Nan Fung Group Launches SEWIT Report 2023-24
CITIC Tower Achieves the "HKGBC Zero-Carbon-Ready Building (ZCRB) Certification (Energy Performance) - SUPER LOW" For Significant Achievements in Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection
Hong Yip Received Four Awards at the First "PropTech Excellence Award"
Shaping a Greener, More Connected Future: HKGBC at the Belt and Road Summit 2024
Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024 Officially Launches with Engaging Public Activities
“My Green Space” Student Competition 2024-2025 Online Registration is Now Open
[HK Report 2024 Interview Series: Professor Christine LOH] Cross-disciplinary Revitalisation of Existing Buildings to Propel Hong Kong as a Green Finance Hub
Nan Fung Group Launches SEWIT Report 2023-24
Nan Fung Group is delighted to release its latest sustainability report – SEWIT Report 2023-24.
As the Group celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2024, Nan Fung continues to uphold its core value of “Do Good and Do Well, with Love” across businesses, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to creating a more sustainable and prosperous future.
SEWIT Sustainability Framework
In 2022, Nan Fung established “SEWIT”, a sustainability framework for the entire company that engages all stakeholders around five strategic pillars: Social Cohesion, Environment, Wellness, Innovation and Technology. The Group has since then accelerated its efforts in weaving new dimensions of environmental and social impact.
Reporting social value for the first time
For the first time, the Group is reporting its total social value creation with third-party verification, generating or facilitating a total of HK$24.3 million and over £939,000 worth of social value in Hong Kong (2023-24) and London (2022-24) respectively.
One step closer to achieving net zero
In February 2024, the near-term and long-term science-based targets (SBT) for the Group’s Hong Kong property portfolio were validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), establishing the long-term decarbonisation goals for the Group that are in line with the Paris Agreement.
Forging a sustainable future through stakeholder engagement
Looking ahead, Nan Fung will continue to keep its stakeholders informed of the Group’s sustainability commitments, progress and achievements. The Group aspires to join hands with the wider community to co-create a future where mutual care, innovation, and a deep appreciation for our cultural roots come together to benefit both present and future generations.
Welcome to read the report and share your feedback with Nan Fung Group at [email protected].
SEWIT Report Nan Fung Group's Sustainability Report - Nan Fung Group
As the Group celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2024, Nan Fung continues to uphold its core value of “Do Good and Do Well, with Love” across businesses, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to creating a more sustainable and prosperous future.
SEWIT Sustainability Framework
In 2022, Nan Fung established “SEWIT”, a sustainability framework for the entire company that engages all stakeholders around five strategic pillars: Social Cohesion, Environment, Wellness, Innovation and Technology. The Group has since then accelerated its efforts in weaving new dimensions of environmental and social impact.
Reporting social value for the first time
For the first time, the Group is reporting its total social value creation with third-party verification, generating or facilitating a total of HK$24.3 million and over £939,000 worth of social value in Hong Kong (2023-24) and London (2022-24) respectively.
One step closer to achieving net zero
In February 2024, the near-term and long-term science-based targets (SBT) for the Group’s Hong Kong property portfolio were validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), establishing the long-term decarbonisation goals for the Group that are in line with the Paris Agreement.
Forging a sustainable future through stakeholder engagement
Looking ahead, Nan Fung will continue to keep its stakeholders informed of the Group’s sustainability commitments, progress and achievements. The Group aspires to join hands with the wider community to co-create a future where mutual care, innovation, and a deep appreciation for our cultural roots come together to benefit both present and future generations.
Welcome to read the report and share your feedback with Nan Fung Group at [email protected].
SEWIT Report Nan Fung Group's Sustainability Report - Nan Fung Group
CITIC Tower Achieves the "HKGBC Zero-Carbon-Ready Building (ZCRB) Certification (Energy Performance) - SUPER LOW" For Significant Achievements in Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection
CITIC Pacific Properties develops and manages premium properties with the principles of excellence and distinction. The Company is driven by the visions of creating values, empowering the future of the cities and fostering vibrant and sustainable communities. By upholding the core values of integrity, responsibility, collaboration, excellence and innovation, CITIC Pacific Properties creates iconic city landmarks with exquisite design, premium materials, superior craftsmanship, supreme services and excellent management.
