ENG-2019 — Page 287

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The Environment

United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity

The UN Convention on Biological Diversity, which covers Hong Kong, aims to conserve biodiversity, ensure the sustainable use of its components, and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits deriving from the use of genetic resources. The government is implementing the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2016-21) based on the objectives and principles of the convention, taking into account local circumstances. The plan steps up conservation efforts and supports Hong Kong's sustainable development.

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, adopted under the convention, seeks to ensure the safe handling, transport and use of GMOs that may affect biodiversity adversely. Hong Kong implements the protocol through enforcing the Genetically Modified Organisms (Control of Release) Ordinance.

Countryside Conservation

Remote areas in the countryside are rich in ecological, architectural and cultural resources. The Countryside Conservation Office, established in July 2018, aims to protect the natural ecology of the countryside and revitalise the architectural environment of villages by coordinating conservation projects that promote sustainable development of the remote countryside.

Of the $1 billion earmarked for the office, $500 million is meant for implementing minor improvement works, with Lai Chi Wo and Sha Lo Tung as pilot areas. The other half of the funds will support non-profit-making organisations to cooperate with villagers in organising diverse and innovative conservation activities and revitalisation projects through the new Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme launched in October 2019.

Climate

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate. January and February are cloudier with cold spells, while March and April are milder and humid with fog. From May to August, it is hot and humid with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms. Tropical cyclones usually occur between June and October, bringing high winds, heavy rain and sometimes storm surges. November and December are generally fine and dry with pleasantly cool weather, and may on occasion be relatively cold at night and in the early morning.

The Year's Weather

The year 2019 was the warmest in Hong Kong since records began in 1884, with the annual mean temperature reaching 24.5 degrees Celsius, 1.2 degrees above normal. The annual mean maximum and minimum temperatures of 27.1 degrees and 22.6 degrees respectively were also the highest on record, while the annual total rainfall of 2,396.2mm was near the normal level.

Five tropical cyclones affected the territory. The No 8 Gale or Storm Signal was issued during the passage of Tropical Storm Wipha, the highest tropical cyclone warning issued in 2019.

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