Eric Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government,  delivers an opening speech at the National Ecology Day Launching Ceremony in Hong Kong on Aug 15, 2023. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

HONG KONG - The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government held a launching ceremony on Tuesday in support of the country's designation of Aug 15 as the National Ecology Day.

The protected land area in Hong Kong accounts for 40 percent of the territory, which is better than many cities with similar economic development, said Eric Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the HKSAR government

A series of activities were held by the HKSAR government to promote the importance of pursuing ecological civilization and increase public awareness of environmental protection.

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Eric Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the HKSAR government, said at the ceremony that both Hong Kong and the mainland attach great importance to ecological conservation. Hong Kong has a total land and water area of only over 2,700 square km, but it has diverse natural habitats and rich biodiversity.

The protected land area in Hong Kong accounts for 40 percent of the territory, which is better than many cities with similar economic development, Chan added.

The HKSAR government held various special activities in support of the National Ecology Day, including free admission to eco-facilities, free guided eco-tours, night safari, workshops, seminars and distribution of souvenirs.

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There was an endless stream of visitors at the Hong Kong Wetland Park on Tuesday. Among them were Ms Cheng and her two sons. She said the park showcased the diversity of Hong Kong's ecosystem and the educational facilities there helped children enhance their awareness of environmental protection and ecological balance.

On June 28, the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress voted to designate Aug 15 as the National Ecology Day.