HKBU researchers awards Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF) - Research and Development Projects Funding Scheme 2024-2025

We are delighted to announce that two esteemed researchers from the Department of Biology at HKBU, Professor Nirakar Pradhan and Professor Qiu Jianwen, have been honoured with the ECF's prestigious Research and Development Projects Funding Scheme for 2024-2025.

Professor Pradhan has been awarded funding for his project entitled “Accelerating food‐waste digestate maturation through microbiome analysis and de-novo process optimization.” His research is focused on devising optimisation strategies to augment microbial activity and hasten the composting process in laboratory-scale studies. The outcomes of this research are anticipated to significantly enhance Hong Kong's organic waste management practices and bolster the city's sustainability objectives.

Professor Qiu received funding for his project entitled “Restoration of degraded coral communities by outplanting: An assessment of attachment method, urchin erosion, and water quality.” His research seeks to evaluate diverse coral planting techniques, investigate the impact of sea urchin-induced erosion, and examine how water quality influences coral survival. The results will provide invaluable guidance for the restoration of Hong Kong's coral reefs and the protection of marine biodiversity.

The ECF was established by the HKSAR Government to provide funding support for educational, research and other projects and activities relevant to environmental and conservation matters. The fund aims to promote individual behavioural and lifestyle changes to achieve sustainable development and develop or introduce innovative technologies and practices to improve the environment and conserve resources.

This achievement highlights our research community's commitment to addressing environmental challenges. Congratulations to both professors!