CITIC Tower, one of CITIC Pacific Properties' flagship properties, is recently honoured with the prestigious "HKGBC Zero-Carbon-Ready Building (ZCRB) Certification (Energy Performance) - SUPER LOW" by the Hong Kong Green Building Council. The certificate highlights the Company’s exceptional commitment to environmental protection and energy conservation over the years. The Company believes the recognition can enhance the building’s competitive edge and position it to attract more high-quality prospective tenants. The recognition not only shows CITIC Pacific Properties' relentless efforts to promoting green building practices and energy-saving initiatives, but it also inspires the Company to set more concrete environmental goals and pursue with determination.
CITIC Tower, one of CITIC Pacific Properties' flagship properties, is recently honoured with the prestigious "HKGBC Zero-Carbon-Ready Building (ZCRB) Certification (Energy Performance) - SUPER LOW" by the Hong Kong Green Building Council. The certificate highlights the Company’s exceptional commitment to environmental protection and energy conservation over the years. The Company believes the recognition can enhance the building’s competitive edge and position it to attract more high-quality prospective tenants. The recognition not only shows CITIC Pacific Properties' relentless efforts to promoting green building practices and energy-saving initiatives, but it also inspires the Company to set more concrete environmental goals and pursue with determination.
Since 2018, CITIC Pacific Properties has been continuously exploring and implementing various energy-saving solutions in CITIC Tower, including the upgrading and optimisation to air-conditioning system, lighting and elevator systems. The optimisation completed in 2022 led to a 35% reduction in electricity consumption, saving 1.7 million kWh annually. The central air-conditioning system overhaul in 2020 has produced remarkable outcomes. The installation of seven inverter air-conditioning units has significantly enhanced the building’s operational efficiency. This project alone has allowed the Company to save 1.4 million kWh of CITIC Tower’s electricity consumption each year.
The enhancement of the lighting system has also delivered remarkable results. CITIC Tower began the upgrading of public lightings with energy-efficient LEDs in 2021. With the installation of LED lightings in the car park alone, an annual electricity consumption of 55,000 kWh can be reduced. Today, most public spaces in CITIC Tower are illuminated by LED lighting. The exterior festive lighting has been upgraded with a computer-controlled LED system, saving over HK$100,000 in electricity costs each year without compromising the display effect.
CITIC Pacific Properties’ commitment to environmental protection constantly drives exploration of various initiatives, including the implementation of solid waste recycling within the building and the community. In 2022, the Company recycled over 4.7 tonnes of paper, plastic and metal. The introduction of an automated food waste composting machine to the building in the following year further contributes to our waste management. The composting machine has the capacity to process coffee grounds and tea leaves collected from CITIC Tower's tenants and neighbouring buildings in Admiralty area. At present, an average of 30kg of such wastes is collected on a daily basis. Through effective recycling of wastes, better community service can be achieved. More green elements have been integrated into the building by installing an indoor vertical green wall and setting up a rooftop garden on the 30th floor. These measures are parts of the Company’s endeavour to reduce carbon dioxide levels and provide a green environment for the tenants.
Looking ahead, CITIC Pacific Properties will step up our efforts to further reduce electricity consumption by 15% over the next five years. To establish CITIC Tower as a model of Hong Kong green building and fulfil our zero-carbon vision, the Company will continue to explore and seize every ESG investment opportunity. CITIC Pacific Properties remains devoted to promoting a vibrant and sustainable city that benefits society, tenants and all stakeholders.
Hong Yip Received Four Awards at the First "PropTech Excellence Award"
Hong Yip Service Company Limited (Hong Yip), sharing its parent group Sun Hung Kai Properties´ commitment to “Building Homes with Heart”, is always committed to promoting PropTech development. Using technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), AI analytics platforms, BIM-FM platform, and self-developed mobile applications such as "SoProp” and "WeCom" etc., Hong Yip aims to provide the best quality services and experiences for customers.
