 underscored the urgent need for protection across several key sites.){kind=link}
19th December 2024 – (Hong Kong) The recent “Hong Kong Coral Reef Survey 2024” released by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has highlighted alarming instances of coral bleaching in local waters this past summer, emphasising the urgent need for enhanced marine conservation efforts in Hong Kong. As the Hong Kong Marine Conservation Alliance celebrates its second anniversary, it aligns its objectives with the global commitments made at the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15). A key demand from the Alliance is for the Hong Kong government to designate 30% of local waters as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) or protected by Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) by 2030.
The Alliance has identified four priority sites for marine protection: Pak Nai, Shui Hau, Port Shelter, and the Ninepin Group. These areas are critical for safeguarding Hong Kong’s diverse marine ecosystems, which, despite comprising only 0.03% of the South China Sea, host nearly 6,000 marine species—over a quarter of China’s total marine biodiversity. Currently, only about 5% of Hong Kong’s waters are designated as marine conservation areas, with less than 0.01% classified as “No-take Zones.” Without proactive measures, the region’s marine ecosystems face significant threats, including ecological crises and resource depletion.
David Baker, Interim Director of The Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS), outlined the benefits of establishing MPAs at the four proposed sites. These include raising public awareness about the importance of marine conservation, leveraging existing legal frameworks for prompt action, aligning with global conservation targets, dispelling misconceptions about the negative impacts of MPAs on fisheries, and acknowledging the biodiversity significance of Hong Kong’s waters.
Kelvin So from WWF-HK and Tom Chan from The Nature Conservancy (TNC) underscored the urgent need for protection across several key sites. Pak Nai is highlighted for its diverse habitats that are essential for endangered species such as the Chinese Horseshoe Crab and the Black-faced Spoonbill. This area also holds historical significance in oyster farming and is situated near other ecological hotspots. Recommendations for Pak Nai include the designation of intertidal zones as protected areas and the establishment of an interim management body to oversee conservation efforts.
Shui Hau is recognised for its rich coastal habitats, which are crucial spawning and nursery grounds for horseshoe crabs and support a wide variety of marine life. There is an immediate need for management to address human impacts, particularly from recreational activities.
Port Shelter is noted for its significant biodiversity, including various coral species and marine fish, but it faces threats from non-native species and fishing activities. The protection of this area is vital for maintaining its ecological integrity.
Finally, the Ninepin Group is home to one of Hong Kong’s largest soft coral communities, yet it is under pressure from both commercial and illegal fishing. Protecting this area is essential for sustaining marine habitats and preserving biodiversity.