Engineering a decarbonised future for the buildings in Hong Kong

The The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) has been a key pillar of support to the Hong Kong Green Tech Challenge - Green Building Edition. As we near the end of the Challenge, Prof. Alfred, CEO of HKIE, shares his thoughts with Carbonless Asia ’s Community Lead, ?? Fangqin Chuah (蔡枋芩) .??

Prof. Alfred Sit Wing-hang has held key roles in Hong Kong’s public sector, including Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services and Secretary for Innovation and Technology (2020-2022). He oversaw energy efficiency, safety, and smart city initiatives, and contributed to I&T development. Recognised with the Gold Bauhinia Star, Prof. Sit now serves as CEO of HKIE, Senior Advisor at 香港浸会大学 , and a professor at multiple institutions, continuing his leadership in innovation and engineering.

Alfred, thank you for the interview. Could you begin by telling us about your experience in the green tech and sustainability sectors??

I have dedicated over 30 years to the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), where I have served as the Director as well as? the head of the Energy Efficiency Office, leading efforts to promote energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy in Hong Kong. Throughout my tenure, I spearheaded a range of initiatives, including drafting and implementing energy saving legislation, financial incentive schemes, infrastructure projects, as well as introducing innovative technologies.

It has been great to have you on the Expert Panel for the Hong Kong Green Tech Challenge. What was it that drew you to contribute your expertise?

It is clear that climate change poses a critical threat to humanity, and the journey towards sustainability is of paramount importance to us all. Through this initiative, I hope to elevate public awareness and foster a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainable development. I see the Hong Kong Green Tech Challenge as a particularly promising platform for increasing awareness of how innovative technologies can play a transformative role in addressing this global issue.

As a judge, what did you focus on when evaluating the startups in the Challenge? What qualities or innovations were you most interested in?

I focused more on the significant impact that startups can have on sustainable development, especially those whose applications focus on supporting underserved communities. Green technology has immense potential to combat climate change through adaptation, resilience, and mitigation initiatives. I was keen to see more startups working to reduce carbon emissions through pioneering green technologies.

What would you say are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing green tech startups breaking into the Hong Kong market today??

The biggest challenge facing green tech startups today is the lack of investment needed to support their development. However, the growing public awareness of the importance of green tech in achieving sustainability presents a significant opportunity. Platforms like the Green Tech Challenge play a crucial role in amplifying this awareness.

Beyond the Challenge, how do you view the future of the Green Tech landscape in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region?

I remain confident in the future of Green Tech development in Hong Kong. With robust research capabilities from top universities and strong policy and financial backing from the HKSAR Government, we are on a progressive path toward elevating Green Tech innovation.

If you had one advice for Green Tech startups, what would it be?

My advice to Green Tech startups is to maximise every opportunity to increase visibility and attract support—whether through challenges like this one or other platforms. With a significant way to go to achieve carbon neutrality, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions. Now is the time to seize that demand and drive the development of technologies that will lead us to a sustainable future.