On 23rd and 30th January 2026, Civic Exchange hosted two school-based Nature-based Solutions (NbS) workshops for secondary school teachers, with support from the Innovation and Technology Education Division of the Education Bureau. These workshops served as a follow-up to an earlier teachers’ seminar, offering participants a more in-depth and practical learning experience on how NbS concepts can be integrated into school education. The workshops focused on local bee ecology and conservation, highlighting the important role that pollinators play in maintaining biodiversity and supporting ecosystem health. We were honoured to invite Mr Harry Wong, an urban wildlife conservation practitioner, to share his expertise with participating teachers. During the session, Harry introduced different types of local bees, explained how to identify them, and discussed their ecological importance as well as their contributions to human well-being. To complement the knowledge-sharing session, the workshops also included a hands-on “Solitary Bee Hotel” DIY activity. Each teacher constructed their own bee hotel, gaining practical experience that can be directly applied in school settings. The finished bee hotels can be installed on school campuses or used as teaching tools to support experiential learning and environmental education. Through these workshops, we aim to strengthen teachers’ understanding of local biodiversity, promote positive and informed responses to encounters with bees, and encourage the incorporation of Nature-based Solutions into school curricula and campus environments. By fostering awareness and practical action, we hope to support the development of more ecologically inclusive and resilient urban spaces.

On 19 December 2025, Civic Exchange hosted the Workshop on Implementing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in Schools, with support from the Innovation and Technology Education Division of the Education Bureau. We were honoured to invite a group of experienced practitioners as guest speakers. They included Mr Delton Li from Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, Ms Angie Ng from The Conservancy Association, Ms Carrie Cheung from Outdoor Wildlife Learning Hong Kong, Ms Ivy Wong from Weedsilience, Ms Melody Kong from Little Woods Nature Education, Ms Opal Ho from Farm the City, and Mr Kenneth Kwok from The Institution of Civil Engineers Hong Kong Association. In the first session, Ms Kitty Tam and Mr Valentin Shen from Civic Exchange introduced the details and judging criteria of the “Nature-based Solutions: Building an Ecologically Civilised Campus”, and reminded participants of the competition timeline. In the second session, the guest speakers shared practical NbS case studies and valuable experiences in designing and implementing related projects in school settings. Mr Delton Li introduced the “Dutchman’s Pipe × Birdwing Butterfly Urban Habitat Creation Project”, explaining how the initiative contributes to biodiversity enhancement and its relevance to NbS. Ms Angie Ng shared her experience in eco-gardening on school campuses, including rooftop farming, developing ecological ponds, mini-forests, and butterfly gardens. She emphasised that the goal is to create shared spaces for both people and wildlife. Ms Carrie Cheung highlighted the importance of Environmental Education as a complement to NbS. She explained how the NbS framework provides concrete and effective action pathways for environmental education, while environmental education in turn raises awareness of environmental protection and sustainability, leading to the implementation of NbS projects. Ms Ivy Wong discussed the diversity and ecological value of weeds, noting that more than 300 species of herbaceous plants have been found along roadsides in urban areas. She suggested incorporating weeds into planting beds as a low-cost solution with ecological functions. Ms Melody Kong shared her experience in integrating nature-based education across different subjects beyond science and biology, using nature as a learning context to create linkages with existing curricula and teaching objectives. Ms Opal Ho explained how farmland can contribute to biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Mr Kenneth Kwok introduced NbS elements in the Tung Chung New Town Extension project and discussed how similar ideas could be applied to school campuses. The sharing sessions were highly insightful and informative. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers for their valuable contributions.

