The Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) announced the official launch of the highly anticipated “Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme” earlier (26 September) in a hybrid format at HKEX Connect Hall and awarded certifications to a total of 29 projects from 7 pioneering developers and property management companies at the launch of the Scheme.
Newly launched in the third quarter of 2023, the Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme (Scheme) exemplifies a collective dedication to combating climate change and mitigating carbon emissions in the building sector. This initiative marks a significant stride towards fostering a greener and more sustainable built environment. As an integral component of the HKGBC Climate Change Framework For Built Environment (Framework), officially introduced in June of this year, the Scheme reinforces the unwavering commitment of the HKGBC and its partners to driving positive transformation within Hong Kong's building sector. It also aligns with Hong Kong's vision of becoming a resilient, low-carbon city. Notably, the Framework has already amassed over 7,000 downloads from 39 regions across the globe, highlighting its traction and influence among industry stakeholders.
A total of 29 projects from 7 developers and property management companies have been awarded certificates for their participation in the pilot Certification Scheme. Among the recipients are industry leaders such as ChinaChem Group, Henderson Land Development Company Limited, Hongkong Land (Property Management) Limited, Hysan Development Company Limited, Nan Fung Group, Sino Land Company Limited, and Swire Properties Limited. Among the awarded projects, two buildings have attained “Target Setting Certification,” including Alexandra House of Hongkong Land (Property Management) Limited and One Island East of Swire Properties Limited. These esteemed developers have demonstrated their commitment to sustainability and have played a significant role in setting a visionary target for Hong Kong's built environment through their active involvement in the Scheme.
The event was graced by esteemed officiating guests, including Mr. WONG Chuen-fai, JP, Commissioner for Climate Change of The Office of Climate Change and Carbon Neutrality, Environment and Ecology Bureau, The Government of the HKSAR, Dr. CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC, Ir PAN Shu-jie, Chairman of the Sustainable Development Committee of the HKGBC, Ir Dr. Cary CHAN, JP, Executive Director of the HKGBC, and Ir Dr Raymond YAU, General Manager – Technical Services & Sustainable Development of Swire Properties Limited and HKGBC Climate Change Framework For Built Environment Chapter 3 Convenor.
Their presence underscores the significance of this initiative and highlights the collective dedication to shaping a sustainable future for Hong Kong.
This momentous occasion brings together a distinguished assemblage of over 800 industry leaders and experts, with over 200 in-person participants and approximately 600 online attendees, united in their shared commitment to driving energy efficiency and carbon reduction for the built environment.
Mr. WONG Chuen-fai, JP, Commissioner for Climate Change of The Office of Climate Change and Carbon Neutrality, Environment and Ecology Bureau, The Government of the HKSAR, said, “Today is not only about the launching of a new scheme but also a powerful call to action, a call for everyone in the building sector to step up and play their parts in fighting against climate change. Together, we have the opportunity to shape a sustainable and resilient future for Hong Kong.”
Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairperson of the HKGBC, said, “Today is a momentous milestone in our pursuit of a sustainable future for Hong Kong's built environment. The Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme establishes a groundbreaking standard for energy efficiency and carbon reduction, in line with our vision to become a low-carbon city. I extend my gratitude to the dedicated professionals and stakeholders who have shaped this initiative. Let us seize this opportunity to build a greener and more sustainable Hong Kong together.”
Ir Dr Cary CHAN, JP, Executive Director of the HKGBC, remarked, “The Climate Change Framework serves as a common language for the building industry in addressing the challenges of climate change. It is our responsibility to adopt innovative strategies and technologies that prioritise energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction in our construction projects. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we can drive positive change and inspire others to embrace sustainable practices. The resounding success of the Framework is exemplified by its remarkable reach, with over 7,000 downloads spanning across 39 regions worldwide, firmly establishing our leadership position in this vital sector.”
Ir Dr Raymond YAU, General Manager – Technical Services & Sustainable Development of Swire Properties Limited and HKGBC Climate Change Framework For Built Environment Chapter 3 Convenor, said, “As part of the HKGBC Climate Change Framework, the Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme aligns the industry, guides owners towards carbon neutrality, and unlocks opportunities for green financing. By adopting this Scheme, owners can benchmark energy performance, set carbon neutrality targets, and justify projects for green financing. Through Energy Performance Certificates, Target Setting Certificates, and Progress Certificates, we can recognize and celebrate buildings that achieve high energy performance standards and make progress toward zero-carbon readiness. The Scheme offers benefits such as clear energy performance identification, benchmarking, and tenant engagement while also setting milestones for green financing, attracting investors.”
The event also signified a collaboration between the building and green finance sectors, with the Hong Kong Green Finance Association (HKGFA) as a supporting partner. In the keynote speech by Dr. MA Jun, Chairperson and President of the HKGFA, he highlighted the importance of collaboration with the green finance sector to drive decarbonization in the building sector.
Additionally, the Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme has been included in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (HKMA) discussion paper on Prototype of a Green Classification Framework for Hong Kong, further highlighting the recognition of the Scheme by the authority.
As remarked by Ir PAN Shu-jie, Chairperson – Sustainable Development Committee of the HKGBC, at the ceremony, the launch of the Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme symbolizes the industry’s collective determination to address the urgent need for energy efficiency and carbon reduction in our built environment. This Scheme sets clear standards, fosters innovation, and empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions towards a greener Hong Kong. The industry shall continue collaborating and advocating for sustainable practices, creating a resilient and prosperous city for future generations.
(Edited by Callan Williamson)