Such a large-scale problem requires a large-scale solution and the Hong Kong government hopes the Lantau Tomorrow Vision will be just that. The project aims to create 4,200 acres (1,700ha) of artificial islands to the east of Lantau Island, pictured here.

When the project – also known as the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands – was first announced in 2018, between 260,000 and 400,000 homes were planned to house up to 1.1 million people. Work was scheduled to begin in 2025, however, it is now facing delays of around two to three years according to finance chief Paul Chan.

Estimated to cost around HK$624 billion (US$80bn/£60bn), the grand scheme has been labelled a "white-elephant" and has drawn criticism from environmentalists. Only time will tell if it's brought to life – and if it eases Hong Kong's escalating housing crisis...

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