FEHD launches "School of Life" series of activities to encourage green burials
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has launched a series of activities under the theme "School of Life" to encourage the public to embrace green burials and plan their end-of-life arrangements ahead of time. The campaign features a range of creative activities, including the "Life and Death Expo," which introduces support resources for old age and after-death arrangements; the Community Tour for Life Education, which encourages participants to reflect on life and death through learning about the special attractions in the community; and the Guided Life and Death Exploration Tours for Youth, which deepens life education through hands-on experiences. The FEHD will launch short videos through an online platform to clarify the green burial process and address common misconceptions, helping the public better understand this sustainable option.
In addition, the department has been making continuous efforts to enhance its burial services by upgrading both hardware and software to provide more humane and thoughtful support. The smoke-free Shek Mun Columbarium and Gardens of Remembrance (GoR) is expected to be completed and come into operation within the year, and the outlook design for free ferry services for scattering ashes at sea will be enhanced. As green burials gain popularity, the Government will continue to expand related facilities and promote life planning education through free talks, guided GoR tours, and immersive community experiences (see appendix for details). These efforts aim to raise public awareness and establish green burials as a mainstream option. Members of the public are encouraged to stay updated on "School of Life" activities by visiting the FEHD's dedicated webpage.
As the first activity to kick off this year's promotion, the FEHD will organise the interactive exhibition "Green Burial, Love Living On" over two consecutive days starting from March 15 at Citywalk 2 in Tsuen Wan, New Territories, with an opening ceremony on March 16. The exhibition features thematic talks, workshops, and family-friendly activities designed to guide the public to explore the meaning of life and understand the value of a green burial. Standout offerings include a story zone designed for children, performances by an elderly theatre club, and family photo sessions, encouraging intergenerational participation to face life's topics together. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary family portrait service, which can foster open conversations about life and death across all ages. Moreover, the FEHD has invited experts in life and death education and funeral directors to host a series of talks on topics such as well-being planning and personalised eco-friendly funerals. Information booths will be set up to provide details about green burial options and the Green Burial Central Register. Nearby, "Life Recipe" will be displayed and distributed at the Yeung Uk Road Market near the exhibition venue, connecting food culture with the "Five Ways of Life" to complement the main event. The public is warmly invited to join. For more details, please visit the thematic webpage: www.greenburial.gov.hk/tc/intro/school-of-life.html.
Ends/Thursday, March 13, 2025
