Security and Clean Development recently adopted in Sydney. As an APEC member, Hong Kong will honour its pledge and seek to achieve a reduction in energy intensity of at least 25% by 2030 (with 2005 as the base year). To this end, the Government will endeavour to raise public awareness of climate change and to introduce energy saving measures at different levels. We will consult the public on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes by means of legislation. When we have completed the legislative work related to the Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme (first phase) for household electrical appliances early next year, we will start planning for the second phase.
39. To further reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Government will set an example by conducting a Carbon Audit and implement an emissions reduction campaign in the new Central Government Complex at Tamar. I believe that the business sector will respond positively by implementing measures in suitable commercial buildings for this campaign.
