While supporting the use of natural gas as a cleaner fuel for power generation, the undersigned environmental groups find the prospect of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal on South Soko Island to be unacceptable.

The inevitable impact caused by the construction and operation of the proposed LNG terminal to the ecology at and around the Soko Islands, including the Chinese white dolphin, is not justified

Viable alternative options exist for the provision of a reliable gas supply to Hong Kong. We do not believe Hong Kong should solve one environmental problem by creating another.

The Sokos and surrounding waters are of high conservation value and in 2002 were proposed and endorsed by the Country and Marine Park Board as a new Marine Park, awaiting the final approval of the Chief Executive in Council.

The Sokos waters are also unique in being the only location where the Chinese white dolphin and the Finless porpoise co-exist in local waters. The Sokos are one of the most frequently used areas by the Chinese white dolphin, and are spotted there throughout the year, and are used by the Finless porpoise as a nursery ground. Furthermore, the area is an important fishery spawning and nursery ground.

Related link: http://www.wwf.org.hk/eng/conservation/nogoatsoko/index.php