To formalize the administrative EIA system, the EIA Ordinance was enacted in 1997 and became operational since April 1998. The Ordinance requires a list of Designated Projects, including major urban development and redevelopment projects, to conduct mandatory documentation and public consultation. These major development and redevelopment projects are listed under Schedule 3 of the EIA Ordinance and they are regarded as SEA in many developed countries. Details of the EIA Ordinance is posted on EPD's website http://www.info.gov.hk/epd/eia.

Schedule 3 of the EIA Ordinance

Major Designated Projects Requiring Environmental Impact Assessment Reports

1. Engineering feasibility study of urban development projects with a study area covering more than 20 ha or involving a total population of more than 100,000.
2. Engineering feasibility study of redevelopment projects with a study area covering more than 100,000 existing or new population.

Examples of SEA Reports for Development Plans under the EIA Ordinance Since 1998