Globally, the problems caused by over supply of nutrients, waterborne disease causing agents and man-made toxic chemicals are likely to be exacerbated and to pose significant ecological and public health risks. This is particularly true in the Hong Kong and Southern China region which has very high population density and rapid industrialization. In response to these imminent problems and needs, we have been awarded $45 million by the University Grants Committee, Hong Kong SAR government, to establish the "Centre for Marine Environmental Research and Innovative Technology" (MERIT) as an Area of Excellence (AoE) in Hong Kong.

The focus of this AoE is the development of innovative technologies for early detection, assessment, prediction and control of impacts arising from anthropogenic activities in the marine environment. This AoE comprises 24 outstanding researchers from the City University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science of Technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Baptist University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and seven world class scientists in USA, Australia, Norway and China. An exceptionally high level of synergy is achievable through close collaboration between biologists (molecular biologists, genomic technologists, developmental biologists, physiologists, ecologists, environmental toxicologists), chemists (analytical chemists, environmental chemists, inorganic chemists), physicists, engineers (hydraulic engineers, modelers) and statisticians in the team.

This new initiative will not only be unique globally and at the forefront of research, but also foster economic development along with enhanced environmental protection. Through this AoE, we will develop a range of innovative technologies and marketable products for assessing the status of the marine environment and environmental risks; the provision of an early warning system, as well as cost-effective pollution control and bioremediation technologies suitable for practical use. We aspire to establish Hong Kong as a leading centre in marine environmental research, and enable Hong Kong to capitalize on the rapidly growing commercial opportunities presented by the enormous world environmental market. Through teaching and industrial attachment schemes, as well as the provision of local and regional training, this AoE will also produce competent environmental professionals in the forefront of technology to meet future demands.