Urbanization and Global Environmental Change in China: Hong Kong's Preliminary Survey

Dr. Li Yangfan, Nanjing University, China

Urbanization - both as a social phenomenon and a physical transformation of landscapes - is one of the most powerful, irreversible, and visible
anthropogenic forces on Earth. Many of the most important and significant changes associated with the impact of globalization are taking place in urban areas. Hong Kong’s landscape and environment are dominant by human activities. How to conserve the non built-up landscapes (wetlands, forests, farmlands…) and realize urban-regional sustainability is a challenge under rapid urbanization for Hong Kong and China’s coast. On the basis of field environmental and geographical survey, the seminar attempts to discuss some critical issues, e.g., sea reclamation, wetlands conservation, harmonious urbanization…