Innovation Stage
Innovation Stage
Day 1 – Thursday 11 Sept
11:10 – 12:00
Speakers
Jianping GAN
Head and Chair Professor, Department of Ocean Science
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Jianping GAN
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Head and Chair Professor, Department of Ocean Science
Biography
Prof. Gan conducts hard-core scientific study of ocean circulation, marine ecosystem dynamics and numerical ocean modeling in the China Seas. The research inter-links the processes over estuary-shelf-open ocean basin. Interdisciplinary research in coupled physical-biogeochemical dynamics through numerical modeling, field measurement and process study in the ocean are developed.
Research Interests
Ocean circulation and ecosystem modeling; ocean dynamics and coastal oceanography
Awards & Honors
- Professor Jianping GAN was awarded a HK$ 87.147 million by the Research Grants Council (RGC)’s Areas of Excellence (AoE) Scheme 2023/24 (2023)
- Professor Jianping GAN and His Research Team Discover “Hotspots” of Three-layered Alternatively Rotating Circulation in South China Sea (2022)
- Second Class, 2014 State Natural Science Award (2014)
For details, please visit https://www.math.hkust.edu.hk/people/faculty/profile/magan/
Wenting Qiu
Technical Officer, Auro Innovation Technology Limited
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Wenting Qiu
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Technical Officer, Auro Innovation Technology Limited
Dr. Wenting QIU 邱文婷
PhD in Chemistry
Auro is a company to develop intelligent irrigation device that can automatically irrigate based on soil condition monitoring. Our company was established by professors, industry engineers and business experts. We have received 1.5 million funding for product development and our first-generation smart irrigation product will be available in 2025
Prof. Fan Shi
Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Prof. Fan Shi
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Prof. Shi obtained his B.S. degree from Nanjing University (Acoustics) in 2010, and M.S. degree from Georgia Institute of Technology in 2012. In 2015 he obtained PhD degree in the Department of Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College London, with an award of Unwin Prize for the best PhD thesis. After graduation, he worked as a postdoc research associate at Imperial College before joining in HKUST in 2019 as an assistant professor.
His current research interests include acoustics, nondestructive evaluation (NDE), ultrasonic material characterisation, advanced ultrasonic imaging, numerical modeling of elastic waves and metamaterials. His industrial partners include nuclear and aerospace companies, such as EDF Energy, Rolls Royce Submarine, China Nuclear Power Corporation, and the Wood Group.
Prof. Dan Tsang
Professor, Director of Research Center on Decarbonization Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Prof. Dan Tsang
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Professor, Director of Research Center on Decarbonization Technology
Prof. Dan Tsang is a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Pao Yue-Kong Chair Professor in the State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization at Zhejiang University in China. A trailblazer in environmental engineering and sustainability, Prof. Tsang has over two decades of research and professional experience. With more than 650 publications in leading international journals, over 75,000 citations, and an h-index of 152, he has been recognized among Stanford University’s Top 2% Scientists (lifetime) and Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers in both the engineering and the environment and ecology categories. He also holds fellowships from the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE), Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), and Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (FHKIE). In addition, with a strong commitment to advancing the engineering profession and contributing to public service, Prof. Tsang serves as the founding Editor-in-Chief of npj Materials Sustainability (Nature Portfolio), as well as Chairman of the Hong Kong Waste Management Association (2023–2025) and Waste Management Subcommittee Chair (2023 & 2024) of the Advisory Council on the Environment of the Hong Kong SAR Government.
Zhi Yu YANG
Professor, Department of Physics
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Zhi Yu YANG
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Professor, Department of Physics
Prof Yang’s main research area at present is the experimental elastic metamaterials. He participated in the study of the original locally resonant sonic metamaterials (coated spheres), and invented the membrane type metamaterials, based on which a number of novel structures and properties have been discovered. These include (i) the anti-resonance based decorated membrane resonator (DMR) which by itself serves as a strong transmission loss sound blocker even at frequencies around 100 Hz, (ii) doubly negative metamaterials based on DMR, (iii) dark acoustic metamaterials which are perfect sound absorbers and highly efficient vibration absorbers over a broad frequency range from a few thousand to near 50 Hz, (iv) hybrid resonant super absorption metamaterials that can totally absorb low frequency sound beams with cross section area many times larger than the physical area of the metamaterials. In the application side, he is the inventor of a number of light weight, thin, highly efficient sound proof panels that can block or absorb noise, and equally effective sound blocking blankets that are flexible and can be rolled up when not in use, and rolled out to cover the noise sources or quiet room entrance. These metamaterials have extremely wide range of applications in residential and commercial buildings, trains, ship, aircraft, factories, power plants, satellites and spacecraft, etc.
