A research project led by Prof. YU Jianzhen, Chair Professor of the Division of Environment and Sustainability (ENVR) and Department of Chemistry, has received funding of HK$53.29 million from the Research Grants Council (RGC)’s Theme-based Research Scheme 2025/26 to advance public health and promote sustainable environment in Hong Kong and beyond.

Titled “Chemical Weather Observations of Carbon Chemistry in the Greater Bay Area”, this project establishes a unified chemical weather monitoring network in the Greater Bay Area. By collecting and analyzing comprehensive carbon chemistry data, it aims to enhance the tracking of regional pollution and climate impacts, and to support more cost-effective protection of public health and sustainable development of the atmospheric environment.

Spearheaded by Prof. Yu, the research team comprises cross-disciplinary experts, including Prof. YING Qi, Prof. GU Dasa, Prof. WANG Zhe, Prof. Jimmy FUNG, Prof. Alexis LAU, and Prof. LIAO Kezheng from ENVR, along with researchers from leading universities and institutes in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and around the world, in collaboration with local governments.

ENVR has made significant strides in interdisciplinary environmental research, impacting Hong Kong and the surrounding region, since its establishment in 2010. For instance, they launched the first Air Quality Research Supersite in 2011, enhancing air quality research and addressing pollution issues in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta. The PRAISE-HK app, developed by ENVR faculty in 2019, offers real-time and forecasted air quality and health risk information using advanced modeling and big data analytics for localized updates. Currently, scientists from ENVR are leading the development of an AI-driven extreme climate early warning system for vulnerable communities.

This awarded funding signifies the research excellence demonstrated by Prof. Yu and the ENVR team, underscoring their commitment to proactive environmental management and driving positive societal impact.

Learn more about the funded project: https://www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/funding_opport/trs/funded_research/trs15_lay_sum.html#15_4

Click here to read HKUST’s official announcement: https://hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-researchers-dominate-rgc-funding-awards-record-breaking-success