1976 Enactment of the Country Parks Ordinance

It provided a legal framework for the management of Country Parks and Special Areas. A total of 24 country parks have been designated for purposes of conservation and recreation, and 22 special areas mainly for the purpose of nature conservation. These statutory protected areas account for over 40% of the total land area in Hong Kong. 

 

1981 The establishment of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD)

 

1995 Enactment of the Marine Parks Ordinance

Similar to the Country Parks Ordinance, it provided a legal framework for marine conservation in Hong Kong. It ensures prohibition and control of certain activities in marine parks or marine reserves.

 

2004 Introduction of the New Nature Conservation Policy

It was introduced to regulate, protect and manage natural resources that are important for the conservation of biological diversity of Hong Kong. Twelve “Priority Sites for Enhanced Conservation” have been identified, and the “Nature Conservation Management agreement Scheme” and the “Public Private Partnership Scheme” have since been implemented. 

 

2016 Launch of the first Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021

It was launched to enhance the conservation of biodiversity in Hong Kong and to support sustainable development, while focusing on mainstreaming biodiversity and cultivating greater public support and understanding.

 

2018 Establishment of the Country Conservation Office

To coordinate conservation projects that promote sustainable development of remote countryside. E.g. enhance countryside revitalisation in Lai Chi Wo and ecological conservation in Sha Lo Tung. 

 

2018 Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance Came into Effect

It was introduced to enhance regulations on import and export of endangered species products, as well as to increase penalties for illegal trade in endangered. 

 

2019 Establishment of the Advisory Committee on Countryside Conservation (ACCC)

To advise on the priorities for the conservation and revitalisation works proposals that will be carried out by the Country Conservation Office. 

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Although the government and related departments are constantly working towards a more comprehensive plan to conserve nature, there are also increasing environmental problems emerging in the past two decades. Problems like ocean warming, wildfires, melting of ice caps, and the problem of microplastics all seem to be getting worse. We do not hope that the above serves as an advertisement for any party, but rather a warning to those who care about conservation, that only policy is not enough to conserve our nature.