About this project
A study integrating smart technological innovation into nature conservation of Yim Tin Tsai (YTT)
The research project titled ‘Application Research on Augmented Models and Smart Experiential Engagement in Ecological Conservation of Yim Tin Tsai, Sai Kung’ is led by The Chinese University of Hong Kong. It is funded by Countryside Conservation Funding Scheme (CCFS) and the Countryside Conservation Office (CCO) under the category of ‘Research Activities on Countryside Conservation and Revitalisation’ (Project Number: EEB(EB) 27/24/11-48).
It is in collaboration with the Division of Integrative Systems and Design at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Outdoor Wildlife Learning Hong Kong, the Yim Tin Tsai Village Committee, and the Salt and Light Preservation Centre.
The project period covers from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2027.
Key Objectives
Identify and document the diverse floral and faunal species found on YTT
Utilise Augmented Reality (AR) technology to introduce the island’s ecological richness, offering an innovative, interactive, and stimulating learning experience on YTT’s ecology and biodiversity
Enrich knowledge and interest in YTT’s ecology, biodiversity, and the use of smart technology for nature conservation among villagers, local community members and the public, thus enhancing their awareness, sense of responsibility, and engagement in promoting and conserving natural and cultural resources
Contribute long-term benefits to remote countryside conservation and revitalisation efforts by highlighting the potential and significance of integrating smart technological innovation into ecological research and nature conservation
Key deliverables
To achieve the objectives, the project will deliver the following work:
Ecological Survey
Ecological surveys will be conducted during both wet and dry seasons, at daytime and nighttime, to identify and document the various species inhabiting the island. Villagers and local community members will participate in the surveys to build the village’s capacity for restoring and revitalising its natural and cultural values.
Day-and-night Ecological Workshop
Workshops will be organised for both YTT community members and the public. Participants will learn about the ecological survey findings, related village cultural stories, the development process and the application of AR tools in identifying the key species. They will also discuss ideas on conserving and revitalising island's natural and cultural resources.
Smart Ecological Game-based Learning Station
The learning station comprises of a projected augmented model of the island, and an AR mobile application. It will display ecological survey findings, key species information, and related village cultural stories. It provides an immersive and interactive experience to visitors to learn about YTT’s ecology and biodiversity in a self-explanatory setting.
AR-based Guided Tour
The project team will guide participants in using AR tools to explore key species and village cultural stories connected to YTT's natural environment
Continuing the previous efforts
This project is an extension of the previous CCFS project titled ‘Cultural and Historical Conservation and Revitalisation Research of Yim Tin Tsai, Sai Kung: Community Narratives and Public Experiential Engagement’. It is also the result of discussions and support from local villagers.
The earlier research uncovered a series of cultural and historical stories from the villagers, revealing the village as a multi-sensory landscape, combining experiences of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste, and as part of the natural environment.
Building on this foundation, we aim to further explore YTT's ecological resources. With the combination of smart technology, we seek to expand on past findings, enhancing the conservation of the island's natural and cultural heritage.
