We work with both the private and public sectors to pool resources, implement strategy and facilitate change. Our members are varied and many. They are at the forefront of the environmental movement in Hong Kong, embracing programs within their sector and making a pro-active contribution and possible impact to the local community. They are leaders and award winners and serve as working proof of the business case for sustainable development. Over the years, they have considered BEC a trustworty partner in their sustainabiility pursuit. Find out more what they think of BEC below.
Lord Wilson of Tillyorn, Governor, Hong Kong (1987-1992):"I am pleased that the territory’s larger companies have decided to come together and find practical, and businesslike, ways of cleaning up the environment."
The Hon Mr Edward Yau JP, Secretary for the Environment, HKSAR Government:“Since your inception in 1989, the BEC has been a valuable partner in our efforts to sell the idea of sustainable development and environmental ethics to Hong Kong’s business sectors. You have a well-deserved reputation for your leadership role and pioneer work in showing businesses that green practices can bring competitive gains. Your success is shown by the fact that the BEC has grown into a vigorous network of more than 20,000 companies across various sectors in Hong Kong and Mainland China. “Can businesses be profitable and environmentally-conscious at the same time? It is old thinking to say no. The new thinking is not only that it can be done, but also that it should and must be done. It is a growing world trend for businesses to adopt green practices, and Hong Kong’s reputation as a global business centre requires us to always be at the forefront of world trends.”
Ms Melissa Brown, Executive Director, Association for Sustainable & Responsible Investment in Asia: "BEC makes a meaningful contribution to Hong Kong’s competitiveness. It is unique in providing critical resources to Hong Kong companies which must address a growing array of environmental risks and opportunities. Hong Kong is fortunate that BEC provides a vital forum for understanding the size and shape of the environmental challenge.”
Mr Derek Smyth, Director, Gammon Construction: “BEC has not only served as an information and advisory centre but also a focal point of know-how transfer, exchange of experience and learning from proven cases of best practice. The atmosphere of mutual encouragement, motivation and competition among members is of utmost importance. The good business practices are the most valuable contributions to be shared throughout the business community.”
Dr C W Tso, General Manager (Projects), The Hongkong Electric Company: “BEC has successfully strengthened co-operation and facilitated knowledge and experience sharing not only among its members but with business and industry leaders. BEC is highly commended for playing a vital role in the promotion of environmentally and socially sustainable business practices in Hong Kong, and making significant contributions to the betterment of the contemporary society.”
Mr Kenneth Ying, Executive Director, The Hongkong International Terminals: “BEC has played an important role in arousing the business community’s awareness of its social and environmental responsibility. It provides practical solutions to companies across all sectors. BEC’s consultation work to my company has helped us in improving our environmental performance.”
Mr Jonathan Addis, Chief Operating Officer, The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation: “As a founding member, we are proud of our long association with the Business Environment Council (BEC). Since 1989, the BEC has been committed to promoting sustainable development practices in Hong Kong and has made a significant contribution amongst Hong Kong businesses.”
Mr Alkin Kwong, Director & General Manager, Hong Yip Service Company, Sun Hung Kai Properties: “BEC has played a significant role in communicating with the business sectors and served a pivotal point of sharing the best business practices relating to the environmental and sustainable development in the business community.”
Mr Stephen Fong, General Manager, Swire Properties: “Environmental performance is a rising measure of business success and forward-thinking management. On this front, it is encouraging to witness the pioneering groundwork laid by the Business Environment Council over the past years.”