Transforming IA with AI and Innovations – a case sharing from Hong Kong

ID: 1679

Presenting Author: Hang Wui, William WONG

Session: 598 - Engaging Communities: Digital Storytelling for Trustworthy IA

Status: pending


Summary Statement

Discover how Hong Kong's new integrated waste management facilities used smart tools, AI and digital storytelling to enhance post-EIA transparency, readability and credibility.


Abstract

Traditional Impact Assessments (IA) sometimes face challenges in credibility, transparency, and community engagement, leaving room for misinformation and eroding public trust. This presentation highlights how the integrated waste management facilities that was recently built on an artificial island in Hong Kong used innovative technologies to enhance credible post-EIA monitoring and digital storytelling. To overcome the complexities of monitoring at this remote site, the authority applied advanced solutions including surveillance cameras, drone mapping, and GIS, which have significantly driven efficiency and intelligence for the performance-checking activities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when physical inspections were constrained. In view of the considerable volume of monitoring data and information gathered throughout the Environmental Monitoring & Audit (EM&A) process, a visualisation tool was developed to enhance data manipulation and analysis. Furthermore, while the construction entered foundation stage, an AI noise detection system was developed. The system enabled remote access to real-time noise monitoring data round the clock and would generate notifications when piling activities are detected at restricted hours to ensure prompt follow-up when there is suspected non-compliance with regulatory requirements. The presentation will also showcase how the Hong Kong Environmental Database contributes to facilitating effective assessments, improving IA credibility, and fostering meaningful stakeholder engagement, along with its the latest development.


Author Bio

Mr. William WONG is an Environmental Protection Officer at the Environmental Protection Department responsible for environmental planning and EIA process in Hong Kong.


Coauthor 1: Sze Wah, Celine MAK

Coauthor 2: Clara U

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