Balanced approach to development

Completing a major construction project is much more than simply building the structure. International engineering and design companies such as Arup also have to deal with the demands, expectations and concerns of clients, government regulators, local residents and environmental groups.

Arup director Sam Tsoi identifies the most significant differences in the approach his company would take to a project today as opposed to 10 or 20 years ago. 'Clients are more aware and the public have much higher expectations. This can be seen in the objections to recent environmental impact assessments. This results in a much longer period between project inception and the start of construction, and a great deal more expenditure on environmental mitigation,' Tsoi says.

He thinks most markets have comparable environmental standards. 'In certain areas, mainland China's environmental regulations are more stringent than those adopted in Hong Kong. Not surprisingly, the difference tends to come in the level of application and enforcement,' Tsoi says.

Arup, which is in the process of delivering the world's largest sewage treatment facilities on Stonecutters Island, and the largest district cooling system at Kai Tak, has taken several steps to meet these standards.

'Much of our focus is on devising sustainable solutions and helping our clients adapt into the future, ensuring our work leaves a lasting legacy,' he says.

The company has received government accreditation for its environmental management system, and provides training in sustainable design, planning and construction through lunch talks and Arup University courses.