News

Prof. Nathanael JIN Ling on BBC Wildlife: Plastisphere’s impact on marine ecology

Prof. Nathanael JIN Ling, Member of Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood), Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Mental Health Research Centre (MHRC), and Assistant Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Department of Health Technology and Informatics, was recently interviewed by BBC magazine Discover Wildlife regarding the current state of ocean ecosystem. Prof. Jin’s pioneering research has mapped microbial communities living on ocean plastics worldwide, revealing their remarkable consistency. He explains that plastics, far from being mere litter, serve as habitats for dense, distinctive biofilms, often hosting more microbes per gram than natural particles.  Algae and fungi colonise these surfaces, creating functioning ecosystems with their own food webs and nutrient cycles. Larger organisms, such as barnacles and invertebrates, are drawn to plastics by chemical cues, sometimes using plastics as nurseries.  The “plastisphere” is actively reshaping ocean chemistry and facilitating the global dispersal of microbes, as plastics travel vast distances via currents and shipping.  Prof. Jin’s research shows that plastics bridge previously isolated ecosystems, enabling land-to-sea transfer of microbes. While many of these hitchhikers are harmless, others, like Vibrio bacteria and toxic algae, pose risks to marine life and humans.  The plastisphere therefore carries profound ecological and health implications, underscoring the urgent need to understand manage its impact.   Online coverage: BBC Wildlife - https://www.discoverwildlife.com/environment/plastiphere

PolyU develops third-generation intelligent in-situ laser melt pool monitoring technology, deepening industry-academia-research integration to empower advanced manufacturing in the GBA

PolyU has developed “IntraSpect™”, a third-generation intelligent in-situ laser melt pool monitoring technology that marks a breakthrough in high-end precision manufacturing. During welding, high-energy heat sources melt metal to form a micro-scale molten zone known as the melt pool. Its internal condition directly affects welding quality, yet conventional technologies are unable to monitor it in real time during processing. By combining Optical Coherence Tomography with a multi-modal artificial intelligence engine, IntraSpect™ creates an “Industrial Eye” capable of monitoring the melt pool’s internal condition in real time with micron-level precision, capturing three-dimensional morphological changes during welding to address the long-standing industry challenge of welding defects at source. The project has established partnerships with multiple industry leaders in the Greater Bay Area and is advancing commercialisation, with potential applications extending to medical devices, aviation, aerospace and other sectors demanding exceptionally high welding quality. The IntraSpect™ project is led by Prof. H.C. MAN, Founding Director of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (RIAM), Dean of Faculty of Engineering, Cheng Yick-chi Chair Professor in Manufacturing Engineering and Chair Professor of Materials Engineering; and Prof. WEN Xiewen, Member of RIAM, Assistant Professor of Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Prof. Man has devoted forty years to the field of high-power laser welding, accumulating extensive industry collaboration experience and a deep understanding of industry pain points and practical needs while Prof. Wen specialises in precision optical instrument design and micro-scale dynamic capture technology. Their interdisciplinary collaboration and complementary expertise have ensured that the development of IntraSpect™ has been closely aligned with industrial application scenarios from inception. Testing has validated that the IntraSpect™ system’s detection data deviates by less than two percent from destructive testing results, with technical specifications reaching internationally leading standards. Compared to similar imported products, the system costs approximately half as much, with investment recoverable in less than one year. The team estimates that this technology can replace up to 70% of destructive testing processes, substantially saving material and time costs while achieving 100% comprehensive monitoring and establishing a complete quality traceability record for every weld. IntraSpect™ will initially focus on precision welding processes for new energy vehicle batteries and 3C electronic products such as smartphones. The team is collaborating with industry partners on pilot testing to transform the technology into practical industrial solutions. In the long term, the technology has additional potential for extension to medical devices, aviation, aerospace and other sectors with extremely stringent welding quality requirements. The team aspires to combine Hong Kong’s research strengths with the Greater Bay Area’s industrial ecosystem to build a safer, more efficient and more intelligent high-end manufacturing system for the Nation, while injecting new momentum into Hong Kong’s high-quality economic development. Press release: https://polyu.me/4kpXmBo   Online coverage: Mirage - https://polyu.me/4r9KMZP Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/4tJuyIy Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/4anKRSt RTHK - https://polyu.me/3OlnzWg (00:49 - 20:18)

