The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently held a welcoming ceremony for the inaugural visit of the Chinese research vessel Shenhai Yihao (Deep Sea No. 1) and the manned submersible Jiaolong to Hong Kong. This event followed the successful completion of the vessel’s expedition in the Western Pacific and was co-led by HKUST as part of the first international deep-sea metascience program, “Digital Deep-sea Typical Habitats (DEPTH),” which is supported by the mainland government.
Objectives of the DEPTH Program
The primary objective of the DEPTH program is to investigate unique deep-sea ecosystems, biodiversity, and mineral resources in the area, aligning with the United Nations’ Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development initiative. The ceremony took place at the Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui and was attended by officials from both the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and mainland China, alongside secondary and primary school students and various distinguished guests.
Notable Attendees
Notable attendees included Cheuk Wing-Hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government; Hon. Starry Lee, Legislative Councilor; and Prof. Nancy Ip, President of HKUST. Wu Changbin and Tang Dongmei, Director-General and Deputy Director-General of the Deep Ocean Affairs Administration, also participated in the ceremony.
Significance of the Visit
During the event, Cheuk Wing-Hing highlighted the significance of the visit, suggesting it is indicative of advancements in deep-sea technology and the Central Government’s commitment to supporting research and conservation in Hong Kong. He urged local sectors to utilize this opportunity to deepen their understanding of marine science.
International Collaboration
Wu Changbin congratulated the expedition’s success and underscored the importance of international collaboration, noting the involvement of scientists from five continents. He stated that the voyage enhances comprehension of deep-sea biodiversity and provides valuable data for global marine science.
Opportunities for Hong Kong Scientists
Prof. Nancy Ip expressed acknowledgment of the opportunities available to Hong Kong scientists through national research projects in recent years and took pride in coordinating the international research team for the UN Ocean Decade program.
Commitment to Environmental Conservation
Additionally, Xu Haifeng, Deputy Chief Executive of the Bank of China (Hong Kong), reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to environmental conservation and public education. The event included demonstrations of scientific presentations conducted aboard the research vessel.
Expedition Highlights
Over the course of the 45-day voyage, the expedition conducted biodiversity surveys, gathered biological and geological samples, and tested various functions of the Jiaolong. This marked the first instance in which the submersible operated with international scientists on board.
Educational Activities Planned
HKUST plans to organize a series of educational activities aimed at promoting marine conservation and deep-sea research, which will include lectures and interactive sessions for students, highlighting the significance of sustainable ocean development.
Upcoming Academic Discussions
In the coming days, HKUST will facilitate additional academic discussions and public seminars to enhance awareness of marine science initiatives and the development of deep-sea research capabilities.
(Source: HKUST)
