Why Hong Kong needs more trees and what’s preventing it

Trees decrease stress, provide much-needed shade and reduce pollution, but don’t seem to be a priority in Hong Kong’s urban developments

Groups have long called for more, but come up against barriers including disproportionately influential car owners and Nimbyism

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Hong Kong Park in Central, Hong Kong. The virus restrictions that shut down much of the city have kindled an appreciation of its parks and public spaces – but more could be done to increase the number of trees in the city. Photo: Getty Images

Published: 10:15am, 14 Jun 2020Updated: 10:16am, 14 Jun 2020

To stretch his legs and breathe fresh air during Hong Kong’s partial lockdown, Edwin Lau Che-feng took walks in parks and along the city’s greener streets.

Like other Hongkongers, he mostly abided by social distancing restrictions during the coronavirus crisis – he stayed home, avoided shopping centres and steered clear of crowds.

The natural world, though, can have a calming effect in chaotic times, and he felt that – on deserted, tree-lined streets and paths – he could breathe deeply.

“You can take down your mask in the fresh air, without too many people,” says the founder of small local conservation organisation The Green Earth. “You can physically and mentally relax.”

There are now far more trees in Hong Kong than there were at the turn of the century. Photo: Getty Images

The virus restrictions that shut down much of Hong Kong have kindled an appreciation of its parks and public spaces, as well as for the city’s street trees that provide attractive and cooling shade in the often crippling heat.

“People like to sit under the trees and enjoy their lunch, just like in many Western countries,” Lau says. “The canopies provide shade. Many studies have found that a big tree acts like a natural air conditioner and cools the environment.”