2 February 2005 - Press Release
Leading Business Associations Launched Eco-Products Award - The Only Products-based Award in HK to Promote Environmental Responsibility
The Hong Kong Eco-Products Award 2005 was launched by the Business Environmental Council (BEC), the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce (CGCC), the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong (CMAHK), Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI) and Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC).
It is the only products-based programme of its kind to promote environmental responsibility and recognize visionary organizations that design and manufacture ground-breaking products that contribute to the environmental health.
"Demand for eco-products are steadily climbing in the global marketplace," said Dr Andrew Thomson, Chief Executive Officer of BEC. "Hong Kong manufacturers are now increasingly aware of the tremendous potential to export eco-products to consumer markets such as the United States and Europe. Green consumerism is also gaining ground locally as the general public becomes more educated about the benefits of environmentally sound products."
"There is a general misconception amongst manufacturers that meet environmental protection principles only means an increase in capital expenditure and costs," explained Dr. Thomson. "U.S. and European consumers who have greater environmental awareness are willing to pay up to 15 to 20% more in price for eco-products. This is a very lucrative and growing market."
As consumers become more educated about environmental issues, they will demand more eco-products. This could help drive Hong Kong companies to develop innovative products for domestic consumption as well as for export. "It is a triple-win situation - consumers, businesses and the environment all benefit."
"Not just products that are manufactured for the purpose of environmental protection are eco-products," Dr. Thomson added. "As long as the materials applied, the manufacturing process or even the usage of the product promotes less wastage, many products can be eco-products."
Entries for the award will be accepted starting today until March 31, 2005. Assessment for qualified entries will take place between April and May 2005 with the presentation scheduled in June, 2005. Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards will be given to winners. Winning companies can also display the Hong Kong Eco-Products Award 2005 logo on their corporate letterhead for a period of three years.
For further information about the Hong Kong Eco-Products Award 2005, please visit the BEC website at www.bec.org.hk or contact Ms. Ng at 2784 3921.
Press briefing materials are available for downloading:
Welcome Speech
Ms Katy Lam,
Deputy Chairlady
The Busines Environment Council (Speech, 123KB)
Introductory Seminar on Hong Kong Eco-Products Award 2005
Mr Barry Kwong,
Environmental Sustainability Manager
The Business Environment Council (Presentation, 354KB)
About the Business Environment Council (www.bec.org.hk)
The Business Environment Council is a leading independent cross-sector business association in Hong Kong advocating sustainable development. Our aim is to balance economic, social and environmental interests whilst empowering competitiveness. We are a regional network partner of World Business Council for Sustainable Development.
Press contact
Estrid Wai, Communications and Marketing Manager, T. 2784 3922