Hong Yip achieved remarkable results at the first "PropTech Excellence Awards" held on 21 March 2024, co-organised by the Hong Kong PropTech Association (HKPTA) and Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, being the only company to receive a total of four awards, including:
- "PropTech Solution of the Year - ESG in PropTech" - Diamond Award
- "PropTech Solution of the Year - Property Management " - Diamond Award
- "PropTech Integration Company of the Year " - Gold Award
- "The Best PropTech Solution of the Year"
Hong Yip will continue to adhere to the principles of sustainable development. With quality and dedicated services, innovative technologies and green management, Hong Yip aims to create a better living environment and a more harmonious community for customers.
Hong Yip achieved remarkable results at the first "PropTech Excellence Awards" held on 21 March 2024, co-organised by the Hong Kong PropTech Association (HKPTA) and Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited, being the only company to receive a total of four awards, including:
- "PropTech Solution of the Year - ESG in PropTech" - Diamond Award
- "PropTech Solution of the Year - Property Management " - Diamond Award
- "PropTech Integration Company of the Year " - Gold Award
- "The Best PropTech Solution of the Year"
Hong Yip will continue to adhere to the principles of sustainable development. With quality and dedicated services, innovative technologies and green management, Hong Yip aims to create a better living environment and a more harmonious community for customers.
Hong Yip received the highest honour "The Best PropTech Solution of the Year" at the first "PropTech Excellence Awards".
Hong Yip applied technologies such as IoT, AI analytics, BIM-FM platform etc., to provide the best quality services and experiences for customers.
Shaping a Greener, More Connected Future: HKGBC at the Belt and Road Summit 2024
The Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) is dedicated to promoting green building development both regionally and beyond. As part of this commitment, it recently supported the Belt and Road Summit 2024 held from 11 to 12 September 2024 organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).
HKGBC at the Thematic Breakout Session: Charting Green Development for a Connected World
The HKGBC participated in the Thematic Breakout Session, “Charting Green Development for a Connected World”, which underscored the collective commitment of all participants to a greener and more interconnected global landscape. Industry leaders from across the region convened to share their vision and experiences, providing a powerful platform for driving sustainable development.
HKGBC at the Thematic Breakout Session: Charting Green Development for a Connected World
The HKGBC participated in the Thematic Breakout Session, “Charting Green Development for a Connected World”, which underscored the collective commitment of all participants to a greener and more interconnected global landscape. Industry leaders from across the region convened to share their vision and experiences, providing a powerful platform for driving sustainable development.
The Session commenced with inspiring Welcome Remarks from Dr Patrick LAU, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, and Mr FANG Qiu-chen, Chairman of the China International Contractors Association. They both emphasised the world-connecting power of green development, setting the tone for the discussions to follow. Mr Nicolas HO, Commissioner for Belt and Road, further highlighted Hong Kong's strategic role as a bridge between Belt and Road countries, reinforcing the city's unique position to facilitate cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Expertly moderated by Mr CHIU Kam-kuen, Chief Executive, Greater China at Cushman & Wakefield, the panel featured a diverse array of perspectives. Mr CHEN Zhong, Vice General Manager of the China Communications Construction Group Limited, shared successful experiences in green development projects. Ir Harry LAI, Executive Director of the HKGBC, provided insights on Hong Kong's comprehensive BEAM Plus green building rating systems, as well as the Council's collaboration with Greater Bay Area partners and its potential extension to Belt and Road Regions and beyond. Additional insights were offered by Mr WU Yun, Deputy General Manager of China Energy Engineering Group Co., Ltd., Mr Rex WONG, CEO of the Kam Shing Group, and Mr MI Zhi-hui, Vice President of the Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute (Group) Co., Ltd. These esteemed speakers addressed topics ranging from green energy initiatives to city-driving projects and the need for enhanced cooperation between Mainland China and Hong Kong.
Expanding the Reach of BEAM Plus Beyond Hong Kong
The HKGBC co-hosted a joint exhibition booth with BEAM Society Limited (BSL) to expand the reach of BEAM Plus beyond Hong Kong. Both HKGBC and BSL showcased their efforts in building a carbon-neutral community, which captivated visitors from around the globe and sparked great interest in their innovative green building services. Visitors were particularly intrigued by the significant impact these services can have on personal wellbeing, society, and the planet. The recent launch of “BEAM Plus Existing Building (Global Version)” in May also generated excitement, especially among Asian visitors, who were thrilled to learn that BEAM Plus is now available internationally.
