Hong Kong’s Marine Conservation Gets Crucial Chance for Revival Through Citizen Action
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📰 The quick summary: Hong Kong’s marine conservation efforts lag behind land conservation with only 6% of waters protected, prompting The Nature Conservancy to urge stronger protection for vital ecosystems like oyster reefs during the current Biodiversity Strategy public consultation period.
📈 One key stat: Only about 6% of Hong Kong’s marine waters are protected, significantly below the global target of 30%, despite housing over 5,900 marine species.
💬 One key quote: “Ecological restoration presents a huge opportunity for nature and people. However, ecological restoration is not without its challenges, that’s why it cannot replace nature conservation, and should never be used to justify the destruction or degradation of ecosystems,” said Marine Thomas, Associate Director of Conservation, The Nature Conservancy Hong Kong.
1️⃣ The big picture: The Nature Conservancy is calling on Hong Kong residents to support stronger marine conservation measures in the government’s updated Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. Despite having incredibly rich marine biodiversity with over 5,900 species, Hong Kong protects only 6% of its waters, far below the global 30% target. Oyster reefs, which provide vital benefits including fish production and water filtration, have lost 85% of their global habitat over the past two centuries. The public now has a rare opportunity to influence policy through the consultation process open until July 11th, 2025.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: This public consultation opens a once-in-a-decade chance for citizens to advocate for healthier waters and stronger marine protections in Hong Kong. The Nature Conservancy and University of Hong Kong have already conducted territory-wide assessments proving oyster reef restoration is scientifically and technically feasible. Their recommendations include expanding Marine Protected Areas, initiating large-scale restoration of oyster ecosystems, and strengthening legal protections for endangered species. Successful implementation could lead to cleaner water, revitalized fisheries, and more resilient coastlines for future generations.
3️⃣ What’s next: TNC will submit formal recommendations to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and encourages public participation before the July 11th deadline. Interested citizens can email AFCD directly at bsap@afcd.gov.hk or visit their website for more details. The documentary “City of Shells: Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs” provides additional information about the importance of these ecosystems.
Read the full story here: Earth.org – The Nature Conservancy Urges Hong Kong Government to Prioritize Marine Conservation, Oyster Reef Restoration