We are thrilled to share that the 4th Hong Kong 2050 is Now Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) Programme Closing Ceremony and Project Showcase was successfully held on 15 November 2025 at Hong Kong Maritime Museum. This year's programme exceeded expectations with active participation from students representing 20 schools. These young individuals have undergone a transformative journey, emerging as knowledgeable "Issue Experts" in the vital domains of climate change and sustainability. Throughout the summer, they attended a series of intensive workshops and field trips, which covered a range of climate and environment topics. They also developed a leadership skillset encompassing design thinking, project management, and public speaking. Moreover, the students had the unique opportunity to interact with 32 industry experts who shared their insights on sustainability and career paths. Starting from September, participants also launched their own sustainable projects, focusing on various topics. The event began with a vibrant 40-minute showcase, where student groups set up booths to present their project concepts, implementation processes, and outcomes to the guests. Our judges, including Prof Wong Kam Sing, former Secretary for Environment, Mr Desmond Chan and Ms Loren Yung from ExxonMobil Hong Kong, Dr Connie Ng from Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Hong Kong singer Luna is a Bep and our Programme Lead Kitty Tam, engaged with the students and shared their insights on individual projects. Six student groups then took the stage to present their project done in the past 3 months, sharing their experience from participant recruitment to the challenges they encountered along the way. Their projects covered a wide range of sustainability topics, including an inter-school second-hand clothing swap event, promotion of natural detergents with community workshop, school tour on in-school green practices, Sustainable fashion seminars with NGO and in-school second-hand clothes resale, community barter booth, and Attempt to install of bee hotels on campus. Following the judges’ scoring, three winning teams were selected. Carbon Chic, which organised second-hand clothing and uniform resale activities along with a sustainable fashion seminar, won the ExxonMobil High Potential Award. YEA Innovation Award was won by Carbon Trust, which held barter booth at school and at local community. Lastly, Revival Pop-up market, which organised an inter-school second-hand clothing swap event, won the YEA Sustainable Leadership Award. This year, we also introduced a new individual award, the YEA Outstanding Ambassador Award, to recognise students who demonstrated exceptional performance throughout trainings, assessments, and their project work. The Second Runner-up went to Clova, the First Runner-up went to Andrew, and the Champion is Will. All YEAs received certificates of completion, we are proud to see their growth, not only in climate-related knowledge but also in event planning, creativity, leadership, and interpersonal skills. We look forward to continuing this learning journey together through upcoming YEA Alumni activities, fostering continued growth and impact. Once again, we thank all our partners, judges, human library guests, and mentors for making this year’s programme impactful and inspiring. Let’s keep empowering youth to drive sustainable change.

To align with the national initiative of building ecological civilisation and support Hong Kong’s Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, ‘Nature-based Solutions: Building an ecologically civilised campus challenge’ is organised by Civic Exchange, and supported by the Innovation Technology Education Division of Education Bureau. We aim to empower schools to design NbS campus projects to address climate change and biodiversity loss through nature-based solutions (NbS), whilst enhancing secondary school students’ capability in applying STEAM-related knowledge, research capabilities and skills to solve real-life problems. To inform schools about the arrangements for the competition and provide teachers with insights into NbS practice, we organised a Kick-off Seminar for teachers on 7 November 2025. We were honoured to welcome Dr Billy Hau from the University of Hong Kong and Mr Hanif Falah from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Asia Regional Office, alongside our Young Environment Ambassadors, Ms Charlie Yip and Mr Valentin Shen, as guest speakers. The seminar began with Dr Hau introducing the definition and eight principles of Nature-based Solutions, emphasising that NbS is not only about nature conversationn. He explored how nature-based approaches can address global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss, and clarified the differences between nature-based, nature-derived, and nature-inspired solutions. Dr Hau also highlighted that the NbS framework serves as a tool for designing, verifying, and scaling up solutions to address one or more societal challenges. Rather than a certification standard, it functions as a self-assessment framework to support continuous improvement. Following this, Mr Hanif Falah introduced the second edition of the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions, offering teachers practical guidance and strategies for applying NbS concepts in the classroom. He suggested that even with limited space on school campuses, schools can implement NbS on a small scale, such as creating pocket gardens with native plant species and conducting basic biodiversity assessments. These small interventions can help connect fragmented urban habitats, encourage species movement, and contribute to biodiversity recovery. Ms Charlie Yip and Mr Valentin Shen then shared their experiences of engaging in and implementing NbS projects in their schools. They emphasised the critical role of teachers in empowering young people and encouraging meaningful climate action. The seminar also marked the official launch of the “NbS Campus Challenge.” During the session, Ms Kitty Tam, our Programme Lead, introduced the details of the challenge. We warmly encouraged schools to form teams and join this exciting initiative to turn their green ideas into reality. During the Q&A session, participants raised thoughtful questions, including clarifications on NbS concepts, such as whether aquaponics can be considered an NbS, and how schools can further develop related initiatives. Participants also enquired about how YEA balance their academic commitments, including DSE examinations, with environmental activities. These discussions reflected strong interest in promoting NbS in schools and a keen desire to deepen understanding of its practical applications and benefits. We are deeply grateful to all our speakers for generously sharing their expertise and insights, and for inspiring educators to advance Nature-based Solutions in environmental education.

