Over this past decade, more and more business enterprises of various sizes have been increasingly concerned about environmental protection. Moreover, the commercial sector has also increased their understanding of this issue from another perspective. "The eco-friendly attitude has been transformed from a 'nice-to-have' nature, such as holding various corporate social responsibility initiatives like beach-cleaning or tree-planting activities, to a 'musthave' component of an overall business strategy," says Christine Cheung, CEO of the Business Environment Council Limited (BEC). "Corporate management personnel now know that the pursuit of green strategies will directly aid in the running of their businesses, from enhancing a corporation's reputation to increasing overall operational ef ciency as well as saving energy and costs."

From an HR perspective, gen Y and Z employees are relatively less motivated by salary and benefits. Instead they prefer to work in organisations that have a positive culture and values focusing on environmental protection. "A case in point: rather than accept another job offer with a salary higher than ours by several thousand dollars, one of our newest employees chose to work with BEC because of our passion for nurturing a healthier environment for future generations."

BEC is an independent, charitable membership organisation, established by the business sector in Hong Kong. Since beginning operations in 1992, it has been at the forefront of promoting environmental excellence by advocating the adoption of clean technologies and practices that reduce waste, conserve resources, prevent pollution and improve corporate environmental and social responsibility.

"BEC offers sustainable solutions and professional services covering advisory, research, assessment, training and award programmes for government, businesses and the community, enabling greater environmental protection and contributing to the transition to a low carbon economy," adds Cheung. With over 20 years of professional experience in the private sector before joining BEC a few months ago, Cheung has diverse strategic and operational experience in the areas of  nance, human resources, technology, marketing, corporate communications as well as general administration across Asia Paci c and the Americas. Her other current responsibilities include: serving as vice chair of BEC's advisory groups, being a member of HKGCC's Environment and Sustainability Committee; participating as a member of the HKSAR Government's AQOs Review Working Group, plus her role as director of the Hong Kong Green Building Council.

As a former HR strategist and practitioner, Cheung not only brings a business perspective to sustainability but also shares her insights on how HR leaders can steer their companies toward contributing to a better environment, building an organisation-wide culture and aligning people strategies to enhance shareholder value.

Forming coalitions with responsible businesses on sustainable development

BEC currently has close to 200 corporate members. The founding members, including HSBC, CLP, Gammon Construction, Hongkong International Terminals, Jardine Matheson Group, Modern Terminals, PCCW, Shell, Great Eagle, HK Electric, KMB, Swire Pacific, Wheelock and Sino Group shared the same vision and belief 24 years ago that a healthy, stable, serene environment is essential to ensure business success. "Even enterprises that possess strong workforce and valuable business models won't last long if they damage the environment in which we live."

The BEC membership now comprises organisations of all sizes across a diverse range of sectors, covering various leading business, government, academic and community organisations, such as Towngas and HK Electric under public utilities; Hongkong Land, Hysan, Wheelock, Sino Group, Hang Lung Properties, Sun Hung Kai Properties, Henderson Land, Link Asset Management and Kerry Properties under the property sector; PCCW and Hang Seng Bank from the telecommunication and  nance sectors; as well as KMB, Hong Kong International Airport, Hongkong International Terminals and Modern Terminals from the logistic sector, plus many others. "Members also include SMEs which constitute a substantial portion of Hong Kong's economy. In fact, the membership proportion between large-scale corporations and SMEs is relatively equal," she explains.

According to Cheung, BEC membership is open to companies of all sectors that are interested in learning, sharing, or leading responsible business practices that balance economic, social and environmental interests. She adds that the management has just finished developing a strategic plan on membership as they aims to increase representation in various industries such as information technology as well as food and beverage. In fact, many I.T. data centres use high levels of electrical supplies while the processing of kitchen waste has already become a hot topic as well for further discussion.

"BEC is also a valuable and comprehensive platform for local and international SMEs to access a full suite of services and tools," she says. The members can get connected to like-minded organisations in the industry for collaboration, benchmarking and exchange of ideas. They get access to best practices and emerging trends in environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues from business leaders and visionaries via networking conferences and events. Members can also seek opportunities to participate actively in consultations and focus group discussions that shape the Government's policy agenda for Hong Kong's sustainability and competitiveness.

Moreover, members enjoy complimentary VIP passes, priority access or special discounts to conferences, events, training or award programmes supported or hosted by BEC as well as concessionary rates to comprehensive environmental-related services covering baseline assessments and audits, plus research and training that empower organisations to mitigate risk, improve ef ciency and save costs. They are also eligible for special discounts to hire BEC's exhibition, conference and training facilities.

The icon for 'green' buildings

Situated in Kowloon Tong, BEC's headquarters is an environmentally friendly, 4-storey building with a total gross  oor area of about 4,000 sq. m. Constructed in 1996, it was the first commercial building to earn a Platinum rating of Provisional Assessment under the BEAM Plus Existing Buildings (version 1.2), the highest level of recognition under the scheme. Moreover, it has become an iconic standard bearer for a low carbon, sustainably built environment.

An oil-free variable speed, air-cooled chiller has been installed in the headquarters, replacing the old chiller. This together with a weather station on the roof to collect data for enhanced efficient control of the chiller through the building management system, plus an LED lighting system, light and motion sensors and smart metering, all help minimise overall energy use in the building.

Water savings is another focus within BEC's headquarters with a special rainwater collection system, along with low flow water taps and a dual-  ush system in the washrooms. Moreover, waste and recycling facilities plus continuous waste audit and waste management systems, and the implementation of regular monitoring of indoor air quality are additional key components of this unique green building.