DEPT OF GEOGRAPHY
| Researcher : Chan KW |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Pinto A., Brown V., Skelly C., Rigby J., Lai P.C., Chan K.W., Mak A.S.H., Leung S.T.S. and So F.M., Estimating population sizes in emergency situations using spatial analysis methods, World Health Organization. 2005. |
| Researcher : Chen Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen Y., PhD thesis, Assessing the Services and Value of Green Spaces in Urban Ecosystem: A Case of Guangzhou City. 2005. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Perception and Attitude of Residents Towards Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou (China), Environmental Management. New York, Springer, 2006, 38(3): 338-349. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Recreation-amenity Use and Contingent Valuation of Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou, China, Landscape and Urban Planning. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006, 75(1-2): 81-96. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Valuing Ecosystem Services of Recreational Opportunities and Amenities generated by Green Spaces in Guangzhou, International Conference on the Management of Urban Forests around Large Cities, Prague, 3-6 October 2005. |
| Researcher : Chen Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen Y., PhD thesis, Assessing the Services and Value of Green Spaces in Urban Ecosystem: A Case of Guangzhou City. 2005. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Perception and Attitude of Residents Towards Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou (China), Environmental Management. New York, Springer, 2006, 38(3): 338-349. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Recreation-amenity Use and Contingent Valuation of Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou, China, Landscape and Urban Planning. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006, 75(1-2): 81-96. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Valuing Ecosystem Services of Recreational Opportunities and Amenities generated by Green Spaces in Guangzhou, International Conference on the Management of Urban Forests around Large Cities, Prague, 3-6 October 2005. |
| Researcher : Chow SY |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., China's 1994 Tax-sharing Reforms: One System, Differential Impact, Asian Survey. Berkeley, California, University of California Press, 2006, XLVI, No. 2: 215-237. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Hong Kong in the Age of Sprawl: What are the Changing Urban Form and Transportation Challenges?, 102nd Annual Conference of the Association of American Geographers, Chicago, 7-11 March 2006. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Sustainable Urban Transportation: Concepts, Policies and Methodologies, Journal of Urban Planning and Development -- ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 33, no. 2: 76-79. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Travel Characteristics of Residents Living in Shatin: How do They Differ from the Rest of the City? What are the Implications on Sustainable Urban Transport?, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. Hong Kong, HKSTS, 2005, 578-588. |
| Researcher : Chow SY |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., China's 1994 Tax-sharing Reforms: One System, Differential Impact, Asian Survey. Berkeley, California, University of California Press, 2006, XLVI, No. 2: 215-237. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Hong Kong in the Age of Sprawl: What are the Changing Urban Form and Transportation Challenges?, 102nd Annual Conference of the Association of American Geographers, Chicago, 7-11 March 2006. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Sustainable Urban Transportation: Concepts, Policies and Methodologies, Journal of Urban Planning and Development -- ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 33, no. 2: 76-79. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Travel Characteristics of Residents Living in Shatin: How do They Differ from the Rest of the City? What are the Implications on Sustainable Urban Transport?, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. Hong Kong, HKSTS, 2005, 578-588. |
| Researcher : Donoghue SL |
| Project Title: | KNOWLEDGE-BASED ARCHAEOLOGY IN HONG KONG |
| Investigator(s): | Donoghue SL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 07/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | An Earth Science Approach to Archaeological Interpretation in Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Donoghue SL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 07/2005 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Researcher : Fok L |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Peart M.R. and Fok L., Output of Bed Load Sediment from a Small Upland Drainage Basin in Hong Kong, Proceedings of a symposium held in Dundee, UK, July 2006, Sediment Dynamics and the Hydromorphology of Fluvial Systems. IAHS Publ. 306, 2006, 82-88. |
| Researcher : Jim CY |
| Project Title: | The process of desertification and its control in Northern China |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY, Peart MR, Zhang D |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Matching Fund for National Key Basic Research Development Scheme (973 Projects) |
| Start Date: | 07/2001 |
| Abstract: |
| To identify indigenous peoples knowledge on desertification in China; to evaluate soil property changes associated with desertification; to examine if aeolian transport of dust impacts upon precipitation chemistry. |
| Project Title: | Land use changes and ecological rehabilitation in the reservoir region of the Three Gorges Project in China |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY, Yang Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2002 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| The study aims at acquiring a detailed understanding of the associated changes principally in the spatial context, including the carrying capacity of the land, soil quality, cropping pattern and practices, and socio-economic responses of the local communities. |
| Project Title: | Assessing the services and value of green spaces in urban ecosystems: a case study of Guangzhou city |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 07/2003 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To evaluate the roles of green spaces and greeneries in contributing to the functions and services of urban ecosystems with refeerence to developing cities, using Guanzhou as a case study. |
| Project Title: | Landscape and ecological assessment of heritage trees in Guangzhou city (China) |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To understand the composition, characteristics, spatial pattern and differentiation, and landscape and ecological contribution of the highest-calibre trees situated in the urban areas of Guangzhou city. |
| Project Title: | Valuating urban green spaces and water bodies based on hedonic pricing model of housing market in Guangdong |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY, Chen |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 03/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| The proposed study aims at the following objectives: (1) To understand whether residents of Guangzhou pay a premium on environmental attributes of houses they purchased. (2) To verify the expected effect of variables that are supposed to affect the housing price in Guangzhou. (3) To explore whether the value of environmental elements (green spaces and water bodies) could be capitalized in housing price in current housing market in Guangzhou. (4) To investigate which variables (environmental attributes) are considered as the most appreciated and how much the marginal price are of these environmental attributes reflected by housing price. (5) To explore the possibility of building a theoretical hedonic pricing model which includes significant explanatory factors of housing price in Guangzhou (Table 1). (6) To study housing choice behaviour of home buyers of Guangzhou, their preferences of environmental attributes, and factors that determine and differentiate homebuyers' choice of residential houses. |
| Project Title: | Cost-benefit analysis of urban greening in Chinese cities using contingent valuation method - Zhuhai city as a case study |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY, Chen Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 01/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| The main objective of this study is to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of urban greening in Chinese cities, adopting the new urban greening plan proposed by the Zhuhai municipal government in May 2005 as a case study. The benefits would be elicited using the contingent valuation method (CVM) by soliciting residents' willingness-to-pay (WTP) for the greening. The cost data (planning, implementation and management) will be collected from relevant government departments and through field surveys. The public attitude towards the urban greening projects, which might affect their WTP, would be explored. The results could provide a clear understanding of the net benefit of the urban greening project for both residents and municipal decision-makers. Urban forests could provide a wide range of environmental benefits, such as abatement of air pollution, amelioration of heat island effect, rain water retention, groundwater recharge, and protection from natural hazards. The socio-economic benefits of urban greening encompass the common recreation and amenity aspects, as well as the less known but equally important improvement in urban health, higher worker productivity, lower health care and medical cost, higher property value and hence higher tax revenue, better attention span and academic achievement of school children, and attraction to high quality employees and investors. These benefits could contribute notably to the wide spectrum of environmental, social and economic sustainability of cities and improve the quality of urban life. The contributions of these benefits to society in China, however, are relatively unknown due to the lack of relevant researches. The benefits have often been taken for granted, and commonly underestimated or even neglected by developers, urban designers, policy-makers and residents. Inherently, it is not easy to give a value to nature or natural goods which traditionally are considered as non-priced and non-market commodities. Consequently, the benefits of urban greening and urban nature in general are often poorly understood and seldom factored into the municipal funding and expenditure regime. Similarly, private development projects also routinely ignore the long-term and sustainable benefits of greening within their sites. Such a knowledge gap is not conducive to the allocation of adequate resources and to gaining support to further the cause of urban greening. Despite the difficulties in assessing the value of urban greening, some effective methods have been developed recently by economists and ecologists to convert the benefits into conventional market economic values. Amongst the different approaches, the contingent valuation method has been widely applied in oversea studies of natural resources and environmental benefits, from which some convincing results have been derived. However, the application of CVM in China with a different socio-economic ambience is still scant in comparison with western countries where the method was initiated. This study endeavours to explore the applicability of CVM in China and seek to develop a variant format that is appropriate to the country's circumstances. In applying CVM, a carefully structured sampling scheme will select individuals who are required to express their preferences for some ecosystem services by answering questions about hypothetical choices. The respondents will be asked a variety of questions about how much they would be willing to pay to ensure a welfare gain from a change in the provision of a non-market environmental commodity, which in this study means more green spaces. The data will then be interpreted and extrapolated to the population at large. There are several survey formats and elicitation techniques of CVM, the selection of which might affect the efficiency and robustness of the results. In this study, the referendum formats (both single-bounded and double-bounded dichotomous choice questionnaire) and survey techniques recommended by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the USA would be adopted. The explanatory power, validity, and reliability of these two formats will be estimated and compared, and their suitability to the Chinese situation will be assessed. Urban greening in Chinese cities has drawn much attention from various levels of government and different sectors of the society. Whereas the ecological benefits are usually implicit, it is widely acknowledged that urban forests could enhance the attractability of cities to investors and urban residents. The increasing need to improve the quantity and quality of greenery in urban areas may not be matched by a commensurate rise in provision. The rapid urban growth of the Pearl River Delta demands careful planning and protection of urban green spaces. In the evaluation of land use configuration in urban areas, the trade-off between ecological and economic benefits has become an important issue, which has engendered national-wide debates. The cost-benefit analysis of urban greening projects could analyze aggregated economic efficiency of changes in natural resource allocations. The findings could raise awareness of green space values amongst residents and justify the investment on this key natural municipal infrastructure. It will also provide hints on the preferred green space design, such as the choice of plant species composition, landscaping approach and biomass structure to meet specific local expectations. A new urban greening plan was proposed in May 2005 by the municipal government of Zhuhai city, which aimed to provide green spaces within 200 m and a park for recreational activities within 1000 m for residents in 2020 by increasing green spaces in built-up areas. The proposal is innovative and progressive, and ties in with modern landscape ecological principles. It may serve as a model for the rest of China if not for other cities in the developing world. Its efficacy and cost-benefit could be assessed before considering wider adoption. Some queries have been raised by the community and this study intends to find answers and distil recommendations. |
