about ienv

The Institute for the Environment (IENV) at HKUST is an interdisciplinary research institute that addresses the serious environmental problems that our world is facing, such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity. To manage and minimize these challenges, an integrated, multidisciplinary approach is required, involving scientists, technologists, thinkers, and policymakers in academia, industries, and the government. IENV collaborates with a number of academic, industrial, and environmental non-governmental partners to conduct research aiming at improving the environment of Hong Kong, the Pearl River Delta, and beyond.

With a solid track record in conducting air quality related studies in Hong Kong and the region, IENV's research findings have been adopted in many different ways in the policy-making process both locally and regionally. IENV's vision aligns with HKUST's "Strategic Objectives" - the 5 Cluster (embracing Sustainability, Public Policy, and Innovation). The Institute has gained tremendous support from the University on their research work and facilities, including the Atmospheric Research Center established in Guangdong in 2006. IENV collaborates with a variety of stakeholders, including academic, industrial, and environmental non-governmental partners, and aims to continue to stretch their collaborative efforts to build cross-border synergies with mainland institutions for a greener and healthier Greater Bay Area.

 

Interdisciplinary Research Institute

The Institute for the Environment (IENV) at HKUST is an interdisciplinary research institute that addresses the serious environmental problems that our world is facing, such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity. To manage and minimize these challenges, an integrated, multidisciplinary approach is required, involving scientists, technologists, thinkers, and policymakers in academia, industries, and the government. IENV collaborates with a number of academic, industrial, and environmental non-governmental partners to conduct research aiming at improving the environment of Hong Kong, the Pearl River Delta, and beyond.

Our Strategic Objectives

With a solid track record in conducting air quality related studies in Hong Kong and the region, IENV's research findings have been adopted in many different ways in the policy-making process both locally and regionally. IENV's vision aligns with HKUST's "Strategic Objectives" - the 5 Cluster (embracing Sustainability, Public Policy, and Innovation). The Institute has gained tremendous support from the University on their research work and facilities, including the Atmospheric Research Center established in Guangdong in 2006. IENV collaborates with a variety of stakeholders, including academic, industrial, and environmental non-governmental partners, and aims to continue to stretch their collaborative efforts to build cross-border synergies with mainland institutions for a greener and healthier Greater Bay Area.

Our Mission

Our mission is to be a world-renowned interdisciplinary institute dedicated to advancing environmental research, education, and training. We strive to lead in Hong Kong and the region, making significant impacts on society by tackling pressing environmental challenges.

Our Approach

Our institute adopts a multi-faceted approach to achieving our vision, which includes:

  1. Conducting high-quality scientific studies by collaborating with leading researchers in the field.
  2. Undertaking strategic research and demonstration projects that address critical environmental challenges and advance sustainable development.
  3. Engaging stakeholders and fostering collaborations to facilitate evidence-based decision-making processes that promote positive environmental outcomes.
  4. Disseminating our findings through academic and non-academic publications to build knowledge and awareness of environmental issues and solutions.
The Institute seeks to deliver results with significant international impact and to lead the Asia-Pacific region in environmental research. The ability to pursue projects from an interdisciplinary perspective will ensure that we have an innovative approach that will yield high-impact breakthroughs. IENV also embraces large-scale research programs with Mainland partners.
To prepare the next generation of environmentally aware movers and shakers who can meet the needs of Hong Kong and surrounding areas, IENV assists with the development and organization of high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate degree environmental programs at HKUST. The Institute also provides input for general education courses for HKUST students to increase understanding of essential environmental concerns. Meanwhile, professional training programs for both public and private sectors enhance awareness of sustainable development and increase professionalism.
IENV seeks to stimulate community debate and interest in the environment and assist in the formulation of policies. This may take the form of advice and consultancy to professional and government bodies, seminars, and promotion of the University's environmental activities and research. Since the Institute is the focal point for environmental research at HKUST, one of  its significant roles is to educate the public on important environmental issues and research breakthroughs and become a "think tank" for environmentally-related government agencies

Being the World-Class Research Pioneers

IENV draws on the expertise of more than 50 faculty members across different departments in the areas of Science, Engineering, Business & Management and Social Science.  Led by the IENV Director, this innovative combination of academic minds puts the Institute in a leading position to tackle the most challenging environmental concerns. HKUST has already established a world reputation as a research institute and many individual faculty members working on environmental research have received international awards and honors for significant contributions in their respective fields.

IENV is supported by an Environmental Central Facility which provides the necessary human resources and specialized equipment to ensure effective collaboration between departments at HKUST and effective coordination of the Institute’s teaching and research activities. Given the cross-border nature of many environmental issues, emphasis is also placed on research collaboration with the Mainland through key environmental laboratories established in Hong Kong and in the Mainland.