Deadline: 23-Dec-2025

The Environmental Conservation Fund (ECF) in Hong Kong supports local non-profit organizations, schools, and community groups to implement projects that promote sustainability, conserve resources, and foster low-carbon lifestyles. Funding is available through three schemes: Publicity and Education (P&E) Projects, Practice and Action Projects, and Research and Development Projects. Priority areas for 2025/26 include waste reduction, biodiversity, clean shorelines, air quality, carbon neutrality, and other environmental initiatives.

Programme Overview

The ECF aims to advance sustainable development by:

• Encouraging behavioral and lifestyle changes among individuals and communities

• Supporting innovative technologies and practices to protect the environment

• Fostering resource conservation and climate action

The fund operates through three distinct schemes:

1. Publicity and Education (P&E) Projects Funding Scheme – focuses on promoting environmental awareness and education.

2. Practice and Action Projects Funding Scheme – supports projects demonstrating practical environmental actions.

3. Research and Development Projects Funding Scheme – funds R&D initiatives that advance environmental solutions and innovation.

2025/26 Funding Themes & Allocation

For the 2025/26 cycle, the ECF has allocated remaining funding across the following priority areas:

• Waste Reduction at Source and Waste Recycling Projects: $21,000,000

• Biodiversity Projects: $10,000,000

• Clean Shorelines Projects: $3,000,000

• Clean Air Projects: $5,000,000

• Carbon Neutrality and Low Carbon Living Projects: $11,000,000

• Other Theme Projects: $19,000,000

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include local non-profit organizations, such as:

• Community bodies and environmental groups

• Educational institutions, including schools (K-12) and higher education institutions

Required Documentation:

• Non-profit organizations: Certificate of incorporation or registration, Articles of Association prohibiting income/assets distribution to members

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

• Schools: School Number issued by the Education Bureau

Why This Programme Matters

• Promotes sustainable lifestyles and environmentally responsible behaviors

• Enhances biodiversity protection and ecosystem health

• Improves air and water quality

• Encourages low-carbon living and climate action initiatives

• Empowers local communities and institutions to actively contribute to environmental conservation

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Identify the relevant funding scheme and priority area aligned with your project

2. Prepare supporting documents verifying non-profit or school status

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

4. Submit the completed application form along with required documents

5. Ensure your project aligns with government policies and ECF thematic priorities

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Failing to provide required verification documents for non-profit or school status

• Submitting projects outside the priority themes

• Not demonstrating clear environmental impact or sustainability objectives

• Overlooking alignment with government policies or ECF guidelines

• Providing incomplete or unclear project plans

FAQ

1. Who can apply for ECF funding?
Local non-profit organizations, community bodies, environmental groups, and educational institutions in Hong Kong.

2. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects promoting environmental awareness, practical action, biodiversity, waste reduction, clean air, clean shorelines, carbon neutrality, or low-carbon living.

3. Are schools eligible to apply?
Yes, K-12 and higher education institutions may apply, with School Number verification.

4. How much funding is available per theme?
Funding varies by theme, with allocations ranging from $3,000,000 to $21,000,000 for 2025/26.

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

6. Are individuals eligible to apply?
No, funding is only available to non-profit organizations and educational institutions.

7. How are projects evaluated?
Projects are assessed based on environmental relevance, feasibility, innovation, and alignment with ECF priority themes.

Conclusion

The Environmental Conservation Fund provides a structured and impactful way for Hong Kong-based organizations and schools to contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable development. By supporting projects that promote awareness, action, and innovation, the ECF fosters meaningful behavioral change, biodiversity protection, and low-carbon living, strengthening Hong Kong’s commitment to a sustainable future.

For more information, visit Environment and Conservation Fund.