Developer's initiatives pay off

As a property developer undertaking major projects in Hong Kong and the mainland, Shui On Land is committed to improving the social, economic and environmental well-being of the community. The company received a platinum award in the Hong Kong Green Awards 2010 green office management category (large corporation sector).

Judges assessed corporate commitment and leadership to the establishment of green office management and environmental achievement in energy conservation. They also assessed water conservation, waste management, indoor air quality, carbon emissions and green purchasing.

Louis Wong, Shui On Land managing director, project management, says the developer implemented a wide range of environmental initiatives including water-saving tips, an electricity-saving slogan campaign, a paper collection campaign and the recycling of used batteries.

'We launched our green office programme in 2006 to promote environmental conservation among colleagues. This includes calling for their support to implement green principles in daily life to create a more secure and energy efficient living and work environment,' Wong says.

'Shui On Land also provides training to employees on environmental knowledge so they can share the sustainable spirit with our stakeholders, partners and family members.'

He says the interiors of Shui On Land's offices have been fitted with environmentally friendly facilities, including water-saving fixtures, sensors to monitor carbon dioxide, occupancy and response daylight sensors, recycled building materials, energy efficient lighting and energy star-rated products.

The company's offices on two floors of Shui On Plaza have received a silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design award for commercial interiors by the United States Green Building Council.

The certification programme recognises and encourages the adoption of sustainable green building and development strategies that promote better environmental and health performance.

Wong says the Green Council awards provide a good platform for Shui On Land to demonstrate its commitment and effort on sustainable development.

'We believe the awards programme will encourage more corporations to implement environmentally friendly measures in their operational and management processes, in order to enhance their environmental consciousness and social responsibility,' Wong says.

The Green Council believes participants benefit from an independent review of their objectives and through dialogue with other participants, identify solutions to further improve and reduce environmental impact.

Microsoft Hong Kong also received a platinum award in the green office management category.

Five companies and organisations, including the Hong Kong Housing Authority, CLP Power Hong Kong - Power System Business Group, Hongkong Electric, Hong Yip Service and Goodwill Property Management, received gold awards.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Fujitsu Hong Kong, Hong Kong International Theme Parks and Hongkong Electric (Electric Tower), Ap Lei Chau, were presented with silver awards.