A joint collaborative agreement between the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) seeks to promote innovation in meteorological research and education. It aims to enhance early warning systems, improve disaster preparedness, and create climate-resilient communities through a combination of strengths from both organizations. It is an example of shared commitment to addressing global climate issues and supporting initiatives by the World Meteorological Organization.
The agreement was inked on campus by Prof. Tim Cheng, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST, and Mr. Xiong Shaoyuan, Deputy Administrator of CMA. This partnership will therefore focus on three priority areas to protect communities, especially the most vulnerable, from natural disasters such as typhoons, floods, and heatwaves. The work of the partnership is aligned with China's Action Plan on Early Warning for Climate Change Adaptation (2025–2027) and the United Nations' aim of ensuring a universal coverage of early warning systems by 2027.
This collaboration between HKUST and CMA focuses on several key areas aimed at enhancing global climate resilience. One of the primary objectives is to innovate early warning technologies by advancing high-resolution forecasting and incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into meteorological science. This will improve the accuracy and timeliness of early warning systems, helping communities better prepare for extreme weather events. The partnership also aims to strengthen collaborative research platforms by enhancing existing facilities like the Guangdong Xinfeng National Atmospheric Background Station and developing new observation platforms for cutting-edge studies in air pollution, low-carbon assessments, and climate adaptation technologies. Additionally, the initiative will prioritize talent development through joint PhD programs, international exchanges, and professional training, preparing the next generation of leaders in meteorological science and climate resilience. CMA, a global leader in meteorological science and one of nine WMO Global Meteorological Centers, brings expertise in large-scale climate modeling, disaster risk reduction, and operational forecasting, further driving innovation and international cooperation in addressing climate risks.
Committed to addressing climate change through innovative research and international collaboration, HKUST’s renowned scholars, including Prof. Alexis LAU and Prof. Jimmy FUNG, have pioneered advancements in air quality monitoring and personalized pollution warning systems over the years. Furthermore, HKUST actively engages with global partners. Notably, Prof. CHEN Fei will lead the WMO’s new Urban Prediction Project under the World Weather Research Programme (WWRP) from 2025 to 2029, and HKUST will serve as one of the Southeast Asian Regional Hubs for the My Climate Risk Initiative under the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP).
Mr. Xiong Shaoyuan, Deputy Administrator of CMA, added: “The deepened collaboration between CMA and HKUST is a significant step in jointly implementing the development strategy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. It also aligns with the objectives of the Action Plan on Early Warning for Climate Change Adaptation, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in addressing climate risks. By integrating CMA’s meteorological expertise with HKUST’s research capabilities, we aim to jointly advance the integration of education, science, and talent development, contributing to the high-quality development of the Greater Bay Area”.
Prof. Tim Cheng, Vice-President for Research and Development at HKUST, remarked: “This collaboration underscores the critical role of research applications and talent development in addressing global climate challenges. With climate change intensifying, HKUST’s expertise in urban climate and weather prediction, coupled with the visionary work of Prof. Fei Chen on the WMO Urban Prediction Project, will make a real difference in enhancing the accuracy and reach of early warning systems. Together with CMA, we aim to develop solutions that save lives and protect communities”.
