Hong Kong customs intercepted 131 tons of electronic waste
(e-waste) and returned it to Japan last Saturday, said the local
authority on Monday.
The waste, mainly used computer monitors and television sets,
was sent back to Japan on the basis of understanding with the
Ministry of Environment of Japan that the waste import in question
was in violation of the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) in Hong
Kong, said the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) of Hong
Kong.
Eight containers packed with e-waste were received on February
12 and then returned to Japan with the assistance of the Japan's
relative departments.
The Hong Kong environmental department said import or export of
hazardous e-waste without a valid permit issued by the EPD is an
offense under the WDO. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of
HK$200,000 and six months imprisonment for the first offense.
(Xinhua News Agency March 6, 2007)
