HK mulls visitor caps and marine park expansion to safeguard ecology

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the government is studying the carrying capacity of Hong Kong’s popular nature spots to strengthen management and strike a balance between tourism and environmental conservation.

Speaking ahead of his Executive Council meeting on Tuesday morning, Lee said many of Hong Kong’s ecological sites have become popular with both locals and visitors, with relevant departments now evaluating the maximum number of visitors such areas can accommodate, formulating management and traffic control measures to prevent overuse and ecological damage.

He added that the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) is exploring the feasibility of expanding the boundaries of marine parks to include ecologically important coastal zones.

Lee’s remarks came after incidents during the National Day “Golden Week” holiday, when tourists were seen trampling corals and damaging the marine environment on Sharp Island in Sai Kung.

The Hong Kong leader stressed that the government attaches great importance to environmental protection and will make thorough preparations during periods of high tourist arrivals.

Joint departmental operations will be conducted at popular nature and hiking sites, while additional signage will be installed to remind visitors to protect the environment. Authorities will also step up enforcement against violations, said Lee.

“We will learn from experience and continue to improve, so that tourism and conservation can develop in harmony,” he said.

He also said the government will use social media platforms to promote environmental awareness among visitors.

Citing Sharp Island as an example, Lee said the AFCD will enhance communication with ferry operators, diving clubs, snorkelers, and tourists to educate them on marine life protection and responsible snorkeling practices.