Top Environmental Groups in Hong Kong That’ll Motivate You to #MakeTheChange
Some people see climate change as a mere increase or decrease in temperature levels. However, the ever-changing climate patterns continue to pose a wide threat to humanity.
Giant companies especially in the United States and China are encouraged to take major steps to save the planet by limiting greenhouse gas emissions. According to experts, we only have nine years left to reverse the climate catastrophe. Thankfully, there are nonprofit and environmental groups that continuously work to help protect nature for the future generation.
Friends of The Earth (FoE)
This environmental group in Hong Kong was originally established as a charitable organization in 1983. At present, Friend of The Earth is one of the most renowned green groups in the region.
As a major environmental advocate for local and regional sectors, FoE spreads the word through education, campaign, and research. The group’s activities involve government and industrial and commercial sectors. This year, FoE’s projects include the following:
- Joint Submission for Comments on Guidelines for the Content and Format of Information Disclosure by Companies That Are Publicly Issuing Securities
- Submission on the Public Consultation on Producer Responsibility Scheme on Plastic Beverage Containers
- Submission for the Bills Committee to Study the Waste Disposal (Charging for Municipal Solid Waste) (Amendment) Bill
- Response to the 2021-22 Budget Consultation
Location: 2/F., 53-55 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Green Lantau Association
Serving as the protector of the Lantau Island, Green Lantau Association is an environmental organization in Hong Kong that takes a stand against the construction of a power station in the Lantau Country Park. It monitors development plans and projects that involve the natural environment of the city, especially the beautiful and historic island.
Some of the group’s accomplishments include the restoration of an illegal dumpsite, prosecution of parties responsible for discharges of contaminated liquids into water catchment areas, and protection of ecologically valuable fishponds, among others.
Location: Tai O Post Office Box No. 6, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Greenpeace
To achieve a green and peaceful world is the main mission of Greenpeace. This environmental organization in Hong Kong is an international group that began its ecological aspirations in the region in 1997.
As an independent green group, it relies on contributions from private individuals, supporters, and foundation grants. It is focused on strengthening environmental policies without compromising important projects on development.
The Greenpeace East Asia office is located in the fascinating neighborhood in Kowloon. It also operates in Beijing, Taipei, and Seoul.
Location: 10/F, Stelux House, 698 Prince Edward Road East, San Po Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
The Conservancy Association Hong Kong (CAHK)
Just like other environmental groups in Hong Kong, The Conservancy Association aims to stir a major change in preserving the environment and cultural heritage through community engagement and various partnerships.
As a watchdog for environmental sustainability, it promotes accountability, independence, professionalism, and transparency.
The CAHK is the longest non-government green group in the semi-autonomous region established in 1968. Some of its notable works include tree conservation, rural surveillance, conservation of cultural relics, and green education.
The organization also led the China Project, which is a collaboration with mainland China in preserving the country’s national nature reserves.
Location: 5A, Capri Building, 130 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Read more: FYI: Mother Earth is Dying Because of These Environmental Pollution Concerns
World Wide Fund For Nature Hong Kong (WWF-Hong Kong)
Previously known as World Wildlife Fund, this major green group changed its name to World Wide Fund for Nature.
WWF Hong Kong began by driving a campaign for nature reserves conservation. conserving nature reserves and continue to expand their mission by providing conservation and education needs of the former British colony.
The organization’s main projects involve conservation policy and recommendations, combat illegal wildlife trade, community engagement and education, protecting marine areas, and Hong Kong biodiversity.
Locations: Mai Po Visitor Centre, Tai Po Island House, Hoi Ha Marine Life Centre, Central Sustainability Hub, Long Ping Visitor Centre, and Kwai Hing Programme Office
Hong Kong Cleanup
Hong Kong Cleanup is a homegrown environment group that is constantly on the frontlines of ocean protection. They work together with activists, companies, enterprises, and non-government organisations to reduce waste and protect Hong Kong’s coastal areas. The environmental organisation also runs an annual cleanup drive to rid the oceans of plastic.
Location: Room 805-806, Home Centre, 369 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai District, Hong Kong Island
The Conservancy Association
Founded in 1968, The Conservancy Association is the longest-established environmental organisation in Hong Kong. The group is devoted to fighting for nature conservation through comprehensive campaigns and projects such as waste recycling, tree planting, single-use plastic, and wetland protection.
Location: 5A, Capri Building, 130 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Ark Eden Foundation
As a leading eco-education and permaculture centre in Hong Kong, Ark Eden Foundation seeks to raise the level of public awareness on environmental and social issues. Their projects and campaigns include educational workshops about the environment, nature-based immersions, and restorative activities that create a positive change in Hong Kong people’s mindset.
Location: 11 Tung Hang Mei, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Clean Air Network
Clean Air Network is an independent, non-government organisation that is devoted to educating the public about the impacts of air pollution. They advocate for policy and behaviour change in favor of healthy air in Hong Kong through projects such as community education programs, air data management, and “Getting Ahead” campaign to push for zero-emission bus fleets in Hong Kong.
Location: 23/F, Chun Wo Commercial Centre, Wing Wo Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Editor's Note: This article has been amended on July 15, 2022, to include more organisations.
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