He has also worked on semiconductor quantum structures and interfaces, polymer dynamics, electromagnetic metamaterials, etc., but is no longer working in these areas anymore.
Prof Yang had served as the chairman of the Hong Kong Physics Olympiad Committee and head coach of the Hong Kong physics Olympiad team from 2003 to 2013. During the period, the HK team had won ten gold medals in International Physics Olympiads (IPhO’s), and two gold medals in Asia Physics Olympiads (APhO’s), including the 3rd place overall standing in APhO 2012. In their debut in IPhO 2004, the HK team became the first in IPhO history since it became a global event to win gold medal in their first participation of IPhO’s.
With thanks to
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Booth P35
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university that excels in driving innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, while 12 of its subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” being ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “Internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of June 2024, HKUST members have founded 1,747 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 14 exits (IPO or M&A).
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
HKUST is committed to become a global leader in sustainability education by transforming the Clear Water Bay campus into a zero carbon, zero waste, and net-positive environmental impact living laboratory for experiential learning, demonstrating cutting-edge research and sustainable operations within a vibrant and engaged community.
Over the years, there have been different strategies, programs and initiatives that work towards achieving the sustainability vision. Here are some highlights of our achievements:
Water-Saving Smart Showerhead
- 2020 Sustainability Master Plan
- Recycling Infrastructure
- Detailed Performance metrics and KPIs
- Sustainable Smart Campus as a Living Lab
- Bottled Water Free Campus Initiative
- Sustainability Education Community of Practice
- Sustainability Course Evaluation
- Sustainable Community Networks
- Largest-Scale Solar Power System in HK
Products, Services & Solutions :
- Carbon Management/Carbon Offset
- Efficient Energy & Utilities
- Engineering & Infrastructure
- Green/Smart Buildings/PropTech
- Sustainable Products
- Technology & Innovation
Solutions Showcase:
- SDG 1 No Poverty
- SDG 2 Zero Hunger
- SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 4 Quality Education
- SDG 5 Gender Equality
- SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13 Climate Action
- SDG 14 Life below Water
- SDG 15 Life on Land
- SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
- SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals
Legal Name: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology – Office of Knowledge Transfer
General Enquiry Email Address: okt@ust.hk
General Enquiry Phone Number: 23587917
General Business Address: Office of Knowledge Transfer Room 3625B 3/F (Lifts 29-30), Academic Building, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Meet our speakers:
Prof. Mo Li
Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Wenting Qiu
Technical Officer, Auro Innovation Technology Limited
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Prof. Fan Shi
Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Zhi Yu YANG
Professor, Department of Physics
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Jianping GAN
Head and Chair Professor, Department of Ocean Science
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Charles Ng
CLP Holdings Professor of Sustainability
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Jimmy Fung
Professor
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Kenneth Leung
Director of Sustainability/Net-Zero Office
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Dr. Meike Sauerwein
Lecturer
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Prof. Dan Tsang
Professor, Director of Research Center on Decarbonization Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
13:40 – 14:40
Supported by
The Mills Fabrica
The Mills Fabrica is a global collaborative hub propelling sustainability-focused tech innovations within the techstyle and agrifood sectors. To innovators at various growth stages, it uniquely offers resources encompassing venture capital, incubation support, impact retail (Fabrica X), prototyping lab, co-working and event spaces in Hong Kong and London.
General Enquiry Email Address: contact@themillsfabrica.com
General Enquiry Phone Number: 3979 2335
Meet our speakers:
13:40 – 14:40
The Techstyle track at The ReThink HK 2025 Start-Up Pitching session, organized in collaboration with The Mills Fabrica, highlights innovative startups and solutions within the textile and apparel industry. This platform offers emerging companies a valuable opportunity to present their ideas to an exclusive audience, receive expert feedback, and connect with key industry stakeholders.
Focusing on innovation, business scalability, technological advancement, sustainability, and impact, this year’s innovations span from alternative leather to sustainable packaging. Each team will present a 5-minute pitch, followed by an open-floor Q&A session with the judges and audience.
Learnings
- Networking opportunity: Connect with leading startups, corporations and professionals to expand network and exchange forward-thinking ideas
- Exclusive pitching session: Witness emerging startups and innovators showcase the latest cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough solutions
- Expert evaluation: Valuable feedback and recommendations on advanced innovations from experienced industry professionals
Post-Event Actions
- Networking
- Surveying
- Photo taking
Supported by
The Mills Fabrica
The Mills Fabrica is a global collaborative hub propelling sustainability-focused tech innovations within the techstyle and agrifood sectors. To innovators at various growth stages, it uniquely offers resources encompassing venture capital, incubation support, impact retail (Fabrica X), prototyping lab, co-working and event spaces in Hong Kong and London.