The HKGBC co-hosted a joint exhibition booth with BEAM Society Limited (BSL) to expand the reach of BEAM Plus beyond Hong Kong. Both HKGBC and BSL showcased their efforts in building a carbon-neutral community, which captivated visitors from around the globe and sparked great interest in their innovative green building services. Visitors were particularly intrigued by the significant impact these services can have on personal wellbeing, society, and the planet. The recent launch of “BEAM Plus Existing Building (Global Version)” in May also generated excitement, especially among Asian visitors, who were thrilled to learn that BEAM Plus is now available internationally.
This event displayed a shared sense of commitment, demonstrating a collective resolve to build a greener, more sustainable future. The HKGBC continues to be a driving force, leading progress and innovation in the built environment.
Stay tuned to the HKGBC's ongoing advocacy and exciting new developments by checking the Event Calendar!
Stay tuned to the HKGBC's ongoing advocacy and exciting new developments by checking the Event Calendar!
Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024 Officially Launches with Engaging Public Activities
Co-organised by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC), the acclaimed annual campaign “Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024” held its official Kick-off Ceremony on 21 September at Olympian City 2, a venue sponsored by Sino Group. The event was officiated by Mr TSE Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Ir Prof. Thomas HO, JP, Chairman of the Construction Industry Council; and Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the Hong Kong Green Building Council. Over a hundred guests from various sectors were in attendance to support the event and witness the launch of Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024!
Promotional Video for Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024
The Kick-off Ceremony showcased an inspirational promotional video themed “Move Forward with Green Building. Next Station: Carbon Neutrality.” It features two future leaders who are curious about green building, leading everyone to board the “Green Building Express”. Together, they explore innovative MiC and Digital Twin technologies, and eco-friendly green building features, including AIRSIDE's Walkable Photovoltaic Panel, Urban Window, Sky Garden, and Smart Bicycle Parking System, all aimed at accelerating the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Kick-off Ceremony showcased an inspirational promotional video themed “Move Forward with Green Building. Next Station: Carbon Neutrality.” It features two future leaders who are curious about green building, leading everyone to board the “Green Building Express”. Together, they explore innovative MiC and Digital Twin technologies, and eco-friendly green building features, including AIRSIDE's Walkable Photovoltaic Panel, Urban Window, Sky Garden, and Smart Bicycle Parking System, all aimed at accelerating the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Kick-off Ceremony
At the Kick-off Ceremony, the three officiating guests not only shared the Government's and industry's initiatives and plans for promoting green building and carbon reduction measures, but also embraced the theme “Move Forward with Green Building. Next Station: Carbon Neutrality”. As captains of the “Green Building Express”, they steered everyone forward together at full speed toward achieving this important goal. The event also unveiled a series of exciting activities for the Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024, generating enthusiastic public participation.
At the Kick-off Ceremony, the three officiating guests not only shared the Government's and industry's initiatives and plans for promoting green building and carbon reduction measures, but also embraced the theme “Move Forward with Green Building. Next Station: Carbon Neutrality”. As captains of the “Green Building Express”, they steered everyone forward together at full speed toward achieving this important goal. The event also unveiled a series of exciting activities for the Hong Kong Green Building Week 2024, generating enthusiastic public participation.
During the ceremony, officiating guests Mr TSE Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (middle), Ir Prof. Thomas HO, JP, Chairman of the CIC (2nd left), and Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC (2nd right) were joined on stage by Mr Clarence LEUNG, Chairperson of the Committee on Environment and Sustainability of the CIC (1st left), and Ir Harry LAI, BBS, Executive Director of the HKGBC (1st right), together with two young talents from the HKGBW 2024 Promotional Video, the mascots Captain Green Building and Hanson.
The three officiating guests, along with the two representatives from the Councils, posed with representatives from government departments, Directors of the Hong Kong Green Building Council, Members of the Communications and Membership Committee, and representatives from over twenty green building partners, all making the gesture that represents "zero carbon", inspiring all sectors of society to unite in achieving the vision of net-zero emissions.