On 15 August, students from Young Environment Ambassador Programme (YEA) were privileged to welcome eight distinguished guests from the sustainable business sector for the 3rd Human Library event. This special gathering offered an invaluable opportunity for small-group conversations, allowing students to engage directly with experts who are shaping the future of sustainability across industries. Our honoured guests included Mr Charles Lam, Senior Sustainable Development Officer from Swire Properties; Ms Priscilla Lin, Manager, Strategy & Sustainability at Schneider Electric; Ms Crystal Tsang, Manager, Sustainable Finance at HSBC; Ms Serena Mak, Executive Director, Sustainable Finance at DBS Bank; Mr Merlin Lao, Head of Policy & Research at the Business Environment Council; Mr Harry Wong, Founder of Beetales; Ms Tiffany Leung, Circular Fashion Programme Manager for School Education at Redress; and Ms Margaret Wong, ESG Manager at Towngas. Following these enriching small group discussions, our guests shared their final reflections with the whole group, offering expert insights and encouragement. Mr Merlin Lao reminded the students that environmental issues are often complex and challenging to untangle. He urged them not to begin from a purely environmental perspective — recognising that some stakeholders may be reluctant to engage on those terms. Instead, Mr Lao encouraged students to consider multiple points of view, emphasising that understanding the perspectives of others is crucial to finding solutions. Ms Margaret Wong expressed her hope that this experience would spark greater interest in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and broader environmental issues among the students, highlighting its growing importance in today’s world. Ms Serena Mak emphasised the diverse opportunities within the sustainable finance sector. She encouraged students to see how environmental concerns intersect with many fields and to actively engage with sustainability efforts while they are still young, underlining the impact they can make no matter their career path. Mr Charles Lam spoke passionately about the value of university opportunities, such as minors, for discovering new subjects beyond one’s major. He observed that environmental challenges cannot be addressed by technology or AI alone — human collaboration and discussion remain essential, with young people playing a vital role. Ms Priscilla Lin highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration. She advised students not to limit their focus to one group but to work openly and cooperatively across different sectors, leveraging connections and collective impact to achieve success. Mr Harry Wong encouraged students to participate in a wide range of workshops while they are young, as these experiences can open minds and broaden career possibilities. His message was clear: there is no need to worry about making the ‘right’ choice immediately — instead, explore and try new things. Ms Tiffany Leung challenged students to consider the impact and sustainability of their projects. Beyond environmental benefits, sustainability can encompass many areas, and it is crucial to think about whether a project can sustain itself economically and socially, as well as the scope of its influence. Ms Crystal Tsang thanked the students for their thought-provoking ideas throughout the day. She encouraged them to build networks by talking to diverse people and expressed hope that the day’s experiences would deepen their learning and commitment to sustainability. In the afternoon, the students visited Schneider Electric’s Innovation Hubs. Ms Priscilla Lin kindly greeted the group with an introductory talk and video presentation, explaining Schneider Electric’s work and sustainability initiatives. Mr Mathew Wong, an Industrial Solution Engineer on the team, then shared insights into how Schneider monitors energy use — including analysing data on the school’s air conditioning usage, with a strong focus on both technology and user safety. He also introduced the students to advanced concepts such as microgrids, energy management systems, smart cities, and the company’s current challenges and visions, including rising energy demands, carbon emissions, and the role of data-driven decisions and EV charging infrastructure. Lastly, Ms Charlotte Wang, the Strategic Marketing Specialist, discussed the importance of energy audits in improving efficiency and reducing costs. She also proposed amendments to the existing energy audit regulations to enhance their effectiveness and ensure compliance with current industry standards. We, Civic Exchange, extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers and partner organisations for making this day so fruitful. We hope that our students have gained valuable knowledge, inspiration, and motivation to continue exploring sustainability and creating positive environmental impact.

