Liveable Cities & Transportation Theatre
Liveable Cities & Transportation Theatre
Day 1 – Thursday 12 Sept
Rethinking Liveable Cities
Join us at the Rethinking Liveable Cities programme, where we explore innovative solutions for creating a more liveable and sustainable Hong Kong. This programme will focus on liveability, green technology, urban design, and nature-based solutions, alongside showcasing the Northern Metropolis development project.
Delegates will gain invaluable insights into integrating green technology into businesses, the role of sustainable energy in building resilient societies, and exploring visionary urban design concepts that prioritize community well-being, accessibility, and sustainability. The programme will also highlight nature-based solutions, exploring the integration of green spaces and urban forests, as an approach to enhance liveability and biodiversity preservation.
In partnership with
The DO Asia
The DO combines a lifelong learning institution and an advisory firm. With offices in Hong Kong, Berlin and New York we help organisations to empower their employees and activate the firm to change with speed. We are a platform that builds empowerment programs and ecosystems around the big challenges of our time. To be the DO is to drive positive change – change that’s good for business and society.
In 2020, Club Wheelock and The DO joined hands to provide Hong Kong with an inspiring and unique experience – a community and innovation hub – WLAB. WLAB brings together the brains, methodology and diverse tools for innovation and co-creation of Club Wheelock and The DO. WLAB’s mission is to co-create a happier and healthier Hong Kong.
Meet our speakers:
Supported by
Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design
The Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design (HKIUD) was established at June 2010 and we are a group of professionals who aim at promoting urban design through accreditation, discussion and education. Our core members are all existing members of associated professional bodies, who have a long and creditable association with urban design in Hong Kong.
General Enquiry Email Address: inq@hkiud.org
Meet our speakers:
11:00 – 11:05
Speakers
Belinda Esterhammer
Chief Executive Officer
The DO Asia
Belinda Esterhammer
The DO Asia
Chief Executive Officer
Belinda is the CEO of The DO Asia, an award-winning social impact platform with a mission to empower people and organisations to create meaningful innovation and lasting social change in the public and private sector, on topics as various as empowering social workers to become intrapreneurs, sustainability in retail, and the future of work. In Hong Kong The DO is working on humanising smart cities and making them more inclusive.
With over 15 years in marketing, innovation, and consulting, she transitioned from advising public institutions in Austria to leading impactful initiatives in the international development sector with UNICEF Philippines, and overseeing large-scale marketing campaigns for Ernst & Young’s female executive entrepreneurship program. Prior to joining The DO, Belinda founded her own marketing and venture consultancy.
An avid advocate for women’s empowerment, Belinda co-founded Women in Tech APAC and serves as Co-Chair of the American Chamber’s Women of Influence Initiative in Hong Kong. She’s an advisor to the board of PathFinders Hong Kong and an adjunct professor at Hong Kong Baptist University.
Supported by
The DO Asia
The DO combines a lifelong learning institution and an advisory firm. With offices in Hong Kong, Berlin and New York we help organisations to empower their employees and activate the firm to change with speed. We are a platform that builds empowerment programs and ecosystems around the big challenges of our time. To be the DO is to drive positive change – change that’s good for business and society.
In 2020, Club Wheelock and The DO joined hands to provide Hong Kong with an inspiring and unique experience – a community and innovation hub – WLAB. WLAB brings together the brains, methodology and diverse tools for innovation and co-creation of Club Wheelock and The DO. WLAB’s mission is to co-create a happier and healthier Hong Kong.
Meet our speakers:
11:15 – 12:05
This dynamic session explores the integral role of transforming urban spaces in shaping Hong Kong as a liveable city. Our expert panel of speakers will delve into concrete examples and case studies that highlight the transformative power within incorporating green spaces into built environments to create vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods. Alongside exploring green urban design, the session will delve into approaches to redesigning Hong Kong’s urban sprawl, in a mission to enhance its interconnectivity.
Our panelists will also share insights into how urban green spaces contribute to improving air quality, reducing urban heat island effects, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing the well-being of residents. Drawing inspiration from cutting-edge urban design projects in Hong Kong and across Asia, delegates will learn about innovative design approaches, sustainable landscaping techniques, and community engagement strategies to reshape urban spaces.
Learnings
- What are the innovative design approaches and strategies for integrating green spaces within urban built environments?
- How can we examine the positive impacts of urban green spaces and enhanced urban interconnectivity on the physical and mental health of residents?
- What are the sustainable landscaping practices that can be employed in urban green spaces to optimize resource efficiency, water conservation, and biodiversity preservation?
- How can we utilize urban design as a tool to build spaces powered by community connectivity, multi-modal mobility, and environmental resilience?
Post-event Actions
- Be able to encourage delegates to become advocates for the development and maintenance of urban spaces within their local communities.
- Inspire delegates and colleagues to simultaneously incorporate the principles of environment and people-centric urban spaces in their future projects and developments.
- Encourage delegates to share the knowledge and insights gained from the session with their professional networks and colleagues.
- Encourage delegates to actively engage with policymakers and local authorities to advocate for the development and implementation of policies that prioritize the creation and maintenance of community-driven urban spaces.
Speakers
Moderator
Belinda Esterhammer
Chief Executive Officer
The DO Asia
Belinda Esterhammer
The DO Asia
Chief Executive Officer
Belinda is the CEO of The DO Asia, an award-winning social impact platform with a mission to empower people and organisations to create meaningful innovation and lasting social change in the public and private sector, on topics as various as empowering social workers to become intrapreneurs, sustainability in retail, and the future of work. In Hong Kong The DO is working on humanising smart cities and making them more inclusive.
With over 15 years in marketing, innovation, and consulting, she transitioned from advising public institutions in Austria to leading impactful initiatives in the international development sector with UNICEF Philippines, and overseeing large-scale marketing campaigns for Ernst & Young’s female executive entrepreneurship program. Prior to joining The DO, Belinda founded her own marketing and venture consultancy.
An avid advocate for women’s empowerment, Belinda co-founded Women in Tech APAC and serves as Co-Chair of the American Chamber’s Women of Influence Initiative in Hong Kong. She’s an advisor to the board of PathFinders Hong Kong and an adjunct professor at Hong Kong Baptist University.
Juan Carlos Astudillo
Assistant professor
Hong Kong Metropolitan University
Juan Carlos Astudillo
Hong Kong Metropolitan University
Assistant professor
Dr. Juan Carlos Astudillo is an Assistant Professor at the Metropolitan University of Hong Kong and a member of the State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution at the City University of Hong Kong (SKLMP-CityU). As a marine ecologist, he specializes in marine biodiversity assessment and ecological engineering for habitat rehabilitation. His current research focuses on applying ecological and engineering principles to enhance the biodiversity and ecosystem services of degraded coastal areas, such as biofiltration, carbon storage, nursery grounds, and coastal protection. His goal is to develop ecologically engineered technologies to support sustainable coastal development.
Dr. Astudillo co-founded afterNATURE, a start-up committed to developing eco-engineering technologies and designs for rehabilitating biodiversity and ecosystem services on artificial shorelines. He is also a founding member of the Hong Kong Marine Ecological Association, advocating for ecosystem restoration and environmental education. Additionally, Dr. Astudillo serves as Thematic Editor for the Hong Kong Register of Marine Species (HKRMS).
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
– Increased efforts in coastal conservation and restoration.
– Widespread adoption of eco-engineering technologies for constructing eco-friendly artificial shorelines.
– Sustainable of use and management of natural resources and energy.
Agnes Cheng
CEO
Parks and Trails
Agnes Cheng
Parks and Trails
CEO
Agnes Cheng is currently CEO of Parks and Trails, a non-profit organization dedicated to elevating the appreciation and awareness towards Hong Kong’s vibrant natural environment, and empowering people to care for and protect it.
Agnes was qualified as a solicitor in Hong Kong in 2001. In 2008, after working as a WTO project lead for 4 years, her growing interest in developing country issues led her to shift to a non-profit career track. From 2009 – 2022, she was Head of Esquel Group’s corporate foundation focusing on rural education and has experience working in many parts of rural Asia.
