On November 16, 2024, with the support of The Tai Tam Tuk Foundation, the AsiaPacific Humanitarian Emergency Rescue Organization(APHERO) participated in a mangrove coastline cleanup event jointly organized by The Harbour School(THS) and Cathay Subsidiary Services. Delegations are from THS teachers and students and Cathay Pacific employees, the event also attracted numerous volunteers, environmentalists, and marine conservation charity workers,etc.
The TaiTam Mangrove Forest is the only mangrove area in Hong Kong and serves as a vital component of the city's natural ecology. It not only provides fresh air and a serene natural environment for the city but also plays a crucial role in global carbon reduction efforts and biodiversity conservation. However, with the increasing human activities, the mangrove area faces a growing problem of trash pollution, posing a significant threat to the mangrove ecosystem.
At the cleanup site, a vast amount of trash was discovered, including plastic pipes, beer bottles, toothbrushes, foam boxes, abandoned boats, and even fire extinguishers. This trash not only marred the natural landscape of the mangrove forest but also caused severe damage to the local ecological environment. Undeterred by the dirt and tiredness, volunteers picked up and sorted the trash to ensure it was properly disposed of.
Tin Ming Chan(Harry), Vice President, andYunxia Li(Caroline), Secretary-General of the APHERO, were also present at the scene and participated in the trash cleanup alongside the volunteers. They emphasized that protecting the natural environment and promoting sustainable development are the responsibilities and obligations of everyone and hoped that this event would inspire more people to develop environmental awareness and contribute to the future of the planet.