Arup and WWF-Hong Kong released their joint research report ‘Designing a Sustainable Rural Township With Nature-based Solutions’. The research provides practical insights for integrating Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into the planning of Hong Kong’s rural districts to drive the city’s sustainable development.
Citing Lantau’s Mui Wo as the prime case for examination, the research outlined similar challenges faced by peri-urban landscapes in Hong Kong, highlighting the importance of balancing economic and social development with environmental conservation. It proposes six actionable NbS for Mui Wo, also applicable to new development areas (NDAs): establishing a water buffalo park, developing an eco-shoreline, promoting regenerative agriculture, increasing aerial greening, building an integrated wetland treatment system, and river revitalisation.
These solutions aim to address the environmental challenges and enhance the overall sustainability of the area. The study will serve as a comprehensive guidebook for diverse stakeholders, including the government, developers and other related sectors, to prioritise sustainability in rural development, foster green financing and ultimately boost Hong Kong’s green economy.