Guilin Field Trip (Jun 2026)
In June 2026, Professor Cindy Lam of Department of Ocean Science led 13 students on a five-day field trip to Guilin, Mainland China, to conduct the third phase of an environmental investigation at Integral, a leading garment manufacturing site. The trip's primary objective was to evaluate the environmental impact of manufacturing activities on the surrounding ecosystem through longitudinal monitoring supported by scientific data.
Students were divided into sub-teams to collect samples and gather data on water quality, sediment composition, wildlife, and microorganisms before conducting various scientific tests. To enrich their learning, an experienced alumnus and three leaders hosted practical workshops and provided on-site guidance. This hands-on experience strengthened students' practical skills, enabling them to bridge theory and practice to address real-world challenges.
In addition to their fieldwork in Guilin, students visited Esquel Group’s knit fabric mill, garment factory, and effluent water treatment center in Gaoming. The visit provided valuable insights into how a major manufacturer implements sustainability and environmental protection measures in practice.
Overall, the trip offered an immersive experience that fostered critical skills for the students' academic and professional growth while inspiring them to actively contribute to environmental conservation.
Student Sharing
"The Guilin trip was a meaningful and rewarding experience that allowed me to deepen my understanding of ecological surveys through hands-on practice. The experience not only helped me strengthen my practical, analytical, and teamwork skills, but also reminded me to stay humble and keep learning from others. Most importantly, working with such a passionate and supportive team made the trip even more memorable and inspiring."
Betsy HO
SSCI, Year 2
"As I sit down to write this final entry, I realise that I am not the same person who boarded that train a few weeks ago. I came to Guilin with curiosity. I leave with humility, knowledge, and a burning desire to learn more. I have grown in skills—I can identify common birds and butterfly. I have grown in mindset—I no longer fear mistakes; I see them as stepping stones. And I have grown in heart—I have developed a deeper love for the natural world and a clearer sense of why protecting it matters."