FIFISH ROV Assists Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department in Advancing Water Ecology Conservation

Hong Kong · May 2023

Challenges: Limitations of Traditional Inspection Methods

The Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has long been committed to safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. However, traditional pollution monitoring and source tracking methods have significant limitations. Investigations require lifting heavy channel covers and deploying divers into unknown environments—an approach that is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and fraught with safety risks. In some densely populated urban areas, enclosed waterways are nearly inaccessible to human crews. When water quality deteriorates and pollution sources become difficult to trace, conventional methods often prove ineffective.

The Vision: Embracing Cutting-Edge Technology

Determined to overcome these challenges, the EPD turned to innovation. The team envisioned a safer, faster, and more effective approach to pollution tracking and environmental monitoring. Enter FIFISH unmanned submarines (ROVs) from QYSEA—small, agile, and equipped with advanced tools. These FIFISH ROVs would soon transform the way the EPD protected Hong Kong’s waters.

The Turning Point: How FIFISH ROVs Solved the Mystery

The game-changing moment came when FIFISH ROVs were deployed to investigate the Shing Mun River. Equipped with periscope cameras, the ROVs began tracing the pollutant upstream, starting at the contaminated outflow. Their clear visuals cut through murky waters, providing a precise view of the channel’s interior. In just hours, the FIFISH ROVs pinpointed the source—a previously hidden tributary leaking white liquid. What had taken weeks with traditional methods was achieved in a fraction of the time.

Beyond Tracking: Monitoring and Preserving Water Quality

FIFISH ROVs didn’t just stop at solving pollution mysteries. They became essential tools for ongoing water quality monitoring. Outfitted with real-time sensors, these submarines measured oxygen levels, pH, and turbidity at various depths. They also collected water samples for laboratory analysis, providing actionable insights to maintain clean and healthy waterways.

Protecting Marine Life: Coral Relocation Made Safer

In another groundbreaking application, FIFISH ROVs were deployed during the airport’s third runway construction. Strong currents and poor visibility had made traditional coral relocation efforts challenging. But with the FIFISH ROVs, EPD staff could safely monitor the process in real time, ensuring corals were moved to their designated locations. This direct oversight eliminated reliance on contractor reports and safeguarded marine ecosystems.

The Results: Transforming Environmental Protection

The impact of FIFISH ROV technology was profound:

· Faster Resolutions: The Shing Mun River case was solved in hours, saving weeks of effort.

· Increased Safety: Divers were no longer required, reducing risks and enhancing worker safety.

· Precise Data: Real-time monitoring delivered accurate water quality metrics and reliable samples.

· Environmental Success: Coral relocation projects benefited from unparalleled oversight, preserving marine biodiversity.

A Winning Approach: Recognition and Inspiration

The success of the EPD’s Smart Technology Project Team didn’t go unnoticed. Their innovative use of FIFISH ROVs earned them the 2022 Civil Service Quality Service Award for Innovation and Technology. Judges praised the department for showcasing how technology could improve public service and environmental outcomes. “Our FIFISH ROV initiative demonstrates how creativity and teamwork can overcome even the toughest challenges,” shared Chief Environmental Protection Officer Yang Wei-tak.

Conclusion: Setting a New Standard for Environmental Protection

The successful collaboration between the EPD and FIFISH ROV technology has set a global benchmark for water ecology conservation, highlighting the immense potential of innovative underwater robotics in environmental protection. As the need for sustainable solutions grows, FIFISH ROVs will continue to deliver precise, efficient, and safe technologies to support the next generation of intelligent and sustainable aquatic ecosystem management.