In 2015, Agnes teamed up with a few hiking friends and started advocating about excessive use of concrete on Hong Kong’s natural trails, which has since brought together the government, NGOs and the public collaborating towards a new model of trail maintenance.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
- Provide more education resources and participation opportunities on the topic of Nature and Climate Change for different sectors of Hong Kong society.
- Enhance the use of technology and citizen science in engaging and educating the public; providing impactful services for nature lovers to enjoy and protect nature.
- Enhance engagement with the government on the topic of trails and nature conservation and the relationship with Hong Kong’s climate resilience.
Supported by
The DO Asia
The DO combines a lifelong learning institution and an advisory firm. With offices in Hong Kong, Berlin and New York we help organisations to empower their employees and activate the firm to change with speed. We are a platform that builds empowerment programs and ecosystems around the big challenges of our time. To be the DO is to drive positive change – change that’s good for business and society.
In 2020, Club Wheelock and The DO joined hands to provide Hong Kong with an inspiring and unique experience – a community and innovation hub – WLAB. WLAB brings together the brains, methodology and diverse tools for innovation and co-creation of Club Wheelock and The DO. WLAB’s mission is to co-create a happier and healthier Hong Kong.
Meet our speakers:
12:15 – 13:05
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in an urban setting refers to actions that work with and enhance nature to address societal challenges in cities. This session will explore how integrating NbS into the design and development of Hong Kong can create a more livable, sustainable, resilient, and equitable urban environment. Some key examples include restoring natural wetlands and reforestation strategies that can help regulate temperatures, manage stormwater and flooding, improve air quality, and provide recreational opportunities. Access to nature and green spaces also facilitate exercise, spiritual nourishment and community interaction.
Using the Northern Metropolis Development as a key example, the session will also delve into the potential for NbS for addressing climate related threats as well as the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration for successful integration and implementation of urban NbS.
Learnings
- How Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can increase resilience and improve human well-being in cities?
- Where are the major opportunities in implementing NbS in Hong Kong’s current urban landscape?
- What are some key stakeholders that need to be engaged in urban planning for successful NbS implementation?
Post-event Actions
- Gain knowledge on the potential for Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in the Northern Metropolis and Hong Kong.
- Gain valuable insights on how multi-sector collaborations are necessary for successful application of NbS.
Speakers
Moderator
Marine Thomas
Associate Director of Conservation
The Nature Conservancy
Marine Thomas
The Nature Conservancy
Associate Director of Conservation
As Associate Director of Conservation for TNC HK, Marine oversees all TNC’s local conservation programs, with a special focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats. She joined TNC in 2014 as a volunteer, bringing 7 years of project management experience from various industries in the corporate world. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Environmental Management from HKU. Marine was born in HK with French-British background.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
To strengthen ocean health and coastal resilience in the Greater Bay Area by restoring habitats, revitalizing sustainable aquaculture, catalysing investment in Nature-based Solutions and engaging the general public in conservation action.
Michael Lau
Founder
Hong Kong Wetlands Conservation Association
Michael Lau
Hong Kong Wetlands Conservation Association
Founder
Dr Michael Lau is now working as an independent ecological consultant and is also an Adjunct Professor in the School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong. Previously, he had worked for World Wide Fund for Nature – Hong Kong as the Wetlands Conservation Director and for Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden as the Department Head of the South China Biodiversity Programme. He has wide experience on studying the threats to the natural world, formulating conservation and sustainable development strategy and implementing projects in the region.
He pursued his Ph.D. research in the University of Hong Kong on the habitat use of Hong Kong amphibians and the conservation of the Romer’s Tree Frog and took part in the Hong Kong Biodiversity Survey that covered all the terrestrial and aquatic habitats in the SAR.
He had sat in a number of Government advisory committees including Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Steering Committee, Advisory Council on the Environment, Lantau Development Committee, and, Country and Marine Parks Board. He is a founding member of the Hong Kong Wetlands Conservation Association. He is also a member of several IUCN Species Survival Commission specialist groups and has contributed to the Red List assessment of various threatened wildlife.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Formulate a wetland restoration plan not only to increase the resilience of Northern Metropolis but also to enhance the biodiversity in a changing climate.
Formulate the nature positive criteria for businesses and developments in Hong Kong.
Kitty Tam
Programme Lead
Civic Exchange
Kitty Tam
Civic Exchange
Programme Lead
Kitty Tam is the Programme Lead of Hong Kong 2050 is Now. In her role, she aims to influence and encourage societies to adopt rapid, deep, and sustained climate actions, while promoting a nature-positive world. Having a diverse educational background in geography, business management, and environmental governance, Kitty has acquired a comprehensive understanding of the intricate connections between human activities and the natural world. With her previous experience at WWF-Hong Kong, Kitty played a key role in driving policy change to address pressing environmental challenges.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
1. Nature positive: The government set a clear target on biodiversity that aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in its next Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
2. Carbon neutrality: The government publish the allocation of the $240 billion budget for carbon mitigation and adaptation.
3. Waste Management: The government provide a clear timetable and roadmap for the launch of the Municipal Waste Charging Scheme.
Ming-chuan Woo
Deputy Director
The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society
Ming-chuan Woo
The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society
Deputy Director
Ms. Woo is experienced in conservation advocacy and environmental monitoring in Hong Kong with over a decade of dedicated work in environmental NGOs. She actively engages with government departments and stakeholders providing ecological advice on various projects, works and management practices, and has published three reports assessing Hong Kong’s progress in biodiversity conservation under the Convention on Biological Diversity. Current environmental challenges are often complex and interconnected, she is particularly in cross-sector collaboration to seek practical solutions for nature conservation and benefits to the local community.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
- Raise awareness of the importance of our natural environment among all people in Hong Kong, no matter in what industry or field they are.
- Gain more support from different sectors nature conservation projects, especially for agriculture/aquaculture-related, and further develop conservation projects to be more socially, economically and ecologically sustainable.
- Assist Hong Kong to become a more eco-friendly city, which can in turn align with the national policy of Ecological Civilization and help fulfil mainland China’s obligation under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Supported by
The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create scalable, collaborative solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges, from tackling climate change and ensuring sustainable food and water to protecting critical ecosystems and empowering local communities.
Our sustainability goals for 2024:
TNC’s 2030 Global Goals
1. Avoid or sequester 3 billion metric tons of CO2 emissions per year
2. Conserve 4 billion hectares of ocean
3. Conserve 650 million hectares of land
4. Conserve 1 million hectares of rivers
5. Conserve 30 million hectares of lakes and wetlands
6. Benefit 45 million people
Products, Services & Solutions:
- Charity/NGO
General Enquiry Email Address: natureworkshk@tnc.org
General Enquiry Phone Number:22804878
Meet our speakers:
13:05 – 13:55
Leading global cities are significantly rethinking the planning and design of the urban realm in the wake of a deluge of newly available knowledge having become available as a result of technological innovation, global pandemic, and data from climate and environmental crisis. These cities seek to create adaptability and resilience in the face of upcoming and unknown challenges whilst addressing concerns with ageing population demographics, social equity, health, safety, pollution, and waste. New means of conceiving, delivering, and managing urban realm development is being undertaken as a means by which to create better places to live, with local mayors increasingly advocating for new urban solutions. Every city has its own pathways to change, formed from a cultural, statutory, and topographic hinterland. The session will explore how change for better places is happening around the world and whether knowledge, approaches, and techniques can be adopted to suit Hong Kong.
Learnings
- Why can’t Hong Kong make significant urban change as being evidenced around the world? What’s stopping us?
- With lots of new development areas in Northern Metropolis on the way, what can be expected there, and what more needs to be done in the established areas of the city?
- Could whole-system, structural mechanisms for the city be effected to replace the current siloed nature of implementation and management agencies?
