Case study of
#00071 Seabed-to-surface exclusion barriers and enclosed swimming areas
Hong Kong
#00068
SuccessCity
Implementer
Leisure and Cultural Services Department, Hong Kong
Timeline
Since Jan 1, 1995
Location
Hong Kong22.2360, 114.1960
Description
Hong Kong introduced seabed-to-surface shark prevention barriers in the early-to-mid 1990s after a cluster of fatal attacks between 1991 and 1995. Unlike gillnets, the barriers fully enclose the swimming area from seabed to surface and are typhoon-resistant. By 2014 they protected 32 gazetted beaches, and there have been no shark fatalities at protected beaches since 1995.
Metrics
2Gazetted beaches with barriers (as of 2014)32beaches
Shark fatalities at protected beaches since 19950fatalities
Funding
Hong Kong Government
Lessons learned
- Barriers were deployed rapidly in direct response to an acute cluster of fatal attacks (1991–1995), suggesting acute political will following casualties is a viable trigger for implementation.
- The approach is practical only on sheltered, gazetted beaches; exposed open-surf coasts are not suitable candidates for replication.
Sources
1Documented Jun 26, 2026