Over HK$7.5 Million Granted for 12 Projects to Enhance Marine Ecology and Fisheries

2024-07-18

The independent Marine Ecology Enhancement Fund (MEEF) and Fisheries Enhancement Fund (FEF) have granted over HK$7.5 million for 12 projects, for a 12-month period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025. The funded projects are managed and conducted by universities, research organisations, and associations from the fisheries industry.

Over HK$6.3 million was granted by the MEEF to nine projects, covering topics such as the ecological impacts evaluation of microplastic pollution on blue carbon ecosystems; assessment of fish biodiversity and spatiotemporal spawning activity; study on the marine debris impact in the Greater Bay Area by examining the health status of stranded sea turtle; conservation of ardeids, and more.

Under the FEF, three projects received a total of about HK$1.2 million. One of the funded projects aims to enhance safety and fishing operation by installing new GPS and Beidou dual satellite receiver systems on small fishing vessels. The other two funded projects include a study of nano pearl powder for its antioxidant properties and protective effects on the detoxification of accumulated metallic toxins in the food chain; and a cuttlefish mariculture pilot project.

Applications for the MEEF and FEF are assessed and chosen by independently operated management committees based on criteria including the proposed projects’ objectives, past performance, methodology, manpower, resources and budget. The management committee comprises scholars and experts from related fields as well as representatives from green groups and fishermen’s associations. They will also monitor the progress and outcomes of the funded projects.

The MEEF and FEF are independent funds set up with the aim to enhance the marine environment, ecology and fisheries resources. Airport Authority Hong Kong has injected a total of HK$400 million into the MEEF and FEF, with about HK$93 million granted from the funds to support marine ecology and fisheries projects since its establishment.