Biz-Green Dress Day 2024 Highlight Video
The Biz-Green Dress Day took place successfully on 5 September. This year, we achieved record-breaking support, with over 220 companies and organisations joining us. On the event day, the mascots, Captain Green Building and Hanson, visited the offices of Chinachem Group and Hang Seng Bank. Employees at both companies showcased their Biz-Green style while also introducing their offices’ green building design and carbon reduction tips. Over 60 companies and organisations likewise participated in this year’s “4-Colour Biz-Green Outfits Social Media Challenge”, with the winners announced during the Kick-off Ceremony. Watch the Highlight Video now to view the winning companies’ Biz-Green outfits!
The Biz-Green Dress Day took place successfully on 5 September. This year, we achieved record-breaking support, with over 220 companies and organisations joining us. On the event day, the mascots, Captain Green Building and Hanson, visited the offices of Chinachem Group and Hang Seng Bank. Employees at both companies showcased their Biz-Green style while also introducing their offices’ green building design and carbon reduction tips. Over 60 companies and organisations likewise participated in this year’s “4-Colour Biz-Green Outfits Social Media Challenge”, with the winners announced during the Kick-off Ceremony. Watch the Highlight Video now to view the winning companies’ Biz-Green outfits!
Green Building Exploration Fair
Public experience activities commenced on the day of the launch and spanned the following two weekends. The inaugural “Green Building Exploration Fair”, which successfully took place on 21-22 September at Olympian City 2, attracted nearly 5000 visitors. Through Interactive Booths and Green Workshops, participants were able to explore the green building lifecycle. Expert Talks also offered the opportunity for participants to enrich their understanding of innovative green building technologies and trends.
Public experience activities commenced on the day of the launch and spanned the following two weekends. The inaugural “Green Building Exploration Fair”, which successfully took place on 21-22 September at Olympian City 2, attracted nearly 5000 visitors. Through Interactive Booths and Green Workshops, participants were able to explore the green building lifecycle. Expert Talks also offered the opportunity for participants to enrich their understanding of innovative green building technologies and trends.
The Fair featured six interactive zones where the public could explore four key phases of the green building lifecycle: “Planning & Design", "Construction," "Operation & Maintenance" and "Retrofitting".
Five Green Building Partners, namely Yau Lee Holdings Limited, REC Green Technologies Co. Ltd., The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Ltd., Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Ltd., and InnoGreen Environmental Ltd., shared their expertise in green building knowledge and the latest technologies at Interactive Booths.
Five Green Building Partners, namely Yau Lee Holdings Limited, REC Green Technologies Co. Ltd., The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Ltd., Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Ltd., and InnoGreen Environmental Ltd., shared their expertise in green building knowledge and the latest technologies at Interactive Booths.
In the Expert Talks session, five green building professionals and environmental experts also provided valuable insights. The speakers included Ms Melody WONG, HKGBC Green Building Young Leader and Senior Consultant in Climate & Sustainability Group of Arup; Mr Ken HO, Senior Manager (Sustainability and Environment) of Hip Hing Construction; Ar. Dr Tony IP, MH, Director of HKGBC / Founder of Tony Ip Green Architects Ltd; Mr MK LEUNG, Director of Sustainable Design of RLP Asia and Principal Behaviourist of Behave; and Mr CHU Wai-kit, Representative of Gaau1 up.
For the latest event details, please visit the HKGBW 2024 campaign website or HKGBC's Facebook page.
“My Green Space” Student Competition 2024-2025 Online Registration is Now Open
To raise public awareness of green building, the Hong Kong Green Building Council has been organising the “My Green Space” Student Competition since 2011. Now in its 10th edition, the Competition is privileged to have Chinachem Group as the Sole Sponsor, dedicated to nurturing students as advocates for green building and sustainable development in our community.
Transcending the built environment towards green and innovative development is one of the diverse strategies to drive Hong Kong’s sustainable growth. Using the theme of “My Ideal Green and Smart City”, this year’s Competition encourages students to unleash their creativity in different perspectives such as design, planning and adoption of green technology and innovation, showcasing their ideal, liveable, sustainable, carbon-neutral, ecology balanced and people-centric city.
Online registration is open until 31 December 2024. To help students grasp the practical aspects of green building design and prepare for the Competition, green building tours at BEAM Plus certified buildings will be organised for all registered participants.
All students from local primary and secondary schools, as well as those from local and Greater Bay Area tertiary institutions, are welcome to participate and seize this valuable learning opportunity to broaden their horizons and help shape a greener and smarter city.