| Project Title: | Soil moisture variations and their controlling factors associated with roof greening |
| Investigator(s): | Jim CY, Chen Y. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 05/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| Most building roofs in Hong Kong have hard surfaces that absorb much solar energy, resulting in high surface temperature reaching 58ºC in hot months. The ambient air temperature above such heated roofs could attain 38ºC. A notable proportion of the heat in hard roof materials could be transferred through the ceiling to the top-floor space below, thus raising the indoor air temperature and increasing energy consumption for air conditioning. Rooftop air intakes of many commercial and institutional buildings draw in heated air and need more energy to cool the air down to a comfortable level. Researches in other cities indicate the multiple benefits of green roofs in reducing heat gain, heat flux, cooling energy consumption and ameliorating the urban heat island effect. As a tropical city, Hong Kong has seldom employed roof greening to usher energy conservation and ancillary environmental benefits. Application of roof greening technology to local buildings demands a systematic research of the methods and materials to find an optimal recipe. Soil plays a key role in roof greening, because the depth of soil is often restricted due to the limited load bearing capacity of the reinforced concrete slab. Insufficient soil depth and poor soil quality could reduce water-holding capacity of the soil and dampen plant growth. The lack of soil depth means that plant growth could easily suffer from moisture deficit. Less soil moisture also reduces evaporation from the soil and transpiration from the plants, thus depresses the cooling effect of the green roof. This study attempts to focus on the critical factor of variations in soil moisture on a green roof by soil material, soil depth, time of day, season (weather condition), irrigation regime and vegetation type. A green roof will be chosen for a detailed experimental study that will last for two years. The results will be analyzed to find the optimal combination of soil and vegetation to support plant growth in green roof environment. The findings and practical recommendations will be communicated to relevant parties associated with building development, management and landscaping. This study will form the foundation for more in-depth studies on other aspects of roof greening in due course. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jim C.Y., Bauhinia Trees: From Obscurity to Celebrity. Hong Kong: Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Friends of the Country Parks and Cosmos Books, 2006, 432 pp. |
| Jim C.Y., Chief Editor, Asian Geographer. Dept. of Geography, HKU and the H.K. Geographical Association, H.K., 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Energy Innovation Fund Award 2005, China Light and Power. 2005. |
| Jim C.Y., Evaluation of the Country Parks System in Hong Kong since its Establishment in 1976. Hong Kong, Education & Manpower Bureau for Teaching Training, City Univ, 2005. |
| Jim C.Y., Formulaic Expert Method to Integrate Evaluation and Valuation of Heritage Trees in Compact City, Environmental Monitoring and Assessment . New York, Springer, 2006, 116: 53-80. |
| Jim C.Y., John Z Duling Research Award 2005, International Society of Arboriculture. International Society of Arboriculture, 2005. |
| Jim C.Y. and Yang Y., Land-use Change and Ecological Rehabilitation in the Reservoir Region of the Three Gorges Project in China, 20th Annual Symposium International Association for Landscape Ecology - United States Regional Association Symposium 2005, Syracuse, NY, 12-16 March 2005. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Board of Consulting Editor, Environmental Awareness. International Society of Naturists, Vadodara, India, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Arboricultural Journal. UK, Arboricultural Association, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Cities. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Forest Ecology and Management. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Interdisciplinary Environmental Review. New York, Rowman & Littlefield, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Journal of Geographical Science. Taipei, Department of Geography, National University of Taiwan, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Landscape and Urban Planning. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Board, Urban Forestry and Urban Greening. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Committee, Modern Urban Research. Nanjing, Urban Research Association, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Member of Editorial Committee, Pedosphere: A Quarterly Journal of Soil Science. Beijing and New York, Science Press, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Perception and Attitude of Residents Towards Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou (China), Environmental Management. New York, Springer, 2006, 38(3): 338-349. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Recreation-amenity Use and Contingent Valuation of Urban Green Spaces in Guangzhou, China, Landscape and Urban Planning. Amsterdam, Elsevier Science, 2006, 75(1-2): 81-96. |
| Jim C.Y. and Yan C.K.L., Safety in the Urban Forest: A Comparison of the PICUS Sonic Tomograph and the Digital Microprobe in Accurately Detecting Decay and Cavities in Trees, 8th European Forum on Urban Forestry on Urban Forests: A Different Trademark for Cities and Forestry, 9-13 May 2005. |
| Jim C.Y., Tree Transplanting: Principles, Precautions and Best Practices, Civil Engineering and Development Department, Hong Kong, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Tree Transplanting: Problems and Best Practices, Drainage Services Department, Hong Kong, 2006. |
| Jim C.Y., Trees on Old Stone Walls: A Unique Heritage of Urban Hong Kong, New Asia College Cultural Talk, Chinese Univ. of H.K., 2006. |
| Jim C.Y. and Chen Y., Valuing Ecosystem Services of Recreational Opportunities and Amenities generated by Green Spaces in Guangzhou, International Conference on the Management of Urban Forests around Large Cities, Prague, 3-6 October 2005. |
| Jim C.Y., Vicissitudes of Urban Greening in Hong Kong: Systematic Analysis of Historical and Contemporary Photographs, International Conference on Photography and the City, Clinton Institute for American Studies, University College of Dublin, Dublin, 29 June to 01 July. 2006. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q. and Lee F., Climate Change, War, Social Unrest and Dynastic Cycle in Ancient China, Chinese Science Bulletin. Beijing Science Press, 2005, 50(2): 137-144. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Researcher : Kwong KH |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, In: Stephane Bres and Robert Laurini, Lecture Notes in Computer Science. Springer-Verlag, 2006, 3736: 189-202. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, Proceedings of 8th International Conference on VISual information systems, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 4-5 July 2005. |
| Researcher : Kyle WJ |
| Project Title: | Urbanization and human bioclimate in Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Kyle WJ |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Other Funding Scheme |
| Start Date: | 07/2000 |
| Abstract: |
| To examines the processes involved in the process of urbanization as it affects local climcate and the implication that such changes have for human bioclimate and the hazards posed to the population that can arise from such changes. Research in progress seeks to establish the links between urbanization and local climcate through analysis of longterm historical data and the more recent changes that have taken place as a consequence of the rapid urbanization of the New Territories; and to further our understanding of the role of the bioclimcatic controls and processes which affect factors such as thermal stress amd air quality which are of serious concern to the population of Hong Kong and their well-being. |
| Project Title: | Seasonal forecasting of tropical cyclone activity |
| Investigator(s): | Kyle WJ |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Other Funding Scheme |
| Start Date: | 07/2000 |
| Abstract: |
| To enhance our ability to provide useful pre-season estimates of tropical cyclone activity in the Western North Pacific Ocean in general, and in the area affecting Hong Kong, in particular, with the aim of improving the capacity to mitigate against the potential hazards posed by such phenomena. Research in progress is designed to clarify the tropical cyclone climatology of the area; to establish the role of the climatic controls which affect the interannual variability of tropical cyclone activity; and to develop an operationally useful Seasonal Tropical Cyclone Forecast Model (STCFM) for this area. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Researcher : Lai K |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai K., Li Y. and Feng X., Gap Between Tourism Planning And Implementation: A Case Of China, Tourism Management. Oxford, UK, Elsevier Science, 2005, 27: 1171-1180. |
| Researcher : Lai PC |
| Project Title: | A public web-GIS platform for analysing visual and environmental impacts of consturction projects in Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Lai PC |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Environmental Research, Technology Demonstration Projects |
| Start Date: | 06/2004 |
| Abstract: |
| To implement a methodology that allows the public to undertake visual assessment and inspection of possible environment impacts of construction projects. The PI intends to use the reclamation proposals of the Victoria Harbour as the starting point for a web-GIS platform that offers mapping, realistic 3D models and spatial analytical capabilities to improve public awareness on environmental issues. |
| Project Title: | Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA) |
| Investigator(s): | Lai PC, Mak SK, Chan KKW, Leung S, So F, Tong A |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme |
| Start Date: | 04/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To impart conceptual and operational understanding of GIS and 3D models to local professionals in environmental applications. To equip environmental consultants the essential knowledge and know-how's in using GIS to construct 3D models and visualisation routines. |
| Project Title: | Assessing Service Quality and Satisfaction Among Diverse Recreation Visitors of the Pokfulam Country Park |
