Organized by the USJ Institute of Science and Environment in partnership with the Department of Media, Art, and Technology from the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the exhibition is supported by the Drop by Drop initiative of the WASH Foundation and Las Vegas Sands Corp. It reflects a collaborative effort to raise public awareness about Macao’s unique ecological systems.
The showcased photographs are the result of the Wetland Biodiversity Photography Competition, held between January and August. They capture the vibrant array of life found in Macao’s wetlands, emphasizing the fragile balance of these ecosystems and the importance of their conservation. Visitors can explore printed displays of the top 100 competition entries and interactive digital screens showcasing more than 500 submissions.
This exhibition is a key component of USJ’s initiative, One Drop at a Time: Exploring Biodiversity in Macao’s Urban Wetland Ecosystems and the Role of Water Stewardship, sponsored by the Drop by Drop project. It offers an immersive experience designed to deepen appreciation for the beauty and ecological significance of Macao’s wetlands.
Charlie Cai, vice president of procurement and sustainability of Sands China Ltd., said: “As part of the company’s Sands ECO360 global sustainable strategy, we are pleased to host this wetland biodiversity photography exhibition at The Venetian Macao. As a company that cares about green operations, we welcome the opportunity to raise awareness of the natural environment in Macao and the importance of its stewardship. Our thanks go to USJ for organising this exhibition and to the Drop by Drop team for their collaboration, and we hope residents and visitors alike enjoy learning about Macao’s wetlands through this impressive display of Macao’s photography talent, promoting awareness of environmental conservation.”
Karen Araño Tagulao, marine ecologist, USJ professor, and coordinator of the Drop by Drop project, said: “This photography competition highlights the hidden biodiversity of Macao’s wetlands while actively involving the community in conservation efforts, fostering a meaningful connection between science and the community. Collaborating with Sands China and the WASH Foundation through the Drop by Drop project has been instrumental in amplifying awareness of the value and importance of the local ecosystems”
Beyond its stunning photography, the exhibition provides a captivating sensory journey. Through the integration of immersive lighting and natural soundscapes, crafted in collaboration with OTTOsonics, visitors are transported into the heart of Macao’s wetlands, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment.
The opening ceremony was graced by several notable attendees, including Karen Araño Tagulao; professors André Antunes and Thomas Lei from the USJ Institute of Science and Environment; Filipa Martins, João Brochado, Gerald Estadieu, and Sandra Ng from the USJ Faculty of Arts and Humanities; Charlie Cai; Catherine Kong, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Community Affairs at Sands China Ltd.; Nerissa Hoi, Assistant Manager of Sustainability at Sands China Ltd.; and esteemed judges and wildlife photographers James Kwok, Daphne Wong, and João Monteiro.
Sands China views initiatives like Drop by Drop as integral to its environmental sustainability efforts, aligned with the Sands ECO360 global sustainability strategy of its parent company, Las Vegas Sands Corp. This strategy emphasizes energy efficiency, resource recycling, conservation, and community involvement to reduce the company’s environmental footprint while setting a benchmark for sustainable development in hospitality and resort operations.
Tags: The University of Saint Joseph, Macao, Charlie Cai, Sands China Ltd., 2024 Biodiversity Photography Exhibition