(i) Research Context
This project explores the role of cultural and natural heritage in advancing sustainable urban development. Recognizing heritage conservation as integral to global sustainability goals—such as those outlined in the UN’s 2030 Agenda—the study emphasizes the importance of governance approaches that balance environmental, social, and economic concerns. While international organizations like UNESCO promote heritage as key to sustainability, there remains a need for detailed case studies illustrating how cities can effectively harness heritage assets within urban development strategies. The research adopts landscape and urban political ecology frameworks to understand the socio-political dynamics shaping heritage conservation and its contribution to resilient, inclusive cities.
(ii) Research Objectives
The study aims to:
- Investigate how integrating cultural and natural heritage can foster genuine sustainable development in urban settings.
- Examine how well-conserved heritage environments enhance urban resilience against climate change and other environmental challenges.
- Identify common ground among stakeholders—including civil society, governments, and policymakers—and explore innovative governance strategies for heritage conservation.
- Assess how urban planners and developers incorporate heritage preservation into city initiatives and the impact on promoting green transitions.
Ultimately, the research seeks to develop practical policy insights and frameworks that leverage heritage assets for sustainable urban growth.
(iii) Case Study: Hong Kong
Hong Kong presents a compelling case with its rich, intertwined cultural and natural heritage, spanning densely populated urban areas, rural regions, and protected landscapes. The focus will be on Lantau Island, notable for its geological, ecological, and cultural features protected under legislation such as the Country Parks Ordinance and Marine Parks Ordinance. Since the launch of the Lantau Conservation Fund in 2018, there has been a surge in conservation efforts, yet Lantau faces ongoing threats from urban expansion, notably the ‘Tomorrow Vision’ project, which plans a new urban area on reclaimed land east of Lantau. This case offers insights into the challenges and opportunities of integrating heritage conservation into rapid urban development, highlighting how policies and stakeholder engagement can influence sustainable outcomes in complex, dynamic environments.