| Investigator(s): | Lai PC, Li C |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 08/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| Previous research suggested that two recreational factors are important in the context of country park recreation: past experience (e.g., McFarlane, et.al. 1998; Oliver, 1980; Schreyer, et.al. 1984) and crowding (e.g., Vaske, et.al. 1996). Crowding emerges as one of the major concerns of park and recreation agencies because of the country park's role in providing low density and dispersed recreation. Furthermore, novice recreationists may differ from frequent visitors in various aspects of enjoyment of their visits to the country parks. It also appears that cultural backgrounds in conjunction with past experiences will influence the degrees of tolerance to crowding. These factors collectively may also lead to various perceptions of service quality and satisfaction among cultural groups. We propose to test a cross-cultural service quality/satisfaction model for the country park recreation that includes six constructs: culture, experience, crowding, service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. This model stems from the concept of the classic marketing field (e.g., Iacobucci, et.al. 2003; Mattila, 1999) which focuses primarily on four of the six proposed constructs: culture, service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. We also considered Hofstede's (1991) four cultural dimensions (power distance, individualism, masculinity, and uncertainty avoidance) and Graefe, et.al.'s (2000) four customer service dimensions (facilities, services, information, and experience). Given that the country park is our study setting and the subjects under study are recreationists, we suggest that past experience and crowding are factors of significant influence. Our multi-cultural service quality/satisfaction model in the context of country park recreation thus comprises six constructs as opposed to the original four. The purpose of this study is to assess service quality and satisfaction among culturally diverse visitors (e.g., Mainland China vs. other countries vs. Hong Kong residents) of the Pokfulam Country Park. This project aims to achieve the following: 1. Describe patterns of recreational use, trip profiles, and socio-demographic characteristics of a sample of culturally diverse visitors; 2. Profile cultural subgroups using Hofstede's theory (1991) that delineates cultures into four dimensions: individualism, power distance, masculinity, and uncertainty avoidance. 3. Provide descriptive analyses of an individual's levels of experience, perception of crowding, as well as perception of service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. 4. Explore and map differences between cultural subgroups with regard to levels of experience, perception of crowding, as well as perception of service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. 5. Hypothesize theoretical models to relate culture, experience, crowding, service quality, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. References: Graefe, A.R., Absher, J.D., & Burns, R.C. (2000). Monitoring visitor satisfaction: A comparison of comment cards and more in-depth surveys. In Proceedings of the 2000 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report NE-276, 265-69. Hofstede, G. (1991). Cultures and organizations: Software of the mind. London: McGraw-Hill. Iacobucci, D., Grisaffe, D., Duhachek, A., & Marcati, A. (2003). FAC-SEM: A methodology for modeling factorial structural equations models, applied to cross-cultural and cross-industry drivers of customer evaluations. Journal of Service Research, 6(1), 3-23. Mattila, A. S. (1999). The role of culture in the service evaluation process. Journal of service research, 1(3), 150-61. McFarlane, B.L., Boxall, P.C., & Watson, D.O. (1998). Past experience and behavioral choice among wilderness users. Journal of Leisure Research, 30(2), 195-213. Oliver, R.L. (1980). A cognitive model of the antecedents and consequences of satisfaction decisions. Journal of Marketing Research, 19(November), 460-9. Schreyer, R.M., Lime, D.V., & Williams, D.R. (1984). Characterizing the influence of past experience on recreation behavior. Journal of Leisure Research, 16(1), 34-50. Vaske, J.J., Donnelly, M.P. & Petruzzi, J.P. (1996). Country of origin, encounter norms, and crowding in a front country setting. Leisure Science, 18, 161-176. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chan C.F., Chan K.W. and Lai P.C., THE PROGRESSIVE EMBOSSING SYSTEM – a prototype computer-driven servo-motor and pneumatic based tactile map drafting machine with two embossing modes, 2006. |
| Lai P.C., Conference organizer and Chairman, Geospatial Research and Application Frontiers in Environmental and Public Health Systems, Croucher Foundation Sponsorship of Conferences, 07-09 June 2006, Hong Kong. 2006. |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Lai P.C., OGC Standards and International Experience on the Sharing of GIS Data, Open Standard Mobile Map Application Development Seminar, 03 March 2006, Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, Cyberport, Hong Kong. 2006. |
| Lai P.C., So F.M. and Leung S.T.S., Spatial Analysis in Human Disease Surveillance and Epidemic Response, GIS training to WHO staff, World Health Organization.. 2005. |
| Mak A.S.H., Yip K.M. and Lai P.C., Developing a City Skyline for Hong Kong Using GIS and Urban Design Guidelines, URISA Journal (USA: Urban and Regional Information Systems Association). 2005, 17 (1): 33-42. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, In: Stephane Bres and Robert Laurini, Lecture Notes in Computer Science. Springer-Verlag, 2006, 3736: 189-202. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, Proceedings of 8th International Conference on VISual information systems, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 4-5 July 2005. |
| Pinto A., Brown V., Skelly C., Rigby J., Lai P.C., Chan K.W., Mak A.S.H., Leung S.T.S. and So F.M., Estimating population sizes in emergency situations using spatial analysis methods, World Health Organization. 2005. |
| Researcher : Lee F |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q. and Lee F., Climate Change, War, Social Unrest and Dynastic Cycle in Ancient China, Chinese Science Bulletin. Beijing Science Press, 2005, 50(2): 137-144. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Researcher : Lee F |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q. and Lee F., Climate Change, War, Social Unrest and Dynastic Cycle in Ancient China, Chinese Science Bulletin. Beijing Science Press, 2005, 50(2): 137-144. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Researcher : Lee FYS |
| Project Title: | A comparative study of environmental consciousness: Hong Kong, Japan, Vietnam |
| Investigator(s): | Lee FYS, Nickum J., Aoyagi-Usui M., Rambo T. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) - General Award |
| Start Date: | 12/1998 |
| Abstract: |
| To compare environmental consciousness in three major "border confucian" culture zones in Asia. |
| Project Title: | The impact of local and global factors on the development of cultural heritage management in Hong Kong, Macau and Southern China |
| Investigator(s): | Lee FYS, Lung DPY, Lee HY, DiStefano L, Logan W. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 12/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To improve the current understanding of the way cultural heritage management (CHM) is practised in Hong Kong, Macau and Southern China; to explore how CHM has evolved in relation to local and global factors in five case study cities: Hong Kong, Macau, Guangzhou, Leizhou and Dali; to examine the development and praxis of CHM in these five cities through a rigorous, comparative case study analysis of selected key issues, the project will identify the major cultural factors, both indigenous and alien, that have influenced their forms and contents as well as investigate the extent to which global concerns in CHM, such as sustainable development, have affected their manifestations. |
| Project Title: | The impact of local and global factors on the development of cultural heritage management in Hong Kong, Macau and Southern China |
| Investigator(s): | Lee FYS, Lung DPY, Lee HY, DiStefano L, Logan W. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 12/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Towards Sustainable River Basin Governance in China: A Case Study of Dongjiang |
| Investigator(s): | Lee FYS, Ma |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 01/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| Aim/purpose Focusing on the river basin of Dongjiang (East River), the proposed project is designed (i) to help improve our understanding of the primary functions of and institutional constraints faced by the river basin commissions in China; (ii) to explore the feasibility of introducing an innovative institutional mechanism for the purposes of strengthening river basin governance as the country shifts toward a market-oriented economy; and (iii) to examine the extent to which concerned stakeholders such as different water-user groups from up-stream, mid-stream and down-stream communities could be involved in the river basin decision-making processes. Through an intensive fieldwork-based case study analysis of the above three aspects of river basin management in Dongjiang, the ultimate objective of the project is to identify pathways by which the existing freshwater resources management scheme in China could be reformed and moved toward an effective, equitable and sustainable river basin governance structure. Key issues Water is arguably China's most critical resource. Nearly 700 million Chinese lack access to clean potable water and have to rely on water contaminated with animal and human waste that exceeds the legally allowed maximum levels for faecal coliform bacteria. As a result of rapid economic growth and rapid urbanization in the past two decades, competition for the increasingly scarce resource of water has been intensifying all over the country, between urban, industrial, and agricultural consumption, and between upstream, midstream and downstream users. At the national level, for instance, out of 668 major cities, two-thirds are reportedly suffering from some sort of water shortage problem. Many cities in the North China Plain have increasingly turned to groundwater to make up for the shortfall between swelling water demands and limited surface water resources, leading to the problems of over-extraction of groundwater and falling levels of water tables. The water shortage problem has been greatly exacerbated by the water pollution problem which is, broadly speaking, caused increasingly by municipal and agricultural sectors than industries. Large proportions of municipal wastewater are being discharged into surface water bodies with minimal or no treatment, contributing to an increasing load of organic and toxic waste in major waterways. For example, less than 10 percent of municipal wastewater countrywide-which is only a fraction of industrial rates-receive treatment before they are discharged. This waste load is then further augmented by an ever-increasing amount of chemical pollutants such as fertilizers and pesticides carried into water-bodies by agricultural runoffs. The combined effects of water shortage and high pollution have been extremely detrimental to the health of economies, eco-systems and the human species. For instance, more than 90 percent of urban river sections have been so heavily polluted that they are considered not suitable for human contact; and the water quality in about half of these river sections are considered so poor that it is not even suitable for irrigation purposes. Given that China's de facto urban population will continue to increase at a rapid rate in the coming decade, the demand for urban environmental infrastructure, already high, will multiply accordingly. Primarily out of a concern over the rapid rate of urban population growth, some researchers in the west have been highly sceptical about the Chinese government's plan to raise the overall municipal wastewater treatment rate from 11 percent in 1997 to 40 percent by 2010. Indeed, providing sufficient environmental infrastructure will represent a particularly challenging task for local administrations of smaller cities and towns, which have the least amount of resources at their disposal to construct environmental infrastructure but where much of the increase in urban population will concentrate. Devising a viable financing mechanism to help urban governments at various spatial scale to generate revenues to pay for the construction and long-term maintenance costs of environmental infrastructure is, however, only a necessary but not sufficient condition to tackle the steadily swelling volume of municipal wastewater. An indispensable requirement is an institutional framework that could be used by higher authorities to encourage or coerce the local-level governments to place a higher priority on cleaning up their wastewater discharge and to cooperate with neighbouring jurisdictions in redressing, minimizing or avoiding cross-boundary impacts of water pollution problems in the first place. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lee F.Y.S., Automobiles in China: Problems and Prospects, Changing Geography in a Diversified World: In Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Hong Kong Baptist University, June 1-3, 2006. Hong Kong. |
| Lee F.Y.S., Managing Water Resources in the Delta Border Zone: Challenges and Opportunities, In: Anthony Gar-On Yeh, Victor Fung-shuen Sit, Guanghan Chen & Yunyuan Zhou (eds.), Developing a Competitive Pearl River Delta in South China under One Country-Two Systems. Hong Kong, Hong Kong University Press, 2006, 357-381. |
