3 conservation projects underscore global airports’ environmental sustainability efforts

#2: Hong Kong (HKG) supports local sustainability projects with environmental fund

In addition to its efforts at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to reduce its environmental footprint, Hong Kong Airport Authority (HKAA) supports the initiatives and activities of local non-profit organizations promoting environmental protection in Hong Kong through its Environmental Fund. 

HKAA established the Hong Kong International Airport Environmental Fund in 2011, and has awarded the fund to a variety of initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, including the conservation and research of Chinese white dolphins, the monitoring of Lantau sea grass coverage and the monitoring of terrestrial non-native insect species in Hong Kong. 

Most recently, HKAA awarded non-profit Green Power Limited over US$4 million in funding for its In-To Tung Chung River Project. The project aims to conserve the biodiversity of Tung Chung River through regular water quality and ecological monitoring, as well as a public engagement program. Funding for the program began in March 2018 and will continue through March 2021. 

Tung Chung River is one of Hong Kong’s few natural rivers with good water quality, is the main water supply for Shek Pik Reservoir and has high ecological value. It is home to several native freshwater fish species, including the rare Acrossocheilus beijiangensis. Mangrove forest and mudflats along the river estuary also provide a habitat for other wildlife species.