Kwai Chung Incineration Plant

Kwai Chung Incineration Plant (Chinese: 葵涌焚化爐) was one of four incineration plants in Hong Kong. It was on the reclaimed land of Gin Drinkers Bay, Kwai Chung, near Tsing Chau and Rambler Channel.

The plant was opened in 1978 for handling the solid wastes of Hong Kong.

Cease of operation

In 1989, the Hong Kong Government issued a White Paper, "Pollution in Hong Kong - A Time to act". After considering air pollution to the environment and the health of residents, it decided to cease using incineration as a way of disposing solid waste. This decision was later suspended, and the Hong Kong Government is as of 2008 considering to construct new incinerators. [ [http://energy.cleartheair.org.hk/2008/01/30/incinerator-the-best-option-for-hong-kong-rubbish/ Incinerator The Best Option For Hong Kong Rubbish] - Blog entry by Clear the Air, January 2008]

In May 1997, Kwai Chung Incineration Plant ceased to operate, following Lai Chi Kok Incinerator Plant (1991), Kennedy Town Incineration Plant (1993) and Mui Wo Incineration Plant (1994) [ [http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/dioxins/english/incineration_faq.htm FAQ on incineration] from the webpage of The Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department.] .

Demolition

Although the plant ceased its operation in 1997, it was not completely demolished then. The site was found to be contaminated with dioxin, furan, asbestos, heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbon. Special treatments are needed during demolition.Fact|date=August 2007

Demolition of the building and 150 meter (492 feet) high chimney was initiated in 2007. [ [http://www.kcip-ema.com/Main.htm Kwai Chung Incineration Plant Demolition and Decontamination Works ] , Contract on the demolition]

References