Deadline: 22-Jun-2026
The Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF) Committee is accepting applications for the 2026/27 Practice and Action Projects Funding Scheme to support community-based environmental protection and conservation projects in Hong Kong. The programme supports projects focused on waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, carbon neutrality, clean air, clean shorelines, and sustainable living practices, with funding allocations reaching HK$50 million under selected themes.
The programme aims to encourage practical and measurable environmental outcomes through community engagement, innovation, and sustainable practices.
Overview of the Programme
The Environment and Conservation Fund was established by the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to provide financial support for environmental education, research, conservation, and practical environmental initiatives.
The Practice and Action Projects Funding Scheme supports projects that:
- Promote sustainable development
- Encourage behavioral and lifestyle changes
- Reduce waste and carbon emissions
- Support environmental protection
- Promote biodiversity conservation
- Introduce innovative environmental practices
- Create measurable community impact
Programme Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Promote sustainable living and environmental responsibility
- Encourage positive environmental behavior changes
- Improve waste reduction and recycling efforts
- Support carbon reduction and climate action
- Strengthen biodiversity conservation
- Encourage community participation
- Deliver measurable environmental outcomes
2026/27 Project Themes and Funding Allocation
Waste Reduction at Source and Waste Recycling
- Funding allocation: HK$50 million
- Supports:
- Waste reduction campaigns
- Recycling programmes
- Circular economy initiatives
- Community waste management projects
Biodiversity
- Funding allocation: HK$15 million
- Supports:
- Habitat conservation
- Species protection
- Ecological education
- Biodiversity monitoring
Carbon Neutrality and Low Carbon Living
- Funding allocation: HK$7 million
- Supports:
- Low-carbon lifestyle projects
- Energy-saving initiatives
- Climate awareness campaigns
- Carbon reduction activities
Clean Shorelines
- Funding allocation: HK$6 million
- Supports:
- Beach and shoreline clean-up initiatives
- Marine conservation activities
- Community awareness programmes
Clean Air
- Funding allocation: HK$6 million
- Supports:
- Air quality improvement initiatives
- Pollution reduction campaigns
- Environmental monitoring projects
Other Theme Projects
- Funding allocation: HK$3 million
- Supports:
- Environmental initiatives outside listed themes
Funding Information
- Waste Reduction at Source and Waste Recycling: HK$50 million
- Biodiversity: HK$15 million
- Carbon Neutrality and Low Carbon Living: HK$7 million
- Clean Shorelines: HK$6 million
- Clean Air: HK$6 million
- Other Theme Projects: HK$3 million
Special provision for Clean Shorelines (Small Scale):
- Maximum project funding: HK$10,000
- Project duration: Up to 6 months
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include local nonprofit organizations in Hong Kong, including:
- Community organizations
- Environmental groups
- Higher education institutions
- Kindergartens
- Primary schools
- Secondary schools
Applicants must submit supporting documents such as:
- Registration certificates
- Articles of association
- Tax-exempt charity documentation (if applicable)
- Other proof of eligibility
Project Requirements
Projects should:
- Be community-based
- Deliver measurable and tangible outcomes
- Demonstrate environmental benefits
- Use innovative and effective approaches
- Minimize environmental impacts during implementation
Examples of minimizing impact:
- Reducing waste generation
- Lowering energy consumption
- Improving resource efficiency
Project Duration
- General projects: Maximum 2 years
- First-time applicant organizations: Normally 1 year or less
- Clean Shorelines (Small Scale): Maximum 6 months
National Security Compliance Requirements
Applicants must agree to comply with requirements related to:
- National security provisions
- Public safety requirements
- Programme application conditions
Why This Programme Matters
Environmental challenges continue to affect communities through:
- Increasing waste generation
- Carbon emissions
- Biodiversity loss
- Pollution
- Unsustainable consumption practices
The programme helps:
- Strengthen community environmental action
- Encourage sustainable practices
- Improve conservation efforts
- Promote innovation
- Increase public awareness and participation
How to Apply
Step 1: Select one project theme
- Applicants may select only one theme per application.
Step 2: Develop a project proposal
Include:
- Project objectives
- Activities
- Expected outcomes
- Community benefits
- Sustainability measures
Step 3: Define measurable outcomes
Examples:
- Amount of waste reduced
- Number of participants engaged
- Carbon emissions reduced
- Environmental improvements achieved
Step 4: Prepare required documents
Collect:
- Organizational documents
- Eligibility certificates
- Supporting materials
Step 5: Submit the application
Submit the completed proposal with all supporting documentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Selecting multiple themes in one application
- Failing to define measurable outcomes
- Missing supporting documents
- Weak sustainability planning
- Ignoring environmental impact during implementation
Tips for a Strong Application
- Align the project closely with the selected theme
- Include measurable environmental outcomes
- Demonstrate innovation
- Provide realistic budgets
- Show organizational experience
- Explain long-term impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the ECF Practice and Action Projects scheme?
It is a funding programme supporting practical environmental projects in Hong Kong.
2. Which theme receives the largest funding allocation?
Waste Reduction at Source and Waste Recycling with HK$50 million.
3. Who can apply?
Local nonprofit organizations, schools, educational institutions, and community groups.
4. Can multiple themes be selected?
No. One application can only select one project theme.
5. What is the standard project duration?
Generally up to 2 years.
6. Are there different rules for first-time applicants?
Yes. First-time applicants are normally expected to propose projects of 1 year or less.
7. Are measurable outcomes required?
Yes. Projects must demonstrate clear and measurable environmental impacts.
Conclusion
The Environment and Conservation Fund Practice and Action Projects Funding Scheme supports community-led environmental initiatives across Hong Kong by encouraging practical solutions, measurable outcomes, and sustainable actions that contribute to long-term environmental protection and conservation goals.
For more information, visit Environment and Conservation Fund.