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In today’s hectic society, it’s easy to forget that everything on our planet is part of a single
synchronous system. Our actions, or the lack of them, have direct consequences on both the ecology
and the biodiversity of our planet.
The idea that the Earth is a single, interactive system forms the basis of the famous Gaia Hypothesis,
which essentially states that everything on our planet operates in perfect balance to maintain the
conditions necessary for the survival of all living things. This hypothesis also helps us understand
the dangers that numerous species now face as a consequence of our damaging the planet’s complex
biological and ecological systems.
For instance, climate change is now an observable phenomenon on a global scale, resulting in rising
temperatures, rising sea levels, more acidic oceans and more extreme weather. This is rapidly placing
new stress on the ecosystems that are already weakened by pollution and habitat loss. When species
are forced to find new places to live and breed, they can easily fall prey to new predators and be driven
into extinction, which ultimately has an impact on the entire planet’s ecological balance. Seen from
this perspective, it’s clear that we have no more time to waste. We must address such issues as climate
change and habitat loss before it’s too late.
Against this backdrop, the Foundation has much work to do. I’m proud to say that through our team’s
hard work and the generous support of our donors, we continued to make a difference in 2008/09.
By conducting research and providing seed money for the much-needed conservation efforts, we’ve
empowered researchers to collect valuable new information on species. More importantly, these
conservation programmes have also helped to educate local communities on the sustainable use of
resources so as not to affect wildlife, and have played a critical role in helping governments develop
an appropriate management policy.
In parallel with these efforts, we’ve also been able to support the rebuilding of earthquake-affected
regions of China. Our relief work has brought relief to the country’s endangered pandas and helped
those selfless men and women who look after them.
Of course, the recent global economic crisis made it a challenging year for all of us. We need your
support to continue our work in the year ahead. Every donation, both large and small, will help us
ensure the long-term survival of wildlife diversity in Asia.
I would like to thank our retired Trustee Professor Nora Tam for her wise and generous guidance
during her tenure. At the same time, I also offer a warm welcome to our newly appointed Trustee
Professor Yvonne Sadovy. My thanks and profound gratitude likewise go to our many researchers
whose tireless efforts empower the Foundation to continue its vital work.
Judy Chen
Foundation Chair
Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong Annual Report 2008-2009 3