On 22 August, the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) Programme reached an important milestone: the final day of its 10-day summer training. After weeks of intensive learning, site visits, and expert interactions, our YEAs gathered to present their project proposals and prepare for the ‘act’ phase of their journey. In the morning, each group shared their innovative project ideas and received constructive feedback to help refine them further. The diversity of topics reflected the creativity and passion of our YEAs: one team proposed sustainable soap, another planned a school tour to showcase sustainable hardware and software initiatives, while others focused on urban beekeeping through bee hotels as a part of nature-based solutions (NbS), sustainable fashion, circular economy awareness, and clothing swap initiatives. Each idea demonstrated the students’ ability to connect environmental concepts with practical, community-oriented action. We look forward to seeing these projects take shape in the months ahead. The afternoon featured a lively Kahoot! quiz, where YEAs tested their knowledge from across the programme. Questions covered the four core topics: decarbonisation, sustainable consumption, nature-based solutions, and waste management, as well as insights gained from site visits and field trips. The session not only reinforced their learning but also reminded them how much they had absorbed in just 10 days. Before closing the training, students were introduced to the YEA Alumni Programme, an exciting new initiative designed to support continued growth beyond the programme. Through the alumni network, YEAs will have opportunities to develop valuable skills such as public speaking and presentation, and even access internship opportunities at environmental NGOs. Already, 17 YEAs have expressed interest in joining this community, a promising start to what will become a cornerstone of long-term youth empowerment. With this, the summer training came to a close. From September to mid-November, students will enter the ‘act’ phase, where they will put their ideas into practice with the support of dedicated mentors. This stage will test their creativity, resilience, and teamwork as they bring their visions to life. We eagerly anticipate the final project presentation on 15 November at the YEA Closing Ceremony, where our YEAs will showcase the outcomes of their hard work. Day 10 may mark the end of the training period, but it is also the beginning of a new chapter, one where our YEAs transform ideas into impact.

On 19 August, the last Human Library session of the Young Environment Ambassador Programme (YEA) welcomed nine distinguished experts from various professional institutions. This important gathering focused on refining the students’ project ideas, offering invaluable advice and encouragement to help shape their sustainable initiatives. Our honoured guests included Mr Travis Kan, Chairman of the Energy Institute (Hong Kong Branch); Mr Wan Kai Hong, Regional Director of the Institute of Civil Engineers Hong Kong; Mr Samuel Kwong, Fellow and Councillor of the Hong Kong Institute of Qualified Environmental Professionals; Ms Sunnie Lau, Council Member of the Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design; Dr Veronica Chan, Vice Chair, Activities Committee of the Environmental Management Association of Hong Kong; Ar Ms Yvonne Leong, Chair, Environment & Sustainable Development Committee of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects; Mr Sam Lai from Engineers Without Borders Hong Kong; Dr Yin-Lun Chan, Vice President of the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects; and Mr Derek Li from the Hong Kong Institute of Planners. Throughout the session, each expert shared insights and encouragement, helping students to think critically about their projects without feeling overwhelmed. Ms Yvonne Leong described the session as very interesting and advised students not to be too stressed about the project competition, encouraging them to focus on learning and growth. Dr Yin-Lun Chan reflected on the privileges of the current generation, noting that having almost everything we want can lead to neglecting our surroundings. He urged students to study how better planning and design can improve the environments in which people live. Ms Sunnie Lau encouraged students to maximise their efforts by identifying actionable ways to enhance sustainability for those around them — whether among teenagers or within their communities. She suggested listing these actions and seeking feedback, emphasising that even small changes can be significant steps towards success. Mr Sam Lai praised the students for their maturity and comprehensiveness, recognising their thoughtful consideration of budgets and sponsorships. Although concerned about the two-month timeline, he advised them to set realistic goals within this period and to consider the sustainability of their projects, reassuring them not to worry too much. Mr Samuel Kwong offered a heartfelt message, saying that having no fixed goal can still be positive. He encouraged students to pursue studies and projects that bring happiness and meaning, hoping his words inspire them and that the session would spark their interest. Mr Derek Li happily shared his expertise in urban planning and wished the students success on their group project. He encouraged them to incorporate innovative ideas and to consider the needs of different communities in order to design effective solutions for their project. Mr Travis Kan reminded students that winning or losing is less important than the process itself. He emphasised that engaging with diverse stakeholders and embracing the experience is