For more details, please visit the Competition website: https://competition.hkgbc.org.hk/en/.
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In the midst of the escalating global climate crisis, governments and businesses across various sectors are actively promoting sustainable development measures, with the realisation of green building emerging as a critical issue. Professor Christine LOH, Chief Development Strategist of the Institute for the Environment at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), is an important advocate for local and global sustainable development. She believes that in Hong Kong’s highly urbanised environment, it is crucial for existing buildings to undergo decarbonisation and retrofitting if the city is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
To read these inspiring interviews in full, please download the HK Report 2024: https://bit.ly/4509XDP
The HK Report 2024 showcases the city’s remarkable achievements in green building, resulting from the collaborative efforts of Government, industry experts and academic institutions. The report features innovative elements that explore green building materials and technologies, and includes interviews featuring five renowned experts and young advocates, reflecting Hong Kong's new milestones in the journey towards sustainability.
[HK Report 2024 Interview Series: Professor Christine LOH] Cross-disciplinary Revitalisation of Existing Buildings to Propel Hong Kong as a Green Finance Hub
In the midst of the escalating global climate crisis, governments and businesses across various sectors are actively promoting sustainable development measures, with the realisation of green building emerging as a critical issue. Professor Christine LOH, Chief Development Strategist of the Institute for the Environment at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), is an important advocate for local and global sustainable development. She believes that in Hong Kong’s highly urbanised environment, it is crucial for existing buildings to undergo decarbonisation and retrofitting if the city is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Prof. LOH advocates that the Government, industry and academia should join hands to promote green building. At the same time, she suggests utilising artificial intelligence to collect data on Hong Kong buildings, which will help stakeholders make decarbonisation decisions for existing buildings.
Collaboration of Government, Enterprise and Academia to Jointly Promote the Realisation of Green Building
Prof. LOH advocates for the establishment of a cross-sectoral collaboration mechanism bringing together the Government, businesses, financial services, professionals and non-governmental organisations to explore how to transform existing buildings and achieve socio-economic development, while enhancing the housing environment and improving people's wellbeing. The research team at HKUST’s Division of Environment and Sustainability has developed a 3D visualisation tool using artificial intelligence technology to collect a large amount of data on Hong Kong's buildings, which demonstrates the necessity of retrofitting the city’s existing buildings and assists their stakeholders in making carbon reduction decisions.
This tool can help identify the decarbonisation potential of buildings and stimulate discussions among property developers, businesses, architects, the financial sector and the Government on how to raise funds on a large scale for retrofitting, Prof. LOH explains. "Through sustained communication and operations, stakeholders across society can join forces with property developers who are adopting energy-efficient materials and advanced technologies, as well as with NGOs and the financial sector, to provide suggestions to regulatory authorities on policies and green finance fund-raising, thereby collectively tackling the challenges of climate change."
Prof. LOH believes that the necessary technologies and expertise for retrofitting already exist, and the key lies in having clear policy support and aligning the entire industry towards this direction. Collaboration with the financial sector is particularly crucial, as it is through such investment channels that the funds of private enterprises and property developers can be released to carry out retrofitting projects. She hopes that multi-stakeholder communication, which is crucial for different stakeholders, can be promoted through various collaboration mechanisms and channels.
This tool can help identify the decarbonisation potential of buildings and stimulate discussions among property developers, businesses, architects, the financial sector and the Government on how to raise funds on a large scale for retrofitting, Prof. LOH explains. "Through sustained communication and operations, stakeholders across society can join forces with property developers who are adopting energy-efficient materials and advanced technologies, as well as with NGOs and the financial sector, to provide suggestions to regulatory authorities on policies and green finance fund-raising, thereby collectively tackling the challenges of climate change."
Prof. LOH believes that the necessary technologies and expertise for retrofitting already exist, and the key lies in having clear policy support and aligning the entire industry towards this direction. Collaboration with the financial sector is particularly crucial, as it is through such investment channels that the funds of private enterprises and property developers can be released to carry out retrofitting projects. She hopes that multi-stakeholder communication, which is crucial for different stakeholders, can be promoted through various collaboration mechanisms and channels.