| Lee F.Y.S., On the Wrong Track: China's Transportation Revolution and Urban Air Pollution, On-line publication of "Harvard International Review". Cambridge, MA, 2006. |
| Lee F.Y.S., Same Longitude, Different Latitudes: Institutional Change in Urban Water in China, North and South, Environmental Politics. Oxfordshire, Routledge, 2006, 15: 231-247. |
| Lee F.Y.S., Toward Sustainable River Basin Governance in the Pearl River System, Hydrological Sciences for Managing Water Resources in the Asian Developing World, Guangzhou, June 8-10, 2006. |
| Lee F.Y.S., Towards Integrated River Basin Management for Dongjiang: Implications for Cooperation between Hong Kong and Guangdong, Workshop on "Cross-boundary Environmental Management", Polytechnic University, 27 April 2006. |
| Lee F.Y.S., Water Resources Management in Dongjiang River Basin, Forum on Environment in China, Hong Kong, Macau, Nov. 10-11, 2005. Macau. |
| Researcher : Leung STS |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Lai P.C., So F.M. and Leung S.T.S., Spatial Analysis in Human Disease Surveillance and Epidemic Response, GIS training to WHO staff, World Health Organization.. 2005. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, In: Stephane Bres and Robert Laurini, Lecture Notes in Computer Science. Springer-Verlag, 2006, 3736: 189-202. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, Proceedings of 8th International Conference on VISual information systems, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 4-5 July 2005. |
| Pinto A., Brown V., Skelly C., Rigby J., Lai P.C., Chan K.W., Mak A.S.H., Leung S.T.S. and So F.M., Estimating population sizes in emergency situations using spatial analysis methods, World Health Organization. 2005. |
| Researcher : Li C |
| Project Title: | The cross-cultural customer service: the case of Hong Kong country park recreation |
| Investigator(s): | Li C, Jim CY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To better understand cultural values and customer service between tourists and Hong Kong residents with regard to resource base recreation and tourism, their role in shaping behavioral intentions, and the implications for policy making and cultural values adjustment. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li C., Chick G.E., Zinn H.C., Graefe A.R. and Absher J.D., Exploring Ethnic Homogeneity in Park and Recreation, Paper presented at the 12th International Symposium on Society and Resource Management. Vancouver, Canada, 2006. |
| Li C., Chick G.E., Zinn H.C., Graefe A.R. and Absher J.D., Visitor Management: A Cross-Cultural Perspective , Paper presented at Providence University. Taichung, Taiwan, 2006. |
| Li C., Chick G.E., Zinn H.C., Graefe A.R. and Absher J.D., Visitor Management: A Cross-Cultural Perspective, Invited keynote speech at Taiwan Outdoor Recreation Association 2006 Annual Meeting . Taipei, Taiwan, National Taiwan University, 2006. |
| Researcher : Li Y |
| Project Title: | Community tourism and China's contradictions |
| Investigator(s): | Li Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2003 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To show various contradictions in contemporary China that cause the problem; to appreciate the essential differences between the understanding of Western and Chinese scholars regarding the concept of community tourism; to propose an approach to studying community tourism in China which focuses on critical analyses of modernity. |
| Project Title: | Applicability of market appeal - robusticity matrix in community management of heritage tourism |
| Investigator(s): | Li Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 04/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To test the applicability of "Market Appeal - Robusticity Matrix" in community management of heritage tourism through a multiple cases study. |
| Project Title: | APPLICABILITY OF MARKET APPEAL -- ROBUSTICITY MATRIX IN COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT OF HERITAGE TOURISM: A MULTIPLE-CASE STUDY |
| Investigator(s): | Li Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 05/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| This research aims to evaluate the applicability of a Hong Kong made model: Market Appeal-Robusticity Matrix (hereafter MARM), in the community management of heritage tourism development in China through a multiple-case study. MARM is an audit model for assessing heritage resources. It proposes integrating cultural heritage management (hereafter CHM) and tourism concerns in planning a heritage tourism product. Theoretically, any application of MARM should concentrate on creating a balance throughout the planning and management process of heritage tourism development. The ULTIMATE PURPOSE of this study is, therefore, to improve a Hong Kong made model by testing its applicability in the Mainland. The ties between Hong Kong and Mainland China have been significantly strengthened by the 'Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement' (hereafter CEPA). Very obvious is an increasing demand of cooperation between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Being Asia's 'World City', Hong Kong has successful experience in tourism product design, promotion and resource management, which may be of great inspirations for tourism development in the Mainland. This study will focus on one of these inspirations -- the 'Market Appeal-Robusticity Matrix'. Two KEY ISSUES have been identified. First, can MARM be testified further and to what extent applied to relevant cases in the Mainland? Second, how should we utilize MARM to facilitate heritage tourism development in China in terms of encouraging community involvement in managing heritage assets? Those issues manifest some paramount PROBLEMS for heritage resource managers, namely, how assets can be assessed scientifically to enhance their tourism potential and in the process, what appropriate actions should be taken to resolve the issues inherent in the essential contradictions of heritage tourism development--conservation vs. change. Specifically, this research has THREE OBJECTIVES: a) to evaluate the applicability of MARM on tourism potential assessment through specific cases of heritage tourism development in Anhui and Hainan provinces, as well as Hong Kong SAR b) to clarify the modification on the Western conception of community tourism when applied to China by examining community involvement in heritage tourism development across three administrative and economic regions of China c) to incorporate the proper application of MARM with modified conception of community tourism in China's context as a means to draw practical and theoretical implications for the sustainable management of heritage resources and a sound approach to future studies of community involvement in heritage tourism development of China Objective (a) is fundamental to formulating a theory of tourism resource assessment, while objective (b) attempts to establish an analytical framework for the investigation as community involvement is essential for managing heritage assets in tourism development. The original audit model of MARM is short of considerations regarding this aspect of community involvement in heritage resource management, thus needing modification and improvement. Objective (c) is the most significant because it endeavors to provide implementation instructions, as the result of the evaluation, for advancing the academic study and industry practice of heritage resource assessment and community involvement in tourism. |
| Project Title: | Exploring Countermeasures for Gap between Tourism Planning and Implementation |
| Investigator(s): | Li Y |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 02/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| In tourism literature, a KEY ISSUE is identified, and considered ubiquitous in planning exercise. Namely, a gap occurs between planning and implementation (hereafter GPI) once the planned approach to tourism development is adopted. The ALTIMATE PURPOSE of this proposed research is, firstly, to identify the causes of GPI associated with two specific planning exercises in China and secondly, to find out countermeasures for the GPI by comparing the 2 cases with a relatively successful experience of Hong Kong. It is widely acknowledged that planning is crucial to successful tourism development and management; and planning has been a widely adopted principle in tourism development at both regional and national levels (Inskeep, 1991; World Tourism Organization [hereafter WTO], 1994). Arguably, the merits of planning can only be possible given that a plan can be implemented in the first place. As such, experts suggest implementation be considered in the planning process; and a plan be practically made for this purpose (Cooper et al., 1993; Gunn, 2002; Inskeep, 1991; McIntosh, Goeldner, & Ritchie, 1995; Shepherd, 1998; Veal, 2002). Ideally, a plan should be implemented as planned. In practice, however, planners are frequently challenged by the fact that their choices “are nuanced and have to balance idealism [what ought to happen by and for society] with pragmatism [what can happen with private sector investment]” (Burns, 2004, p.27). This situation creates a gap between planning and implementation, and has led to the failure of tourism plans. For instance, studies have recorded the failure of tourism development plans caused by lack of analytical details or miscalculations regarding the control of land usage (Cooper et al, 1993; Shepherd, 1998), the failure of central planning caused by lack of community involvement (Tosun & Jenkins, 1996), as well as mismatch between central planning and local possibilities (Burns & Sancho, 2003). GPI has been described in some ironic but telling terms, such as “paper exercises” (King, McVey, & Simmons, 2000, p.413), “sitting on government shelves to collect dust” (Burns, 2004, p. 29), “perfunctory or bureaucratic exercise” (Gunn, 2002, p. 28) and “theoretical exercise” (Baidal, 2004, p.322). This phenomenon of GPI is not rare in China’s tourism planning exercises. Recently it was revealed at two forums--China Tourism Planning Summit Workshop 2001 and 2001 Conference on Tourism Planning and Management in Developing Countries--that effective implementation of tourism planning had been rather weak in China. ‘Zhishang Huahua, Qiangshang Guagua’ (drawn on the paper then hung on the wall), a well-known planning jargon, is just a Chinese edition of ‘paper exercise’. Wei Xiao An (2004), former director of the Planning Department, China National Tourism Administration (hereafter, CNTA), criticizes that China’s tourism planning, especially at the master planning level, has come to the end in its present form for lack of innovations. Due to China’s continuous growth of the tourism economy in the 1990s, the number of plans has also increased dramatically in the country (Zhang, 1995; Zhang & Lew, 2003). Wei’s criticism suggests that China has experienced and will see high rate of plan abortion or poor implementation, which may seriously affect both the public and the private sectors involved if necessary countermeasures are not secured. The existing literature of tourism planning offers little in-depth study of GPI. It has focused much “on plan preparation and initial implementation”; “there is little or no consideration of what happens subsequently” (Pearce, 2000, p. 191). Some scholars do have disussed the phenomenon of GPI in the studies of community involvement (Ioannides, 1995; Tosun & Jenkins, 1996), miscalculations regarding the control of land usage (Cooper et al, 1993; Shepherd, 1998), mismatch between central planning and local possibilities (Burns & Sancho, 2003), shortage of funding resource for plan implementation (Inskeep, 1991), uncontrollable factors in the changing environment (WTO, 1994; Shepherd, 1998). However, a PROBLEM remains unsolved. That is, their studies are rather fragmented and lacking in empirical evidence. References: Baidal, J.A.I. (2004) Tourism planning in Spain: Evolution and perspectives. Annals of Tourism Research, 31(2), 313-333. Burns, P.M. (2004) Tourism planning: A third way. Annals of Tourism Research, 31(1), 24-43. Burns, P.M. and Sancho, M.M. (2003) Local perceptions of tourism planning: The case of Cuéllar, Spain. Tourism Management, 24(2003), 331-339. Cooper, C., Gilbert, D., Fletcher, J. and Wanhill, S. (1993) Tourism principles and practice. New York: Wesley Longman Publishing. Gunn, C. A. (2002) Tourism planning. London: Routledge. Inskeep, E. (1991) Tourism planning: An integrated and sustainable development approach. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. Ioannides, D. (1995) A flawed implementation of sustainable tourism: The experience of Akamas, Cyprus. Tourism Management, 16(8), 583-592. King, B., McVey, M. and Simmons, D. (2000) A societal marketing approach to national tourism planning: Evidence from the South Pacific. Tourism Management, 21(4), 407-416.McIntosh, R.W., Goeldner, C.R. and Ritchie, J.R.B. (1995) Tourism principles, pra ctices, philosophies. New York: John Wiley & Sons. Pearce, D. G. (2000) Tourism plan reviews: methodological considerations and issues from Samoa. Tourism Management, 21(2), 191-203. Shepherd, R. (Ed.) (1998). Tourism principles and practice. Harlow, Essex: Longman Tosun, C. and Jenkins, C. L. (1996) Regional planning approaches to tourism development: The case of Turkey. Tourism Management, 12(7), 519-531. Veal, A.J. (2002) Leisure and tourism policy and planning. New York: CAB International. Wei, X. A.(2004) Qingjing guihua yu tiyan sheji [Scenario planning and experience design]. http://218.30.125.23/qikan1/pages/guangdian.htm: logged on 11/12/2004. WTO (1994) National and regional tourism planning: methodologies and case studies. London: Routledge. Zhang, G.R. (1995) China’s tourism since 1978: Policies, experiences, and lessons learned. In A. A. Lew and L. Yu (Eds.). Tourism in China (pp, 3-17). Oxford: Westview Press. Zhang, G. R. and Lew, A. A. (2003) Introduction: China’s tourism boom. In A. A. Lew et al. (Eds.). Tourism in China (pp, 3-12). New York: Haworth Hospitality Pre |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai K., Li Y. and Feng X., Gap Between Tourism Planning And Implementation: A Case Of China, Tourism Management. Oxford, UK, Elsevier Science, 2005, 27: 1171-1180. |
