Deadline: 30-Dec-2025

The Environmental Conservation Fund (ECF) in Hong Kong supports local non-profit organizations and educational institutions to implement projects promoting sustainable lifestyles, environmental conservation, and low-carbon practices. Funding is available through three schemes: Publicity and Education Projects, Practice & Action Projects, and Research & Development Projects. For 2025/26, priority areas include waste reduction, single-use plastics, biodiversity, clean shorelines, clean air, carbon neutrality, and other environmental initiatives.

Programme Overview

The ECF aims to promote sustainable development by:

• Encouraging behavioral and lifestyle changes among individuals and communities

• Supporting innovative technologies and practices for environmental improvement

• Conserving natural resources and biodiversity

Funding is distributed through three schemes:

1. Publicity and Education (P&E) Projects Funding Scheme – promotes environmental awareness and educational initiatives

2. Practice & Action (P&A) Projects Funding Scheme – supports practical projects demonstrating environmental action

3. Research & Development Projects Funding Scheme – funds R&D initiatives that develop new environmental technologies and solutions

2025/26 Priority Themes & Funding

Funding allocations for 2025/26 include:

• Waste Reduction at Source & Waste Recycling Projects: $44,000,000 remaining

• Single-Use Plastics Reduction Action: $8,400,000

• Carbon Neutrality & Low Carbon Living: $10,000,000

• Biodiversity Projects: $5,000,000

• Clean Shorelines Projects: $4,900,000 (small-scale projects capped at $10,000 and max 6 months duration)

• Clean Air Projects: $5,000,000

• Other Themes: $8,300,000

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Local non-profit-making organizations, including community bodies and environmental groups

• Educational institutions, including schools (kindergarten to secondary) and higher education institutions

Documentation Requirements:

• Tax-exempt charities: Tax-exemption letter under section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance, registration document, Articles of Association

• Registered non-profits: Certificate of incorporation/registration and Articles of Association prohibiting distribution of income/assets upon dissolution

• Schools: Education Bureau-issued School Number

Why This Programme Matters

• Promotes sustainable lifestyles and environmentally responsible behaviors

• Reduces environmental impact through practical action projects

• Supports conservation practices, protecting biodiversity and natural resources

• Encourages low-carbon living and climate-conscious initiatives

• Empowers local organizations and educational institutions to actively contribute to environmental sustainability

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Identify the relevant funding scheme and priority theme for your project

2. Prepare required documentation proving non-profit or school status

3. Develop a project plan with objectives, activities, outcomes, and environmental impact

4. Ensure alignment with government policies and ECF thematic priorities

5. Submit the completed application form and supporting documents before the deadline

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Missing or incomplete non-profit verification documents

• Submitting projects outside designated priority themes

• Not providing a clear plan or measurable outcomes

• Overlooking project duration limits, especially for small-scale Clean Shorelines projects

• Failing to demonstrate impact on sustainability or resource conservation

FAQ

1. Who can apply for P&A Projects funding?
Local non-profit organizations, community bodies, environmental groups, and schools or higher education institutions in Hong Kong.

2. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects that reduce environmental impact, promote sustainable lifestyles, conserve resources, and demonstrate low-carbon practices.

3. Are small-scale Clean Shorelines projects eligible?
Yes, but grant requests cannot exceed $10,000 and projects must be completed within six months.

4. What documentation is required for non-profits?
Certificate of incorporation/registration and Articles of Association prohibiting income/assets distribution.

5. Are individuals eligible to apply?
No, only registered non-profit organizations and educational institutions are eligible.

6. How are projects evaluated?
Projects are assessed based on environmental relevance, feasibility, innovation, and alignment with ECF priorities.

7. Can educational institutions apply?
Yes, schools and higher education institutions are eligible, with documentation such as the Education Bureau-issued School Number.

Conclusion

The Environmental Conservation Fund – Practice & Action Projects provides local organizations and schools in Hong Kong with a structured way to implement meaningful environmental initiatives. By fostering sustainable behaviors, reducing environmental impact, and promoting conservation, the ECF empowers communities to create a healthier and more sustainable environment while contributing to Hong Kong’s long-term environmental goals.

For more information, visit Environment and Conservation Fund.