Socioeconomic analysis of wetland ecotourism in Hong Kong
Project Description
We will conduct a large sample, public opinion survey that would generate data for a combined stated and revealed preference analysis of the recreational use of wetlands in Hong Kong. The revealed preference approach entails using travel cost analyses to determine the consumer surplus of recreational users of each site, and hedonic travel cost analyses to derive the values of site characteristics, including both natural and human-made attributes. A stated preference component will be included to mitigate drawbacks of the revealed preference approach. This study will provide a vital evaluation of protected area attributes and amenities that contribute to public benefits from natural recreation, which are particularly relevant given the Government’s current and future focus on outdoor activities. The research will also provide essential information on not only the frequency and duration of visits, but also the willingness-to-pay (WTP) among Hong Kong residents and visitors from the Greater Bay Area (GBA) for natural outdoor recreational activities and access to specific site characteristics.
Supervisor
CHOW, Jeffrey
Quota
10
Course type
UROP1000
UROP1100
UROP2100
UROP3100
UROP3200
UROP4100
Applicant's Roles
The students will participate in data collection in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy Hong Kong, via the deployment of in-person socioeconomic surveys, to be conducted at Pak Nai, Lau Fau Shan, and possibly other study sites. Committed students with continued involvement may also contribute to data analysis, scientific writing, and co-authorship of scientific articles, depending on the level of their contribution.
Applicant's Learning Objectives
In addition to the experience of working on the joint project between HKUST and a nature NGO in Hong Kong, the students learn about research design, socioeconomic field work, nature conservation, and sustainable development.
Complexity of the project
Moderate