Dr. Jay Joan Minuti

Dr Jay Joan Minuti is a marine scientist, having obtained her PhD in Marine Ecology from The University of Hong Kong (HKU), with over a decade of experience in research, teaching, and project management. Her expertise lies in coastal and marine ecosystem restoration, biodiversity and the application of nature-based solutions to climate adaptation in urban and coastal environments. She has led and managed numerous interdisciplinary projects in collaboration with government departments, NGOs, and industry partners in Hong Kong. Her work emphasises the translation of scientific research into practical and accessible formats to support environmental decision-making and public understanding. She has worked across different avenues of science communication and outreach, including the development of public-facing programs, workshops, and creative engagement initiatives that connect research with communities. Through these activities, she seeks to strengthen the interface between science, society, and environmental practice, particularly in the context of coastal sustainability in Hong Kong.

My Sustainability Goals for 2026:

• Hope 1: Coastal Restoration through Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and Green-Grey Infrastructure
  I hope to see Hong Kong scale up the restoration of its coastal and marine habitats (mangroves, seagrasses, oyster habitat and coral communities) through Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) that are embedded within urban infrastructure planning. By integrating living eco-shorelines and hybrid green-grey infrastructure into coastal development, I envision a future where ecological recovery and climate resilience go hand in hand, delivering shoreline protection, storm surge mitigation, and carbon sequestration in line with the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2035.
• Hope 2: A “Blue Literacy” Movement
  Despite being surrounded by the sea, many Hong Kong residents have limited awareness of local marine biodiversity or the pressures it faces. I hope to see a city-wide “Blue Literacy” movement take root. One that deepens public understanding of Hong Kong’s marine environment and the challenges it faces. Through accessible science communication, creative outreach, and community engagement, I envision a society where citizens, students, and policymakers alike are informed and inspired to become active stewards of our coastal waters.