| Li Y., Gap Between Town Planning and Implementation: A Case of China, Tourism Management. Oxford, UK, Elsevier Science, 2006, 27: 1171-1180. |
| Researcher : Liao H |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yang C. and Liao H., Industrial Clustering of Hong Kong and Taiwan Investment in Dongguan: A Comparative Study, Paper presented at the Fifth International Conference on Industrial Clustering and Regional Development. Beijing, China, 2006. |
| Yang C., Li L. and Liao H., Reinventing the Positions of Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: An Institutional Analysis, Paper presented at the Conference "Changing Geography in a Diversified World: In Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Hong Kong Baptist University", 1-3 June 2006. Hong Kong. |
| Researcher : Lin GCS |
| Project Title: | The service economy and urban transformation in Southern China: a study of the Guangzhou metropolis |
| Investigator(s): | Lin GCS |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 01/2007 |
| Abstract: |
| To investigate recent dramatic expansion of the service economy in southern China and assess its impacts on urban transformation in the region. |
| Project Title: | The Growth and Location of the Hong Kong People Traveling to Guangdong Province: A Geographic Investigation |
| Investigator(s): | Lin GCS |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2005 |
| Completion Date: | 01/2007 |
| Abstract: |
| This research has three objectives, namely to (1) identify the pattern of the movement of the Hong Kong people going frequently into Guangdong, (2) analyze the factors contributing to the growth and location of the border-crossers from Hong Kong, and (3) recommend government policies for better coordination and management of cross-border popublation mibility in the Hong Kong-Guangdong region. A detailed investigation of the growth and location of the movement of the Hong Kong people into Guangdong will contribute important insights for policy making to benefit the economy and society in both Hong Kong and Guangdong. Theoretically, a study of cross-border population mobility will generate significant findings to engage in the ongoing debates in humanity and social sciences over the emergence of a "borderless world" in the current age of globalization. |
| Project Title: | China's new geography of information communication technology (ICT) industry: a study of Beijing, Shanghai-Suzhou, and Shenzhen-Dongguan city-regions |
| Investigator(s): | Lin GCS |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 01/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | China's new geography of information communication technology (ICT) industry: a study of Beijing, Shanghai-Suzhou, and Shenzhen-Dongguan city-regions |
| Investigator(s): | Lin GCS, Zhou Y, Du D |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 01/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To identify the similarities and differences among the three regions in the growth and structure of the ICT industry; to analyze the ways in which HK and other foreign firms forge their linkages with local Chinese firms in the processes of technological innovation and transfer within the different regional contexts; to evaluate how localized social, political, and institutional conditions shape the different regional trajectories of technological innovation, inter-firm relations, and the growth of the ICT industry. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lin G.C.S., As Borders Bend: Transformational Spaces on the Pacific Rim-Book Review, Eurasian Geography and Economics. Columbia, Bellwether, 2005, 46(7): 557-558. |
| Lin G.C.S. and Ho S.P.S., China's Land Resources and Land Use Change, In: C. Ding and Y. Song (eds.), Emerging Land and Housing Markets in China. Cambridge, MA, Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 2005, 89-123. |
| Lin G.C.S. and Tse P.H.M., Flexible Sojourning in the Era of Globalization: Cross-border Population Mobility in the Hong Kong-Guangdong Border Region, International Journal of Urban and Regional Research. Oxford, Blackwell, 2005, 29(4): 867-894. |
| Lin G.C.S., Peri-urbanism in Globalizing China: A Study of New Urbanism in Dongguan, Eurasian Geography and Economics. Columbia, USA, Bellwether, 2006, 47(1): 28-53. |
| Lin G.C.S., Service Industries and Transformation of City-regions in Globalizing China: New Testing Ground for Theoretical Reconstruction, In: Peter W. Daniels, K.C. Ho and Thom A. Hutton (eds.), Service Industries and Asia-Pacific Cities: New Development Trajectories. London, Routledge, 2005, 283-300. |
| Lin G.C.S. and Ho S.P.S., The State, Land System, and Land Development Processes in Contemporary China, Annals of the Association of American Geographers. Malden, MA, Blackwell, 2005, 95(2): 411-436. |
| Lin G.C.S., Transforming Rural China: How Local Institutions Shape Property Rights in China-Book Review, Pacific Affairs. Vancouver, UBC Press, 2005, 78(2): 288-289. |
| Tse P.H.M. and Lin G.C.S., Flexible Sojourners? The Cross-border Flow of People from Hong Kong to Guangdong Province, China, In: Anthony Gar-on Yeh, et. al. (eds.), Developing A Competitive Pearl River Delta in South China under One Country-Two Systems. Hong Kong, Hong Kong University Press, 2006, 175-200. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q. and Lee F., Climate Change, War, Social Unrest and Dynastic Cycle in Ancient China, Chinese Science Bulletin. Beijing Science Press, 2005, 50(2): 137-144. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Zhang D., Lin G.C.S. and He Y., War as a Social-ecological Response to Climate Change in Ancient China, Building the Adaptive Capacity. Environment Canada, 2005, 113-124. |
| Researcher : Loo BPY |
| Project Title: | Airport coordination for HK-PRC development under "one country, two systems" |
| Investigator(s): | Loo BPY, Wong SC |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Other Funding Scheme |
| Start Date: | 01/2002 |
| Abstract: |
| In 1979, there were only two international airports (at Hong Kong and Guangzhou) in the HK-PRC region. In about two decades, there were four international airports (also at Shenzhen and Zhuhai) in this region of 48,000 sq. km. Is there any need for airport coordination? Moreover, how would the geographical distribution of air passengers and freight changed? As a step further, how should the different airports in the region re-position themselves to achieve (common) regional development goals? |
| Project Title: | A spatial analysis of road accidents in Tuen Mun area |
| Investigator(s): | Loo BPY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To explore the spatial dimension of the road accidents and identify any positive spatial autocorrelation in the road accident pattern by improving the "back zone" methodology. |
| Project Title: | From the black spot to "Black Zone" methodology in road safety research: a case study of Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Loo BPY, Chan WS |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To conduct a spatial autocorrelation analysis of road accidents on the road network of Hong Kong. |
| Project Title: | From the black spot to "Black Zone" methodology in road safety research: a case study of Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Loo BPY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Bie J., Lo H.K., Wong S.C., Hung W.T. and Loo B.P.Y., Safety analysis of traffic roundabout: Conventional versus Alberta-type markings, Journal of the Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studies. Thailand, Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studi, 2005, 6: 3309-3324. |
| Ho H.W., Wong S.C., Yang H. and Loo B.P.Y., Cordon-based congestion pricing in a continuum traffic equilibrium system, Transportation Research Part A. UK, Elsevier Science Ltd., 2005, 39: 813-834. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Liu K., A Geographical Analysis of Potential Railway Load Centers in China, Professional Geographer. Malden, MA; Oxford, UK, Blackwell Publishing, 2005, 57, no. 4: 558-579. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., China's 1994 Tax-sharing Reforms: One System, Differential Impact, Asian Survey. Berkeley, California, University of California Press, 2006, XLVI, No. 2: 215-237. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Li D.Y.N., Developing Metro Systems in the People's Republic of China: Policy and Gaps, Transportation. Netherlands, Springer, 2006, 33, no. 2: 115-132. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Hong Kong in the Age of Sprawl: What are the Changing Urban Form and Transportation Challenges?, 102nd Annual Conference of the Association of American Geographers, Chicago, 7-11 March 2006. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Tsui M.K., Pedestrians' Crossing Behaviour in Hong Kong, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. 2005. |
| Loo B.P.Y., Hung W.T., Lo H.K. and Wong S.C., Road safety strategies: A comparative framework and case studies, Transport Reviews. UK, Taylor & Francis, 2005, 25: 613-639. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Sustainable Urban Transportation: Concepts, Policies and Methodologies, Journal of Urban Planning and Development -- ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 33, no. 2: 76-79. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Tsui M.K., Temporal-spatial Patterns Of Pedestrian Accidents In Commercial/business Areas: A Case Study Of Hong Kong, Australasian Road Safety Research, Policing And Education Conference, November 2005, Wellington, New Zealand. 2005. |
| Loo B.P.Y., The Redistribution Of Container Truck Traffic Among Different Land-based Customs Check-points After The Openign Of The Shenzhen Western Corridor: Interim Report, Route 3 (CPS) Co. Ltd.. 2005. |
| Loo B.P.Y., The Spatiality of Internet Development in the Asia-Pacific Region, Annual Meeting of the International Geographical Union (IGU) Commission on the Geography of the Information Society, Sydney, Australia, 24-30 June 2006.. 2006. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Chow S.Y., Travel Characteristics of Residents Living in Shatin: How do They Differ from the Rest of the City? What are the Implications on Sustainable Urban Transport?, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. Hong Kong, HKSTS, 2005, 578-588. |
| Sze N.N., Wong S.C., Loo B.P.Y., Lo H.K. and Hung W.T., Contributing Factors to Road Pedestrian Accidents in Hong Kong, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. 2005. |
| Sze N.N., Wong S.C., Loo B.P.Y., Lo H.K. and Hung W.T., Contributory factors to road pedestrian accidents in Hong Kong, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Proceedings of the Tenth International Conference of Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 2005, 481-489. |
| Researcher : Mak ASH |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Mak A.S.H., Yip K.M. and Lai P.C., Developing a City Skyline for Hong Kong Using GIS and Urban Design Guidelines, URISA Journal (USA: Urban and Regional Information Systems Association). 2005, 17 (1): 33-42. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, In: Stephane Bres and Robert Laurini, Lecture Notes in Computer Science. Springer-Verlag, 2006, 3736: 189-202. |
| Mak A.S.H., Lai P.C., Kwong K.H. and Leung S.T.S., Too Much or Too Little: Visual Considerations of Public Engagement Tools in Environment Impact Assessments, Proceedings of 8th International Conference on VISual information systems, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 4-5 July 2005. |
