Life on Land

Sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, halt biodiversity loss.

Research conducted by the Science Unit at Lingnan focuses on conservation in the wild, closely measuring and monitoring the ecosystem of various species. The University also initiates citizen science projects, working with numerous stakeholders (SDG 17) and partners to strengthen the bonds with nature.

Lingnan University SDG Report

LU and HKBWS study shows preservation of wetlands in Deep Bay area vital to protect declining waterbird species

A first-of-its-kind study along the China coast, the project quantifies the 20-year wintering population trends of 42 waterbirds species in the Deep Bay area to evaluate the impacts of different threats along the East Asian-Australasian flyway (EAAF), providing important baseline information and recommendations on conservation.

Influence of Season and Soil Properties on Fungal Communities of Neighboring Climax Forests (Carpinus cordata and Fraxinus rhynchophylla)

The study uncovers differences in fungal diversity and soil properties between neighboring climax forests (C. cordata and F. rhynchophylla) using a metabarcoding approach, and suggests the importance of considering characteristics of host trees, as different climax forests may respond to changes (seasonal and soil properties) in different ways.

Saving lives in the wild - How Prof Sung Yik-hei 'evolved' from hobbyist to conservation biologist

The population of amphibians and reptiles in Hong Kong has fallen dramatically in recent decades, and some species are now facing extinction. Prof Sung’s broad aim is to assess the current situation of endangered species and come up with suggestions on how to implement and improve conservation efforts.

Novel reproductive behavior discovered

The Science Unit has reported a novel form of reproductive behaviour observed in a native frog species, Lau’s Leaf Litter Toad (Leptobrachella laui). Unconventionally, the female frog positions herself on top of the male, which is a reverse of the more usual mating arrangement.

Citizen Scientists – Fostering a biodiversity-friendly city

Apart from conducting research, our scientists enjoy teaching non-science students at Lingnan University, and hope that as graduates they will be able to apply this scientific knowledge to a broad scope of industries and professions.

Minor in Environmental and Scientific Literacy

This minor course focuses on the development of "science literacy" as a lifelong skill that can be applied to a variety of scientific and technological issues, rather than the mastery of content knowledge in a specific scientific discipline.

MPhil in Environmental Science

This programme equips students with a strong theoretical background in environmental sciences, as well as provide a diversity of hands-on, experiential experiences needed to be successful in this field.