The “44th Macao Green Week—Coastal Mangrove Planting” event, organized by the Municipal Affairs Bureau of Macao, was successfully held on the afternoon of March 16 at the cycling track of the Taipa Seaside Leisure Area. Since 2016, Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) has actively responded to the bureau’s initiatives. This year, the MUST Social Service Team once again sent four student representatives to join forces with students from the University of Macau, Macao Polytechnic University, and the University of Saint Joseph. Through hands-on participation, the students not only supported environmental protection efforts but also contributed their youthful energy to improving the coastal ecosystem.
Before the activity began, staff from the Municipal Affairs Bureau provided a detailed introduction to the ecological functions of mangroves. They explained that Kandelia obovata, a mangrove species, plays a crucial role in stabilizing mudflats through its root system, purifying seawater, and naturally propagating through its viviparous seedlings, which spread with the tides. During the on-site demonstration of planting techniques, the staff emphasized key steps: inserting the thicker end of the seedling’s hypocotyl vertically into the mud about 15 cm deep while maintaining a spacing of one meter between each sapling for optimal growth. Safety precautions were also highlighted, including the requirement to wear rubber boots and remain calm if stuck in the mud while waiting for assistance.
During the group planting session, MUST Social Service Team members have worked alongside students from the three other universities, stepping into the knee-deep, slippery mudflats. Facing strong coastal winds and the sticky mud, they meticulously followed the technical guidelines to ensure proper placement and depth for each mangrove seedling. Despite the challenging conditions, all participants remained focused, ensuring that every sapling was planted at the correct angle and depth according to the specified standards.
“I’m really happy to be part of this event!” shared Li, a member of the MUST Social Service Team, after the activity. She described her experience: “Stepping into the mudflats with a sapling in hand, I could clearly feel the salty sea breeze and the soft texture of the mud. The planting process required careful attention to spacing and the direction of the hypocotyl, which was more challenging than I had imagined.” Looking at the newly planted saplings, she added, “In the future, these mangroves will serve as natural wave barriers, effectively protecting the coastline while also providing vital habitats for various species. I sincerely hope they grow strong and contribute to Macao’s ecological beauty.”
This event not only enhanced cross-university collaboration on environmental protection but also helped establish a sustainable green barrier along Macao’s coastline. It showcased the active role that the younger generation plays in ecological conservation, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding the environment through meaningful actions.
