Driving Change: Join Hong Kong's Green Transport Movement
Transportation plays an integral part in our daily lives, but it also stands as Hong Kong's second-largest source of carbon emissions, accounting for about 18% of the city's total[1]. Most vehicles run on fossil fuel, emitting harmful pollutants and exacerbating air pollution.
To achieve zero carbon emissions in the transport sector before 2050, several initiatives are already in motion. Here is how you can join the green movement:
1. Electrify your ride
Hong Kong boasts a well-developed public transport system serving 90% of daily passenger trips, but there are still 920,000 registered vehicles. Over 70% of them are private cars, which contribute to a quarter of emissions in the transport sector[2].
Before buying a car, ask yourself, do you really need one? If so, consider an electric vehicle (EV). The government has waived the first registration tax on electric commercial vehicles until March 2026 and offers tax concessions for private car buyers[3].
The transition to EV is gaining momentum with initiatives like the New Energy Transport Fund which subsidises the use of green technologies. KMB has already launched the first batch of electric double-deckers last year[4], and 200 electric taxis are expected to hit the roads this year[5].
2. Seek alternatives beyond the wheel
To embrace a healthier and greener lifestyle by walking and cycling.
The government's Hong Kong's Climate Action Plan 2030+ aims to reduce vehicle-based commuting by improving urban planning, expanding the rail network and enhancing walkability.
Walking along the harbourfront is now more enjoyable with better linkages of pedestrian networks on both sides of the Victoria Harbour. Barrier-free access facilities are added to public walkways, and comprehensive pedestrian planning frameworks are adopted for new development areas.
Challenge yourself by biking the six-hour cycling route from Tuen Mun to Ma On Shan, complete by the opening of a 11 km track connecting Yuen Long and Sheung Shui in 2020.
3. Offset carbon footprint
While alternatives to long-distance aviation remain limited, carbon offsetting offers a new way for travellers to offset the environmental impact of air travel by investing in carbon reduction projects. Over 50 airlines, including Cathay Pacific, have introduced an offset program. Additionally, you can always contribute by making direct donations to fund emission reduction projects.
By making sustainable choices in transportation, such as using public transport and walking more, you can contribute to a greener future as well as live a healthier lifestyle.
[1]Hong Kong's Climate Action Plan 2050, https://cnsd.gov.hk/wp-content/uploads/pdf/CAP2050_booklet_en.pdf
[2]Hong Kong's Climate Action Plan 2050, https://cnsd.gov.hk/wp-content/uploads/pdf/CAP2050_booklet_en.pdf
[3]First registration tax concession for electric vehicles, https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/licences_and_permits/vehicle_first_registration/new_frt_concessions_for_electric_vehicles_2018/index.html
[4]KMB’s double-deck electric buses extend service areas to core parts of Kowloon for greener transport, https://kmb.hk/news_detail.html?id=733&year=2023
[5]Fleet of 200 e-taxis set to hit Hong Kong roads by March after industry signs deal with top vehicle maker BYD, https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3245741/fleet-200-e-taxis-set-hit-hong-kong-roads-march-after-industry-signs-deal-top-vehicle-maker-byd