Leading diving teams in Hong Kong's marine parks for CNN Call to Earth
As a coral monitor in Hong Kong's pristine marine parks, I led diving teams to collect critical coral health data for CNN's Call to Earth initiative - a global environmental journalism project highlighting conservation efforts around the world. This work contributed to understanding the state of Hong Kong's coral ecosystems and their resilience in the face of climate change.
Hong Kong's waters, despite being in a subtropical climate, host surprising coral diversity. Our mission was to document coral health, biodiversity, and recovery patterns to inform conservation strategies and raise global awareness about marine ecosystem preservation.
Led diverse teams of marine biology students and conservation volunteers on underwater data collection missions across Hong Kong's marine protected areas.
Conducted systematic coral health assessments, documenting species diversity, bleaching events, and overall ecosystem health indicators.
Captured underwater photography and video footage for CNN's environmental storytelling, creating visual narratives of marine conservation efforts.
Collaborated with marine parks authorities and international media to highlight Hong Kong's marine conservation successes and challenges.
Advanced underwater research techniques and safety protocols
Coral health assessment and biodiversity monitoring
Scientific documentation and environmental storytelling
Working in Hong Kong's marine parks provided unique insights into how urban coastal areas can successfully balance development with conservation. Despite being one of the world's most densely populated cities, Hong Kong has maintained thriving coral communities that serve as vital breeding grounds for fish and support marine biodiversity.
Our data collection efforts helped demonstrate that well-managed marine protected areas can support healthy coral ecosystems even in challenging urban environments, providing a model for coastal cities worldwide.
UWC Li Po Chun - Sustainability and Marine Conservation Programs
This coral monitoring experience taught me the critical importance of hands-on environmental action and data-driven conservation. Leading teams underwater while collecting scientific data for global media coverage showed me how technology, leadership, and environmental stewardship can intersect to create meaningful impact.
The work contributed to CNN's broader environmental narrative while building my understanding of how local conservation efforts can have global significance. It reinforced my commitment to using technology and leadership skills to address environmental challenges and support sustainable development initiatives.