Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) recently won a 2007 Eco-Business Prime Award for its continuing efforts to sustain a green environment. The company has long been concerned about environmental protection and is committed to applying green concepts in all aspects of its property development and management operations.

Clear green policies in place

The awards were given out by Prime Communications after adjudication by a panel including representatives of six major local environmental protection organizations. The judges commended SHKP for its environmental protection policies and close collaboration with green groups for many years.

SHKP Head of Corporate Communications May Lau said: "We are very pleased with this award. Our staff take promoting energy saving and conserving resources seriously. We incorporate environmental concepts in our operations from planning and design to material sourcing, landscaping, construction and property management. We will continue to do all we can to promote environmental protection and sustainable development in Hong Kong."

Many government officials and green group representatives attended the Eco-Business award presentation, including Secretary for the Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Sarah Liao, Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services Department Ho Kwong-wai, Business Environment Council Chief Executive Officer Andrew Thomson, Conservancy Association Chief Executive Lister Cheung, EarthCare President Andrea Ng, Green Power Chairperson Eric Tsang, HK-BEAM Society Vice Chairman Cary Chan, Hong Kong Environmental Industry Association President Joe Ng and Produce Green Foundation Chair Simon Chau.

Green construction

SHKP pioneered many green initiatives like the first eco-friendly residential estate in Hong Kong to use solar-powered lighting, windmills and recycled waste water. The development got an 'Excellent' rating under the Business Environment Council's Hong Kong Building Environmental Assessment Method. Other green measures in SHKP estates include layouts that maximize natural light, high-quality windows that reduce electricity use and water-saving showers. SHKP also ensures that its construction methods have a minimal impact on the environment.

Effective green management

SHKP's property-management companies Hong Yip and Kai Shing employ energy-saving practices like using high-efficiency lighting and controlling external lights to reduce electricity consumption. The companies have also organized organic farms and recycling drives to promote environmental awareness among residents.

Wide recognition for environmental efforts

All these efforts have won praise from green groups and government departments including Friends of the Earth, Green Power, the Conservancy Association, Business Environment Council, Professional Green Building Council, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau, Environmental Protection Department, Environmental Campaign Committee, Leisure and Cultural Services Department, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and Water Supplies Department.