Interdisciplinary innovation for social impact: PAIR scholars drive Hong Kong’s sustainable future

Five PAIR members were interviewed by HK01 to elaborate on their research projects, which are supported by the Research Grants Council (RGC)’s Themed-based Research Scheme. With breakthroughs across critical fields — from improving air quality and advancing building technologies to strengthening cities’ resilience against disasters — these projects, centred on the theme of “Developing a Sustainable Environment”, are poised to create far-reaching impact on the future development of Hong Kong and beyond. Prof. LI Xiangdong, Director of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment, Chair Professor of Environmental Science and Technology and Ko Jan Ming Professor in Sustainable Urban Development, focuses on research of PM2.5, a major air pollutant linked to serious health risks. His team investigates the pollutant’s harmful components, sources and connections with chronic diseases through advanced technologies and global collaborations. The project aims to guide future PM2.5 studies, assess control strategies, review air quality indicators and recommend policies for Hong Kong and other regions. Their comprehensive approach also helps inform research on the long-term effects of PM2.5 on human health, including its potential links to lung cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Prof. WANG Tao, Management Committee Member of RISUD, Member of Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) and Chair Professor of Atmospheric Environment, has led integrated studies on ozone and fine particulate pollution in urban and industrial areas since 2018. Using laboratory, field and simulation methods, his research team quantified emissions from soil, vegetation and human activities, revealing previous underestimations and overestimations of certain pollution sources. The findings have improved air quality forecasting and informed new mitigation measures for haze and smog in China. The work provides vital evidence for clean air policymaking and will continue to analyse complex emission and oxidation processes. Prof. YU Tao, Associate Director of RISUD and Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), Member of RILS and Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE), Associate Head (Research) and Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, has launched a research project titled “Novel Sustainable Marine Engineering Structures Based on Seawater Sea-Sand Concrete and Fibre-Reinforced Composite Materials”. This innovative structure, which combines fibre-reinforced resin-based composite materials with seawater sea-sand concrete, demonstrates exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, effectively addressing the long-standing issue of steel reinforcement corrosion. This advancement supports broad engineering applications, not only enhancing the durability of structures, but also reducing energy consumption and environmental impact during construction, thereby transforming marine infrastructure. The project is coordinated by Prof. Yu, with PolyU President Prof. TENG Jin-Guang, President of PolyU serving as the advisory coordinator. Prof. Asif Sohail USMANI, Management Committee Member of RISUD, Member of RIAM leads the “SureFire” project, which utilises advanced smart city technologies to enhance fire safety in high-rise urban environments. By integrating real-time monitoring, data networks and AI-based predictive analysis, the team has developed an intelligent tool capable of forecasting and managing fire emergencies. SureFire’s sensor-driven system supports emergency responders and aims to enable automated, casualty-free firefighting. The project’s vision is to revolutionise fire emergency management and strengthen uran resilience in smart cities. Prof. NIU Jianlei, Associate Director of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI), Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE), RISUD, Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports) and Chair Professor of Building Environment and Energy, leads a project focused on creating healthy, resilient cities through thermally comfortable neighbourhoods. To cope with the urgent challenges posed by climate change, the research utilises big data, artificial intelligence, geographic information system (GIS) and building information modelling (BIM) to optimise urban design, even in dense, humid cities like Hong Kong. Through advanced modelling and microclimate analysis, the project aims to systematically design pleasant outdoor spaces, improve liveability and address climate challenges, ultimately enhancing citizens’ quality of life through innovative urban planning. Online coverage: HK01 - https://polyu.me/4to71ws

Ir Prof. YUNG Kai-leung shares PolyU’s contributions to Nation’s space missions on Now TV

