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The Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, shared with participants Hong Kong's experience in promoting its geosites among its largely urban population at a session of the fourth International UNESCO Conference on Geoparks 2010 this afternoon (April 12).
Giving a presentation on "Geosites for Urbanites" at the conference session, Mr Yau said the core of Hong Kong's geopark project was to promote it to the public.
"In promoting our geopark, it is of utmost importance that we bring it closer to the people through public engagement, education and facilitation," he said.
Promoting the geosites was not just about raising awareness of Hong Kong's natural treasures, the bigger plan was to strategise the geopark project as part of an on-going campaign "I Love Hong Kong, I Love Green", he noted.
Mr Yau said, "The ultimate goal is to promote green living in the city, which is part and parcel of our efforts to enhance our quality living."
Earlier today, Mr Yau attended the opening ceremony and keynote sessions of the fourth International UNESCO Conference on Geoparks 2010, which is being held in Langkawi, Malaysia.
The conference is held every two years to discuss geoheritage and geoparks development. Themes of this year's conference include tourism, sustainable development and conservation of geoparks.
In the morning, Mr Yau had a breakfast meeting with Dr Patrick McKeever, an Irish geologist, to share views on conservation of geo-treasures.
In the evening, Mr Yau hosted a dinner for the Deputy Director, Department of Geological Environment of the Ministry of Land and Resources, Ms Chen Xiaoning, to discuss issues of mutual concern.
Ends/Monday, April 12, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:06
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