invaluable for their futures, urging students to appreciate every step of their journey. Mr Wan Kai Hong acknowledged the students’ seriousness and commitment to their projects, reiterating that the process holds greater significance than the results. He encouraged them to enjoy the learning path. Dr Veronica Chan was delighted to meet the students and shared reflections from her university life. She hoped students would also enjoy their journey and advised choosing subjects based on personal interest above all else. In the afternoon, Ms Kitty Tam, Programme Lead of Civic Exchange, shared her inspiring journey with the YEAs. She reflected on her time as an intern in the Amazon rainforest after graduation, an experience that made her realise her passion for conservation and her desire to pursue policy as a way to create lasting change. Drawing on her current work in Hong Kong, Kitty highlighted how civil society can lead the city towards a more sustainable future. She encouraged students to see their projects not just as exercises, but as seeds of real policy change, reminding them that their voices and ideas can influence how Hong Kong develops. The YEAs then visited the Lai Chi Kok Drainage Tunnel, guided by Ms Joey Ho from the Drainage Services Department. Students learned how the tunnel was designed to intercept stormwater runoff from uphill areas, substantially reducing flooding risks in Lai Chi Kok, Cheung Sha Wan, and Sham Shui Po. Joey explained the innovative integration of engineering and sustainability, such as the stilling basin that both manages stormwater and supports the Butterfly Valley Road Pet Garden above. This creative use of space, combining flood prevention, recreation, and transportation, demonstrated how infrastructure projects can go beyond functionality to serve communities and the environment at the same time. We, Civic Exchange, would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers for their generosity and wisdom. Their guidance has undoubtedly enriched our students’ understanding and inspired fresh ideas as they continue to develop their innovative projects. The last Human Library session marks an important milestone in the students’ journey. With expert support and renewed confidence, they are now better equipped to bring their sustainable visions to life.

On 1 August 2025, the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) programme took our students to The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) for a full day of immersive learning about sustainability. We extend our sincere thanks to Professor Arthur Lau, Program Co-Director of EVMT, Division of Environment and Sustainability at HKUST, for leading this engaging training session. The day began in the classroom, where Professor Arthur Lau warmly welcomed students by inviting them to share their most memorable experiences from previous days of the YEA programme. About one-third of the students highlighted the field visit to Redress as their favourite, followed by trips to Beetales and Vessel Repair, reflecting their enthusiasm for hands-on learning. Following this, Professor Arthur Lau introduced the ‘Framework for Sustainability’, and divided students into small groups to explore the life cycle of a cotton T-shirt. Building on their earlier visit to Redress, the workshop helped deepen their understanding of fast fashion’s environmental impact. They looked at how a T-shirt is made — from raw materials and energy use to waste and pollution — offering a full picture of its journey from production to disposal. Professor Lau also highlighted the importance of systematic thinking when tackling complex environmental issues. To illustrate this, he shared an image of several blind people each touching different parts of an elephant and guessing what they were holding — a vivid reminder that we must look beyond isolated details and strive to see the bigger picture. In the afternoon, The Sustainability/Net-Zero Office team guided students on a campus tour highlighting ongoing sustainability initiatives. Students learned about campaigns such as the HKUST beach clean-up near the university, organic farm management, and a community garden maintained by staff and students alike. A special stop was made at the Butterfly Garden, where students observed various species of butterflies, trees, and plants. The garden serves as a living classroom to promote biodiversity awareness. Students were also encouraged to use technology to upload butterfly photos and learn about species identification, blending nature with digital engagement. Returning to the classroom, students participated in another workshop where they presented their proposed graphs illustrating operational principles of the circular economy. Beyond clean energy transitions, some interesting ideas emerged — such as sharing washing machines within communities to reduce consumption and using natural sunlight and wind to dry clothes instead of dryers. Professor Arthur Lau praised the students’ creativity and expressed eagerness to see their future contributions to sustainability. Before concluding, Professor Arthur Lau reminded everyone that customers ultimately shape market demand, underscoring the power of consumer choices in driving environmental progress. We at Civic Exchange thank Professor Arthur Lau and The Sustainability/Net-Zero Office team for their invaluable support. Many students expressed interest in HKUST’s sustainability programmes following the workshop. We are grateful that the planned activities resonated so well, and we look forward to supporting the students as they continue their journeys toward positive environmental impact.

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.

