The Times Australia
News From Asia

.

Response to budget announcement 2024/2025 from Mr. Paul Chan, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 February 2024 -

Acknowledge the problem of inadequate per capita public open spaces

  • The Institute is pleased to see the Government promoting sustainable innovation and growth while aiming to protect the natural ecosystems and provide citizens with a better quality of life.
    However, there is no mention of strengthening and implementation of various government policies related to climate change, biodiversity, ecological and landscape in the budget proposal. The Institute advocates for Nature-Based Solutions to address the challenges posed by climate change. These measures will help Hong Kong become a more resilient and appealing international city.
  • In response to the issue of insufficient public recreational spaces per capita, the Institute suggests to develop new and to enhance existing public open space in addressing the specific requirements for public recreational spaces in individual districts, we can enhance community and greening functions, ensuring widespread benefits for citizens. The Institute suggests also to explore public-private partnership in the management of public open space, that on one hand reduces government long term recurrent cost and on the other hand promote innovative design in our public realm. Adequate investment to our public open space promotes physical and mental well-being, ultimately leading to long-term reductions in healthcare and social welfare expenses.

Organising large-scale exhibitions to link up the development of the landscape industry with socio-economic development

  • The Institute is pleased to see the Government actively preparing for over 80 different themed events to enhance urban competitiveness and attract talent and visitors. Additionally, we have successfully secured the right to host the 2026 International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) World Congress, which we hope will contribute to the development of the industry and the economy. This event is supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and the Chinese Society of Landscape Architecture, representing the national landscape architecture profession, has committed to collaborate in the event. We hope that the relevant departments of the SAR Government will support the Institute to successfully host this rare international event, showcasing Hong Kong's unique achievements in ecological civilization.
  • The Institute strongly supports the recent initiative proposed by the Secretary, "Innovation and Technology Empowerment, Industry Leads to Development." We suggest that the HKSAR Government apply to the Ministry of Housing and Construction for the organization of the China International Garden and Flower Expo (CIGFE) in 2027-28. The theme, "Gardening Industry, Expo for the Future," would involve constructing a nature-based green industry demonstration zone in alignment with the development direction of the northern metropolis. This initiative would leverage existing infrastructure in Sandy Ridge to optimize the natural environment in the eastern part of the northern metropolis and inject additional economic power.

Utilising the advantages of Hong Kong's landscape architects to promote Hong Kong's social development

  • The Institute acknowledges that the proactive development of various sectors by the Government plays a crucial role in Hong Kong's economic progress. Compared to neighbouring regions, Hong Kong's landscape architectural profession is well established and enjoys one of the most advanced recognitions in the regions. The Institute believes that, given the shortage of manpower in the construction industry, landscape architects should have equal opportunity to bid for lead consultancy or direct consultancy for projects primarily focused on public spaces or landscapes, adhering to the principle of specialization.
Hashtag: #HKILA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Times Magazine

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Science Behind Reverse Osmosis and Why It Matters

What is reverse osmosis? Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that removes contaminants by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane allows only water molecules to pass through while blocking impurities such as...

Foodbank Queensland celebrates local hero for National Volunteer Week

Stephen Carey is a bit bananas.   He splits his time between his insurance broker business, caring for his young family, and volunteering for Foodbank Queensland one day a week. He’s even run the Bridge to Brisbane in a banana suit to raise mon...

Senior of the Year Nominations Open

The Allan Labor Government is encouraging all Victorians to recognise the valuable contributions of older members of our community by nominating them for the 2025 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.  Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt today annou...

The Times Features

Ways to Attract Tenants in a Competitive Rental Market

In the kind of rental market we’ve got now, standing out is half the battle. The other half? Actually getting someone to sign that lease. With interest rates doing backflips and ...

Top Tips for Finding the Ideal Block to Build Your Home

There’s something deeply personal and exciting about building your own home. You’re not just choosing paint colours or furniture, you’re creating a space that reflects your lifes...

The Home Buying Process Explained Step by Step

Buying a home is a thrilling milestone, but it can also feel like navigating a maze without a map. With paperwork, finances, and decisions at every turn, understanding the home-b...

Thinking of Selling Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know

Selling a home is more than just putting up a “For Sale” sign. It’s a strategic process that involves preparation, pricing, and negotiation - all aimed at getting the best value ...

Smart Ways to Earn Passive Income from Real Estate

Imagine making money without doing much work. You get paid even while you sleep, travel, or do fun things. This is called passive income. Indeed, real estate has great ways to do...

Small Details, Big Difference: How Minor Decor Tweaks Can Redefine Your Home

Have you ever walked into a home that felt effortlessly stylish, but you couldn’t quite figure out why? It’s often not about major renovations; it’s the small details that make a...