Nature & Health In The City: Hong Kong

Nature & Health in the City:

Hong Kong Field Trip 2023

For Griffith University 2000PHM Industry Placement

By Hayley Blackman (s5254750)

Mason Cree (s5092919)

Julie Cupitt (s5300371)

Interdisiplinary Backgrounds:

Mason Cree: Bachelor of Architecture

I am in the second year of a bachelor of architecture and have worked on various projects which have focused on areas of sustainability, passive design, and equitable design/practices. I previously studied a bachelour of urban & environmental planning and hope to use this in addition to architecture to improve the spaces which we inhabit.

Hayley Blackman: Bachelor of Environmental Science

I am a third year of environmental science, completing a double major in ecology & conservation and soil & water chemistry. I have worked on a diverse range of projects which have focused on sustainability and ecological restoration. I hope to use my knowledge of environmental science, in conjunction with the insight I gain from this trip, to improve both the natural and built environments.

Julie Cupitt: Bachelor of Health Sciences

I am in the second year of a Bachelor of Health Science, majoring in Enviromental Health. I’m passionate about understanding the impact of environmental factors on human health and exploring ways to promote sustainable practices that protect our planet. I believe that by combining scientific knowledge with practical solutions, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.

Introduction:

Our recent trip allowed us to explore the fascinating interplay between nature and health in the city of Hong Kong, as a multidisciplinary team of three members. Our group hosts individuals from very diverse backgrounds, that provide insightful and unique perspectives of Hong Kong. This opportunity allowed for different disciplines to come together and study the connection between nature, design, and human wellness. Our key, shared learning goal from the trip was to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange our understandings of sustainability. This was explored in-depth through the shared learning goals of:

1. Greenspaces. An evident overlap between the three disciplines occurs through the use and understanding of greenspaces in Hong Kong. We aimed to investigate the significance of parks and conservation areas as spaces that protect biodiversity, reduce heat island effect, and promote metal and physical wellness. Considered planning and architectural design allows for these greenspaces and parks to be integrated throughout the city to improve both environmental and public health.

2. Public Safety and Health. We endeavoured to better understand the current public health interventions established in Hong Kong and how it impacts air, water, and food safety. By observing these factors, we are able to consider how Hong Kong’s practices differ from our prior understanding of health and how architecture and environmental science can improve health and wellbeing.

3. Urban Design and Architecture. We sought to discover how architecture could connect nature into the framework of Hong Kong’s cityscape. Through an analysis of contemporary and colonial architecture, as well as the integration of public spaces and housing in a densely populated area, Hong Kong’s sustainability in terms of healthy cities can be determined.

These shared learning goals led us to our research question of: How does the architectural design and urban planning of Hong Kong contribute to its sustainability in terms of public and environmental health?

This Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China showcases both natural and built landscapes. This trip took place across the diverse backdrop of Hong Kong, exploring different islands and cityscapes. During this trip we learnt from experts in the areas of epidemiology, urban design, geography, and public and environmental health. These thoughtful discussions were invaluable to our learning experience in Hong Kong, providing us with foundational knowledge in areas many of us were previously unfamiliar with. In addition to hearing from scholars with expertise in Hong Kong’s natural and built environments, we got to discover these environments for ourselves. Various activities held significant interest for individuals in different disciplines. Environmental science students were interested in engaging with urban greenspaces to better understand the ecological dynamics present. The architecture students were eager to see the contrasting buildings and designs and seek inspiration for future concepts. The environmental and public health students most enjoyed the study of how Hong Kong’s food and industrial industries impact the people and environment. This led to insightful discussions regarding how innovative design and better health interventions could led to a healthier and more sustainable Hong Kong.

This photo story is a representation of interdisciplinary thinking and collaboration. Each key theme is represented by a central photograph and supporting imagery. The three different specialities will provide insight into the ten themes. This interdisciplinary analysis and exchange will comment on the sustainability of Hong Kong in terms of its environment, public health, and architecture. Together, we hope to contribute to the growing understanding of sustainable and healthy cities and apply this insight to our future projects.

Architectural Perspective:

The city of Hong Kong has some of the most interesting and inspiring architecture Asia has to offer. The colonial history of Hong Kong had a substantial influence on the architecture throughout the city with notable surviving structures such as the Flagstaff House Museum, Murray House and Pedder Street Clocktower creating an interesting and diverse juxtaposition between both colonial and contemporary architectural eras. Furthermore, the M+ museum shown on the left page uses mosaic tiles as a façade across the building taking inspiration from traditional building techniques while also fitting into the local context, thus creating a new innovative yet respectful design.

