ENG-2020 — Page 278

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The Environment

Conservation and Biodiversity

Legislation and Conservation

The Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, who is also the Country and Marine Parks Authority, oversees the conservation of terrestrial and marine ecological resources and the enforcement of legislation on nature conservation issues.

The Forests and Countryside Ordinance provides for the general protection of trees and vegetation. Its subsidiary Forestry Regulations control the selling and possession of certain rare and attractive indigenous plants to deter illegal collection. These include camellias, magnolias, orchids, azaleas and the Chinese New Year flower.

The Wild Animals Protection Ordinance prohibits the wilful disturbance, hunting, possession and sale or export of protected wild animals found in Hong Kong. It also restricts entry into three important wildlife habitats designated as restricted areas: the Mai Po Marshes, the Yim Tso Ha Egretry and the green turtle nesting beach at Sham Wan on Lamma Island.

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance controls the import, export, re-export, introduction from the sea or possession of endangered species to prevent their over-exploitation.

The Country Parks Ordinance provides for the designation, control and management of country parks and special areas for nature conservation, education and scientific research purposes. Country parks may be used for compatible recreation and tourism purposes.

The Marine Parks Ordinance provides for the designation, protection and management of marine parks and marine reserves for nature conservation, education and scientific research purposes. It allows recreational activities such as swimming and diving in marine parks.

The Fisheries Protection Ordinance provides for the regulation of fishing practices and the prevention of destructive fishing activities, such as those involving the use of explosives or toxic substances to catch fish.

The Genetically Modified Organisms (Control of Release) Ordinance controls the release into the environment, and the import and export, of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It aims to protect the local biological diversity from possible adverse impacts arising from GMOs intended for release into the environment, such as farming or field trials.

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 convention's objectives and principles, taking into account local circumstances. The plan steps up conservation efforts and supports Hong Kong's sustainable development.

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