Ir Prof. YUNG Kai-leung, Director of Research Centre of Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), Sir Sze-yuen Chung Professor in Precision Engineering, Chair Professor of Precision Engineering and Associate Head of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, was featured on Now TV’s programme “The Now Dialogue”, where he introduced PolyU’s contributions to the nation’s lunar and Mars exploration missions, as well as participations in international space projects. Prof. Yung explained that since 2010, PolyU has actively participated in several national space missions, including Chang’e 3 to Chang’e 6 and Tianwen-1.  The University was responsible for designing the lunar surface sampling and packing system and played a key role in successfully retrieving the world’s first-ever soil sample from the far side of the Moon.  Furthermore, PolyU established the RCDSE, which focuses on lunar regolith research and long-term storage technologies, alongside studies in planetary base construction, planetary resource and microbes, planetary remote sensing and mapping, and the effects of space environment on space instruments. PolyU not only collaborates closely with the national space team, but also actively pursues international partnerships, including participation in the European Space Agency’s Jupiter exploration programme.  As Hong Kong advances the development of space technology and the space economy, PolyU will continue to leverage its geographical advantages to contribute further to the nation’s space exploration programme and to foster both local and international cooperation in space science research.   Online coverage: Now TV - https://polyu.me/4rFKObJ (5:11 - 9:19) (Chinese only)

Eight PolyU research projects receive support from Environment and Conservation Fund, driving sustainable development through interdisciplinary collaboration

Eight PolyU projects have received support under the first-round funding exercise of the 2025/26 Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF). These projects cover areas including low-carbon construction materials, wastewater treatment, electric vehicle infrastructure, greenhouse gas monitoring, air quality assessment, coral reef restoration and eco-cultural tourism, with total funding of approximately HK$6.45 million.  Among them, six projects are led by PAIR members. Funded PolyU projects led by PAIR members include: Principal Investigator Research Project Awarded Amount (HKD) Prof. Joseph AWANGE Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) and Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS); Professor of Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) AI-powered Sky Scans: Revolutionising Hong Kong’s Greenhouse Gas Monitoring with GNSS-RO 348,000 Prof. LENG Zhen Associate Director of Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE); Member of RILS and Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD); Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) Dual-phase VOC Reduction of Waste Tyre Modified Low-carbon High-performance Asphalt Pavements through Reactive Extrusion 1,316,000 Prof. LIU Tao Member of RISUD and Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE); Assistant Professor of CEE Reconfiguring Saline Wastewater Treatment to Remove Phosphorus and Nitrogen via Innovative Pathways 500,000 Prof. MA Wei Member of RISUD, SCRI and Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT); Assistant Professor of CEE EVChargeMap: An Integrated Geospatial Database of Public and Private EV Chargers in Hong Kong 500,000 Prof. Charles WONG Associate Director of RISUD; Management Committee Member of RILS; Member of SCRI; Associate Dean (Teaching & Global Engagement) of Faculty of Construction and Environment; Professor of Department of LSGI Unravelling City-wide Vertical Aerosol and Particulate Matter, a Remote Sensing Study in Hong Kong 600,000 Prof. James FANG Kar-hei Member of Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood), RILS, RISUD and RCRE; Associate Professor of Department of Food Science and Nutrition 3D-printed Artificial Reefs from Oyster Shell Waste for Coral Restoration: Technology Demonstration and Community Education 1,593,200 The ECF was set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China to provide funding support for educational, research and other projects and activities in relation to environmental protection and nature conservation matters. It aims to encourage the public to change their behaviour and lifestyle to achieve sustainable development, and to develop or introduce innovative technologies and practices to improve the environment and conserve resources. Press release: https://polyu.me/4tjxXNL   Online coverage: Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://polyu.me/4rAzEVv  

PolyU RCSV partners with Aravind Eye Care System to develop “EyeAgent” AI platform for ophthalmology

