As the concept of ecological tourism becomes more popular, Hong Kong has jumped on the bandwagon, launching promotional campaigns to showcase its hidden natural treasures. Among the initiatives launched by the HKTB to promote green tourism is the 'Hong Kong Nature Kaleidoscope'.

Running from September 2006 to February 2007, the promotion features green tours to country parks and remote, quaint villages in the New Territories, and island-hopping tours.

With 23 country parks, five marine parks and a well-connected network of hiking trails, Hong Kong has a lot of potential for eco-tourism. While Hong Kong may not have the vast expanses and rolling green pastures of many western countries, visitors are attracted by our unique offer of eco-tours right in the heart of the city.

With an efficient transport network, even the most unspoiled landscapes in the most remote parts of Hong Kong are, at most, a few hours from the city centre. After a day spent in country parks, tourists can still go urban sightseeing and shopping at night. With detailed planning and a slick publicity campaign, tourism officials can turn the city's compact size to our advantage.

As eco-tours become more and more popular, the demand for qualified eco-guides has risen sharply over the past few years.

'Our training places for eco-guides were snapped up quickly. The scope of our training has also become wider,' said Charles Lee Yee-keung, director of Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre.

'Our training covers basic knowledge about Hong Kong flora and fauna, the relationship between humans and nature, the planning of eco-tours and etiquette for eco-travellers,' said Mr Lee.

While tourism officials reap the benefits of green tourism, Mr Lee believes that environmental conservation should always take precedence over commercial interests.

'As more and more visitors hit nature trails, frequent abuses of nature are reported. Some people don't know how to behave in protected areas. They throw rubbish, trample on corals and pluck rare plants and fruits off trees. Pristine waters off visitors' areas are also littered with cartons, bottles and cans,' said Mr Lee.

'Our delicate ecosystems are vulnerable to damage. While we enjoy the beauty of nature, we should be responsible eco-travellers, and do our utmost to protect the natural environment.'

Hong Kong Wetland Park

Located in Tin Shui Wai, the wetland park is a new facility dedicated to promoting ecotourism and education. It features simulated natural habitats, such as tropical swamps and arctic tundra, to familiarise the public with the living conditions of plants and animals in their native habitats.

Tung Ping Chau

Located in Mirs Bay in northeast Hong Kong, Tung Ping Chau is famed for its unique sedimentary rock formations. Its surrounding waters are home to over 60 species of coral. All manner of marine life, such as sea urchins and crabs, can also be found.

Mai Po Nature Reserve

A haven for migratory birds, the nature reserve covers an extensive area of wetlands and mudflats. Located near Yuen Long, it provides a fertile breeding ground for both birds and marine animals like mudskippers and fiddler crabs.