@Green November/December 2024 | Page 14

• Eco Expo Asia 2024

14

• Eco Expo Asia 2024

@ green | November-December . 2024

Sustainability unleashed

Hong Kong ’ s global platform showcased innovative solutions in energy , waste , and ESG practices
BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

UNDER the theme “ Fostering Green Innovations for Carbon Neutrality ”, the 19th Eco Expo Asia opened at Hong Kong ’ s AsiaWorld-Expo from Oct 30-Nov 2 , drawing over 300 exhibitors from 11 countries and regions .

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council ( HKTDC ) and Messe Frankfurt ( HK ) Ltd , with support from Hong Kong ’ s Environment and Ecology Bureau of the HKSAR Government , this year ’ s expo emphasised new energy , waste management , the circular economy , and ESG services .
The opening ceremony brought together high-profile government officials , including China Ministry of Ecology and Environment Vice Minister Sun Jinlong and Hong Kong Environment and Ecology Secretary Tse Chin-wan .
China Ministry of Ecology and Environment Vice Minister Sun Jinlong .
Hong Kong Environment and Ecology Secretary Tse Chinwan .
“ This gathering demonstrates the significance of regional and international cooperation in meeting sustainability goals ,” remarked Sun Jinlong , underscoring the event ’ s role in advancing global
environmental efforts .
GREEN INNOVATIONS
The concurrent Eco Asia conference addressed critical green issues , including decarbonisation and new energy solutions , with a series of sessions led by government representatives from China and Belt and Road nations , including Laos , Saudi Arabia , Myanmar , Brunei and Vietnam .
Yuan Da of China ’ s National Development and Reform Commission presented updates on China ’ s environmental policies , with an emphasis on waste reduction and new energy , both key themes highlighted in Hong Kong ’ s recent Policy Address .
Tse Chin-wan then emphasised this focus , stating : “ Hong Kong ’ s policy framework prioritises green growth , and this expo aligns with our commitment to sustainable urban development .”
Moreover , the Greater Bay Area ’ s extensive participation underscored regional innovation , featuring pavilions from Guangdong , Shenzhen , and Macao SAR .
The new Anhui Pavilion introduced advancements in air and water quality management , while Canada ’ s pavilion displayed hydrogen purification systems and carbon capture technology .
Hong Kong ’ s first hydrogenpowered street-cleaning vehicle debuted , and Citybus offered free hydrogen-powered bus rides , signalling a significant step toward eco-friendly urban transportation .
Start-ups also played a vital role , with more than 20 ventures from local universities showcasing products like Ezygreenpak Limited ’ s water-soluble materials and Electro-Jet ’ s electric boats made from recycled materials .
HKTDC Executive Director Margaret Fong noted : “ Eco Expo Asia 2024 has proven essential in fostering international partnerships , providing a shared platform to accelerate the global transition to sustainable practices .”
By bringing together experts , policymakers , and industry innovators , Eco Expo Asia 2024 underscored the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing urgent environmental challenges and positioned Hong Kong as a vital hub for green development .
The event reinforced that a collective commitment to sustainable growth is not only achievable but also essential for a resilient future .

Pragmatic pathway to carbon neutrality

AS THE Eco Expo Asia 2024 unfolded in Hong Kong , it showcased the city ’ s ambitious sustainability goals , bringing together experts in green technology , government representatives , and global industry leaders .
A central feature of the event was a lively panel discussion where experts presented insights into green financing , hydrogen technology , and carbon-neutral initiatives , shedding light on the city ’ s roadmap towards carbon neutrality by 2050 .
The session kicked off with Dr Alex Gbaguidi , an expert in environmental management , who captivated attendees with his insights on sustainable urban planning .
He emphasised that “ cities are the future of sustainability ” and called for holistic approaches that incorporate innovative technologies to reduce carbon footprints . His vision inspired participants to think critically about the environmental impacts of urban development .
Don Cheng , Towngas Head of
Commercial ( Hong Kong Utility ) and Sustainable Green Energy Hub , shared his practical experiences with implementing green technologies in Hong Kong ’ s commercial sector .
INNOVATION DRIVES CHANGE
“ Collaboration between private and public sectors is essential for advancing sustainable solutions . The financial advantages of investing in renewable technologies ignite a lively discussion about the future of green finance ,” said Cheng .
On the other hand , a presentation by Invest Hong Kong Global Head of Financial Services , Fintech & Sustainability , King Leung , revealed the potential for Hong Kong ’ s green tech market to support the city ’ s carbon neutrality targets .
“ Hong Kong has a unique opportunity to blend green technology with green finance in a way that aligns with the city ’ s pragmatic , market-driven approach ,” Leung said ,
“ We commissioned Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited ( Deloitte ) to analyse various industries in Hong Kong to pinpoint where tangible business opportunities exist , and we aim to create a roadmap that connects green tech entrepreneurs with viable markets .”
Alongside him was Quadrogen Power Systems , Inc . Vice President Nelson Chan , from the Edmonton Canadian Pavilion , who introduced a practical biogas treatment solution that converts food waste into renewable energy .
Highlighting Edmonton ’ s progress in sustainable urban development , Chan explained : “ Through
From left to right : Moderator Dr Michael Ching , Don Cheng , Dr Alex Gbaguidi , Weng Siang , King Leung , Nelson Chan and Curtis Yu .
our fast-cycle PSA ( Pressure Swing Adsorption ) technology , we can treat biogas more efficiently and on a smaller scale . It ’ s a compact solution , ideal for urban environments .”
Chan ’ s presentation emphasised the potential of technology to reduce waste and generate clean energy , offering a promising model for Hong Kong ’ s dense urban landscape .
The panel also included Curtis Yu , a green tech specialist and Head of Strategy of Zemission Limited , who introduced a pilot project aimed at testing hydrogen extraction technology in residential and commercial buildings . – @ green