The PolyU Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aravind Eye Care System (AECS), India, to co-develop and clinically validate EyeAgent, an innovative AI-powered clinical decision-support platform for ophthalmology. Developed by RCSV, EyeAgent integrates large language models with validated ophthalmic tools and domain expertise.  Designed to emulate clinician reasoning, it coordinates multimodal analyses and generates transparent, evidence-based outputs to support diagnosis, triage, and management planning. A signing ceremony was held on 5 February 2026 on the PolyU campus, bringing together leading figures in ophthalmology, optometry, AI, and digital health.  Signatories included Prof. HE Mingguang, Director of RCSV and Chair Professor of Experimental Ophthalmology at PolyU, and Dr R. KIM, Chief Medical Officer of AECS, with witnesses from both institutions. Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. He highlighted PolyU’s longstanding strength in vision science and its drive to translate AI innovation into practical healthcare solutions: “At RCSV, we are committed to advancing innovative vision research and translating artificial intelligence technologies into impactful clinical solutions.  Together with the School of Optometry at PolyU, a leading centre for vision science, clinical training and eye care research, we aim to integrate cutting-edge AI with strong clinical foundations.” Building on this shared vision, Dr Kim stressed Aravind’s commitment to leveraging technology as a force for equitable eye care: “At Aravind, we believe that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, has a vital role to play in expanding equitable access to high-quality eye care.  We are encouraged by the innovative approach from the School of Optometry and RCSV at PolyU in developing EyeAgent and are pleased to support its refinement and broader implementation.” This collaboration has the potential to meaningfully strengthen clinical practice and improve outcomes for patients, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to specialist expertise remains limited.  By combining PolyU’s leadership in AI innovation with Aravind’s extensive clinical network, the partnership aims to deliver a globally adaptable AI-assisted system that enhances diagnostic efficiency, clinician confidence, and patient outcomes.

PolyU collaborates with University of Toronto to explore establishment of joint research centre, driving gerontechnology innovation in response to ageing population

PolyU and the University of Toronto, Canada, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 4 February 2026 to explore the establishment of a Joint Research Centre on Healthy Ageing and AgeTech. In response to the challenges brought about by global ageing, this initiative aims to promote the development and application of gerontechnology, and enhance the quality of life and care for older adults. The partnership will foster in-depth cooperation and exchanges between Hong Kong and Toronto in research innovation, knowledge transfer and talent cultivation in the field of gerontechnology, benefitting the elderly populations of both cities and beyond. The MoU was signed by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, Director of Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA), Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering of PolyU, and Prof. Alex MIHAILIDIS, Associate Vice-President, International Partnerships of University of Toronto. Under the MoU, RISA and the Department of Biomedical Engineering will work closely with the University of Toronto Institute of Biomedical Engineering and its institutional strategic initiative, AGE-WELL National Network (AGE-WELL), to explore setting up the joint research centre. They will also jointly develop application-oriented gerontechnologies, and co-organise staff and student exchange programmes as well as international conferences to strengthen research and education. The two universities aspire to build a bridge between elderly care support in Hong Kong and Toronto through technology, with particular attention to the needs of Cantonese-speaking older adults and their families. PolyU possesses strong research capabilities in smart ageing, rehabilitation technology and biomedical engineering, with multiple research and service units, including RISA, from diverse interdisciplinary backgrounds. The University of Toronto holds a leading position in gerontechnology, biomedical engineering and community-based innovation, while its AGE-WELL has a nationwide network across Canada. Their collaboration will enable development of a robust international platform for gerontechnology that will advance translation of research outcomes and nurture a new generation of talent in relevant fields. In addition, the two universities will seek support from the communities in both cities, and, through the joint research centre, continuously innovate and promote the use of gerontechnology in community, with the vision of bringing older adults a “HAPPI” life: Healthy, Active, Positive, Prepared, and Independent. Press release: https://polyu.me/4qmRrOW; Chinese - https://polyu.me/4kmBuHa   Online coverage: The National Tribune - https://polyu.me/4kqo6C2 Mirage - https://polyu.me/4awUFuy Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/3ZUh5ja Bauhinia- https://polyu.me/3O1BLDp Healthcare IT News - https://polyu.me/46KjD7C

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung appointed as member of Hong Kong Logistics Development Council

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, has been appointed as a member of the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council (LOGSCOUNCIL) for the 2026-2027 term. Established in December 2001, LOGSCOUNCIL serves as a forum for the HKSAR Government and industry stakeholders to advise on strategic initiatives that promote the development of Hong Kong’s logistics industry.  Its members represent a wide spectrum of stakeholders, bringing diverse expertise and knowledge from across the supply chain sector.