An obvious Contemporary architectural style litters the skyline and is complemented beautifully by the mountains and forests of Hong Kong Island which pierce through the city’s skyscrapers. The harmonicity between nature and the city was the most prominent characteristic observed and most directly related to SDG 11 which aims to develop more sustainable cities that maintain natural heritage and conservation. This rich and diverse architectural characteristic of the city can increase the wellbeing of the cities inhabitants and promote a sense of place (Najafi et al, 2011). The architectural diversity and the city’s commitment to sustainable development align with the goal of creating more sustainable cities. These cities are built on the foundations of natural landscapes. Therefore, the architecture and urban planning of sustainable cities must complement the pre-existing topography, not completely change it. This can include establishing protected areas that ensure the conservation of biodiversity and greenspaces. By incorporating natural heritage and conservation principles, Hong Kong strives to build a healthier environment that prioritizes the well-being of both the residents and the surrounding ecosystems.

Public Housing:

Public housing is a significant characteristic of the city of Hong Kong and contributes to about 45% of the cities populations residents (Hong Kong Government, 2022) Public housing in Hong Kong has the potential to impact environmental health positively or negatively. Well-designed projects with energy-efficient features and green spaces can reduce energy consumption and promote well-being. However, the issue of subdivided housing poses challenges. These cramped units are often overcrowded, lacking ventilation and natural light, leading to poor indoor air quality and increased energy consumption. Concentrated in certain areas, subdivided housing strains local infrastructure and waste management. Addressing these challenges requires improving housing standards, enforcing regulations, and providing sustainable options. Enhancing living conditions, promoting energy efficiency, and prioritizing environmental sustainability in public housing can mitigate the negative impacts of subdivided housing, creating healthier environments for residents. Through architecture it may be possible to design more efficient spaces to accommodate more people which could aid in mitigating these issues and making these small spaces feel larger and more inviting than they do currently.

Oxfam, a confederation of charitable organisations that work toward equality, states that the average footprint of the wealthiest 1% of individuals worldwide may be up to 175 times greater than that of the poorest 10% (Oxfam, 2015). Despite having a smaller carbon footprint, individuals living in public housing are burdened with the brunt of climate change’s impacts. This includes hotter temperatures and increased frequency of natural disasters. Sustainable cities are complex. As Hong Kong – like many cities around the world – aims to adapt to the impacts of climate change, it must consider the most vulnerable members of society and how to best support them. By designing better public housing/spaces, the SDG 11 sustainable cities could be worked towards by improving inequalities, health/wellbeing, and sustainable communities.

Public Spaces:

Public spaces in Hong Kong have a significant impact on the health and well-being of its residents. With its dense urban environment, the availability of equitable and thoughtfully designed public spaces are crucial for promoting physical activity and combatting sedentary lifestyles. Hong Kong’s numerous parks, recreational centres, waterfront promenades, and hiking trails provide opportunities for residents to engage in outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and tai chi. For example, the Choi Hung Estate rooftop basketball courts shown on the left were observed to be heavily utilised by locals with it acting as a social gathering point for school kids, couples, and other groups of individuals. These activities help improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and enhance overall physical health. Additionally, public spaces in Hong Kong serve as vital gathering places, fostering social connections and a sense of community.

The bustling public parks and squares provide venues for socializing, exercising, and participating in group activities, contributing to mental well-being and reducing feelings of isolation. Moreover, the city’s abundant green spaces, such as Victoria Park and Hong Kong Park, offer respite from the hectic urban environment, promoting relaxation, stress reduction, and improved mental health. Assoc. Prof. Chinmoy Sakar stated that to improve the ability of public spaces and parks to improve health, they need to be incorporated into – and available to – all different socio-economic levels, which includes those living in public housing. In a fast-paced city like Hong Kong, public spaces play a crucial role in enhancing the health and quality of life for its residents.

Green spaces:

Greenspaces, such as forests and parks, are integral to the liveability within major urban cities. The availability and use of these spaces in Hong Kong has a significant impact on environmental health. Gardens and forests foster biodiversity, improve air quality, manage stormwater, and contribute to noise reduction and carbon sequestration. These areas provide mental and physical health benefits; promoting relaxation, exercise, and connection with nature. Access to green spaces is vital for maintaining a healthy environment and safeguarding the well-being of ecosystems and the population. Associate Professor Chinmoy Sakar stated in his lecture on urban health and design, that greenspaces need to be designed in a way that has the potential to offset emissions, which means using native species and vegetation in replacement of synthetic grass. This image shows the Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. This deliberately designed space is a perfect example of how a greenspace can both support mental wellbeing and incorporate native vegetation.

Through equitable architecture, green spaces such as the Nan Lian Gardens may also provide and integral function through sound-scaping. Through KC’s lecture at Chinese University of Hong Kong, it can be understood that through purposefully designed spaces the mitigation of sound pollution and disturbance of locals can be achieved by masking less-desirable sounds. By replacing these unwanted sounds with those of nature/animals it can transform space into something that is beneficial to the wider community. Therefore, respecting the natural environment and working with and mindfully designing green spaces is of crucial importance when working towards building more sustainable cities.