General Enquiry Email Address: contact@themillsfabrica.com
General Enquiry Phone Number: 3979 2335
Meet our speakers:
14:50 – 15:50
Supported by
The Mills Fabrica
The Mills Fabrica is a global collaborative hub propelling sustainability-focused tech innovations within the techstyle and agrifood sectors. To innovators at various growth stages, it uniquely offers resources encompassing venture capital, incubation support, impact retail (Fabrica X), prototyping lab, co-working and event spaces in Hong Kong and London.
General Enquiry Email Address: contact@themillsfabrica.com
General Enquiry Phone Number: 3979 2335
Meet our speakers:
14:50 – 15:50
The Agrifood track at The ReThink HK 2025 Start-Up Pitching session, organized in collaboration with The Mills Fabrica, highlights innovative startups and solutions within the Agrifood industry. This platform offers emerging companies a valuable opportunity to present their ideas to an exclusive audience, receive expert feedback, and connect with key industry stakeholders.
Focusing on innovation, business scalability, technological advancement, sustainability, and impact, this year’s innovations span from premium functional foods to AI-Powered nutrition platform. Each team will present a 5-minute pitch, followed by an open-floor Q&A session with the judges and audience.
Learnings
- Networking opportunity: Connect with leading startups, corporations and professionals to expand network and exchange forward-thinking ideas
- Exclusive pitching session: Witness emerging startups and innovators showcase the latest cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough solutions
- Expert evaluation: Valuable feedback and recommendations on advanced innovations from experienced industry professionals
Post-Event Actions
- Networking
- Surveying
- Photo taking
Supported by
The Mills Fabrica
The Mills Fabrica is a global collaborative hub propelling sustainability-focused tech innovations within the techstyle and agrifood sectors. To innovators at various growth stages, it uniquely offers resources encompassing venture capital, incubation support, impact retail (Fabrica X), prototyping lab, co-working and event spaces in Hong Kong and London.
General Enquiry Email Address: contact@themillsfabrica.com
General Enquiry Phone Number: 3979 2335
Meet our speakers:
16:00 – 17:00
The Green Earth proudly launches the Green Events Certification Scheme this year, which aims to recognise events that uphold environmental sustainability principles. Through objective criteria and assessments, it helps event organisers evaluate their event’s environmental performance, drive continuous improvement, and showcase their commitment to environmental responsibility!
This scheme is led by The Green Earth, with SGS as their technical partner, establishing assessment criteria and providing third-party evaluation services. Assessors will also conduct on-site evaluations during the event.
The Green Events Certification Recognition Ceremony is a special event that celebrates the achievements of event organisers who have excelled in sustainable practices and inspires others to adopt greener approaches in event planning.
Learnings
- Recognition Ceremony: We will honour outstanding events and organisers who have successfully met the Green Events Certification standards, showcasing their commitment to sustainability.
- Panel Discussion: A brief panel discussion featuring industry leaders who will share actionable insights on sustainable event management, covering tips on vendor communication, waste management, material reuse and more. This discussion will provide practical strategies to help you plan successful green events.
Post-Event Actions
- We welcome delegates to join us at our booth [R07] to network with other event organisers and sustainability leaders after the ceremony, and join the Green Events Certification Scheme.
Day 2 – Friday 12 Sept
11:10 – 12:00
12:10 – 13:00
12:55 – 13:40
As businesses face growing pressure to align with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, adopting an innovation-centric approach has become essential for creating sustainable business value. This presentation delves into how innovative practices can enhance ESG initiatives, driving both ethical responsibility and financial performance.
We will explore the intersection of technology, sustainable practices, and business strategy, showcasing real-world examples of organizations that have successfully integrated innovation into their ESG frameworks. By prioritizing creativity and forward-thinking solutions, companies can not only address pressing societal challenges but also unlock new market opportunities and improve operational efficiency.
Participants will gain insights into practical strategies for embedding innovation within their ESG efforts, enabling them to enhance stakeholder engagement, mitigate risks, and ultimately drive long-term business value. This presentation aims to inspire a transformative approach to ESG that not only fulfills compliance but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and resilience.
Learnings
- Discover how emerging technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT) can enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in ESG initiatives.
- Understand how integrating technology with ESG practices helps businesses reduce environmental impact and unlock new investment opportunities.
- Recognize how this synergy drives economic resilience and profitability while addressing global sustainability challenges.
Post-Event Actions
- Evaluate current ESG strategies within their organisations to identify opportunities where emerging technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT) could add measurable value.
- Initiate cross-functional discussions with sustainability, finance, and technology teams to design or enhance data-driven ESG initiatives.
- Explore partnerships or pilot projects with tech providers or startups to test innovative solutions that improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability in ESG reporting and operations.
