The new law requiring the use of ultra low sulphur diesel in industrial and commercial processes will be tabled to lawmakers on May 21, the Environmental Protection Department says. If endorsed, it will take effect from October 1, cutting local sulphur-dioxide emissions by about 2,480 tonnes a year.

Construction-designated areas under the Noise Control Ordinance will be expanded next year due to Hong Kong's development, the Environmental Protection Department says.

The Environmental Protection Department has rated water quality at 18 beaches 'good' for this weekend, including Lower Cheung Sha Beach which has upgraded from its 'fair' grading last week.

Law revisions will be tabled to lawmakers on May 21, making mandatory the provision of a refuse storage and material recovery room on every floor of new domestic buildings and the domestic part of new composite buildings from December 1, the Environmental Protection Department says.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang says the Government plans to donate $300 million to help Sichuan quake victims while a 20-member volunteer team has been set up to help with rescue work. The Government's Beijing and Chengdu offices will help Hong Kong people who might be stranded in that area.