'One River, Two Systems': Hong Kong's River Management

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Urban Planning
• Ecology

Background:

• Hong Kong's numerous rivers were channelized, diminishing their ecological function.
• Recent government initiatives aim to revitalize rivers, but face challenges.
• Existing management is fragmented, lacking coordination between departments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key challenges in implementing Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) in Hong Kong.
• To assess the effectiveness of current river revitalization efforts.
• To understand public perception and willingness to participate in river management.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach: literature and policy analysis, expert interviews, field visits, and public surveys.
• Analysis of institutional arrangements and inter-departmental coordination (or lack thereof).
• Evaluation of ecological measures in river revitalization projects.

Main Results:

• Significant lack of institutional arrangements for IRBM, characterized by a 'one river, two systems' approach without coordination.
• Limited success of river revitalization, with ecological measures being superficial and freshwater biodiversity conservation neglected.
• Low public awareness of revitalization initiatives and dissatisfaction with outcomes, despite high willingness to participate.

Conclusions:

• Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) is crucial for Hong Kong's freshwater ecosystems.
• Recommendations include establishing river basin coordination, prioritizing ecosystem restoration, and enhancing public participation.
• Addressing the fragmented management and engaging the public are key to successful river management.