After a sudden shift to an online class for our face-to-face training on Tuesday, 8 August greeted us with bright sunshine and clear skies — the perfect setting for the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) programme to proceed successfully. The day combined enriching conversations with passionate environmental leaders in a Human Library session, followed by an immersive outdoor experience at Pak Nai, where students participated in an oyster reef restoration workshop. The day began with an exciting Human Library session featuring nine distinguished guests from a wide range of environmental organisations in Hong Kong. Our speakers included Ms Kelly Chan, Project Officer from Drink Without Waste; Mr Roy Ng, Campaign Manager from The Conservancy Association; Ms Suet Mei Wong, Senior Conservation Officer from Hong Kong Bird Watching Society; Ms Karen Ho, Head of Corporate and Community Sustainability from World Wildlife Fund-Hong Kong; Mr Gomen See, Marine Science Programme Manager from Hong Kong Maritime Museum; Mr Wendell Chan, Senior Officer from Friends of the Earth; Mr Ken Lee, CEO of Wu Zhi Qiao and others. The Human Library fostered intimate group discussions, where three students at a time engaged collectively with one speaker for about ten minutes. After each session, a different speaker would join the same group of three students, allowing them to explore a variety of environmental career paths together. This format encouraged rich exchanges of ideas and provided tailored advice to support the students’ project development. As the session drew to a close, the speakers offered inspiring and interconnected final remarks that helped tie together their guidance for the students’ benefit. Mr Gomen See began by emphasising the importance of setting clear, measurable targets, such as defining how many students and teachers a school-based project should engage to ensure meaningful impact. Ms Kelly Chan reinforced these points by highlighting sustainability, suggesting that students design campaigns that can be carried forward by others, ensuring their longevity. Ms Suet Mei Wong complemented this by encouraging students to start their efforts locally, focusing on the immediate community rather than attempting broad-scale projects from the outset, while also tapping into their creativity for innovative solutions. Ms Karen Ho emphasised the importance of engaging with various stakeholders for valuable insights. Highlighting the power of collaboration, Mr Ken Lee encouraged students not to work in isolation but to connect with wider groups and to undertake thorough research, drawing on diverse stakeholder insights to strengthen their projects. Mr Wendell Chan echoed the emphasis on knowing the target audience and pointed out the valuable resources that schools can offer to support such initiatives. Finally, Mr Roy Ng inspired the students to approach their projects with confidence, reminding them that even if similar campaigns exist, there is always room for improvement and innovation. He stressed that convincing their target audience remains key to success. In the afternoon, students travelled to Pak Nai to take part in an oyster reef restoration workshop organised by The Nature Conservancy. After an introductory talk explaining the ecological importance of oyster reefs, the students donned special protective shoes designed to safeguard their feet from sharp oyster shells, allowing them to explore the site safely. As they walked through the reef area, Ms Jennifer Cheng from the TNC team introduced them to various marine species dependent on this habitat. The students then actively engaged in oyster reef restoration by using shovels. Throughout the activity, Ms Jennifer explained how oyster reefs improve water quality by filtering the water and provide shelter for many aquatic organisms, as well as other ecosystem services. Despite the heat of the sun and physical exertion, the students were proud and joyful, their smiles reflecting the satisfaction of contributing directly to environmental restoration. We at Civic Exchange would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the guest speakers and The Nature Conservancy for generously sharing their expertise and making this day an unforgettable experience for our Young Environment Ambassadors. We believe that the knowledge and hands-on insights gained will inspire and empower these young leaders to develop and implement meaningful environmental projects in the future.

