HKR International is cultivating more than a harmonious water-front resort-style community - it is a lifestyle that strikes a perfect balance between nature and urban vibrancy. Discovery Bay mangroves represent a vivid example of how biodiversity conservation can be brought to life. Located in Discovery Bay North, the mangrove site covers 11,600 square metres. Through sustainability-led stewardship, we have been strengthening biodiversity, reinforcing climate resilience, supporting nature-based carbon sequestration, and creating long-term value for learning and community engagement.

Through habitat enhancement, ecological monitoring, academic collaboration and community outreach, the Discovery Bay mangroves are gradually evolving into a natural space that continues to deliver growing environmental value. This not only makes the site a distinctive natural habitat asset for Discovery Bay, but also further strengthens its position as a sustainable waterfront community.

Preserving and Enhancing Ecological Value

Mangroves play an important role in coastal ecosystems. They do not only stabilise shorelines and support marine and bird life, but also provide a buffer that helps communities respond to the effects of climate change. In Discovery Bay, the mangrove habitat has now blossomed into a valuable biodiversity asset, with both its ecological richness continuously thriving.

•Habitat management: The ecological value of the Discovery Bay mangroves is already evident. Surveys have recorded two true mangrove species — Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Kandelia obovata — alongside a lively intertidal community that includes fiddler crabs, mudskippers, egrets, and mollusks.

•Freshwater enhancement: HKR International has adopted a science-based approach to continuously improve environmental conditions. The rainwater collection drain channel system divert rainwater into the mangrove zone, increasing freshwater ratio and that helps to moderate salinity levels.

Turning the Natural Site into a Living Classroom

To deepen students’ understanding of ecosystem conservation, HKRI has partnered with the Vocational Training Council (VTC) since 2023 to launch the DB Mangrove Conservation Programme. As part of the programme, students have participated in ecological surveys and research activities of the mangroves, including drone-based 3D surveys, soil salinity and tree monitoring.  The partnerships bring academic learning into a real-world setting, supporting hands-on discovery while encouraging the next generation to engage more deeply with conservation and sustainability.

Previously, the Group supported “The UN Climate Change Conference COP 30 Secondary School Student Ambassadors Training Programme”, organised by The Conservancy Association, recruiting more than 30 student ambassadors to conduct ecological visits in DB, promote the knowledge related to climate change, and inspire future leaders.

The Group has also actively collaborated with local environmental organisations and schools to organise a series of eco-tours and educational activities. These initiatives enhance environmental awareness among students and local residents, while further strengthening Discovery Bay’s position as an eco-tourism destination.

Creating Long-term Sustainable Development Value

What makes the Discovery Bay initiative especially compelling is the way it brings multiple sustainable development priorities together in a single location. From ecological enhancement and research collaboration to public education and the cultivation of eco-tourism potential, these elements are being developed in tandem, creating value that extends beyond the immediate habitat.

For residents and visitors, the mangroves offer a rare chance to observe biodiversity within a residential setting, adding depth and natural character to the Discovery Bay experience.

HKR International demonstrates that responsible development creates long-term value for nature, communities and future generations - not just in strategy, but in lived experience.