Prof. LOH believes that the world is eagerly seeking green finance talent. However, cultivating green finance professionals is not a one-day task. The Government should allocate more resources to training green finance talent in order to maintain Hong Kong’s competitiveness.
Hong Kong Must Nurture Green Finance Professionals to Maintain its Competitive Edge
Prof. LOH also observes that achieving sustainable development in the climate change era requires a fundamental change in people's mindsets. She explains that conserving resources and implementing the circular economy requires new thinking backed by implementation skills, including in the financial sector because very large sums of capital need to be directed towards green projects.
In addition, she suggests the Government should invest more in skills related to green and sustainable finance, such as financial taxonomy, carbon markets, and more investment options in green finance. At the same time, she encourages talented local people to specialise in these green finance fields, making Hong Kong a truly innovative green finance hub. Prof. LOH emphasises that continuous investment in talent development is crucial to maintaining Hong Kong's competitive edge. She hopes that in addition to facilitating local talent training, all policy bureaus and departments in the Government of the HKSAR will work together to promote Hong Kong's carbon neutrality by 2050 in alignment with the national goal of carbon neutrality by 2060.
Driving Hong Kong towards Carbon Neutrality: The Pivotal Role of the HKGBC
Prof. LOH firmly believes that the Hong Kong Green Building Council, now celebrating the 15th Anniversary of its establishment, has become an indispensable public body in the city. She notes that the Council is highly efficient in handling industry affairs and is committed to promoting and enhancing the development and standards of sustainable buildings in Hong Kong, as well as bringing together industry experts to provide advice to the Government. She expresses the hope that in the future, the Government can listen more to the Council's opinions, work together, and leverage their respective areas of expertise to drive Hong Kong’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Prof. LOH also observes that achieving sustainable development in the climate change era requires a fundamental change in people's mindsets. She explains that conserving resources and implementing the circular economy requires new thinking backed by implementation skills, including in the financial sector because very large sums of capital need to be directed towards green projects.
In addition, she suggests the Government should invest more in skills related to green and sustainable finance, such as financial taxonomy, carbon markets, and more investment options in green finance. At the same time, she encourages talented local people to specialise in these green finance fields, making Hong Kong a truly innovative green finance hub. Prof. LOH emphasises that continuous investment in talent development is crucial to maintaining Hong Kong's competitive edge. She hopes that in addition to facilitating local talent training, all policy bureaus and departments in the Government of the HKSAR will work together to promote Hong Kong's carbon neutrality by 2050 in alignment with the national goal of carbon neutrality by 2060.
Driving Hong Kong towards Carbon Neutrality: The Pivotal Role of the HKGBC
Prof. LOH firmly believes that the Hong Kong Green Building Council, now celebrating the 15th Anniversary of its establishment, has become an indispensable public body in the city. She notes that the Council is highly efficient in handling industry affairs and is committed to promoting and enhancing the development and standards of sustainable buildings in Hong Kong, as well as bringing together industry experts to provide advice to the Government. She expresses the hope that in the future, the Government can listen more to the Council's opinions, work together, and leverage their respective areas of expertise to drive Hong Kong’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Construction Industry Council and the Hong Kong Green Building Council have jointly published the Hong Kong Report on the State of Sustainable Built Environment 2024 (HK Report 2024). Themed “Innovations towards Net Zero: Building Sustainable and Resilient Urban Environments”, the HK Report 2024 showcases the collective efforts of the Government, industry and academia in navigating the path towards achieving net-zero emissions. In addition to documenting more than 100 major building projects, research and planning, and green building materials and technologies in recent years, the report also features inspiring interviews with five renowned experts and young advocates, including Ir Dr Conrad WONG, BBS, JP, Vice Chairman of Yau Lee Holdings Limited, Prof. Christine LOH, SBS, JP, Chief Development Strategist at the Institute for the Environment of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Prof. Edward NG, Yao Ling Sun Professor of Architecture in the School of Architecture at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Mr Arthur LAM, Co-Founder and CEO of Negawatt Utility Limited, and Ms Natalie CHUNG, member of the Council for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development, The Government of the HKSAR, who shared valuable insights into the city’s decarbonisation blueprint and strategic planning.
To read these inspiring interviews in full, please download the HK Report 2024: https://bit.ly/4509XDP
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