On 5 August 2025, Hong Kong witnessed its fourth Black Rainstorm Warning within just eight days—a sobering new record that underscores the accelerating pace of climate change and the urgent need for collective action. Coincidentally, this was also the day scheduled for our full-day, face-to-face design thinking workshop with students from the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) programme honing their climate action projects. Extreme weather once again forced a change of plans; for the safety of all, we moved the session online. We owe a huge thanks to Mr Spencer Liu, Founder & Managing Director of Riverwood Climate Solutions, for pivoting swiftly and leading an engaging Zoom workshop. His adaptability ensured the session’s momentum—and its impact—remained undiminished, despite the literal storm outside. The day opened with Spencer delivering an insightful overview of design thinking: not just as a process, but as a mindset for generating meaningful, user-centred solutions. Students then dove straight into identifying real-world environmental issues ripe for creative problem-solving. To foster empathy and a deeper understanding of these challenges, small Zoom breakout groups took part in a stakeholder interview simulation. Here, students role-played as various affected parties—asking questions like, “How does climate change affect you?” and “What kind of help would make a difference?” Using empathy maps, students captured what their interviewees said, thought, did, and felt, gaining perspective on diverse viewpoints. Before lunch, Spencer led sessions on crafting strong problem statements, developing personas, and mapping user journeys. Students learned to distil complex issues into clear, actionable focus areas, and began sharing inspirations—a vital spark for group creativity. After the break, the session shifted to intensive brainstorming and ideation. Students first mapped their individual ideas, then regrouped to prioritise and select project topics offering the highest impact with feasible implementation. Clear criteria and collaborative discussion helped each team settle on a project goal. With project topics confirmed, students tackled the next layer: detailed problem statements, considering decision-makers, stakeholders, indicators of success, and potential constraints. Persona creation and user journey mapping followed, serving as blueprints to keep their projects grounded in real people’s experiences. A second brief break gave minds a rest before students jumped into paper prototyping—sketching their concepts into tangible forms. Each team presented their initial solutions to the class, including feedback from Spencer and the Civic Exchange team. For example, a group proposing local oyster reef restoration was constructively challenged on constraints like budget, the need for scientific expertise, and land-use permissions—a real-world reality check that highlighted the importance of planning ahead. The workshop wrapped up with reflections and feedback from Spencer. Both he and the Civic Exchange team expressed excitement for what’s to come from the students. Despite the record-breaking rain and the sudden switch to virtual format, the workshop proved that determination—and adaptability—can weather any storm. We look forward to seeing these budding change-makers turn their ideas into action. If there’s one lesson from our week of black rain, it’s that resilience and creativity are more vital than ever in shaping a sustainable future.

On 25 July 2025, the Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) programme continued with an engaging and insightful Day 2 filled with expert talks, interactive activities, and a hands-on field visit. The focus of the day was on deepening students’ understanding of biodiversity, nature-based solutions, and local conservation efforts in Hong Kong. To start the day, we were delighted to welcome Outdoor Wildlife Learning Hong Kong (OWLHK), which presented a fascinating talk on nature conservation and biodiversity in the city. OWLHK introduced students to several precious and unique species found in Hong Kong, raising awareness of the rich wildlife that exists alongside urban areas. To bring the learning to life, OWLHK then hosted a board game session called Law of the Forest. This interactive game invited students to explore the complex relationships among different species, predators, and the impacts of urbanisation and wildfires on local wildlife. Students responded enthusiastically, describing the game as both fun and enlightening, helping them appreciate the often overlooked factors contributing to biodiversity disruption. Following this, Valentin, last year’s YEA winner, delivered an inspiring talk introducing the concept of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to the students. Valentin shared how NbS leverage natural processes to address environmental challenges, providing examples from both Hong Kong and overseas. He also highlighted the current state of biodiversity in Hong Kong, emphasising the urgent need for conservation action. In the late morning, Mr Gomen See, Marine Science Programme Co-ordinator at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, led a guided tour through the museum. Students gained valuable insights into the history of Hong Kong’s maritime culture and the diversity of marine life, enhancing their understanding of Hong Kong’s ecological heritage. The afternoon was spent at an unusual but fascinating field visit – an indoor beekeeping site located within an industrial building. We thank Mr. Harry Wong, founder of Beetales, for hosting students and sharing his expert knowledge about bee species and their habitats. The visit included two engaging sessions: a close-up inspection of the bee boxes, where students learned about bee management and behaviour, followed by a creative natural lip balm making workshop. Using beeswax, olive oil, sweet almond oil, shea butter, and olive butter, the students crafted their own lip balms, combining learning with hands-on fun. The day concluded with a debriefing session at Beetales, where Harry expressed his hope that young people and schools will become agents of change for urban bee conservation. He encouraged students to view bees not as scary creatures, but as vital contributors to biodiversity. Harry urged them to consider setting up bee boxes in schools and urban spaces, expressing his aspiration for every district in Hong Kong to have a bee conservation centre. Civic Exchange thanks all our speakers and partners for their dedication and insightful contributions. The students left the day inspired, better informed, and ready to champion biodiversity and sustainable solutions in their communities.