Hong Kong authorities have assured that a planned marine park around Sharp Island will protect most coral reefs, addressing Greenpeace's concerns about insufficient coverage. Underwater mapping confirmed major coral spots fall within the proposed 63-hectare boundary.
Hong Kong authorities are considering a pilot booking system for popular hiking routes and a new marine park at Sharp Island due to large crowds during mainland Chinese holidays. The aim is to control visitor numbers, protect trails, and improve visitor experience.
Sharp Island and High Island Reservoir experienced high visitor numbers on Friday, with officials deploying extra staff to manage crowds. The surge, linked to social media promotion, has sparked concerns regarding potential ecological damage from overtourism.
WWF-Hong Kong staff approached a mainland Chinese tourist family on a beach in Sai Kung after their son was spotted collecting crabs, prompting the release of the animals. Authorities have increased patrols on the island ahead of the May 1 holiday, which lasts five days on the mainland but only one day in Hong Kong.
Mainland Chinese tourists visiting Hong Kong's Sharp Island for its tombolo also gained an appreciation for local coral reefs and marine life, thanks to increased government promotion and protection efforts.
About a dozen visitors were observed removing small crabs and shells from a tombolo on Hong Kong's Sharp Island on Friday, the first day of mainland China's five-day Labour Day golden week. Conservation officers and WWF-Hong Kong staff confronted the visitors and issued warnings. A 42-year-old mainland tourist surnamed Chen released the crabs his son had collected after being approached by staff.
Hong Kong's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department announced extra protection measures for Cheung Chau island during the Labour Day holiday, deploying 11 officers and 5 marine staff daily. The department is seeking to turn the bio-sensitive tourist area into a marine protected region to enforce conservation laws. An estimated 1,000 visitors daily are expected during the five-day golden week, with 6 million passenger trips projected across all entry points.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department announced extra protection measures for Cheung Chau island during the Labour Day golden week, deploying 11 officers and five marine staff to patrol and monitor visitor behaviour. The department is seeking to turn the bio-sensitive area into a marine protected region to enforce conservation laws. An estimated 1,000 visitors daily are expected during the holiday period, while Hong Kong anticipates 6 million passenger trips from May 1-5.