| Pinto A., Brown V., Skelly C., Rigby J., Lai P.C., Chan K.W., Mak A.S.H., Leung S.T.S. and So F.M., Estimating population sizes in emergency situations using spatial analysis methods, World Health Organization. 2005. |
| Researcher : Ng AKY |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Wang J.J., Olivier D. and Ng A.K.Y., L'Impact de l'internationalisation: le cas de la gouvernance des zones portuaires, L'Eveil du dragon. Presses Universitaires du Quebec, 2005, 169-190. |
| Researcher : Ng CN |
| Project Title: | Urban rural interaction of land use change and its ecological effects in cities of Pearl River Delta, China |
| Investigator(s): | Ng CN |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| Increased urbanization and industrialization have resulted in serious environmental pollution in many places of the world, including China and Hong Kong. These escalating environmental problems in urbanized areas and the urgent need for solutions lead to new shift of landscape research to urban ecosystem (Grimm and Redman, 2004). However, many studies based on natural ecosystems cannot sufficiently address this issue. Thus, a landscape ecological perspective for urban ecosystems is not only appropriate, but imperative as well (Berling-wolff and Wu, 2004). The study on urban ecosystem can not only test the current landscape ecology theories, but is also a critical need to sustain urban development. Landscape metrics are power tool for quantifying the compositional and configurational patterns of land use in complex ecosystem. The use of landscape metrics and remote sensing techniques can investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use in urban areas (Herold et al., 2002; Herold et al., 2004; Schneier et al., 2005). Combining landscape metrics with the future simulated landscape or planning alternatives, landscape metrics can describe the predicted development and characterize differences among planned or designed alternatives (Herold et al., 2005; Herzog and Lausch, 2001). Based on the SLEUTH urban growth and land use change model, Herold et al. (2004) have illustrated how landscape metrics can be incorporated into the model calibration process. The findings have been used in road construction (Saunders et al., 2002), landscape ecological planning and design (Leitao and Ahern, 2002; Opdam et al., 2001), and landscape scenic perception assessment (Palmer, 2004). Urban-rural integration as observed in the urban fringe has been regarded as a distinct feature of Asian mega cities (Murakami et al., 2005). From an ecological perspective, urban-rural gradient represents the structural and functional differences of transitional patches in the temporal and spatial contexts. By integrating ecological, social, and physical variables in the different disciplines, gradient paradigm has been proven to be a useful organizing tool for studying ecological consequences of urbanization (McDonnell and Pickett, 1990; Medley et al., 1995; Foresman et al., 1997). Combining landscape metrics with gradient paradigm, the spatial properties of land use changes along the gradient can be systematically investigated (Luck and Wu, 2002; Zhang et al., 2004). Studies indicate that this approach can well capture the complex spatial pattern of urbanization and provide a more comprehensive framework to characterize urban rural interactions. Urban ecosystem evolves over time and space as the outcome of dynamics interactions between socio-economic and biophysical processes operating over multiple scales (Alberti, 1999; Alberti and Marzluff, 2004). Landscape changes in a city (subregion) do not only depend on the natural and historical conditions but also on its geographical situation and position in such a region. Thus, it is problematic to transfer results gained in one landscape to another (Burgi et al., 2004). Many changes in the European landscapes are considered as the result of networking in the policy of European (Antrop, 2000). Very limited work has been done to compare urbanization and its ecological effects in a Chinese context. The Pearl River Delta (PRD) is one of the fastest developing regions in China over the past two decades. Although some studies have focused on land use changes in urban areas, few have linked these changes to their ecological effects, particularly from an urban-rural gradient paradigm. Key issues include: - How does landscape pattern of land use change in the PRD region? What are the major factors contributing to landscape change in this region? - How do the changes and driving forces of landscape changes resemble or differ among different cities in this region? - How do the changes affect environmental variables along urban rural gradient? What kind of landscape metrics can describe these changes? - What are the key ecological factors for achieving sustainable urbanization of city cluster in the whole region? By addressing these questions, the process of urbanization and its ecological effects will be examined. This study will further contribute to regional spatial planning assessment and comparative analysis among cities in the PRD by synthesizing them into one coherent conceptual model. Objectives of the proposed project - To understand landscape pattern of the PRD region in general, with special attention to urban-rural dynamics and its differences among the cities; - To investigate urban-rural interactions and propose a set of spatial metrics that is linked to urban structure and its ecological process; - To link landscape patterns to major environmental variables and differentiate among alternative urban patterns; - To establish empirical relationships between urbanization and landscape dynamics, and then guild urban planning and enhance the landscape integrity regional landscape. Objectives of the present Seed Grant Application The primary objective of the present proposal is to carry out preparation work for the proposed project. It will include data collection and documentation, software preparation, preliminary processing and analysis, and a case study based on Guangzhou that will help us to understand better the potential of the proposed methodology in real life application. (Note: The reference list can be provided if it is needed.) |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yu X. and Ng C.N., An Integrated Evaluation of Landscape Change Using Remote Sensing and Landscape Metrics: A Case Study of Panyu, Guangzhou, International Journal of Remote Sensing. 2006, 27(5/6): 1075-1092. |
| Yu X. and Ng C.N., Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Urban Sprawl along Two Urban-rural Transects: A Case Study of Guangzhou, China, Available on-line from 27 June 2006, www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/01692046. Elsevier, 2006. |
| Researcher : Olivier D |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Wang J.J., Olivier D. and Ng A.K.Y., L'Impact de l'internationalisation: le cas de la gouvernance des zones portuaires, L'Eveil du dragon. Presses Universitaires du Quebec, 2005, 169-190. |
| Researcher : Peart MR |
| Project Title: | Natural organic matter and its spatial and temporal variation in a small basin in Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Peart MR |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Low Budget High Impact Programme |
| Start Date: | 07/1998 |
| Abstract: |
| To quantify the particulate and dissolved organic matter content of a small upland stream during both storm and baseflow conditions; to describe and quantify the dissolved organic matter content and other related water quality determinands of rainfall, throughfall, soil-water and pipeflow in the drainage basin; determine the organic matter content of representative soil profiles. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Guan D.S. and Peart M.R., Heavy Metal Concentrations in Plants and Soils at Roadside Locations and Parks of Urban Guangzhou, Journal of Environmental Sciences. Beijing/Amsterdam/Washington, DC, Science Press/IOS Press, 2006, 18(3): 495-502. |
| Peart M.R., Ruse M.E. and Hill R.D., A Comparison of Caesium-137 and Erosion Pin Data from Tai To Yan, Hong Kong, In: P.N. Owens and A.J. Collins (eds.), Soil Erosion and Sediment Redistribution in River Catchments: Measurement, Modelling and Management. CABI, 2006, 28-39. |
| Peart M.R., Ng K.Y. and Zhang D., Landslides and Sediment Delivery to a Drainage System: Some Observations from Hong Kong , Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. Elsevier, 2005, 25: 821-836. |
| Peart M.R. and Fok L., Output of Bed Load Sediment from a Small Upland Drainage Basin in Hong Kong, Proceedings of a symposium held in Dundee, UK, July 2006, Sediment Dynamics and the Hydromorphology of Fluvial Systems. IAHS Publ. 306, 2006, 82-88. |
| Researcher : Ruse ME |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Peart M.R., Ruse M.E. and Hill R.D., A Comparison of Caesium-137 and Erosion Pin Data from Tai To Yan, Hong Kong, In: P.N. Owens and A.J. Collins (eds.), Soil Erosion and Sediment Redistribution in River Catchments: Measurement, Modelling and Management. CABI, 2006, 28-39. |
| Researcher : Shi C |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Shi C. and Zhang D., A Sediment Budget of the Lower Yellow River, China, Over the Period from 1855 to 1968, Geografiska Annaler 87A. Blackwell Publisher, 2005, 3: 461-471. |
| Zhang D., Shi C. and Jiala J., Analysis on Chemical Composition of Rainfall on the Tibet Plateau, Arid Zone Research. 2005, 22: 471-475. |
| Researcher : Shi C |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Shi C. and Zhang D., A Sediment Budget of the Lower Yellow River, China, Over the Period from 1855 to 1968, Geografiska Annaler 87A. Blackwell Publisher, 2005, 3: 461-471. |
| Zhang D., Shi C. and Jiala J., Analysis on Chemical Composition of Rainfall on the Tibet Plateau, Arid Zone Research. 2005, 22: 471-475. |
| Researcher : Sit VFS |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sit V.F.S., CEPA and the Need for New Development Strategy for the Hong Kong Extended Metropolitan Region (Chinese text), In: Niu, M. et. al. (eds.), Regional Cooperation CEPA and the Yangtze and Pearl River Delta. Hong Kong, Commercial Press, 2006, 276-289. |
| Sit V.F.S., China's Extended Metropolitain Regions: Formation and Delimitation, International Development Planning Review. U.K., Liverpool University Press, 2005, 27(3): 297-331. |
| Sit V.F.S., Dynamic Hong Kong-Pearl River Delta Relationship under Globalization and One Country-Two Systems, In: Yeh and Sit, et. al. (eds.), Developing a Competitive Pearl River Delta in South China Under One Country-Two Systems. Hong Kong, Hong Kong University Press, 2006, 3-26. |
| Sit V.F.S., Extended Metropolitan Regions and Megalopolises, (Chinese text), In: Zhou, M.Z. (ed.), The Transformation of Economic Development Model in China. Beijing, World Knowledge, 2005, 112-131. |
| Sit V.F.S. and Zheng Y., Formation and Definition of Extended Metropolitan Regions in China (Chinese text), Economic Geography. Beijing, China Geographical Association, 2005, 25(6): 827-833. |
| Sit V.F.S., Post-CEPA Development Strategy of the Hong Kong Extended Metropolitan Region (Chinese text), Urban Planning Overseas. Beijing, China Academy of Planning and Design, 2005, 20(2): 66-70. |
| Yeh A.G.O., Sit V.F.S., Chen G. and Zhou Y., Developing a Competitive Pearl River Delta in South China Under One Country-Two Systems. Hong Kong, Hong Kong University Press, 2006, 567pp. |
| Researcher : So FM |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lai P.C., Mak A.S.H., Chan K.W., Leung S.T.S., So F.M. and Kwong K.H., Engaging geographic information systems (GIS) in the development of three-dimensional (3D) models for environmental impact assessment (EIA), Workshop coordinator, Sponsored by Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme. 2005. |
| Lai P.C., So F.M. and Leung S.T.S., Spatial Analysis in Human Disease Surveillance and Epidemic Response, GIS training to WHO staff, World Health Organization.. 2005. |
| Pinto A., Brown V., Skelly C., Rigby J., Lai P.C., Chan K.W., Mak A.S.H., Leung S.T.S. and So F.M., Estimating population sizes in emergency situations using spatial analysis methods, World Health Organization. 2005. |
| Researcher : Tse PHM |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lin G.C.S. and Tse P.H.M., Flexible Sojourning in the Era of Globalization: Cross-border Population Mobility in the Hong Kong-Guangdong Border Region, International Journal of Urban and Regional Research. Oxford, Blackwell, 2005, 29(4): 867-894. |
| Tse P.H.M. and Lin G.C.S., Flexible Sojourners? The Cross-border Flow of People from Hong Kong to Guangdong Province, China, In: Anthony Gar-on Yeh, et. al. (eds.), Developing A Competitive Pearl River Delta in South China under One Country-Two Systems. Hong Kong, Hong Kong University Press, 2006, 175-200. |
| Researcher : Tsui MK |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Tsui M.K., Pedestrians' Crossing Behaviour in Hong Kong, In: William H.K. Lam and Jia Yan, Transportation and the Economy: Proceedings of the 10th International Conference of the Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies. 2005. |
