Canon Hong Kong Steps into Mai Po for Its Rice Paddy Harvesting Volunteering Service to Preserve Biodiversity

Known as Hong Kong’s “Bird Paradise,” Mai Po Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of rich biodiversity and a site of profound cultural and historical significance. In 2024, WWF-Hong Kong, which manages the reserve, launched the three-year “Lee Hysan Foundation Growing Mai Po” project. The project aims to revive traditional rice farming in Mai Po’s rural landscape while conserving the wetland’s ecology and cultural heritage. Canon Hongkong Limited (Canon Hong Kong) participated in the rice paddy harvesting experience for the first time, demonstrating its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.

On December 6, 14 senior management representatives from Canon Hong Kong, Canon Engineering Hong Kong Co., Ltd. and Canon Electronic Business Machines (H.K.) Co., Ltd embarked on a meaningful journey to Mai Po Nature Reserve. The visit began at the Visitor Centre, where staff introduced the reserve’s ecological significance. The team then explored the wetlands to experience its natural beauty and learn about the vision behind the “Growing Mai Po” project. This initiative uses rice cultivation to restore wetlands, create more habitats, and provides feeding grounds for local and migratory birds, thereby enhancing ecological resilience and protecting wildlife. The rice fields have already attracted over 20 bird species, including the locally concerned Greater Painted-snipe and even the critically endangered Yellow-breasted Bunting. After learning about the project and the harvesting process, the team headed to the fields to take part in traditional rice harvesting. From manual threshing —separating grains from stalks—to the final step of bundling the harvested rice, the team gained a deeper appreciation of farming heritage and the effort behind ecological restoration.

This was not just an agricultural voluntary experience, but also a profound opportunity to understand the importance of wetland conservation. More importantly, it was a moment to unite team strength and put environmental protection concepts into practice. Canon Hong Kong will continue to actively uphold its corporate philosophy of “Kyosei,” working hand in hand to promote more green initiatives and build a better, sustainable future.

The management team from Canon Hong Kong, Canon Engineering Hong Kong Co., Ltd. and Canon Electronic Business Machines (H.K.) Co., Ltd visited the Mai Po Nature Reserve to demonstrate their commitment to ecological conservation through action.

After learning about the significance of rice paddy to the Mai Po habitat, volunteers participated in a rice harvesting experience. 

The volunteer team worked together in the rice paddy, experiencing the traditional harvesting process of farmers firsthand.