The community will have the chance to help directly shape long-term government policies under the 'Engagement Process' launched by the Council for Sustainable Development.

This was the message today from Chief Secretary for Administration Donald Tsang, who described the process as "a new type of consultation".

He urged citizens to register for the forums and workshops that will be held from late September to early November to gather feedback on sustainable directions for Hong Kong in three key areas - solid waste management, renewable energy and urban living space.

"These workshops will be open to the general public, and will be a key element of the council's engagement process. The council is genuinely seeking the community's views on the long-term sustainability of our city," he said.

HK concerned about future well-being

At the council's meeting today, Strategy Sub-committee Chairman Dr Edgar Cheng reviewed feedback so far on the council's invitation and response document, entitled Sustainable Development - Making Choices for Our Future, which was issued in July.

Noting 400 responses have already been posted on the interactive Sustainable Development Strategy website, and nearly 100 written responses and questionnaires had been received, Dr Cheng said the good response reflects Hong Kong people's concern about the well-being of future generations.

"It is important we build upon this initial response by engaging the community in more direct discussions and debates," Dr Cheng said.

"To this end, we will hold the workshops in different districts of Hong Kong, and encourage people from different sectors to take part."

The council plans to consider reports and recommendations on the way forward for Hong Kong's Sustainable Development Strategy in December.