| Loo B.P.Y. and Tsui M.K., Temporal-spatial Patterns Of Pedestrian Accidents In Commercial/business Areas: A Case Study Of Hong Kong, Australasian Road Safety Research, Policing And Education Conference, November 2005, Wellington, New Zealand. 2005. |
| Researcher : Wang JJ |
| Project Title: | Service differentiation as a strategy for regional ports integration: a case study of Pearl River Delta |
| Investigator(s): | Wang JJ |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To investigate and test the hypothesis that due to the fact that various port operators in the Pearl River Delta - Hong Kong region (PRD-HK) purposely differentiate themselves to avoid direct competition within the region, an integrated regional port system is in the making; to reveal the mechanisms that facilitate this integration and the barriers that obstruct it. |
| Project Title: | The Global Supply Chains and its Impacts on the Formation of New Generation Port-cities in China |
| Investigator(s): | Wang JJ |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 05/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| Global trends in policy and technology related fields are rapidly reshaping the port industry worldwide. Transformations in the past decade have largely outpaced scholars and policy-makers' capacity to survey, conceptualize and interpret change. Meanwhile, port-cities have had to assimilate and accommodate advances in logistics to sustain their competitive status as key interfaces in the building of smooth trade flows. They are constitutive elements of emerging global supply chains. Both industry and research are at an exciting frontier, in clear need of new paradigms. Recent research stresses how spatially variegated port-cities have become: at one extreme young and dynamic port-cities are emerging 'out of nowhere', notably in Asia (e.g. Shenzhen in China, Pelepas in Malaysia), while at the other extreme established port-cities are looking for ways to revitalize their participation in the global 'buzz' that has become logistics. Operational, structural and technological change incurred by logistical advances is giving way to a new generation of port-cities endowed with increasingly sophisticated logistical spaces. The formation of such spaces is reshaping the development of regions that individual port-cities belong to. Proper understanding of ports' insertion within global supply chains (GSCs) become a most adequate lens from which to approach local-global interfaces shaping the world economy. In particular, we note that GSCs are characterized by structural asymmetries in which ports from the developed economies perform different functions than those of developing economies, the latter typified by China as the 'world factory'. In China, the revitalization of old port-cities such as Shanghai and Qingdao and the establishment of new ones such as Shenzhen and Xiamen are parallel to three processes: transnational investments into China's economic and technological development zones (ETDZ), the globalization of port management, and organizational changes taking place along global supply chains. These cities and nearby coastal regions have never been so globally accessible and so sensitive to port and logistics development. An accurate assessment of the future of the port-city-region development from a GSC perspective becomes an imperative objective of this research. To achieve this research objectives, two initiative steps are: (1) Identify and classify new generation port-cities in China by the ways they are associated with GSCs; and (2) analyze the impacts of GSCs on the formation of these cities. |
| Project Title: | Network configuration and aviation accessibility of domestic airlines in China |
| Investigator(s): | Wang JJ |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 07/2005 |
| Completion Date: | 06/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Wang J.J., Olivier D. and Ng A.K.Y., L'Impact de l'internationalisation: le cas de la gouvernance des zones portuaires, L'Eveil du dragon. Presses Universitaires du Quebec, 2005, 169-190. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Researcher : Yan CKL |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jim C.Y. and Yan C.K.L., Safety in the Urban Forest: A Comparison of the PICUS Sonic Tomograph and the Digital Microprobe in Accurately Detecting Decay and Cavities in Trees, 8th European Forum on Urban Forestry on Urban Forests: A Different Trademark for Cities and Forestry, 9-13 May 2005. |
| Yan C.K.L., PhD thesis, Systematic Evaluation of the Management and Performance of Public Urban Trees in Hong Kong. 2006. |
| Researcher : Yang C |
| Project Title: | Cross-boundary regional integration under the "One Country Two Systems" framework: a case study of Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta |
| Investigator(s): | Yang C |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 02/2004 |
| Completion Date: | 02/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| To investigate the trends, patterns and transforming of the cross-boundary regional integration between HK and PRD since the late 1970s, with comparison with empirical experiences in other parts of the world; to analyze the driving forces of integration, especially the roles of the boundary between them and the OCTS mechanism which is supposed to last for 50 years from 1997 onwards; to examine the roles of various levels of government and the implications of institutional mechanism especially the CEPA for fostering and expenditing further integration. |
| Project Title: | Industrial clustering of Hong Kong and Taiwan investment in Mainland China: case studies of the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta |
| Investigator(s): | Yang C, Yin C.Y., Cao XH, Tu QY |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To examine comparatively the temporal, sectoral and spatial changes of Hong Kong and Taiwan manufacturing investment in Mainland China over the past two decades; to identify the evolution of industrial and spatial patterns of Hong Kong and Taiwan investments in Mainland China, with particular emphasis on the PRD and YRD; to compare the locational competitive advantages of the two Deltas for attracting Hong Kong and Taiwan investment and major determinants for their changing patterns; to examine and compare the formation of the emerging industrial clusters created by Hong Kong and Taiwan manufacturing investment in the PRD and YRD respectively; to examine the different impacts of the industrial transformation and clustering on the trajectories of industrialization and regional development in the two Deltas. |
| Project Title: | Industrial clustering of Hong Kong and Taiwan investment in Mainland China: case studies of the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta |
| Investigator(s): | Yang C |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Administrative Restructuring and Urban Development in China: A Case Study of Guangzhou |
| Investigator(s): | Yang C |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| One of the salient features of the Opening and Reform Policy initiated in the late 1970s has been the decentralization of administrative and economic powers from the central government to the local state at the provincial, city, county, town and township levels (Ma, 2002). There is an increasing discussion on administrative changes, scale relations and economic development in China, from theoretical perspectives (Cartier, 2005; Ma, 2000 and 2005). It is argued that in the Chinese context, a place’s administrative rank or level significantly affects its political and economic relations with other places (Fitzgerald, 2002; Liu, 1996; Ma, 2005). Although previous studies have attempted to examine the administrative changes and its effects on urbanization in the 1980s and 1990s on the national level (e.g. Ma and Cui, 1987; Tang and Chung, 2000; Zhang and Zhao, 1998), however, comprehensive analysis on the process of administrative restructuring and its impacts on urban development in the post-reform period at local levels, e.g. provincial and municipal levels, are far from adequate. Some pertinent questions, such as the evolution and dynamics of administrative changes, namely “city administering county” (shiguanxian), converting county to city” (xiangaishi), annexation of suburban counties (chexianshequ), etc., transformation of power relations among central, provincial, municipal, county/district-levels of governments, impacts on urban development and planning are still poorly understood. This study attempts to examine the administrative changes in China in general and Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong Province in particular since the late 1970s. Guangzhou is selected as a case is due to the fact that it has experienced dramatic administrative restructuring in the post-reform period, and urban development of Guangzhou has been consequently changed. The study will put more emphasis on the case study of the relations between administrative restructuring and urban development in economic and planning dimensions, rather than examination of the city size, city distribution and city system that have been investigated by other scholars (e.g. Fan, 1999; Lin, 2002). Unlike recent mainstream theoretical debate on the nature of geographical scale that are focused on the relationships among the global, national, regional and local scales (Benett, 1997; Brenner et al., 2003), this study will concentrate primarily on the discussion of the scale as administrative level and relations among different levels of govenrments. It is hoped that the study will widen the scope and enrich the content of literature on scale that has largely ignored non-Western nations, including China. The major objectives of the research are threefold as follows: 1) To investigate the evolution of administrative restructuring in China in general and Guangzhou in particular during the post-reform period; 2) To analyze the impacts of administrative restructuring on urban development, especially the changing patterns of power relations in administrative hierarchy; 3) To examine the roles of administrative changes in the process of urban development in China in general and Guangzhou in particular. References: Bennett, R. J. (1997) Administrative Systems and Economic Spaces. Regional Studies, 31(3): 323-336. Brenner, N., Jessop, B. and Macleod, M. (2003) State/Space: A Reader. Oxford: Blackwell. Cartier, C. (2005) City-space: Scale Relations and China’s Spatial Administrative Hierarchy. In Ma, L. J. C. and Wu, F. (eds.) Restructuring the Chinese City: Changing Society, Economy and Space. London and New York: Routledge, pp. 21-38. Fan, C. C. (1999) The Vertical and Horizontal Expansion of China’s City Systems. Urban Geography, 20(6): 493-515. Fitzgerald, J. (2002) The Province in History. In Fitzgerald, J. (ed.) Rethinking China’s Provinces, New York: Routledge, pp. 11-40. Lin, G. C. S. (2002) The Growth and Structural Change of Chinese Cities: A Contextual and Geographic Analysis. Cities, 19(5): 299-316. Liu, J. D. (1996) Theory and Practice in China’s Administrative Demarcation. Shanghai: East China Normal University Press. Ma, L. J.C. (2005) Urban Administrative Restructuring, Changing Scale Relations and Local Economic Development in China. Political Geography, 24: 477-497. Ma, L. J. C. (2000) Urban Transformation in China, 1949-2000: A Review and Research Agenda. Environment and Planning A, 34: 1545-1569. Ma, L. J. C. and Cui, G. H. (1987) Administrative Changes and Urban Population in China. Annals of Association of American Geographers, 77(3): 373-395. Zhang, L. and Zhao, S. X. B. (1998) Re-examining China’s ‘urban’ Concept and the Level of Urbanization. The China Quarterly, 154: 330-381. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yang C., A Comparative Study of Hong Kong and Taiwan Investment in Mainland China: The Case of Dongguan, Paper presented at the RGS-IBG Annual International Conference: Flows and Spaces in a Globalized World, London, U.K., 31 August - 2 September 2005. |
| Yang C., Book review of "The Western Pearl River Delta: Growth and Opportunities for Cooperative Development with Hong Kong", In: Yeung, Y.M., Shen, J. and Zhang, L., Journal of Oriental Studies. HKU & Stanford University, 2006, 41(1): 176-178. |
| Yang C., Cross-border Integration and Governance of the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: A Political Economic Analysis, 大珠江三角洲跨境融合和管治的政治經濟分析, Journal of Geographical Science. 地理學報, 2006, 45: 1-18. |
| Yang C., Cross-boundary Integration of the Pearl River Delta and Hong Kong: An Emerging Global City-region in China, In: Wu, F., Globalization and the Chinese City. London and New York, Routledge, 2006, 125-146. |
| Yang C., Geopolitical Economic Analysis of Cross-boundary Integration and Governance in the Greater Pearl River Delta, Invited lecture for the Fulbright Faculty Study Project on China, University of New York at Albany, June 2006. |
