Hong Kong: Hong Chi Morninglight School, Yuen Long｜Junior Energy Detectives

Date: 17 October 2025

The Asian Energy Studies Centre (AESC) of the Hong Kong Baptist University, Department of Geography, organised a workshop titled “Junior Energy Detectives” at Hong Chi Morninglight School, Yuen Long. Around 17 students from Hong Chi, and 20 students from HKBU Geography Department enthusiastically participated in this interactive programme designed to cultivate energy awareness through hands-on learning and play. By stepping into the role of energy detectives, students explored the connections between electricity use, fossil fuels, and climate change—discovering how small daily actions can help protect the planet.

The AESC research team first explained how burning fossil fuels produces greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change. After the briefing, the young “detectives,” guided by their mentors, went through three themed missions.

Mission 1: Energy Exploration

Students armed with worksheets explored the school hall within a set time limit, identifying and recording the types and numbers of electrical appliances and lights in operation. They observed which devices were switched on, which lights emitted the most heat, and which might be unnecessarily consuming energy. This task helped students develop greater environmental awareness and explore energy-saving opportunities.

Mission 2: Battle of Energy Choices

Next, students participated in an interactive scenario card game designed by the research team. Each card depicted different household scenarios, and students were challenged to choose the more energy-efficient habit.

Examples included:

• Opening windows for natural daylight vs. turning on electric lights

• Running a washing machine when full vs. washing just a few items

Through playful comparison, students learned the practical meaning of energy efficiency.

Mission 3: Energy Interviewers

In the final mission, students became “energy reporters.” With question cards in hand, they interviewed teachers to learn more about the school’s energy management. Questions included: “What is the area of the school hall?” and “When do we usually turn on the air-conditioning?” These short interviews encouraged students to engage directly with real-world energy use, understand institutional energy practices, and reflect on ways to reduce consumption in their own school environment.

Building Awareness Through Play

The “Junior Energy Detectives” programme offered a joyful yet meaningful introduction to energy literacy. Through observation, discussion, and discovery, students not only learned how energy systems work but also developed a sense of responsibility for conserving them.

The initiative reflects AESC’s commitment to fostering intergenerational learning and empowering young people to take part in Hong Kong’s low-carbon transformation.