Hong Kong’s Property Developers Unite to Tackle Carbon Emissions in Construction

Collaborative Efforts in Reducing Carbon Emissions

In an unprecedented move, major property developers in Hong Kong have come together to address the critical issue of carbon emissions in the construction sector. The newly formed Hong Kong Proptech Alliance aims to streamline procurement processes for low-carbon construction materials, as leaders in the industry voice their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Significance of Low-Carbon Procurement

• The alliance includes notable members such as Hongkong Land, Sino Group, and Swire Properties, all of whom are integral to Hong Kong’s property market.
• Efforts are focused on reducing the carbon footprint associated with construction materials, which significantly contribute to overall emissions.
• With government data indicating that buildings account for 60% of carbon emissions in Hong Kong, the alliance’s mission aligns perfectly with broader climate goals.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Kent Jan, of Hongkong Land, emphasized the lack of transparency in low-carbon materials which hampers the industry's efforts. Meanwhile, Liam Salter, of Reset Carbon, highlighted the necessity for a stronger demand signal to incentivize suppliers.

Setting New Standards

1. Establishing technical guidelines for procurement that prioritize low-carbon and recycled materials.
2. Encouraging performance specifications in tenders for building projects.
3. Incorporating feedback from a diverse range of professionals, including architects and engineers.

With increasing investment in green technologies and a commitment from developers, Hong Kong is poised to lead by example in the global effort to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.