A Thriving Future for Nature and Cities

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Today, more than four billion people live in cities around the world, a number that is expected to double by 2050. As urban areas relentlessly expand, the decisions we make now will shape the liveability, resilience and sustainability of our planet. Urban centres lie at the core of both the climate crisis and its solutions, making sustainable city development a vital route to achieving global climate goals.

Rapid urbanisation places immerse pressure on natural resources and public health, but also presents powerful opportunities to rethink how humanity lives, builds and grows. Truly sustainable cities carefully balance environmental stewardship, social equity and economic vitality. By redesigning urban spaces to work in harmony with nature, we can cut emissions, boost resilience, improve human and natural health, and enhance quality of life for everyone.

Through strong partnerships with businesses, policymakers and local communities, WWF-Hong Kong is driving transformations that will shape a more sustainable future. We collaborate with diverse organisations to co-develop climate-friendly initiatives that tackle carbon emissions, encourage responsible consumption and deliver long-term value for society.

Advancing Sustainable Development through Organic Farming

With generous support from the Shanghai Commercial Bank, WWF-Hong Kong launched an organic farming programme at our Island House Conservation Studies Centre this year. This partnership reflects a shared vision to promote sustainable development, encourage responsible living and create a lasting positive impact on society and the environment.  

WWF-Hong Kong

The collaboration focuses on enhancing the efficiency and resilience of organic farming practices while ensuring that the farm contributes to the local ecosystem. By conducting continuous improvement activities – upgrading irrigation systems, optimising soil conditions and performing essential farming activities like planting, fertilising, harvesting, and weeding, the programme takes a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture.

The programme is also a vital platform for public education and engagement. Offering guided tours and experiential workshops for individuals and corporate groups, the initiative is spreading understanding of organic farming principles and showcasing the importance of smart farming and sustainable living. Participants also gain practical insights into how sustainable agricultural practices contribute to ecological balance and community wellbeing.

This collaboration with Shanghai Commercial Bank underscores the power of corporate partnerships in driving sustainability, and supporting a greener and more resilient future.

WWF-Hong Kong

Turning Plastic Waste into Positive Change

Hong Kong is facing an urgent waste crisis. In 2023, the city sent over 5.39 million tonnes of municipal solid waste to its landfills – an average of 15,783 tonnes per day. To begin addressing the plastic component of this waste challenge, the Hong Kong government implemented the Plastic Shopping Bag Charging Scheme in 2015. This was strengthened in 2022 by increasing the levy from 50 cents to $1 per bag.

Translating this policy directly into environmental action, WWF-Hong Kong has partnered with forward-thinking retailers to channel the proceeds from the levy into vital conservation work. Through the “Plastic is NOT Fantastic” donation campaign, our corporate partners contribute their plastic bag charge fees to WWF-Hong Kong initiatives. Leading brands like AIGLE, city’super, LOG-ON, and Satami have joined the coalition, with their donations directly funding WWF-Hong Kong’s work in marine protection, waste reduction and community education.

This partnership supports critical conservation efforts and advances corporate ESG goals, enhancing brand reputation and demonstrating a commitment to making Hong Kong Asia’s most sustainable city.

Sustainable Manufacturing in a New Era: The Wing Ka Shing Story

WWF-Hong Kong’s Low Carbon Manufacturing Programme (LCMP) empowers manufacturers to decarbonise their operations. The LCMP provides a structured framework for factories to measure their carbon footprints and implement effective reduction strategies guided by an independent verification process. Aligning with science-based climate goals, the LCMP helps manufacturers enhance their environmental performance and market competitiveness.

From its humble beginnings as a small knitting factory in 1979, Wing Ka Shing Knitwear Co., Ltd. of Dongguan has grown into a modern manufacturer producing over eight million clothing items annually. Confronted with industry challenges defined by rising prices, tariffs and customer expectations, the company made the strategic decision to embed sustainability into all its operations. This led them to join WWF-Hong Kong’s LCMP in 2022 – since then they have earned Gold Label status twice. Factory Manager Mr Sam Liang believes this shift was essential to success, saying “We are fortunate that management prioritises strategic sustainability. They understand the importance of long-term development and are willing to invest in environmental projects.”

WWF-Hong Kong

The company’s abiding commitment to sustainability is reflected in major investments, including a multi-million RMB solar power system that now supplies 40% of the factory’s energy needs. They also drive operational efficiency through real-time energy monitoring, upgraded motors and heat recovery systems. In addition to technology, Wing Ka Shing leverages the LCMP framework to actively engage staff in meeting ambitious emissions reduction targets, using interactive training and practical examples to foster a culture of environmental responsibility at all levels.  

WWF-Hong Kong

Wing Ka Shing’s journey demonstrates that responsible manufacturing is a strategic investment that pays significant dividends. By combining innovative technology with an engaged workforce, the company is building a legacy that exemplifies how business success and a healthy planet go hand in hand.

Learn more about LCMP

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