- Are there new indexes and measurements that could lead to a quality driven consideration of the urban environment in Hong Kong?
Post-event Actions
- Consider how new modes of consultation, communication, and decision-making might lead to better quality outcomes in the design and management of urban space.
- Explore new methods and timelines of accounting and project or programme appraisal to reconsider the traditional cost-benefit approaches to project implementation.
- Ascertain whether business-as-usual approaches to urban management are acceptable in keeping Hong Kong competitive in the face of global competition for better places to live and work.
- Develop key recommendations to be further developed and shared with the professional community and political decision-makers.
Speakers
Moderator
Barry Wilson
President
Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design
Barry Wilson
Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design
President
President and Fellow of the Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design, a UK Chartered and Hong Kong Registered Landscape Architect, Fellow of the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects, Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building Engineers, an accredited Construction adjudicator and CEDR Accredited Mediator. A long standing Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Architecture, University of Hong Kong, he sits on various HKSAR Government Advisory Committees, Mediation Panels and International Arbitration Courts in both Hong Kong and China. He received award from the China International Urbanization Development Strategy Research Committee in 2012 for his contribution to China’s urbanisation transformation and the 2019 Reed & Mallik Medal from the Institution of Civil Engineers for his paper “An Outline to Futureproofing Cities with Ten Immediate Steps”. A long-term advocate of sustainable, forward thinking development approaches, his consultancy practice – Barry Wilson Project Initiatives has been tackling urbanisation issues in Hong Kong and China for nearly 30 years. His book – Futureproof City : Ten Immediate Paths to Urban Resilience was published by Routledge in 2021.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
1. Hong Kong Government to appoint an “Urban Champion”, acting like a mayor across silos, to generate a new vision for renewal of the urban realm that prioritises citizen’s health, safety, and equity; promotes innovation, quality and renewal and rejects traditional fastest, biggest, cheapest development scenarios.
2. Adopt new quality and impact based metrics to assess societal development and success – phasing out the use of one-dimensional, consumption-lead economic growth measured by GDP.
Christine Loh
Chief Development Strategist, Institute for the Environment
Christine Loh
Chief Development Strategist, Institute for the Environment
Christine Loh is Chief Development Strategist at Institute for the Environment at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Scholar in Residence at Asia Society Hong Kong (2023-24). She serves on the boards of CDP Worldwide, Global Maritime Forum, New Forests Pty Limited, and Towngas Smart Energy. She is a published author of many academic and popular works; her latest book is on COVID-19 from a global governance perspective.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
To help bring sustainability come ‘alive’ in class and in community.
Louie Sieh
Researcher, Design as Governance
Louie Sieh
Researcher, Design as Governance
Louie is an urban researcher on how value is created through place governance. She has worked across university, government and private sectors in the UK, Hong Kong and ASEAN countries. Projects have dealt with: performance management for design quality in public services, specifically the operation of planning systems; the case for private sector investment in public design; the management of long term value in the built environment; project evaluation in placemaking. Louie has been Programme Director of three flagship built environment design programmes at Cardiff University and the City University of Hong Kong.
Louie’s current research is on decision-making and placemaking in Hong Kong, London, Singapore and Malaysia. Her most recent book is Providing Public Space in a Contemporary Metropolis: Dilemmas and Lessons from London and Hong Kong (2024, Policy Press), co-authored with Claudio de Magalhaes.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Mainstream and enable co-design for the public realm, developing methods that are tailored for Hong Kong.
A public realm design approach that gives pedestrians greater priority than they currently have.
Confident and creative municipal leadership that takes, evidence-based, strategic, coordinated cross-bureau and departmental decisions to deliver public spaces fit for a world city.
Supported by
Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design
The Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design (HKIUD) was established at June 2010 and we are a group of professionals who aim at promoting urban design through accreditation, discussion and education. Our core members are all existing members of associated professional bodies, who have a long and creditable association with urban design in Hong Kong.
General Enquiry Email Address: inq@hkiud.org
Meet our speakers:
14:50 – 15:40
This panel aims to revolutionize Hong Kong’s energy landscape by exploring innovative solutions for a more livable city while achieving carbon neutrality. By bringing together a group of visionary experts, including forward-thinking consultants, energy disruptors, pioneering developers, and impactful non-governmental organizations (NGOs), this session will delve into groundbreaking opportunities to catalyze the energy transition in the whole value chain. From disruptive technologies like microgrids, building management systems, and blockchain-enabled energy systems to game-changing options such as hydrogen and advanced energy storage, the panel will uncover groundbreaking ideas that can transform Hong Kong’s energy paradigm. Join us to be inspired by the visionary minds shaping Hong Kong’s sustainable future and discover how innovation can pave the way for a greener, smarter, and more livable Hong Kong.
Learnings
- How important is the energy transition?
- What are the game-changing energy options such as hydrogen and advanced energy storage and how these can contribute to achieving carbon neutrality?
- What are the disruptive technologies like microgrids, Digital Innovation in Asset Management, and blockchain-enabled energy systems, and what is their potential to transform the energy landscape in Hong Kong?
Post-event Actions
- Gain valuable insights into the mindset and approaches of the panellists that have the potential to shape a greener, smarter, and more livable Hong Kong.
- Contribute to raising awareness about energy transition and building energy efficiency in Hong Kong by sharing their learnings and insights with their colleagues, networks, or through relevant platforms.
Speakers
Moderator
Lawrence Iu
Executive Director
Lawrence Iu
Executive Director
Lawrence Iu is Executive Director at Civic Exchange. As a professional environmental strategist, he has profound experience in crafting climate change models and impactful public policies. His current focuses are on policy action in Energy, Building Energy Efficiency and Mobility. He has successfully built a platform with public, corporate and government stakeholders to craft an inclusive transition plan with strong buy-in.
In his previous roles in a multinational corporation and a higher institution, Lawrence led environmental sustainability and occupational health & safety projects across Asia Pacific and coordinated emerging technology management, circular economy and green chemistry research.
My Sustainability Goals for 2023:
Despite these difficult times, we must remain forward looking and anticipate the time of recovery. Even more so, we are now in a favourable position to make fundamental policy decisions to rethink our economic model, making it fit for a low carbon missions world, and to set course for a better, sustainable, and more liveable future for Hong Kong.
Speaking at:
Day 1
Exploring Green Energy Transition in Hong KongDay 2
Creating Solutions for Low Emission Road Transport
Chris Chong
Immediate Past Chairman
Energy Institute (Hong Kong)
Chris Chong
Energy Institute (Hong Kong)
Immediate Past Chairman
Ir Chris Chong is the Immediate Past Chairman of the Energy Institute EI (Hong Kong) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (Hong Kong Branch). He is currently the International Vice President of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in the UK.
Chris has been working in the energy infrastructure sector for more than 30 years, with hands-on experience in mission critical & energy projects in CLP and Veolia in China, Macau, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He has held various positions as engineer, economist, asset manager, business developer, general manager, and managing director for subsidiaries.
Chris is a Chartered Engineer (CEng), Fellow Member of HKIE, EI and IMechE, and a Certified Energy Manager (CEM). He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). He has been a member of various advisory groups, including:
• Working Group for the Review of the Air Quality Objectives 2030 by EPD
• Mandatory Implementation of the Building Energy Code (MBEC) Technical Taskforce & Working Groups of EMSD
• Retrocommissioning Registration Committee of the Hong Kong Green Building Council etc
Chris has been recognized for his contributions, having received the Distinguished Sustainability Leader Award 2019 from the Hong Kong Management Association (HKMA). He has also served as an examiner for the HKMA Sustainability Awards in recent years.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
1) Wider use of district energy systems
2) Promotion of energy managers/professionals for buildings/facilities
Rory Meng
General Manager / Regional Business Field Coordinator
TUV Rheinland Hong Kong Ltd
Rory Meng
TUV Rheinland Hong Kong Ltd
General Manager / Regional Business Field Coordinator
Over 12 years of career, Mr. Rory Meng has been committed to the work of safety integrity management in petrochemical, machinery manufacturing, new energy, lithium electric manufacturing, semiconductor and other industries. He has rich experience in risk management system and equipment integrity management consulting, proficient in mechanical safety, process safety, chemical safety, functional safety, explosion-proof safety, electrical safety, product safety and many special technologies, integrated manufacturing system, equipment integrity management system, process safety management system, quality management system, asset integrity management system, engineering project management and many other production management system capabilities.
