Hong Kong – 22 November 2025 – WWF-Hong Kong inaugurated Walk for Nature 2025 at Mai Po Nature Reserve today, marking the beginning of a two-day charity event dedicated to wetland conservation. This year's theme, "Wetlands for Lives", emphasises the interconnected roles of wetland habitats in supporting biodiversity, cultural traditions and human communities. It also aims to deepen public understanding of the unique ecology of the Mai Po wetlands by providing a comprehensive sensory experience.

The kick-off ceremony was officiated by Miss Diane Wong, JP, Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology; Mr Mickey Lai, JP, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation; Mr Dan Bradshaw, Chairman of WWF-Hong Kong and Miss Nicole Wong, CEO of WWF-Hong Kong.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of an award plaque, marking Mai Po Nature Reserve as one of only three global recipients of the Gold Star Wetland Centre Award. Presented in July 2025 at the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands COP15 in Zimbabwe, this accolade acknowledges excellence in wetland education, visitor engagement, conservation efforts and partnerships with local communities.

Mr Dan Bradshaw, Chairman of WWF-Hong Kong, addressed the audience, stating: "The Gold Star award validates the tireless efforts of our teams and partners in safeguarding Mai Po's vital ecosystems. Events like Walk for Nature remind us that wetlands are not only critical habitats but lifelines for millions. Our collective actions today help ensure their conservation for future generations."

The Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, said at the opening ceremony that WWF-Hong Kong has worked hand-in-hand with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department over the years to conserve Mai Po and maintain the integrity and biodiversity of the Deep Bay Wetland ecosystem, fully achieving the vision of harmonious co-existence between humans and nature.

Miss Wong added that the Government will continue to protect wetland in Hong Kong. She is pleased to see WWF implementing a smart wetland project through the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance ecosystem management under the support of the Environment and Ecology Bureau's "Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme ", and also WWF launching the "Smart Wetland Management Project" within this year, with funding support from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Besides, she also congratulated Mai Po Nature Reserve for winning the Gold Star Wetland Centre award from Wetland Link International in July 2025.

Following the ceremony, participants set off on designated walking routes across Mai Po Nature Reserve. The comprehensive wetland adventure covers all open areas and allows them to engage in most of the event activities while exploring three themed zones, including the Gateway to Wetland Exploration, the Ecological Exploration Zone, and the Wetland Symbiosis Story Zone. The route stretches approximately 5.5 kilometres, allowing groups to navigate at a leisurely pace.

The event features various sensory-based activities, enabling visitors to learn about the cultural significance of gei wais, experience the nesting process of the Pheasant-tailed Jacana, discover the vital role bees play in wetlands and even take home a bookmark infused with a special Mai Po aroma. Additional token-based workshops offer hands-on experiences including wood laser engraving, face and hand painting inspired by wetland wildlife and clay bird modelling.

Walk for Nature 2025 builds upon WWF-Hong Kong's long-term management of Mai Po Nature Reserve spanning over 40 years, representing an ongoing commitment to engaging the public in wetland conservation through immersive and educational experiences.