Developing green building policy in Hong Kong

Abstract

Desk-top research found that the performance of green building development in Hong Kong has lagged behind other countries or cities of similar international status. The main reason for that is the lack of green building policy to coordinate the existing measures. Hence, this dissertation aims to fill the gap by finding out whether green building policy should be implemented in Hong Kong and what instruments or tools should be included in the policy if it is formulated.

Further to the focus study on four selected countries, i.e. Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, it is noted that an effective green building policy should contain a quantitative target as goal achievement and comprise mandatory instruments, economic instruments and information tools as policy options. After identifying some suitable policy options, a survey has been conducted to collect people’s views. Survey results supported that there is a need for the buildings in Hong Kong to be greener and for the Hong Kong government to formulate a set of green building policy.

It is recommended that Hong Kong green building policy should include quantitative commitment for both new public and private buildings in short run; and extend to existing public and private buildings in long run. The government should keep reviewing and extending its mandatory requirements on green building design and energy performance, and introducing mandatory energy audit for disclosure of key consumption data for public viewing and full report during premises or building transactions. As mandatory energy audit is a fresh idea in Hong Kong and may not be easily accepted by citizens, the government should provide sufficient assistance at the teething stage when implementing it.

To further promote green building development, it is suggested that the Hong Kong government should provide financial incentives, such as the provision of tax credits for green building investment and subsidy for upgrading energy performance of existing building. However, energy tax may not be a suitable option to implement at present in view of its necessity and respondents’ objections from the survey results.

Apart from mandatory and economic instruments, it is opined that the Hong Kong government should allocate resources for research and development, and education for promoting green building development. This is also greatly supported by respondents according to the survey results. As green building may still be a new concept to many building practitioners in Hong Kong, the government should also set up a designated team to administer green building issues and provide a wide-spreading platform for knowledge exchange and experience sharing.

Developing green building in Hong Kong not only requires commitments from the Administration and contributions from the stakeholders, but also the involvement of every citizen. With the support from everyone, this definitely can smoothen the formulation and implementation of green building policy, and make the built environment green and sustainable for the next generations to enjoy!