He has served 50+ leading companies in the related industry, and has participated in or led more than 20 projects of hydrogen energy and hydrogen related projects in general industry.
Jim Taylor
Senior Director – Planning & Development
CLP Power Hong Kong Limited
Jim Taylor
CLP Power Hong Kong Limited
Senior Director – Planning & Development
Jim has been with China Light & Power in Hong Kong since 2001, after moving from Melbourne, Australia. Jim is Senior Director – Planning & Development at CLP Power Hong Kong, where he is responsible for supporting the company’s future long term strategic development and regulatory regime.
Jim has extensive senior management experience of electricity, gas and environmental issues with leading companies in both regulated and deregulated energy markets in the UK and Australia. Prior to his current role in CLP, Jim has been responsible for the company’s long term strategic planning and the interface with the Hong Kong Government for the operation of the Scheme of Control, with earlier appointments covering retail strategy, CLP’s largest customers, energy efficiency & conservation and tariff design.
15:45 – 16:05
Speakers
Liza Li
Business Development Manager
Auki Labs
Liza Li
Auki Labs
Business Development Manager
Liza Li is dedicated to unlocking the transformative power of spatial computing. Despite the constraints of time, Liza’s commitment to sustainable innovation has made her a driving force in the industry. As a seasoned business development professional, she leverages her expertise to help clients across various sectors unlock new opportunities and create impactful spatial experiences.
Liza firmly believes that spatial computing will shape the future. She enables organizations to reimagine their processes, enhance collaboration, and drive sustainable transformation through the strategic integration of spatial computing solutions.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
To reduce reliance on single-use plastics and landfills, Hong Kong will expand recycling and composting programs across sectors and make them more accessible to residents.
Public awareness campaigns will educate citizens on proper waste separation, reducing single-use plastics, and the benefits of recycling and composting.
These efforts will encourage a culture of sustainable waste management among Hong Kong’s residents.
Vitaly Pentegov
CEO
UrbanChain Group
Vitaly Pentegov
UrbanChain Group
CEO
Vitaly worked as data specialist at Google, then moved to Dialog to serve Fortune 500 clients as IT manager. Moving to SMBC’s corporate banking afterwards, gave him insights about urban inefficiencies and motivated to found UrbanChain Group in Hong Kong.
Alysha Wong
Business Development
Butler Asia
Alysha Wong
Butler Asia
Business Development
Alysha is the leading sales and business development at Butler, with a background in engineering and extensive experience in property management and sales. AT Butler, she spearheads efforts to promote ESG initiatives through innovative solutions, empowering clients to advance their sustainability goals by providing energy-saving tips to tenants, capturing social and wellness-related data, facilitating paperless operations, and integrating energy-saving technologies.
With her technical background and passion for sustainability, Alysha is at the forefront of driving positive change in the property management sector, helping businesses align their operations with ESG principles and create more sustainable, efficient, and socially responsible environments.
Supported by
The DO Asia
The DO combines a lifelong learning institution and an advisory firm. With offices in Hong Kong, Berlin and New York we help organisations to empower their employees and activate the firm to change with speed. We are a platform that builds empowerment programs and ecosystems around the big challenges of our time. To be the DO is to drive positive change – change that’s good for business and society.
In 2020, Club Wheelock and The DO joined hands to provide Hong Kong with an inspiring and unique experience – a community and innovation hub – WLAB. WLAB brings together the brains, methodology and diverse tools for innovation and co-creation of Club Wheelock and The DO. WLAB’s mission is to co-create a happier and healthier Hong Kong.
Meet our speakers:
16:10 – 17:10
Join us for an engaging panel session as we explore the transformative potential of technology in creating more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive urban environments.
In an increasingly urbanized world, cities face numerous challenges such as congestion, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. However, advancements in technology offer promising solutions to address these issues and improve the quality of life for Hong Kong citizens. This panel session will bring together thought leaders, experts, and innovators from various disciplines to discuss the role of technology in shaping the future of cities.
Whether you are a policy maker, urban planner, technologist, or simply interested in the future of cities, this panel session will provide a platform for insightful discussions and exchange of ideas. Join us as we explore how technology can transform cities into more liveable, sustainable, and connected communities.
Learnings
- How can smart city initiatives ensure inclusivity and bridge the digital divide to benefit all citizens?
- What are the potential economic, social, and environmental benefits of investing in smart city technologies?
- What are the key factors that contribute to the successful implementation of smart city projects, and what are the common pitfalls to avoid?
- What are the future trends and emerging technologies that hold promise for further enhancing urban living and sustainability?
Post-event Actions
- Gain insights into real-world examples of successful smart city initiatives and learn about the potential benefits they can bring to Hong Kong.
- Learn from experts about their expertise and experiences, highlighting best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to urban development.
Speakers
Steven Lai
Chief Executive, Environmental Engineering
ATAL Engineering Group
Steven Lai
ATAL Engineering Group
Chief Executive, Environmental Engineering
Steven Lai is the Chief Executive of Environmental Engineering at ATAL Engineering Group, overseeing the Group’s environmental engineering operations. With over 30 years of experience in infrastructure mechanical and electrical engineering, Steven has a proven track record in designing and implementing innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness of water, wastewater, solid waste, gas treatment processes and infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and overseas.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Increased use of renewable energy and hydrogen, proper and effective waste separation to enhance recycling and waste-to-energy, more underground infrastructure, and use of AI with big data
Dr Jun Zhao
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
Hong Kong Baptist University
Dr Jun Zhao
Hong Kong Baptist University
Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
Dr. Zhao Jun is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biology and the Institute of Advanced Materials at Hong Kong Baptist University. He obtained his Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Dr. Zhao’s research primarily focuses on heterogeneous catalysis and its applications in biomass conversion and waste utilization. He specializes in integrating the design and selection of nanomaterials with process design advancements to enhance conversion efficiency and waste-to-fuel and chemical technologies. He has published over ninety research papers and has led several research projects on the utilization of biomass resources and clean energy.
Dr. Zhao is a member of the Chinese Chemical Society, the Chinese Society for Environmental Sciences, and the American Chemical Society. Dr. Zhao serves as a guest editor or editorial board member for journals such as Energy, Ecology and Environmental, Energy Materials, Bioresource Technology, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Technology, Waste Disposal & Sustainable Energy, Engineering Report etc.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
17:10 – 18:00
The Northern Metropolis initiative intends to transform an area covering one-third of Hong Kong that is mostly farmland and villages into an international innovation and technology hub, however brings about a number of opportunities and challenges. This session will bring in experts in the fields of city planning, infrastructure, and industries to share their insights on how this ambitious initiative can be achieved.
Learnings
- What is the development timeline of the Northern Metropolis and how realistic is this?
- What are the key industries that we should be targeting to help support, promote and ensure the success of this project?
- What is missing? What is needed to attract the right companies and talent?
Post-event Actions
- Understand the opportunities and challenges associated with the Northern Metropolis project.
Speakers
Moderator
Jason Leung
Head of Land and Housing Research
Our Hong Kong Foundation
Jason Leung
Our Hong Kong Foundation
Head of Land and Housing Research
Jason is the Head of Land and Housing Research at Our Hong Kong Foundation. He manages a team of research professionals to conduct in-depth research on land and housing, transport and logistics, and retail and tourism. He is also a regular commentator on land and housing policies and the real estate market on various media channels including TV, radio, and print newspapers. Before joining HOKF, Jason worked at the MTR Corporation, where he was part of the leasing team that opened The LOHAS, a regional mall at the centrepiece of LOHAS Park.
