Green group calls for action after Hong Kong campsites packed
South China Morning Post
by Leopold ChenFebruary 19, 2026
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Hong Kong’s Sai Kung district faced severe overcrowding at its campsites during the Lunar New Year, with Greenpeace reporting that tents exceeded capacity by over nine times. The Ham Tin Wan and Sai Wan sites saw 585 tents on the second day of the holiday, far surpassing their designated limits of 50 each. This surge in tourism has raised concerns about sustainability and environmental impact, prompting Greenpeace to call for long-term measures to address overtourism.
Sai Kung’s popularity as a scenic destination has led to annual spikes in visitors during holidays, overwhelming local infrastructure. While authorities claim the situation is “under control,” the sheer number of tents—450 at Ham Tin Wan alone—highlights the strain on resources and the environment. The surge underscores the challenges of balancing tourism with conservation efforts.
Greenpeace emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions to prevent further ecological damage and ensure the preservation of Sai Kung’s natural beauty. They criticize the government’s response, urging a focus on regulating visitor numbers and improving waste management systems. Authorities, however, maintain that they are managing the situation effectively, though critics argue that more proactive measures are necessary.
This issue is not just local; it reflects broader challenges faced by popular tourist destinations worldwide. The strain on resources, pollution, and degradation of natural areas due to overtourism are global concerns. Addressing such issues requires innovative strategies, including better infrastructure planning, stricter regulations, and public awareness campaigns.
The situation in Sai Kung serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between tourism and environmental preservation. As travel rebounds post-pandemic, finding sustainable solutions becomes increasingly crucial for protecting vulnerable ecosystems and ensuring long-term visitability of these natural wonders.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026