Protect Luk Keng Marsh, stop unauthorised developments

Friends of the Earth (HK) expresses great concern over the recent large-scale illegal filling at Luk Keng Marsh. Luk Keng Marsh is one of the 12 priority sites identified by the government for enhanced conservation; it is home to the scarlet dwarf—the smallest dragonfly in the world—and has extremely high ecological value. The area however has recently been hit by unauthorised filling activities and illegal occupation of government land spanning across one hectare. This incident revealed flaws in the current regulations and conservation policies, creating a serious threat to the wetland ecosystem.

List of Priority Sites for Enhanced Conservation (Photo Source: Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department)

scarlet dwarf (Photo Source: Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department)

Friends of the Earth (HK) urges the relevant government departments to take immediate action to stop said illegal activities and strengthen protection of Luk Keng Marsh:

1.Stop illegal activities immediately and hold those responsible accountable

Planning Department should follow up on the Enforcement Notice and Reinstatement Notice issued, and ensure the landowner restores the affected areas to their original state. A thorough investigation should also be carried out to prosecute and penalise the parties involved to prevent similar incidents in the future.

2.Strengthen enforcement and monitoring

The government should strengthen enforcement and monitoring by the relevant departments. Higher standards should be applied to Priority Sites for Enhanced Conservation to ensure ecosystems are protected.

3.Develop a long-term conservation plan

The government should improve the Nature Conservation Management Agreement Scheme to strengthen cooperation with green groups and academics; conduct regular ecological monitoring and surveys; and jointly promote wetland conservation and sustainable management.

4.Enhance public education and participation

The government should implement community education programmes to enhance public awareness of wetland conservation and its importance. It can collaboration with green groups to promote ecotourism and establish a public reporting mechanism to encourage citizens to participate in conservation work.

Luk Keng Marsh is one of Hong Kong’s few wetlands that still has rich ecological value. Its ecological function is crucial to the stability of the local environment. Protecting this precious land not only conserve biodiversity, but also demonstrates a long-term commitment to the city’s sustainable development.Friends of the Earth (HK) urges the government to step up on this incident, take immediate steps to curb illegal activities, and work together with the society to protect this precious wetland.