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[Hong Kong, 16 April 2025] － Business Environment Council Limited (“BEC”) and Sustainability Professionals Association (“SPA”), with the sponsorship support from Invest Hong Kong, today hosted a seminar titled “Getting Ready for the Carbon Market”, focusing on the vital topics of carbon trading and market development, especially in light of recent proposals from Hong Kong deputies advocating for the city as a carbon trading centre.
Ms Grace Kwok, General Council Member of HKIQEP; Mr Hendrik Rosenthal, Director of IETA and Group Sustainability of CLP Holdings Limited; Prof Carlos Lo, Board Director and Executive Committee Member of Sustainability Professionals Association; Ms Miranda Kwan, Director of Business Assurance of SGS Hong Kong Limited; Mr Hauman Yeung, Chairperson of SPA; and Ir Dr Ivan Li, Executive Director of CGS International Holdings Limited
Understanding the carbon market is essential for navigating the modern economic landscape impacted by climate change. As such, the seminar emphasised the importance of carbon trading as a mechanism for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and facilitating environmentally responsible practices, in light of growing regulatory requirements and rising market expectations. Ir Raymond Fong, Director of RIE Sustainability Limited, kicked off the seminar with his speech on “Carbon Credit 101”, providing attendees with a foundational understanding of carbon credits and their critical role in global climate action. Following this, Mr Hendrik Rosenthal, Director of the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) and Group Sustainability of CLP Holdings Limited, made an insightful presentation on “Carbon Market Development after COP29”, highlighting recent advancements and future trends that could greatly affect business operations and strategic planning.
The panel discussion moderated by Ms Grace Kwok, General Council Member of HKIQEP (leftmost), features distinguished experts: Mr Hendrik Rosenthal, Director of IETA and Group Sustainability of CLP Holdings Limited; Ms Miranda Kwan, Director of Business Assurance of SGS Hong Kong Limited; Ir Raymond Fong, Director of RIE Sustainability Limited; and Ir Dr Ivan Li, Executive Director of CGS International Holdings Limited
The programme also included a panel discussion featuring distinguished experts including (in alphabetical order of surnames) Ir Raymond Fong from RIE Sustainability Limited, Ms Miranda Kwan from SGS Hong Kong Limited, Mr Ivan Li from CGS International Holdings Limited, and Mr Hendrik Rosenthal from IETA. The discussion was moderated by Ms Grace Kwok, General Council Member of Hong Kong Institute of Qualified Environmental Professionals (“HKIQEP”). Participants actively engaged in the dialogue, asking questions and exchanging ideas on how to leverage carbon trading strategies within their companies and organisations.
Mr Simon Ng, CEO of BEC, said, “Today’s seminar successfully brought together industry leaders and professionals to discuss the implications of carbon trading for Hong Kong’s business community. As we move toward a more sustainable future, it is crucial for businesses to grasp the opportunities presented by the carbon market. Understanding these dynamics is key to maintaining a competitive edge.”
Mr Hauman Yeung, Chairperson of SPA, added, “The turnout and engagement levels were impressive. The insights shared during this seminar are invaluable as Hong Kong positions itself as a hub for carbon trading. With climate action gaining momentum globally, businesses must learn to navigate the evolving carbon market landscape to mitigate risks and unlock new opportunities.”
The positive feedback from participants highlighted the seminar’s effectiveness in enhancing their understanding of carbon markets. Attendees expressed appreciation for the practical insights gained, which they found beneficial for integrating sustainability initiatives into their business strategies.
About Business Environment Council Limited 商界環保協會有限公司
Business Environment Council Limited (“BEC”) is an independent, non-profit membership organisation, established by the business sector in Hong Kong. BEC is also a tax-exempt charitable organisation under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance (Cap 112). Since its establishment in 1992, BEC has been at the forefront of promoting environmental excellence through policy advocacy and driving the uptake of clean technologies and practices which reduce waste, conserve resources, prevent pollution and enhance corporate environmental and social responsibility. BEC offers sustainable solutions and professional services covering advisory, research, assessment, training and award programmes for government, business and the community, thus enabling environmental protection and contributing to the transition to a net-zero economy.
About Sustainability Professionals Association可持續發展專業人員協會
The Sustainability Professionals Association (“SPA”) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting professionalism and excellence within the sustainability industry. Founded in 2023 by a group of experienced sustainability practitioners, SPA aims to empower and support sustainability professionals, ensuring they are recognized and respected for their expertise and contributions to the field.
BEC and SPA host the “Getting Ready for the Carbon Market” seminar, focusing on the vital topics of carbon trading and market development