Supported by
ESGD Association
Booth A08
As the leading Association dedicated to ESG for SMEs, we provide the essential bridge to resources, technology (AI, blockchain, big data), expertise, and collaborative networks. We advocate for practical, impactful ESG integration that powers your business forward.
Our sustainability goals for 2025:
To help SMEs establish data-centric, controllable and long-term ESG strategies.
Solutions Showcase:
- Circular Solutions
- Education/Training/Certification
- ESG Reporting/Consultancy
- ICT & Data Solutions
- Waste Reduction & Recycling Management
Legal Name: ESG Development Association Limited
General Enquiry Email Address: info@esgda.hk
General Enquiry Phone Number: 3520 3638
General Business Address: Unit 806F, 8/F, Stelux House, 698 Prince Edward Road East, San Po Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
14:10 – 14:40
Cities face urgent climate challenges, and The Netherlands —a global leader in urban sustainability —offers bold solutions. From Rotterdam’s water-resistant architecture to Amsterdam’s circular economy, Dutch innovations blend design, technology, and policy for resilient cities. This fireside chat explores scalable ideas: energy-neutral buildings, smart mobility, and nature-based urban planning. How can cities worldwide adopt these approaches? Join experts as they discuss lessons from Dutch experiments, public-private collaboration, and the role of citizens in shaping greener, livable cities. The future is sustainable—let’s build it together.
Learnings:
- Dutch Urban Innovations: Learn how The Netherlands pioneers sustainable city solutions—from flood-resistant infrastructure to circular economies—that balance technology, design, and policy.
- Scalable Strategies: Discover adaptable approaches like energy-neutral buildings and smart mobility that cities worldwide can implement for resilience and livability.
- Collaboration & Citizen Engagement: Understand the importance of public-private partnerships and community involvement in driving effective, inclusive sustainability transitions.
Post-Event Actions:
- Provide Feedback: Share your experience through surveys or discussions to help improve future events.
- Apply Learnings: Implement key takeaways or skills gained from the event in your work or daily life.
- Stay Engaged: Follow up with organizers, network with other participants, and explore further resources or opportunities related to the event.
14:30 – 15:20
15:25 – 15:45
Join us for an engaging panel discussion on innovative sustainable practices in the food and beverage industry. This workshop will explore Breer’s pioneering approach to upcycling surplus bread and coffee grounds into delicious craft beer, promoting waste reduction and local resourcefulness.
Learn how partnerships with Maxim’s Group and 7Eleven have enabled the transformation of excess raw materials into valuable products, fostering a circular economy.
The panel will feature industry experts sharing their insights on sustainable sourcing, collaborative efforts, and the impact of upcycling initiatives.
Discover how community-driven innovation can lead to eco-friendly business models that benefit both the environment and local economies.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, environmental advocate, or curious consumer, this discussion offers inspiring ideas for turning waste into opportunity and building a sustainable future through creative collaborations.
Learnings
- The importance of cross-industry collaborations in advancing sustainable upcycling practices
- Practical strategies for sourcing surplus materials like bread and coffee grounds for product innovation
- Environmental and economic benefits of transforming waste into value-added products such as craft beer
- Key challenges and solutions in implementing circular economy initiatives within local communities
- How consumer awareness and community engagement drive the success of sustainable upcycling projects
Post-Event Actions
- Explore potential partnerships with local restaurants, cafes, or retail outlets to source surplus raw materials
- Develop or refine strategies for implementing upcycling projects within your own organization or community
- Share insights and success stories gained from the session to inspire peer networks and stakeholders
- Identify opportunities to participate in or initiate local upcycling and sustainability initiatives
- Stay connected with the panel speakers and attendees to collaborate on future sustainable projects
Speakers
Naman Tekriwal
Co-Founder
Breer
Naman Tekriwal
Breer
Co-Founder
Naman Tekriwal graduated from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, pursuing a degree in Management and Marketing. An enthusiastic, highly motivated, and dynamic 24-year-old, Naman has been an impact entrepreneur, starting his first venture at the age of 13 to promote financial literacy among high school students.
Naman is currently working on building Breer in Hong Kong, a food up-cycling startup converting surplus bread into craft beer, which is now expanding presence to Singapore and Indian markets. Owing to his entrepreneurial achievements, Naman was recognised as one of the youngest honourees on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia List in 2023.
My Sustainability Goals for 2025:
- Contribute to Increased Food Wastage Mitigation: Implement practices to minimize food waste generation, increase Breer’s upcycling efforts, and promote a circular economy
- Support Community Sustainability: Engage in initiatives that enhance local community well-being, such as supporting local sourcing, education, and environmental conservation efforts.
- Reduce Carbon Footprint: Aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency in Breer’s production, improve Breer’s packaging, and sustainable transportation.
15:30 – 16:20
All sessions are subject to change.