Safe water for all: Prof. Daigger’s insights on global water trends and priorities

On 2 February 2026, Prof. Glen DAIGGER of University of Michigan delivered a PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Global Water Management Trends” at the PolyU campus.  The event attracted nearly 110 in-person participants and reached an impressive online audience of more than 16,900 across various social media platforms. Prof. Daigger began by outlining the critical state of global water resources, noting that renewable water supplies are now fully allocated—or over-allocated—and that climate change further reduces both their availability and quality.  As populations grow and living standards rise, water demand continues to increase, particularly in agriculture and industry.  Traditional sources are no longer sufficient, necessitating the development of “manufactured” water through technologies such as potable water reuse and desalination.  The economic value of water now exceeds the cost of its delivery, making it essential to identify new revenue streams.  Accelerated adoption of innovative technologies is vital to meet rising demands without harming the environment He emphasised three main priorities for the water sector: transforming water management to prevent stress, improving resource efficiency, and ensuring universal access to safe water and sanitation.  He advocated a fundamental shift towards integrated management—such as the “One Water” and sponge city concepts—that combine efficiency, storage, local capture and advanced treatment methods.  Integrating built and natural infrastructure can yield multiple benefits, while resource recovery from wastewater offers opportunities to produce water, energy, nutrients and other valuable materials.  Achieving these goals requires collaboration among utilities, private-sector involvement, and the adoption of decentralised, flexible systems tailored to local needs. Extending the human right to safe water and sanitation to all was highlighted as essential for public health, economic development, and social equity.  Prof. Daigger discussed the importance of affordability, innovative financing, and community engagement in water projects.  He advocated for resilient water systems that integrate rainwater management, green infrastructure, and resource efficiency—aiming for zero waste and continuous environmental restoration.  Success, he noted, depends on aligning water system visions with community goals, fostering collaboration with governments, and selecting solutions that deliver broad benefits. Above all, adaptive management and ongoing learning are crucial for building sustainable, future-proofed water systems. To encapsulate his key messages, Prof. Daigger referenced three quotes from Mr Yogi BERRA, a famous American professional baseball player, coach, and manager.  First, the call for vision—“You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going, because you might not get there”—spoke to the necessity of strategic water planning and management.  Second, “In theory, there’s no difference between theory and practice.  In practice, there is”—highlighted the realities and unforeseeable challenges of putting ideas into action.  Finally, “The game isn’t over until it’s over” underscored the need for perseverance and adaptability in addressing ongoing and future water challenges. The presentation concluded with a lively question-and-answer session moderated by Prof. LIU Tao, Member of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Associate Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, during which both the in-person and online audience engaged in a thoughtful exchange with Prof. Daigger. Please click here for an online review.

High-value maritime services key to Hong Kong’s global trade standing, Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung writes

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, recently penned an article in the Hong Kong Economic Times, discussing the challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong amid our country’s 15th grand national strategy. Prof. Lai pointed out that Hong Kong’s future success does not hinge on building another terminal, but rather on whether it can take the lead in transforming from a traditional port city into one offering high value-added maritime services. He explained that as our country accelerates its development as a maritime power and reshapes global trade patterns, competition will increasingly focus on influence in finance, technology, and regulatory frameworks. Only cities with these core strengths will be able to take a leading role in shaping new international rules and gaining market advantages. He further noted that Hong Kong should actively develop high-end services such as maritime finance, smart ports and green shipping in the industry, while strengthening international connectivity and enhancing its capacity for institutional and technological innovations. This approach will not only help consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international shipping centre, but also inject fresh impetus into the local economy and enable Hong Kong to continue playing a leading role in the global maritime industry chain.   Online coverage: Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/3NPGk3t (Chinese only)