Page 21 - combinepdf

Seafood market in Sai Kung (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

While we rely on the ocean for our livelihood, there is no denying that we have caused great damage to our
sea, particularly during the period of high economic growth between the 60’s and 90’s. The lack of knowledge
and the thirst for pro t meant we cared very little about the damage we caused. However, as our economy
developed we realised this is very sel sh and we understand we have a duty to protect and preserve our sea
for the next generation. Then, we started thinking about the environment and began to implement measure
to protect it.

Over shing has led to a 75% decline in global sh stock, and poor management and unstainable policies
meant once economically valuable sh stocks are so often over shed, to the extent that they disappeared
from areas where they were once plentiful. Advancement in shing technology means modern shing boats
are more efficient in rounding up the survivors, and this drives various species further towards extinction. This
not only a ects faraway places, but closer to home as well. Old experienced divers in Hong Kong often
recounted how Victoria Harbour was once full of life when they started diving in the 60’s but now it looks like a
barren desert.

Often the damage done to the ocean has become irreversible, but it isn’t too late to limit further damage.
There has been signi cant investment in sustainable aquaculture sh farms, which will lower the pressure on
wild species. In addition to investing in traditional sh pond and oating sh farm at sea, Hong Kong also
pioneered the development of vertical sh farm [BBC]where sh is grown in tanks located in under-utilised
factory buildings in the city.