| Yang C. and Liao H., Industrial Clustering of Hong Kong and Taiwan Investment in Dongguan: A Comparative Study, Paper presented at the Fifth International Conference on Industrial Clustering and Regional Development. Beijing, China, 2006. |
| Yang C., Multi-level Governance in the Cross-boundary Region of Hong Kong-Pearl River Delta, China , Environment and Planning A. London, UK, Pion, 2005, 37(12): 2147-2167. |
| Yang C., Multi-level Governance in the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: The Political Economy of Cross-border Integration, Invited Seminar at the Department of Geography, National University of Singapore, April 2006. |
| Yang C., Li L. and Liao H., Reinventing the Positions of Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: An Institutional Analysis, Paper presented at the Conference "Changing Geography in a Diversified World: In Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Hong Kong Baptist University", 1-3 June 2006. Hong Kong. |
| Yang C., The Pearl River Delta and Hong Kong: An Evolving Cross-boundary Region under "One Country, Two Systems", Habitat International. Exeter, UK, Elsevier, 2006, 30(1): 61-86. |
| Yang C., Transformation of Overseas Chinese Investment in China: Industrial Clustering of Hong Kong and Taiwan Investment, Paper presented at IGU 2006 Conference (Regional Responses to Global Changes: A View from the Antipodes), 3-7 July, 2006. Brisbane, Australia. |
| Researcher : Yang Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jim C.Y. and Yang Y., Land-use Change and Ecological Rehabilitation in the Reservoir Region of the Three Gorges Project in China, 20th Annual Symposium International Association for Landscape Ecology - United States Regional Association Symposium 2005, Syracuse, NY, 12-16 March 2005. |
| Yang Y., PhD thesis, Land Use Changes and Ecological Rehabilitation: A Case Studying the Reservoir Region of the Three Gorges Project in China. 2006. |
| Researcher : Yang Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jim C.Y. and Yang Y., Land-use Change and Ecological Rehabilitation in the Reservoir Region of the Three Gorges Project in China, 20th Annual Symposium International Association for Landscape Ecology - United States Regional Association Symposium 2005, Syracuse, NY, 12-16 March 2005. |
| Yang Y., PhD thesis, Land Use Changes and Ecological Rehabilitation: A Case Studying the Reservoir Region of the Three Gorges Project in China. 2006. |
| Researcher : Yu X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yu X. and Ng C.N., An Integrated Evaluation of Landscape Change Using Remote Sensing and Landscape Metrics: A Case Study of Panyu, Guangzhou, International Journal of Remote Sensing. 2006, 27(5/6): 1075-1092. |
| Yu X. and Ng C.N., Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Urban Sprawl along Two Urban-rural Transects: A Case Study of Guangzhou, China, Available on-line from 27 June 2006, www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/01692046. Elsevier, 2006. |
| Researcher : Zhang D |
| Project Title: | Travertine (tufa) deposit at waterfall sites: a field study on hydraulic changes and associated hydrochemical evolution in the Chinese and Jamaican karst rivers |
| Investigator(s): | Zhang D |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Low Budget High Impact Programme |
| Start Date: | 11/2001 |
| Abstract: |
| To examine the saturation index of CaCo3 of river waters in karst areas of China and Jamaica, which is a basic condition for travertine deposition.; to measure the chemical concentration evolution of CaCO3 and CO2 along the river sections with and without waterfalls and cascades, to investigate whether the concentration changes only occur at waterfall sites; to estimate how important of water effects in causing waterfall travertine deposition by theoretical analysis and field investigations. |
| Project Title: | Rainfall pH and its changes on the Tibetan Plateau |
| Investigator(s): | Zhang D |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 08/2002 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To study the acidity of natural rain and the environmental conditions that produce alkaline rain on the Tibetan Plateau, by monitoring the change of precipitation acidity; to conduct full chemical analysis of rainwater; investigating local environments including atmosphere gases and soils; to explain the relationship between alkaline rain and natural environment and of the pH changes caused by industrialization during the last decade. |
| Project Title: | Ice-age Tibetans and their living environment |
| Investigator(s): | Zhang D, Li SH, Huang W.W. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG) |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| To reconstruct the paleoenvironment in which the ice-age Tibetans were living, including temperature, precipitation, surface vegetation cover and surface processes of 2000 years ago; to evaluate human activities around the site. This includes surveying and mapping of the whole site, discovery of new evidence of human occupation and a complete description and analysis of these remnants; to improve age accuracy using the latest dating techniques; to explore the best way in preservation of the handprints, footprints and hearth and other remnants. |
| Project Title: | Ice-age Tibetans and their living environment |
| Investigator(s): | Zhang D |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen J., Wan G., Zhang D., Chen Z., Xu J., Xiao T. and Huang R., The Little 'Ice Age' Recorded by Sediment Chemistry in Lake Erhai, Southwest China, Holocene. Edward Arnold (Publishers) Ltd, 2005, 15(6): 925-931. |
| He Y., Pung H., Lu A. and Zhang D., Temporary and Spatial Changes and Climatic Effect of Stable Isotopes in the Glacial Snow and Melt-water of Western China, Journal Glaciology and Geocryology. 2006, 28(1): 22-28. |
| Li B., Zhang D., Wen X., Dong Y., Zhu Y. and Qing H., A Multi-cycle Climatic Fluctuation Record of the Last Interglacial Period: Typical Straitigraphic Section in the Salawusu River Valley on the Ordos Plateau, China, Acta Geologica Sinica. Geological Society of China, 2005, 79(3): 398-404. |
| Peart M.R., Ng K.Y. and Zhang D., Landslides and Sediment Delivery to a Drainage System: Some Observations from Hong Kong , Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. Elsevier, 2005, 25: 821-836. |
| Shi C. and Zhang D., A Sediment Budget of the Lower Yellow River, China, Over the Period from 1855 to 1968, Geografiska Annaler 87A. Blackwell Publisher, 2005, 3: 461-471. |
| Zhang D., Shi C. and Jiala J., Analysis on Chemical Composition of Rainfall on the Tibet Plateau, Arid Zone Research. 2005, 22: 471-475. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q. and Lee F., Climate Change, War, Social Unrest and Dynastic Cycle in Ancient China, Chinese Science Bulletin. Beijing Science Press, 2005, 50(2): 137-144. |
| Zhang D., Jim C.Y., Lin G.C.S., He Y.Q., Wang J.J. and Lee F., Climatic Change, Wars and Dynastic Cycles in China over the Last Millennium, Climatic Change. New York, Springer, 2006, 76: 459-477. |
| Zhang D., Lin G.C.S. and He Y., War as a Social-ecological Response to Climate Change in Ancient China, Building the Adaptive Capacity. Environment Canada, 2005, 113-124. |
| Researcher : Zhao SX |
| Project Title: | Spatial restructuring of financial centers in Mainland China and Hong Kong in the face of China's WTO accession: an interim assessment |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao SX, Li D.D. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2002 |
| Abstract: |
| To explore the most important factors or driving forces behind the formation and development of financial centers, with a focus on the analysis of information externalities, asymmetric information, path dependence, and information hinterlands; to examine China's information hinterland in the face of its impending accession to the WTO, and to assess its influence on the development of individual financial centers: to undertake interim assessment of China's WTO impact on spatial restructing of financial centerd in the Mainland and Hong Kong, with examination of the roles and positions of Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai as international and national financial centers, in terms of their changing relative importance and specific rankings in China and the Pacific-Asia region. |
| Project Title: | Spatial restructuring of financial centers in Mainland China and Hong Kong in the face of China's WTO accession: an interim assessment |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao SX, Li D.D. |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 02/2004 |
| Abstract: |
| To explore the most important factors or driving forces behind the formation and development of financial centers, with a focus on the analysis of information externalities, asymmetric information, path dependence, and information hinterlands; to examine China's information hinterland in the face of its impending accession to the WTO, and to assess its influence on the development of individual financial centers: to undertake interim assessment of China's WTO impact on spatial restructing of financial centerd in the Mainland and Hong Kong, with examination of the roles and positions of Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai as international and national financial centers, in terms of their changing relative importance and specific rankings in China and the Pacific-Asia region. |
| Project Title: | China's urban villages as migrant enclaves; the formation process and redevelopment policy |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao SX, Zhang L |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2004 |
| Abstract: |
| To understand the formation process of chengzhongcun as migrant enclaves; to explore why and how chengzhongcun have become a rural migrant enclave; to assess various government proposals for the redevelopment of chengzhongcun in order to work out politically acceptable and economically feasible policy solutions. |
| Project Title: | Income Inequalities under Economic Restructuring: The Case Study of Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao SX |
| Department: | Geography |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Hui Oi Chow Trust Fund - General Award |
| Start Date: | 07/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| Objectives Hong Kong has experienced rapid economic growth since the 1950s. With its GDP growth at an average rate of 6.5% annually in real terms, Hong Kong’s economy has more than quadrupled in size in the last twenty years. Per capita GDP has been tripled, equivalent to an average annual growth rate of about 6% in real terms. It is rare for developing economies, with the exception of Hong Kong and other three “Asian Dragons”, to make a transition to a developed status in just two generations. Hong Kong is now one of the richest societies in the world in terms of per capita GDP. However, Hong Kong has not won the war of poverty eradication. The Gini coefficient, a measurement of income inequality, has long been situated in a relatively high level. It was reported that, by various conservative estimates, there were over 600,000 poor people in Hong Kong by 1996 (Sing Dao Daily, October 18, 1996; Ming Pao, November 4, 1996; Mok, 1999). This was more than 11% of the total population in that time. Data from the 2001 census have further revealed that the recent situation of income inequality is the worst over 40 years, and the worst among developed nations (South China Morning Post, August 29, 2001). These figures are quite shocking, reflecting the fact that there has been a prolonged increase in the gap between the rich and the poor. It seems that the reality of economic growth may not, in fact, have generated a more equitable society, but rather the contrary. This has brought out wide concerns for policy-makers on the causes of the worsening income inequality. The objective of this study is to investigate the factors that have contributed to the prolonged inequality of income distribution in Hong Kong. We argue that economic restructuring under the process of globalization has made Hong Kong retain its high growth of per capita GDP, but at the same time has generated some negative effects on employment of low-skilled workers, which exacerbated income inequality. We hold the view that, in the absence of appropriate government actions, economic progress in a laissez-faire capitalism cannot necessarily equalize income distribution. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhao S.X., Dynamics and Growth of China's New Global City-regions in Next 10 Years, Beijing University Business Review. Beijing, Beijing University Press, 2005, 9(4): 74-78. |
| Researcher : Zheng Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sit V.F.S. and Zheng Y., Formation and Definition of Extended Metropolitan Regions in China (Chinese text), Economic Geography. Beijing, China Geographical Association, 2005, 25(6): 827-833. |