Deputy Chief Secretary Warner Cheuk said on Saturday that Hong Kong is charting a greener future, and this will figure in its first five-year plan.

Speaking at a symposium to mark National Ecology Day, he said the goal was to improve the environment and make Hong Kong a better place to live.

"Hong Kong is currently drafting its first five-year plan. We will align it with the national 15th Five-Year Plan, advancing the goals of reducing carbon emissions and pollution, expanding green growth, improving ecological quality, and steadily transitioning towards a greener, more liveable Hong Kong," he said.

He stressed that despite being a highly developed city, Hong Kong still has a rich natural ecosystem. He said it includes country parks that cover 40 per cent of the territory, over 580 bird species, and some 6,000 marine species. He added that the government has been protecting biodiversity through various policies.

Cheuk noted that the government, together with more than 30 NGOs, has launched various offers and activities for National Ecology Day, including free access to facilities and free guided eco-tours.

Speaking at the same event, Legco President Starry Lee said lawmakers are deeply concerned about environmental protection, sustainable development, and ecological issues.

"Through the passage of bills, financial scrutiny, and the work of various committees, the Legislative Council has been closely following issues like air quality, waste reduction and recycling, marine protection, nature conservation, renewable energy, and green transport," she said.

"Council members have also actively put forward suggestions and raised questions on green finance, low-carbon buildings, the circular economy, and climate change – helping the government to push forward work in these areas over the longer term."




Edited by Robert Kemp