In support of the government's environmental objectives, the department has incorporated in-depth environmental considerations in its projects, from inception to implementation, to minimise pollution, conserve resources and protect the natural environment.

In meeting these goals, the department is committed to:

We are mindful of the environmental objectives when planning new facilities and maintaining existing facilities. Where there are international professional standards and requirements such as those on lux levels, we adopt them as benchmarks for different facilities. High efficiency lighting systems (electric lamps, optical fibres and fluorescent tubes) are also used to achieve energy savings as far as possible. Furthermore, we are committed to maintaining the 25.5°C room temperature target set by the government for the summer months. Where for essential operational reasons, there are deviations from the target in certain areas of specific venues such as museums, sports centres and performing arts venues, we will monitor closely the room temperature and work closely with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department to exercise suitable restraint over the use of electricity and reduce consumption as far as possible.

Other major environmental efforts include:

•	upgrading existing landscaped areas and planting more trees and shrubs;
Slope Beautification Programme at Nam Cheong Park.
•	launching greening education and community involvement programmes, such as the Hong Kong Flower Show, the Community Planting Day and the Green Volunteer Scheme;
•	conducting educational programmes to promote heritage preservation among the public;
•	exercising vigilance in the use of water for watering plants and for water features in major parks;
•	carrying out Energy/Environmental Audits in collaboration with power companies, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and the Architectural Services Department;
•	using ozone sterilisation or electro-chlorination systems as sterilising agents in swimming pools;
•	using green products sourced from the Government Logistics Department;
•	engaging contractors to recycle old books, magazines, newspapers, waste paper and printer cartridges;
•	organising the Book Donation and Sale Campaign;
The Book Donation and Sale Campaign attracts tens of thousands of people every year.
•	using waste separation bins at venues for the recovery of waste paper, aluminium cans and plastic bottles; and
•	carrying out energy saving improvement work at venues, where practicable.

In addition, environment-related policies are reviewed through the Departmental Committee on Environmental Efforts chaired by the Deputy Director (Administration) with representatives from the two operational branches of the department. The committee also assists in coordinating practices and monitoring their implementation throughout the department. In November, the fifth environmental report was issued to cover detailed activities of the department in this area.

The Task Force on Energy Savings operates under the Departmental Committee on Environmental Efforts. It ensures that green housekeeping practices were strictly adhered to at all venues and offices. It also proactively explores ways to promote energy saving efforts, including conducting energy audits to identify good energy management practices.