He holds a Master of Social Science degree in Public Policy from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, a Master of Science degree in Real Estate from the University of Hong Kong, and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Global Business and Management from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
James Sze
Director – Strategic Projects
Arup
James Sze
Arup
Director – Strategic Projects
James is Director of Strategic Projects with Arup East Asia Region. He leads multidisciplinary teams to secure and deliver major and complex projects through technical excellence, seamless collaboration within Arup and beyond, digitalisation and a focus on sustainability.
With 30 years of experience in all stages of major infrastructure and building projects across the region, James has been playing a prominent role in various major planning studies and subsequent infrastructure design projects in Hong Kong. Notable projects include Planning & Engineering Studies for Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands in which Smart, Green and Resilience planning principles promulgated by Arup has been applied to enhance livability and sustainability. The digital planning standard developed has also extended to various New Development Areas in the Northern Metropolis where Arup has two decades of involvement to achieve a better planning outcome.
Former Chairman of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Hong Kong, James currently serves on various government, professional and university committees, where he influences policymaking and industry practice to advance sustainable development and betterment of the consulting sector.
Wander Meijer
Executive Director
Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden
Wander Meijer
Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden
Executive Director
Wander is a senior executive with 25+ years management experience in businesses and NGOs in Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America.
Wander leads Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden as Executive Director, where he and his team of 250+ staff work on biodiversity, wildlife rehabilitation, organic farming, reforestation, sustainable living and holistic education with the mission to harmonize our (human) relationship with nature.
Furthermore, Wander is business advisor of and impact investor in social enterprises in Africa and the Netherlands, related to poverty alleviation and agricultural transition.
Wander has a master’s degree Development Geography and Economics with as main subject: ‘Why are some countries rich and others poor?’ and what can we do about it! Specifically, how can we change our current economic model and human behavior to better live within the ecological boundaries of the earth.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
To make Nature the most important stakeholder in any (re)development plan for Hong Kong.
Supported by
Our Hong Kong Foundation
Our Hong Kong Foundation (OHKF) is a non-government, non-profit organisation founded in November 2014 by Honourary Chairman Mr TUNG Chee-hwa, former Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and former Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. OHKF aims to contribute to Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability as well as its sustainable development under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle.
Meet our speakers:
Day 2 – Friday 13 Sept
Rethinking Mobility & Transportation
Join us at the Rethinking Mobility and Transportation Programme as we embark on a journey to reimagine how we navigate our cities. Our program is designed to spark innovative ideas and foster collaboration across various domains.
We’ll explore the future of urban mobility, touching on topics such as aviation, the intriguing relationship between shopping trends and transportation choices, the intricacies of road smart mobility, and the seamless integration of multi-modal solutions. Be part of the transformation as we rethink mobility, reduce emissions, and enhance quality of life.
In partnership with
Hong Kong 2050 is Now
Hong Kong 2050 is Now is a Hong Kong-based platform for education, collaboration, and action on the climate crisis. We seek to inspire ambitious target setting, induce behavior change, and mobilise collective action towards a carbon-neutral Hong Kong.
Our initiative in accelerating sustainable development in Hong Kong:
- Educate and engage the public on the risks and opportunities facing Hong Kong in an age of climate crisis, based on rigorous scientific and policy research.
- Encourage personal, corporate and government action to be undertaken now in combating the climate crisis, including personal lifestyle, business best practice, and regulatory change.
- Aggregate the efforts of stakeholders working towards the vision of a Net-Zero carbon Hong Kong, leveraging existing grassroot and community movements to further catalyse their impact.
Institution of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong
Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the world’s most respected professional engineering associations. Established in 1818, it has 95,000 members across the globe. ICE’s vision is to place civil engineering at the heart of society, delivering sustainable development through knowledge, skills and professional expertise.
Our sustainability goals for 2023:
- Place the decarbonisation of our industry at the heart of our agenda (UNSDG 9.4)
- Working with others, both in the UK and overseas, to build resilience and mitigate the significant effects of climate change (UNSDG 13)
- Transform the availability of potable water and sanitation across the world (UNSDG 6 & 7)
- Transform the productivity of our industry by driving modern methods of procurement and manufacture (UNSDG 8 & 9)
- Enhance the knowledge, insight and ethical understanding of engineers wherever they work across the world
10:30 – 10:40
Speakers
Ambrose Cheong BBS
Chairperson
Ambrose Cheong BBS
Chairperson
Mr Ambrose Cheong, BBS pursued a civil engineering career in Hong Kong for 38 years and retired in 2020. He worked for a contractor and the then Mass Transit Railway Corporation before joining the Government in 1983. He was then working in various departments/bureaux. His last position was the Project Manager heading the West Development Office of the Civil Engineering and Development Department. He is currently the Chairperson of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong Association.
My Sustainability Goals for 2023:
Hong Kong to be developed into a smart and green city which is sustainable, carbon neutral and climate resilient.
Supported by
Hong Kong 2050 is Now
Hong Kong 2050 is Now is a Hong Kong-based platform for education, collaboration, and action on the climate crisis. We seek to inspire ambitious target setting, induce behavior change, and mobilise collective action towards a carbon-neutral Hong Kong.
Our initiative in accelerating sustainable development in Hong Kong:
- Educate and engage the public on the risks and opportunities facing Hong Kong in an age of climate crisis, based on rigorous scientific and policy research.
- Encourage personal, corporate and government action to be undertaken now in combating the climate crisis, including personal lifestyle, business best practice, and regulatory change.
- Aggregate the efforts of stakeholders working towards the vision of a Net-Zero carbon Hong Kong, leveraging existing grassroot and community movements to further catalyse their impact.
Institution of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong
Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the world’s most respected professional engineering associations. Established in 1818, it has 95,000 members across the globe. ICE’s vision is to place civil engineering at the heart of society, delivering sustainable development through knowledge, skills and professional expertise.
Our sustainability goals for 2023:
- Place the decarbonisation of our industry at the heart of our agenda (UNSDG 9.4)
- Working with others, both in the UK and overseas, to build resilience and mitigate the significant effects of climate change (UNSDG 13)
- Transform the availability of potable water and sanitation across the world (UNSDG 6 & 7)
- Transform the productivity of our industry by driving modern methods of procurement and manufacture (UNSDG 8 & 9)
- Enhance the knowledge, insight and ethical understanding of engineers wherever they work across the world
10:40 – 10:50
Speakers
Gill Meller
Legal and Governance Director
MTR Corporation Limited
Gill Meller
MTR Corporation Limited
Legal and Governance Director
Gill Meller is MTR’s Legal & Governance Director. She is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Company’s environmental, social and governance strategy and also leads the Company’s legal, company secretarial, compliance, insurance and risk management functions and a central procurement and supply chain function.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
My sustainability goals for 2024 are to continue to embed MTR’s environmental and social objectives in the Corporation’s businesses and to do my part to ensure that ALL companies recognise that engagement with social and environmental issues will become more, not less, critical to business resilience and long-term value creation.
10:50 – 11:15
11:15 – 12:05
In the quest for sustainable urban development, public transportation is pivotal in the decarbonization effort. Hong Kong exemplifies this with a staggering 90% public transport ridership. Yet, the city faces a paradox: the number of private vehicles is surging, exacerbating congestion and undermining the reliability and efficiency of public transport system. Compounding the issue is the antiquated and restrictive design of public transport interchanges, which deters the public’s preference for mass transit.
The panel discussion will center around smart people-centric mobility and its aim to explore innovative initiatives that enhance the user experience of public transportation, ultimately promoting increased usage. Our panelists, esteemed experts in their respective fields, will engage in a comprehensive discussion on a wide range of initiatives and strategies that have the potential to positively impact public transportation. Specifically, they will delve into areas such as data accessibility, infrastructure improvements, and provisions for individuals with special needs, all with the overarching objective of making public transport more appealing, accessible, and attractive to the general public.
Learnings
- Initiatives focused on enhancing passenger comfort, convenience, and overall satisfaction can promote increased usage of public transportation.
