On a pleasantly mild early November morning with a gentle breeze drifting through the clouds—our team members and their families gathered at Hong Kong’s Mai Po Nature Reserve for a truly rewarding hands-on tree survey in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Led by an enthusiastic eco-guide from WWF Hong Kong, we split into small, mixed-generation groups to assess around 20 trees across the reserve. We used simple tools such as measuring tapes, ropes and rulers, we identified each tree’s species, measured how tall it was and how thick its trunk was. We also recorded its GPS coordinates and noted any visible signs of health or stress. The data we collected will feed directly into long-term monitoring program that track forest health, carbon sequestration potential and habitat resilience, contributing real, measurable progress towards SDG 15: Life on Land.

Along the way, our guide shared fascinating insights into why Mai Po is so important. As a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance, the reserve serves as a critical stopover and wintering ground for 60,000 birds from more than 400 species each year. The reserve’s mangrove forests, mudflats and reedbeds form a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem that supports extraordinary biodiversity.

Sustainable development begins with small, shared actions. The trees of Mai Po now carry our carefully collected data, and we return home with a deeper personal commitment to protecting them. May both the data and our care continue to grow.

Thank you for your time reading. We are Maggie, Rahul, Rio and Carol, committee members of SDGs project group at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust (Hong Kong)