Biodiversity:

Hong Kong is home to a very diverse range of flora and fauna. Not only does it provide home to a plethora of species, but it is also habitat to several threatened and endangered organisms, such as the Three-banded Boc turtle (Brand Hong Kong, 2022). Biodiversity supports key ecological processes, including nutrient cycling, water purification, and soil formation; all of which are essential in the maintenance of a healthy environment. Moreover, diverse ecosystems are better able to absorb and store carbon, helping mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The abundance of conservation areas and marine environments serves as habitats and ecological corridors that enable wildlife to move and increase gene flow. The central photograph demonstrates how despite the densely populated city, the strategic integration of nature in a city can support the growth of various species. Gardens such as the one shown are integral “pockets” of biodiversity and allow for species that would otherwise be isolated to migrate through or inhabit Hong Kong. Through architectural interventions, the successful implementation of biodiverse spaces can be achieved. By looking to nature to inspire design choices and using biomimicry the spaces that are inhabited by humans can also become a part of the natural ecosystem through green walls/roofs, purposeful gardens and greenspaces. Protecting biodiversity is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and environmental health of our planet, as it directly impacts the overall functioning and well-being of ecosystems and the services they provide.

Climate Change:

Climate change poses a significant threat to environmental and community health. The impacts of climate change in Hong Kong are observable through the rising global temperatures, and humidity in sub-tropical regions. The warming climate leads to rising sea levels, increased intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, and shifts in precipitation patterns, which have direct consequences on ecosystems and natural resources. These changes result in the loss of biodiversity, degradation of air and water quality, and the potential spread of diseases, impacting environmental health. This image demonstrates the prevalence of air conditioning units and cooling systems in each home and workplace in Hong Kong. Due to the increasing temperatures, residents in Hong Kong must cool their homes to escape the external heat. These warm temperatures are amplified by the heat island effect. Heat islands are urbanised areas that experience elevated temperatures as a result of buildings and roads re-emitting solar radiation from the sun (USEPA, 2023). Hong Kong’s dense development and concrete designs absorb heat, thereby increasing the temperature. To reduce the impact of heat islands, the architectural design of urban environments and the buildings within them must incorporate passive design principles which aids in using the natural environment and local context to provide better ventilation, shading and reduced heat absorption. Taking urgent action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to changing conditions, and promote sustainable practices is crucial for safeguarding environmental health and ensuring the well-being of ecosystems and human populations in Hong Kong.

Transport:

Hong Kong’s well-connected and reliable public transportation system is fundamental to the city’s efforts to reduce emissions and become more sustainable. By eliminating the need for private vehicles and promoting the use of buses, trains, and trams, the majority of residents opt to use public transport. This alternative reduces the amount of fuel consumption and the greenhouse gas emissions per person. In addition to this, Hong Kong’s new electric buses further contribute to the city’s sustainable development goals. This integration of renewable alternatives within an industry with one of the largest carbon footprints reflects Hong Kong’s commitment to sustainability (International Energy Agency, n.d.).

Furthermore, the architectural design of the transport hubs also plays a considerable role within the city. The design of the mass transit railway (MTR) stations was carefully designed to allow for optimised pedestrian flow, accessibility, and overall utilisation. Additionally, the architectural language of the ferry piers further enhances the character of the city and provides alternate routes in reaching other parts of the city. The architectural significance of public transport hubs is critically linked to SDG 11 & 9 as the layout of these public transport hubs provide the means for the city to function and people to reach their destinations in a safe and timely manner.

Water Pollution:

Water pollution has severe impacts on the nature of Hong Kong and the health of its residents, with plastic waste being one of the most common types of marine debris found in local waters. As seen in the photo taken of the rocky shore at Tap Mun Island, large amounts of pollution have washed up, including many plastic barrels, bottles and containers. This pollution is found all along the shoreline and can also be seen floating in the water. This waste can have harmful effects on marine life, including entanglement and ingestion, and ultimately impacts the achievement of SDG 14 on life below water (Yuet-Tung Tse. al, 2023). Additionally, water pollution causes toxins to spread through the food chain, which can have implications for human health and the achievement of SDG 3 on good health and well-being.