- The importance of accessible data in designing initiatives and strategies to meet the evolving needs of users should not be underestimated.
- Provisions for special needs are essential to ensure that public transportation is equitable and inclusive.
Post-event Actions
- Identify areas of improvement for user experience for HK public transportation
- Partner with sustainability experts and organisations to stay up-to-date on the latest digital innovations and best practices for achieving people-centric mobility.
Speakers
Jens-Peter Brauner
Chief Executive Officer
Siemens Mobility Limited
Jens-Peter Brauner
Siemens Mobility Limited
Chief Executive Officer
Jens-Peter is an expert in the transportation sector for 30 years and a Fellow of IET.
He has degrees in electrical engineering and economic psychology, because for him, technology and people belong together, especially when it comes to digital transformation and the application of artificial intelligence.
By living and working throughout Europe, America and Asia, he became passionate about diversity and leveraging cultural synergies for the development of disruptive innovations.
As the CEO of Siemens Mobility in Hong Kong, he is working with his team and local partners to turn Hong Kong into a sustainable and smart city.
Holding patents by himself, he is always looking for bright ideas and supports talents and their visions. And still today he is dealing with latest technologies and is using AI for developing apps by himself, just for fun.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
To accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility and energy-optimized operations for mass transit and properties
Jackie Cheung
Chief Digital Development & Innovation Manager
MTR Corporation Limited
Jackie Cheung
MTR Corporation Limited
Chief Digital Development & Innovation Manager
Jackie is currently the Chief Digital Development & Innovation Manager of MTR Corporation, responsible for planning and driving the development of Smart Mobility programme in MTR, with the objectives of enhancing overall customer satisfaction, supporting the Corporation’s vision to become a global leader in customer service.
He has extensive experience in marketing and has been working in innovative and digital service/product development, digital marketing, customer experience for over 15 years. He is passionate on driving customer-centric services/products to continuously uplift customer experience on MTR rail service.
Waltraut Ritter
Director Research
Mobility Research Project
Waltraut Ritter
Mobility Research Project
Director Research
I am working at the intersection of pedestrian mobility and public transport systems. Few cities currently collect quantitative and qualitative data on walking, even “smart” city planning often ignore walking as mobility mode. As member of the international working group on walking data standards and lead in the Mobility Research Project, we are trying to change the perception of urban walking. A stronger alignment of walking and public transport could contribute to better use of urban space and increase liveability of cities. I am regularly contributing to the UN World Urban Forum, Walk21 and the Women in Mobility Network transformative mobility policies.
In Hong Kong, I was a senior research lead in the Mobility Research Project at the University of Hong Kong on “Intermodal Transport Data Sharing”, a multi-stakeholder, open innovation programme on sustainable mobility in Hong Kong. It aimed to build a trusted data space for a large and diverse group of stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable mobility in Hong Kong.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
For a densely populated city like Hong Kong, Goal 13 addresses the future of sustainable cities.
SDG 17 is one of the most important goals to develop better collaboration and partnerships between all stakeholders.
Supported by
Hong Kong 2050 is Now
Hong Kong 2050 is Now is a Hong Kong-based platform for education, collaboration, and action on the climate crisis. We seek to inspire ambitious target setting, induce behavior change, and mobilise collective action towards a carbon-neutral Hong Kong.
Our initiative in accelerating sustainable development in Hong Kong:
- Educate and engage the public on the risks and opportunities facing Hong Kong in an age of climate crisis, based on rigorous scientific and policy research.
- Encourage personal, corporate and government action to be undertaken now in combating the climate crisis, including personal lifestyle, business best practice, and regulatory change.
- Aggregate the efforts of stakeholders working towards the vision of a Net-Zero carbon Hong Kong, leveraging existing grassroot and community movements to further catalyse their impact.
Institution of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong
Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the world’s most respected professional engineering associations. Established in 1818, it has 95,000 members across the globe. ICE’s vision is to place civil engineering at the heart of society, delivering sustainable development through knowledge, skills and professional expertise.
Our sustainability goals for 2023:
- Place the decarbonisation of our industry at the heart of our agenda (UNSDG 9.4)
- Working with others, both in the UK and overseas, to build resilience and mitigate the significant effects of climate change (UNSDG 13)
- Transform the availability of potable water and sanitation across the world (UNSDG 6 & 7)
- Transform the productivity of our industry by driving modern methods of procurement and manufacture (UNSDG 8 & 9)
- Enhance the knowledge, insight and ethical understanding of engineers wherever they work across the world
12:05 – 13:05
Road mobility is a double-edged sword: it’s essential for logistics within the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Hong Kong, yet it’s also the source of significant roadside emissions, contributing to 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. The cross-boundary transport not only affects roadside air quality but also poses a challenge to public health and climate change mitigation efforts.
The panel discussion will focus on evaluating the integration of road transport within the urban mobility masterplan and exploring impactful strategies, technological advancements, and policy measures to mitigate emissions and enhance air quality in road transportation across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. We will also examine Shenzhen’s initiative to establish low-emission zones and decarbonize its logistic fleet which presents a unique opportunity for Hong Kong to accelerate its own fleet decarbonization and enhance air quality.
Learnings
- Understanding how road transportation integrates into the broader framework of urban mobility and exploring strategies to enhance its efficiency, sustainability, and integration with other modes of transportation.
- Recognizing the importance of impactful strategies, technological advancements, and policy measures to mitigate emissions and improve air quality in road transportation.
- Examining case studies of successful initiatives that have established low-emission zones and achieved decarbonization in logistic fleets.
Post-event Actions
- Rethink how your company and industry can contribute to the reduction of road transportation emission
- Sharing the insights and outcomes of the panel discussion with relevant stakeholders, such as government officials, industry leaders, and community groups, to promote awareness and drive action towards low emission road transportation
Speakers
Moderator
Lawrence Iu
Executive Director
Lawrence Iu
Executive Director
Lawrence Iu is Executive Director at Civic Exchange. As a professional environmental strategist, he has profound experience in crafting climate change models and impactful public policies. His current focuses are on policy action in Energy, Building Energy Efficiency and Mobility. He has successfully built a platform with public, corporate and government stakeholders to craft an inclusive transition plan with strong buy-in.
In his previous roles in a multinational corporation and a higher institution, Lawrence led environmental sustainability and occupational health & safety projects across Asia Pacific and coordinated emerging technology management, circular economy and green chemistry research.
My Sustainability Goals for 2023:
Despite these difficult times, we must remain forward looking and anticipate the time of recovery. Even more so, we are now in a favourable position to make fundamental policy decisions to rethink our economic model, making it fit for a low carbon missions world, and to set course for a better, sustainable, and more liveable future for Hong Kong.
Speaking at:
Day 1
Exploring Green Energy Transition in Hong KongDay 2
Creating Solutions for Low Emission Road Transport
Prof Edward Chan
Co-Founder of the HK E-Vehicles Business General Association
HK E-Vehicles Business General Association
Prof Edward Chan
HK E-Vehicles Business General Association
Co-Founder of the HK E-Vehicles Business General Association
Professor Edward (Eddy) Chan is a leading expert in Environmental Conservation and Control from the perspective of the automotive industry. With significant experience in researching and developing a wide range of vehicles from HGV, refuse trucks, public buses to cars running on a diverse renewal energy sources. Since the 1990s, Prof Chan has researched and experimented with applications of renewable energy sources for powering vehicles such as solar, hydropower, hydrogen, biodiesel and of course electric.
Highlights in Prof Chan’s career includes writing the control algorithm for emission control of Land Rover Discovery 2.5 TDI and developing adaptive control of suspension in Land Rovers that shaped the design of vehicles to what it is today.
Prof Chan returned to Hong Kong as a dad of two young children and turned his focus to educating the future innovators of tomorrow. Becoming the Head of the Automotive Engineering Department at HK IVE (Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education).
