Taiwan and Hong Kong implement measures to curb tourism impact on nature

Authorities in Taiwan and Hong Kong are implementing measures to combat the negative impacts of tourism on natural ecosystems.

In Taiwan, the Ocean Conservation Agency has launched an investigation into incidents where divers harassed and touched protected marine species, such as whale sharks and sea turtles, in the Lanyu and Xiaoliuqiu waters. The agency emphasized that such actions violate the Wildlife Conservation Act and can result in imprisonment or significant fines. Officials are urging tourists to follow the ‘5 No Principles’: no touching, no disturbing, no feeding, no chasing, and no harming.

In Hong Kong, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has introduced a trial reservation system for the Po Toi Chau section of the Man Yee Geological Trail to manage visitor crowds. While environmental groups welcome the move to control foot traffic, concerns remain that tourists may shift to nearby areas like Tung O or Long Ke Wan, potentially causing traffic congestion and environmental damage similar to previous incidents of littering and vegetation destruction. Experts are calling for a comprehensive, cross-departmental ecotourism policy framework to balance conservation with public access.