SDG 15: Life on land 

Common Core Program

The Common Core Program requirements are mandatory for all undergraduate students, ensuring every graduate has the opportunity to engage with sustainability. For the 2024-25 academic year, over 20 Common Core courses are directly related to Sustainability and the SDGs, making sustainability education an integral part of the foundational curriculum for all students.

Extended Major in Sustainability

For students seeking deeper engagement, the Extended Major in Sustainability is available in combination with Science, Engineering, Business, Humanities and Social Science, and most Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies majors. In 2024-2025, it offers 55 courses covering a range of SDG topics, providing an interdisciplinary pathway for students across disciplines.

Other Relevant Programs

Additional specialized degree programs further integrate SDGs into the curriculum, including the BSc in Environmental Management and Technology (EVMT) , the BSc in Sustainable and Green Finance (SGFN) , and the BSc in Ocean Science and Technology (OST). These multi-disciplinary programs equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address specific sustainability challenges.

For more details on the integration of SDGs across the HKUST curriculum, please click here.

HKUST offers courses such as:

LIFS 2011 – A Practicum on Wetland Conservation: Provides hands-on experience in wetland ecology and conservation practices.
LIFS 2060 – Biodiversity: Introduces the principles of biodiversity, from genes to ecosystems, and their conservation.
ENVR 2020 – Urban Air Pollution: Examines sources, chemistry, and health effects of air pollutants in cities, as well as mitigation strategies.

According to Science Direct, from 2021 to 2025, HKUST published 107 research papers addressing SDG 15. 

10.9% of them are in the top 10% cite score and around 72.0% are internationally co-authored. 

Sustainable Landscaping Policy 

HKUST is committed to the conservation of our biodiversity and ecosystem resilience through sustainable landscaping practices. Our Sustainable Landscaping Policy requires contractors to adhere strict guidelines, including soil enrichment, conservation of water resource, and native species management, to minimize environmental impacts while also promoting ecological health.   

Tree Felling & Planting Policy 

In the effort to protect and preserve the vibrant trees of HKUST, the Tree Felling & Planting Policy was established to ensure a high-standard management of the university’s treasured woodland ecosystem. The university requires its faculty to have a Tree Preservation and Removal Proposal (TPRP) submitted to the Lands Department (LandsD) for thorough checking of their methods before they give any approval. Furthermore, third party contractors must emphasize their methods of any convention to protect plant species that are classified as Critically Endangered (CR).  

HKUST and CMA Partner to Boost Early Warning Systems and Climate Resilience

HKUST and the China Meteorological Administration have signed a strategic agreement to enhance early warning systems, strengthen disaster preparedness, and build climate-resilient communities. The partnership focuses on high-resolution forecasting, AI integration, collaborative research platforms, and joint PhD programs to nurture next-generation climate leaders. 

Roadside Tree Carbon Storage

In 2024, HKUST surveyed 2,360 trees to assess the risk posed to pedestrians. During this assessment, biodiversity data was also collected.  

Out of the 113 species surveyed, approximately 20% are native to Hong Kong. Native species hold significant ecological value and contribute to the city’s biodiversity by providing habitat and food for campus fauna, especially pollinators.  

These trees, regardless of their native status, offer various ecosystem services, including air quality improvement, soil erosion prevention, stormwater absorption and filtration, and overall well-being for the campus community. Thus, they are essential natural resources for HKUST.  

Utilizing data from the Roadside Tree Survey, the University has employed tools from the U.S. Forest Service Research and Development to estimate the carbon storage capacity of the campus trees. Currently, analysis indicates that the 2,360 trees on campus are collectively storing 524 tonnes of carbon. 

Onsite Organic Waste Upcycled into Soil Conditioner 

As part of the HKUST Sustainability Challenge 2028, a focus was placed on healthy soil for the campus landscape. To advance this goal, the University applied 5,100 kg of off-campus waste woodchips from Y-Park and 875 kg of on-campus waste shredded leaves in 2024/25, which provide organic matter that enhances the fertility and structure of the soil.

This practice not only improves soil content but also helps retain moisture, thereby reducing water consumption for irrigation. Additionally, it prevents soil erosion, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. By providing habitat for beneficial microorganisms and insects, it promotes a healthy ecosystem.

Ecological Enhancement Programme in Staff Quarters Landscaped Slopes 

In resemblance to the woodlands of Hong Kong, certain areas of the University’s greenery are dominated by exotic species that serve as pioneer trees, capable of thriving in poor soil and effectively preventing soil erosion. However, as these trees age, they pose risks to the campus community and hinder the growth of native species.  

To enhance the ecological value of the campus woodlands and address the increasing risk of fallen trees, the University has launched the Woodland Thinning and Ecological Enhancement Programme.  

As part of this initiative, trees comprising both exotic species and native species in substandard health—were removed from the Senior Staff Quarters (SSQ) slope, and 252 tree seedlings of native species were planted to enrich the area. 

During the tree-felling process, several trees with high-quality wood were carefully harvested and processed into planks for upcycling into furniture, art installations, or souvenirs, demonstrating the University’s commitment to preserving natural resources. 

Compost Tea and Black Soldier Fly Fertilizer Experimentation

To further enhance soil quality, HKUST experimented with compost tea as a way to add natural nutrients to turf and grassy areas. The University also utilized fertilizer produced from the Black Soldier Fly project, which diverted 2,565 kg of food waste and transformed it into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer. A portion of this fertilizer was applied to the campus butterfly garden, enriching the soil with natural nutrients.

Colorization of the Campus Landscape 

To enhance the appeal of the campus for both visitors and the HKUST community, the University initiated an engaging project focused on enriching the campus landscape with vibrant, colorful plants.

A notable transformation took place at the north entrance, where planters were completely revamped with a diverse selection of eye-catching plants and innovative landscaping designs. In addition to the north entrance, colorful plants were thoughtfully incorporated into various key locations, including the LSK Business Building, staff quarters, student halls, the Chinese Garden, the south entrance, and the piazza.

In total, 12 major locations—both indoor and outdoor—were included in this colorization project. These initiatives not only beautify the campus but also foster a sense of community and connection with nature, making HKUST a more engaging and inspiring environment for learning and collaboration.

Biodiversity Photo Competition

HKUST engaged students and staff through the "Your Backyard, Your Lens" biodiversity photo competition, which received 239 submissions across three categories. A physical exhibition attracted over 500 visitors, and a highlight video engaged 9,701 social media users, demonstrating the community's deep connection with campus biodiversity.

For more information on HKUST Operations related to SDG 15, see HKUST Sustainability Report 2024-2025 here.