Other career highlights include setting up and running the first ever EU endorsed and certified Heavy Vehicle Emissions Testing Centre in Asia, acquiring over HK$40M investment from the Hong Kong Jockey Club and over HK$36.7M research funding from the Environmental Protection Department of the HKSAR Government. He also helped to set up the road side emission measurement system for the EPD of HKSAR government. This has enabled groundbreaking data and research and education for understanding the harmful effects of vehicle emissions which has been used to influence actions across Asia.
On behalf of HKSAR Government, Prof Chan advised the Malaysian government on the importance to shift to renewable energy sources for their public transportation and regulation of vehicle emissions in their countries and trained their key environmental officers on understanding vehicle emissions and alternative energy sources.
In recognition of his contributions to the field, he was awarded a professorship with the University of Technology Sydney.
Key titles currently held:
• Secretary General and then Executive Vice Chairman, Federation of Automobile Services Industry Hong Kong (FASHK)
• Vice President, Hong Kong Bio- and Eco- Energy Industry Association (HKBEE)
• Vice Chairman, Hong Kong Electric Vehicle Association (HKEVA)
• Vice Chinaman, Society of Automotive Engineers Hong Kong (SAEHK)
Recent Publication records:
[1]Y. Huang, N.C. Surawski, Y.S. Yam, C.K.C. Lee, J.L. Zhou, B. Organ, E.F.C. Chan. Re-evaluating effectiveness of vehicle emission control programs targeting high-emitters. Nature Sustainability 2020; 3: 904-907. (IF=19.346, JCR Q1)
[2]Y. Huang, C.K.C. Lee, Y.S. Yam, W.C. Mok, J.L. Zhou, Y. Zhuang, N.C. Surawski, B. Organ, E.F.C. Chan. Rapid detection of high-emitting vehicles by on-road remote sensing technology improves urban air quality. Science Advances 2022; 8: eabl7575. (IF=14.136, JCR Q1)
[3]Y. Huang, E.C.Y. Ng, J.L. Zhou, N.C. Surawski, X. Lu, B. Du, H. Forehead, P. Perez, E.F.C. Chan. Impact of drivers on real-driving fuel consumption and emissions performance. Science of the Total Environment 2021; 798: 149297. (IF=7.963, JCR Q1)
[4]Y. Huang, Y. Yu, Y.S. Yam, J.L. Zhou, C. Lei, B. Organ, Y. Zhuang, W.C. Mok, E.F.C. Chan. Statistical evaluation of on-road vehicle emissions measurement using a dual remote sensing technique. Environmental Pollution 2020; 267: 115456. (IF=8.071, JCR Q1)
[5]Y. Huang, E.C.Y. Ng, N.C. Surawski, Y.S. Yam, W.C. Mok, C.H. Liu, J.L. Zhou, B. Organ, E.F.C. Chan. Large eddy simulation of vehicle emissions dispersion: implications for on-road remote sensing measurements. Environmental Pollution 2020; 259: 113974. (IF=8.071, JCR Q1)
Dr. Saraansh Dave
Director – eMobility
Dr. Saraansh Dave
Director – eMobility
Saraansh is Director of eMobility for CLP Power Hong Kong where he leads a team enabling the electrification of transport for CLP Power’s customers and stakeholders. Before this, Saraansh held roles at the CLP Group focusing on business development of new opportunities across the Asia-Pacific region.
Prior to CLP, Saraansh worked for SSE Plc in the UK within their commercial division where he held several roles from strategy to business development which included areas such as electric vehicles, storage, and energy services.
Saraansh has also worked for Toshiba Corporate Research & Development where he focused on smart grid-related projects across the UK and Europe. He holds a first class Master’s degree in Engineering from the University of Oxford and an Engineering Doctorate from the University of Bristol.
Haiming Xie
Director
Shenzhen Xieli Innovation Center of New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle
Haiming Xie
Shenzhen Xieli Innovation Center of New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle
Director
Haiming Xie is the Director of the Shenzhen Xieli New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle Innovation Center. As a Senior Engineer, an expert with the New Energy Vehicle Professional Committee of the Guangdong traffic Transport Association, and an expert of the acceptance team for the Ministry of Transport’s Urban Green Freight Distribution Demonstration Project. He is also the think-tank during the process of new energy vehicles promotion and application in Shenzhen.
Since 2015, Haiming has assisted the Shenzhen Municipal Transportation Bureau in achieving large-scale promotion and application of new energy pure electric trucks in urban distribution. And he has contributed to the development of policies such as the new energy truck road rights policy, the new energy logistics vehicle operation subsidy policy, and the pure electric dump truck excess emission reduction reward policy.
Currently, he is promoting the implementation of pilot projects for the electrification of heavy trucks in Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Huizhou, as well as the zero-emission channel pilot project for cross-border heavy truck transportation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. He is also involved in formulating related policies for the electrification of heavy trucks in Shenzhen.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
- It can form a perfect charging network.
- Can start heavy truck electrification together with Guangdong.
Supported by
Hong Kong 2050 is Now
Hong Kong 2050 is Now is a Hong Kong-based platform for education, collaboration, and action on the climate crisis. We seek to inspire ambitious target setting, induce behavior change, and mobilise collective action towards a carbon-neutral Hong Kong.
Our initiative in accelerating sustainable development in Hong Kong:
- Educate and engage the public on the risks and opportunities facing Hong Kong in an age of climate crisis, based on rigorous scientific and policy research.
- Encourage personal, corporate and government action to be undertaken now in combating the climate crisis, including personal lifestyle, business best practice, and regulatory change.
- Aggregate the efforts of stakeholders working towards the vision of a Net-Zero carbon Hong Kong, leveraging existing grassroot and community movements to further catalyse their impact.
Institution of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong
Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is one of the world’s most respected professional engineering associations. Established in 1818, it has 95,000 members across the globe. ICE’s vision is to place civil engineering at the heart of society, delivering sustainable development through knowledge, skills and professional expertise.
Our sustainability goals for 2023:
- Place the decarbonisation of our industry at the heart of our agenda (UNSDG 9.4)
- Working with others, both in the UK and overseas, to build resilience and mitigate the significant effects of climate change (UNSDG 13)
- Transform the availability of potable water and sanitation across the world (UNSDG 6 & 7)
- Transform the productivity of our industry by driving modern methods of procurement and manufacture (UNSDG 8 & 9)
- Enhance the knowledge, insight and ethical understanding of engineers wherever they work across the world
13:55 – 14:45
Aviation is one of the hard-to-abate sectors because of the use of carbon intensive jet fuel without alternatives. With the latest technological advancement, lower-carbon Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is considered the most feasible solution in near- to medium-term. However, Maximising the decarbonisation potential of SAF requires collaboration between sectors in the supply chain, and the policy incentives from the Government to make the business environment favourable to the uptake of SAF. Aside from SAF, industry stakeholders are also exploring other technological and systemic innovations to decarbonise aviation. This session will discuss such innovations and how to strengthen SAF development in Hong Kong.
Learnings
- What are the current climate challenges perceived by the aviation industry?
- How do other regions do to promote the uptake of SAF?
- What are the other technological and systematic innovations that are promising for aviation decarbonisation ?
- How can we take a step further to make Hong Kong aviation more sustainable, in the context of regulation, finance mechanism, supply and demand, SAF positioning in holistic HK context?
Post-event Actions
- Adopt practices to support the aviation sectors to make wider use of SAF a reality in Hong Kong.
- Strengthen Hong Kong’s position as sustainable aviation hub through innovative decarbonisation initiatives.
Speakers
Moderator
Merlin Lao
Head – Policy & Research
Merlin Lao
Head – Policy & Research
Mr. Merlin Lao is Head of Policy & Research at BEC. He leads the team to share develop clear policy positions on pressing climate and environmental topics in Hong Kong, through undertaking research on latest domestic and international trends, engaging with the Hong Kong SAR Government and connecting insights of the local business sector.
My Sustainability Goals for 2023:
Mainstream circular economy actions along all value chain processes.
