Hong Kong’s 63-hectare Sai Kung marine park to protect key coral reefs
Underwater mapping reveals 63-hectare park covers most major coral sites.
Hong Kong authorities have unveiled plans for a 63-hectare marine park surrounding Sharp Island in Sai Kung, designed to protect the region’s most ecologically sensitive coral reefs. During a briefing to the Country and Marine Parks Board, senior marine conservation officer Janet Lee Ka-wai confirmed that underwater mapping technology guided the boundary assessment, ensuring coverage of major coral spots from last year’s reef survey. The park will sit within the UNESCO Global Geopark, balancing conservation with recreational use.
Environmental group Greenpeace previously raised concerns that the park neglects areas to its north and south, and at 63 hectares it would be among the smallest of Hong Kong’s eight existing marine parks. However, Lee argued the scientific evidence supports the proposal as protecting key ecological sites and the most threatened areas while accommodating other users. The park spans both the western and eastern sides of Sharp Island, a popular visitor destination.
- The proposed marine park covers 63 hectares around Sharp Island in Sai Kung.
- Underwater mapping technology was used to assess coral coverage and identify key ecological sites.
- Greenpeace noted the park would be one of Hong Kong’s smallest, excluding areas to the north and south.
Why It Matters
Balancing coral conservation with public access, the park sets a precedent for data-driven marine protection in Hong Kong.