YEA 4th Edition, Day 7: Human Library Insights and Exploration from Hong Kong Observatory and Tsui Ping River

On 12 August, the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) programme marked another fruitful day filled with enriching experiences and meaningful connections. The day opened with the much-anticipated second round of the Human Library session, where six distinguished policy makers and environmental professionals generously shared their insights with our students. The guests included Mr Eric Wong, Assistant Environmental Protection Officer from the Environmental Protection Department (EPD); Ms Shirley Fong, Senior Environmental Protection Officer also from EPD; Ms Ashley Yiu, Engineer from the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department; Mr Timothy Lau from the Central and Western District Council; Mr Calvin Au, a public policy researcher; and Ms Eliza Chan, Chief Experimental Officer from the Hong Kong Observatory.

Throughout the morning session, the students engaged deeply with the speakers, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating impressive knowledge about environmental issues. Mr Eric Wong concluded the Human Library by expressing how impressed he was with the students’ thorough preparation and genuine enthusiasm. Ms Shirley Fong thanked the students for their keen interest in her sector and noted that the meaningful questions posed reflected their serious commitment. Ms Ashley Yiu appreciated the curiosity students showed in engineering and building energy topics, emphasising the importance of energy conservation in buildings and encouraging everyone to take small steps for a collective positive impact across Hong Kong. She also pointed students towards her department’s comprehensive online information pack on energy saving.

Mr Timothy Lau praised the clarity some students had about their career paths, encouraging them to explore their passions broadly and to embrace new experiences and friendships that can benefit their personal and professional growth. He shared how his own journey into public service began with an internship at the district council during high school. Mr Calvin Au was pleasantly surprised by the students’ solid understanding of local policy debates and candidly admitted he learned much from their insightful questions. Ms Eliza Chan thanked the students for their curiosity about meteorology and urged them to continue exploring online resources to satisfy their interests.

The afternoon was equally engaging as students visited the Hong Kong Observatory in Tsim Sha Tsui. Ms Lily Leung from the Observatory team provided a captivating introduction to the institution’s history and operations, including a video explaining the creation of the Observatory’s iconic logo and name. Students were fascinated to learn that, beyond daily weather forecasts, the Observatory plays a crucial role in supporting sectors such as aviation and ferry services to ensure public safety.

At the Central Forecast Office, Mr Ryan Lee gave an enlightening talk about the complex process of weather forecasting. He explained how their team must first understand current weather conditions, including high-altitude air patterns, and then use this data combined with human expertise and artificial intelligence to predict future weather accurately. Mr Lee also introduced technologies such as radar systems for rain detection and artificial satellites to monitor cloud patterns, giving students a clearer picture of the Observatory’s sophisticated work.

The group then toured the weather forecast green screen filming studio, where Mr Ryan detailed the daily routine from gathering information to scriptwriting, makeup, filming, and broadcast distribution. The students eagerly took turns trying their hand at presenting weather reports, an experience that many found exciting and memorable. The visit concluded at the Exhibition Hall, where students explored historical models and relics of the Observatory. Mr Lee shared fun facts about how time was once determined using the sun and the Time Ball before the advent of modern clocks. They also visited the outdoor thermometer shed housing traditional dry- and wet-bulb thermometers. Inspired by the day’s experience, two students expressed their ambition to join the Hong Kong Observatory team in the future.

Following this, the group travelled to Kwun Tong to visit the Tsui Ping River, with Mr Felix Wong from Drainage Services Department hosting a detailed tour. Mr Wong introduced their four major goals for the river revitalisation project: enhancing greenery to improve the environment, creating more public spaces, implementing flood control measures, and connecting community spaces to foster public engagement. During the walk, they visited several key sites, including an artificial wetland where different species such as umbrella plants and water lilies thrive. They also experienced a people-oriented garden that showcases how urban space design can promote community wellbeing.

Overall, the students absorbed a wealth of knowledge and inspiration throughout the day. The experiences and insights gained are expected to guide their future decisions regarding environmental projects, school subject choices, and potential career paths.

We at Civic Exchange sincerely thank all the speakers and partnering organisations for their invaluable support and dedication in making this memorable and impactful day possible. Together, we continue to nurture the next generation of committed environmental leaders who will help build a sustainable future.