Grace Cheung
General Manager Sustainability
Cathay Pacific
Grace Cheung
Cathay Pacific
General Manager Sustainability
Grace Cheung is the General Manager of Group Sustainability Department at Cathay Pacific. Since taking up her role in 2017, Grace has turned sustainability from a standalone specialist function to an integrated strategic and operational imperative in the airline group.
During Grace’s tenure, Cathay Pacific has committed for its net zero carbon emissions goal by 2050, supported by its mid-term target for using 10% sustainable aviation fuel(SAF) by 2030. The airline group is a founding member of Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC)in 2024 and has also launched the first major Corporate SAF Programme in Asia in 2022. The airline has also cut more than 50% of its inflight single-use plastics (SUP) in 2023 compared to 2018.
Grace represents the airline in a number of industry working groups devoted to sustainability and environmental issues, including the ones at International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Oneworld Alliance.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
1. HK Government releases a more concrete policy to support SAF deployment in HK without negative impact on the competitiveness of HK’s role of international aviation hub.
2. The awareness of importance of SAF from the public is enhanced.
Sarah Lang
Chief of Staff/ Sustainability Representative APAC
Lufthansa Group
Sarah Lang
Lufthansa Group
Chief of Staff/ Sustainability Representative APAC
Sarah works as Chief of Staff and sustainability Representative for Lufthansa Group in APAC. She has more than 10 years of experience in International Consulting and Mobility Start-ups focusing on, Digital Transformation and Sustainability Strategy.
14:45 – 15:35
As global awareness of environmental challenges continues to grow, the maritime industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices for a greener future. Hong Kong, being a major international port hub, plays a crucial role in driving this transformation.
Ports face several pressing issues, including port congestion, climate and weather risks, environmental pressure, increasing competitiveness, and the need for rapid adoption of new technologies. Managing the transition to green fuels is of paramount importance, but digitalization also plays a vital role in verifying the use of these fuels.
Ports serve as vital nodes in the global supply chain, facilitating global trade. To ensure the resilience of the global supply chain, it has become evident that many challenges can be addressed through the implementation of smart port strategies. Some examples include:
- Reducing the environmental impact of idle ships via predictive technologies, the planning and scheduling of vessels’ arrivals to implement Just-In-Time Port Call standards.
- The use of big data / IoT to improve efficiency in system operations, ultimately saving costs.
- The integration of intelligent port infrastructure with smart sensors to allow the use of automated unmanned vehicles at ports, shore power to reduce emissions, intelligent lightning for energy efficiency and savings.
Learnings
- Which key components of smart ports development need to be prioritized?
- Is industry-wide collaboration among port operators possible or will ports develop in siloes?
- What role collaboration can play in digitalization?
- How to leverage 5G capabilities to enable digital port transformation?
- How does Hong Kong come into play? What are other examples of successful smart ports?
- How can the transition to green energy, through use of biodiesel, electrification and hydrogen, support ports reducing their carbon footprint?
Post-event Actions:
- Engage with fellow delegates to explore joint initiatives for sustainable port development.
- Promote policy changes that prioritize environmental stewardship within the maritime industry.
- Take inspiration from panel discussions to implement practical solutions in your own port operations.
Speakers
Moderator
Tabitha Logan
Director
Tabitha Logan
Director
Tabitha is Director of Projects at Cetus Maritime, a global handysize Owner and Operator controlling over 50 vessels. The project team handles ship sale and purchase, M&A matters, ESG, and digital transformation. In addition, she is one of the Directors of the Young Professionals in Shipping Network, a nonprofit organization with over 1000 members, promoting the maritime industry through networking events, educational seminars, workshops and sporting activities. In 2019 she co-founded The Captain’s Table, Hong Kong’s global pitch competition for startups in the maritime and logistics industry. Tabitha is passionate about empowering the next generation of leaders to pioneer innovative solutions that advance sustainability, efficiency and responsibility across the maritime supply chain.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Facilitate open and collaborative dialogue between the shipping industry and startups looking at decarbonization solutions. Set a good example to my children on sustainable behaviors and environmental awareness.
Roberto Giannetta
Chairman
Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association
Roberto Giannetta
Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association
Chairman
Roberto Giannetta has 35 years of service in the shipping industry. As Chairman of the Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association, Roberto represents the interests of container liner principals on numerous industry and governmental organizations (including APEC Shipping Port Network Security, Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board, Article Number Association, and others) covering operational, safety, environmental, regulatory, trade, and policy matters vis-à-vis government and industry stakeholders. With a board of directors comprising CEO and MD level representatives from major shipping lines serving trades to/from Asia and the rest of the world, Roberto has a well-guided understanding of shipping liner needs, objectives, and environment.
Steven Jones
Founder
Seafarers Happiness Index
Steven Jones
Seafarers Happiness Index
Founder
Steven is a maritime expert with over thirty years experience, both at sea and ashore. The first part of his career was spent as a navigation officer, primarily on cable ships. While his career ashore spans marine fraud investigations, insurance, maritime security, and as a government advisor, providing a comprehensive view of the industry’s challenges and opportunities.
Passionate about seafarer welfare, Steven founded the Seafarers Happiness Index, a critical tool for measuring and improving crew well-being. This initiative gives voice to those at sea, facilitating the sharing of best practices and addressing industry-wide issues.
As an author, Steven has penned influential texts on maritime security, piracy, stowaways, and crime at sea. These works serve as essential resources for professionals, academics, and policymakers in the maritime sector.
In recent years, Steven has focused on sustainable shipping, collaborating with startups to develop innovative, environmentally friendly solutions. He’s actively involved in mentoring and consulting for companies tackling challenges in shipping efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Throughout his career, Steven has demonstrated a commitment to improving the maritime industry from multiple angles – operational excellence, security, crew welfare, and innovation. His diverse experience and engagement with emerging trends position him as a respected voice and thought leader in the evolving world of global shipping.
He is co-founder of Propeller Club Liverpool, a Trustee of the Liverpool Shipwreck and Humane Society, an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
- Just and Equitable Transition
- Ports Aligned with MLC
- Seafarer welfare and engagement
- Green Corridors
15:35 – 16:25
In an era of rapid urbanization and increasing population density, efficient and sustainable transportation systems are critical for the growth and well-being of cities. Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant economy and dynamic lifestyle, faces unique challenges in managing its transportation networks. The convergence of various modes of transport such as planes, buses, trains, ferries, and cycling paths offers immense potential for enhancing connectivity, reducing congestion, and promoting environmental sustainability. Join us as we bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore the untapped potential of multi-modal transport in Hong Kong.
Learnings
- What are the benefits and opportunities of implementing a multi-modal transportation strategy?
- What are the challenges and hurdles in effectively integrating road, sea, and air transportation systems?
- How can Hong Kong benefit from a successful and thriving multimodal network?
Post-event Actions
- Engage in further research on multi-modal transportation strategies and their implementation in urban environments.
- Explore opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange with experts and policymakers in the field of urban development and transportation.
- Advocate for the adoption of comprehensive policy frameworks that promote sustainable and efficient transportation systems in Hong Kong.
Speakers
Moderator
Clement Ho
Director
Arup
Clement Ho
Arup
Director
Clement has over 25 years’ experience in transport planning, and has worked at varies Arup offices in the UK, Ireland, Hong Kong and the Mainland China. He has extensive international transport planning project experience including Hong Kong, Macau, the Mainland China, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the UK, Ireland, Portugal, Australia, India and Jamaica.
Arup Director, Leading China Transport Business, Digital Transport for East Asia, and East Asia Transport Planning Skills Network Leader.
Member of Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation; Council Member and Chartered Member of Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport; Visiting Lecturer University of Hong Kong Department of Urban Planning and Design and Department of Architecture; Chinese University of Hong Kong School of Architecture; City University of Hong Kong School of Energy and Environment.
My Sustainability Goals for 2024:
Goal 5 on Gender Equity by design and collaboration with stakeholders
Goal 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by strategy planning and design
All sessions are subject to change.