Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2035: Building a Beautiful Hong Kong Where People and Nature Thrive in Harmony

South China Morning Post · Feb 25, 2026 · Collected from RSS

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[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]Achievements of the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action PlanIn 2016, the Government launched the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP), working in concert with all sectors of the community to protect Hong Kong's precious ecological resources and advance sustainable development.The initial phase of the BSAP has yielded significant achievements, including the designation of new marine and country parks to expand the network of protected areas; a comprehensive ban on the local ivory trade, demonstrating the city's firm commitment to combating wildlife crime; and the integration of biodiversity considerations into urban planning and development projects, leading to the creation of more blue-green infrastructure with nature-friendly designs. Furthermore, a range of educational initiatives has been introduced to enhance public understanding and conservation awareness. These include biodiversity festivals and exhibitions, the incorporation of biodiversity topics into school curricula, and the launch of the Hong Kong Biodiversity Information Hub (HKBIH).The Next Phase of the BSAPBuilding on the success of the first phase, and taking into account the latest international and national initiatives, including the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and China’s updated national BSAP, as well as feedback from public consultation, and the new challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong, the Government launched the updated BSAP on 31 December 2025.The updated BSAP sets out 10 overall targets to be achieved by 2035, and puts forward four strategic areas comprising 30 priority actions and 81 priority projects. It is designed to guide all sectors of society in jointly advancing both nature conservation and economic development in parallel, thereby putting into practice the important principle emphasised by President Xi Jinping that “lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets”.Area 1: Nature ConservationThrough integrated, area-based measures, protect ecosystems and species for maintaining and restoring biodiversityExample priority actions include strengthening management of high ecological value sites outside protected areas (e.g. Shui Hau and Sharp Island) and establishing a wetland conservation network (including the Sam Po Shue Wetland Conservation Park), to reinforce protection of critical habitats and enhance habitat connectivity.Area 2: Deepening MainstreamingPromote biodiversity conservation as a shared responsibility across all sectors of society, ensuring it becomes an integral part of the economy, urban development and community practicesVarious sectors of society can participate and contribute in different ways. For instance, NGOs and educational institutions can promote education and community engagement projects to deepen the public’s connection with nature. Meanwhile, stakeholders involved in urban development can adopt “Nature-based Solutions” (NbS) and wildlife-friendly designs in their projects, integrating biodiversity conservation concepts into the urban landscape.Area 3: Capacity BuildingEnhance Hong Kong’s biodiversity conservation capacity through education, professional development, and technological innovation, empowering everyone to make a tangible contributionFor examples, strengthening environmental education and ecological field learning within school curricula and STEAM programmes; applying new technologies (e.g. drones and artificial intelligence) to improve ecological monitoring capabilities; and exploring opportunities to establish commercially operated urban farms in suitable urban and new development areas.Area 4: Collaborative PartneringExpand and strengthen partnerships across regions, sectors and communities, implementing complementary measures to jointly safeguard our shared natural environment and resourcesThrough regional cooperation, governments can more effectively combat wildlife crime and protect habitats along migratory routes. Enhanced knowledge sharing and technical exchange with the international community helps Hong Kong learn from best global practices, optimise conservation efforts, and improve ecosystem management efficiency.Everyone Can Play a Part Safeguarding Hong Kong’s biodiversity is everyone’s responsibility. The BSAP is not merely a government document but an open invitation for all citizens to participate. Whether you are a student, an office worker, an entrepreneur or a retiree, you can do your part.With collective efforts across all sectors of society, we can transform Hong Kong into a more liveable, resilient and beautiful home where people and nature thrive in harmony. Together, let us protect Hong Kong’s natural heritage for ourselves and for generations to come!Find out more about the updated BSAPInformation Source: Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Co-organiser for Promotion: Environmental Campaign Committee Funding for Promotion: Environment and Conservation Fund