Many “blue spaces” in Hong Kong hold significant ecological value, providing habitat for many aquatic and marine animals (including the critically endangered pink dolphins) (Leitner, 2014). The built design of the waterfront stilt houses also holds particular relevance to meeting the SDG life below water through the ability to support animals and organisms by building suitable habitats. By working with the environment and building spaces where animals can live in harmony with the built environment, a more ecologically diverse space can be achieved which in turn supports the water quality and aquatic organisms. Aquatic plants are also reliant on good water quality; they play a key role as ecosystem engineers in aquatic environments, providing habitats for various marine animals and stabilising the seafloor (Van Katwijk et al., 2009). Poor water quality and water pollution can also damage the tourism and fishing industries, impacting SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth. To protect the nature and health of Hong Kong and achieve the SDGs action must be taken to reduce plastic consumption to prevent further water pollution

Air Pollution:

Air pollution is a significant issue in Hong Kong. It is caused by various sources such as vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and power plants (Hong Kong Department of Health. (n.d.)).

The city’s high concentration of industries, coupled with its densely populated urban areas, intensifies the problem. This is clearly shown in the image provided, with the transport fairy emitting dark smoke as it leaves the pier. Adding to this challenge, Hong Kong’s unique geography, surrounded by mountains, restricts the dispersion of pollutants, leading to prolonged exposure and health risks. The main pollutants in the air include particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and ozone, which have been linked to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer (Wong TW. al, 2002).

Addressing air pollution in Hong Kong is essential in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 on good health and well-being and SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities. Vehicle emissions and fuel oils are some of the greatest polluters of air globally (Australian Government, 2023). Hong Kong’s push toward sustainable transport, such as trains and buses – that reduce the overall number of vehicles used – is helping in the reduction of air pollutants. Many cities may benefit from a similar shift toward public transport, in an attempt to reduce emissions. It can be achieved by reducing emissions from various sources, promoting clean energy, and encouraging sustainable transportation methods. By doing so, we can protect public health, safeguard the environment, and create a sustainable future for all.

Food Management:

Food safety is a major concern in Hong Kong’s, specifically in the wet markets. The handling and preparation of food can lead to the spread of foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella and E. coli, which pose a risk to public health (Boss, S. al, 2023). In addition to this, the physical state of wet markets can create a significant amount of waste, including packaging, food scraps, and other debris, which can attract pests and insects, intensifying the risk of foodborne illnesses (Ngan, W. Y. al, 2020). As seen in the provided photo taken at a wet market in the Kowloon District of Hong Kong, the physically uncleanliness of the markets pose a significant threat to the overall safety and quality of the foods. This is most evident in the dirt and dust particles that can be seen on the light shades above the meat rack and the Mould and grime near the electrical outlets.

The promotion of proper waste management and sanitation practices in wet markets, including the proper disposal of food waste and packaging and cleaning standards needs to be addressed. Furthermore, through more architecturally designed spaces a more efficient workspace may be achieved which could reduce the chance of contamination by separating functions into a more sanitary sounds design. Public education and awareness campaigns can help us to reduce food waste and promote sustainable consumption patterns. By doing so, improvements can be made towards the hygiene and sanitation of wet markets, protect public health and environmental health, and achieve the UN’s SDGs. Specifically, SDG 2 aims to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and SDG 6 which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Conclusion:

Through examining the built and natural environments within Hong Kong and their impact on people’s health, it becomes evident that this region is characterized by a unique combination of biodiversity and innovative architecture. Hong Kong’s rich natural landscapes, including country parks, wetlands, and coastal areas, provide habitats for a diverse range of plant and animal species. Additionally, the cityscape is adorned with impressive skyscrapers and architectural marvels that reflect its modern and dynamic character. However, it is crucial to address the challenges and opportunities presented by this diverse environment to better support the population of Hong Kong and promote environmental health. Sustainable building practices can play a pivotal role in reducing the ecological footprint of the city. By adopting green building principles, such as using energy-efficient materials, incorporating renewable energy sources, and designing for optimal natural lighting and ventilation, Hong Kong can minimize its impact on the environment while improving the well-being of its residents.

Furthermore, collective efforts and interdisciplinary discussions are essential to address the complex issues related to health and sustainability in Hong Kong. Stakeholders from various sectors, including urban planning, architecture, public health, and environmental science, need to collaborate and share knowledge to develop innovative solutions that prioritize both human health and environmental well-being.

By aligning efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Hong Kong can work towards achieving a sustainable and resilient future. The SDGs provide a comprehensive framework to guide actions in areas such as sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), climate action (SDG 13), and life on land (SDG 15). Through the implementation of sustainable practices, Hong Kong can contribute to these goals and create a more inclusive, equitable, and environmentally conscious society.

In conclusion, Hong Kong’s built and natural environments offer a diverse landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities for the well-being of its residents and the environment. By embracing sustainable building practices, integrating green infrastructure, and engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration, Hong Kong can reduce its ecological footprint and improve environmental health. Through collective efforts, the city can achieve its sustainable development goals, creating a vibrant and resilient urban environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of its residents while preserving its unique natural heritage for future generations.

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