PolyU and HKUST Launch State Key Laboratory for Climate Resilience in Coastal Cities to Address Climate Change Challenges
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have inaugurated the State Key Laboratory of Climate Resilience for Coastal Cities (SKL-CRCC), following approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of the People’s Republic of China. This laboratory is focused on addressing climate change challenges and aims to enhance infrastructure resilience in Hong Kong, across the Chinese mainland, and in coastal cities worldwide.
Goals of the Laboratory
The primary goals of the laboratory include the strengthening of early-warning systems for climate-related risks and the enhancement of emergency response capabilities. Furthermore, it intends to promote sustainable development initiatives that respond to issues arising from climate change. The inauguration coincided with a two-day international symposium featuring experts and scholars discussing strategies for improving climate resilience in coastal cities on a global scale.
Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony was held at PolyU’s Hotel ICON and included remarks from prominent figures such as Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, and Prof. Nancy Ip, President of HKUST, among other distinguished academics from both institutions.
Statements from University Leaders
Prof. Jin-Guang Teng remarked that the establishment of the SKL-CRCC aligns with national climate adaptation strategies and supports efforts by the Hong Kong government to develop climate-resilient urban environments. He emphasized the collaboration between the two universities as a strategic partnership that combines their strengths to advance scientific research and innovation.
Prof. Nancy Ip highlighted the importance of the laboratory in bringing together leading research expertise to confront urgent issues concerning urban disaster mitigation and infrastructure resilience. She, along with Prof. Xiangdong Li, noted that the research initiatives under the laboratory will focus on essential areas such as Climate Change and Extreme Weather, as well as Urban Infrastructure and Resilience.
International Symposium
The associated symposium features around 30 keynote presentations addressing a range of topics, including marine heatwaves, earthquakes, urban water management, and the role of artificial intelligence. The event is designed to facilitate academic exchanges and foster deeper discussions aimed at enhancing global understanding of climate resilience practices.
Aspiration of the SKL-CRCC
The SKL-CRCC aspires to align its activities with both national and international strategic frameworks to tackle the intricate challenges posed by climate change and to bolster the resilience of urban infrastructure in coastal regions.
(Source: Hong Kong Polytechnic University)
