The Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook (“the Guidebook”) was officially launched on 28 October, marking a significant milestone in advancing sustainable construction and urban development. Co-developed by Business Environment Council (“BEC”), Hong Kong Green Building Council (“HKGBC”), and Construction Industry Council (“CIC”), the Guidebook aims to transform the built environment by promoting a circular approach.
The Guidebook takes inspiration from the World Green Building Council’s The Circular Built Environment Playbook and adapts its global principles specifically for Hong Kong. It features 20 local case studies across various themes, including materials, design and retrofit, nature regeneration, and systemic enablers, providing practical models that can be replicated across the industry.
The launch ceremony of the Guidebook was officiated by Dr Samuel Chui, JP, Director of Environmental Protection, The Government of the HKSAR, as the Guest of Honour. The other officiating guests were Mr Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer of BEC; Ir Harry Lai, Executive Director of HKGBC; and Ar Clarence Leung, Chairperson of Committee on Environment and Sustainability of CIC, all committed to advancing sustainable practices in the built environment.
Mr Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer of BEC, said, “Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook is a pivotal step towards a more sustainable future for Hong Kong. By rethinking how we design, build, and manage our infrastructure, we can significantly reduce waste and resource consumption. This guidebook empowers industry stakeholders to embrace innovative practices that will lead to a greener, more resilient economy.”
Ir Harry Lai, Executive Director of HKGBC, remarked, “We are excited to see the launch of Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook, which truly reflects our commitment to sustainability in the built environment. The showcased case studies illustrate the potential for circularity in our local context and inspire us all to take actionable steps towards a greener future.”
Ar Clarence Leung, Chairperson of Committee on Environment and Sustainability of CIC, stated, “Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook is not just a collection of best practices but also a call to action for the construction industry. We must work collaboratively to implement these principles and ensure that our construction practices contribute positively to the environment and society.”
The launch of Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook signifies a collective effort of industry players to foster a sustainable future. By viewing buildings as part of an ongoing cycle of material use, we can enhance the sustainability of the city while preserving its natural resources for generations to come.
The Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook is available on BEC website:
https://bec.org.hk/sites/default/files/publications/hong-kong-circular-built-environment-guidebook-final.pdf
Dr Samuel Chui, JP, Director of Environmental Protection, The Government of the HKSAR (second from left);
Mr Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer of BEC (second from right); Ir Harry Lai, Executive Director of HKGBC (leftmost); and
Ar Clarence Leung, Chairperson of Committee on Environment and Sustainability of CIC (rightmost), officiate at
Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook Launch Ceremony
Representatives from the contributors of the local cases celebrate the official launch of
Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook with the officiating guests
Hong Kong Circular Built Environment Guidebook, co-developed by BEC, HKGBC, and CIC, is officially launched