Low carbon deal struck in Hong Kong
27th June 2013
Scotland’s reputation as a global authority on low carbon technology will be internationally recognised today with the signing of an agreement with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.
Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s Minister for External Affairs and International Development, supported by Anne MacColl, chief executive of Scottish Development International (SDI), will witness the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Hong Kong.
The objective of the agreement is to develop a framework for cooperation and knowledge transfer between Scotland and Hong Kong in the low carbon sector.
The purpose of this is to support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s aim of developing a low carbon technology hub with a view to addressing the three biggest environmental issues for Hong Kong: air quality, building construction and waste management.
Hong Kong is particularly keen to facilitate collaboration and partnership with Scotland, by hosting Scottish low carbon companies and providing facilities for their research and development at Hong Kong Science Park.
This opportunity, brokered by Scottish Development International, will provide ambitious Scottish companies with greater opportunity for commercial introductions into Greater China and Asia.
Minister and Mr. Tan have a discussion on the rooftop of the Green BuildingAreas in which where future cooperation is anticipated include:
• Biofuels and bioenergy
• Clean transport initiatives
• Low Carbon finance, education, policy and market structure
• Smart sustainable cities and islands
• Waste Management
• Low carbon sustainable building construction
• Renewable energy
• Air quality
Mr Yousaf said:“Scotland has the skills, the know-how and the low carbon technology to help tackle the world’s environmental challenges, and this agreement will reinforce our reputation as a global leader in this field. I am delighted to witness the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding which will open the door to further international collaboration on sustainable development and research.”
Mr. Nicholas Brooke, Chairman of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) said:“I am confident that the signing of this MOU will drive closer collaboration between HKSTPC and Scottish companies, particularly in the area of green technology development. We hope it will encourage and accelerate research and development partnerships and exchanges between both locations. We warmly welcome Scottish low carbon companies to make Hong Kong Science Park their home in Asia.”
Tour of the Green buildingMr. E Anthony Tan, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTPC explained:“Hong Kong Science Park’s Phase 3 is currently being developed and is scheduled to complete in stages from early 2014 to 2016. Employing an array of green features, this latest phase of the Park will become a living laboratory to showcase green technologies. Phase 3 aims to be carbon neutral in the long run and will be the perfect base for low carbon companies.”
Anne MacColl added:“This agreement sends a clear message that Scotland is one of the world’s leading authorities on low carbon energy developments.
“As a nation, Scotland has significant expertise in this field thanks to our world-class universities and dynamic renewable energy industry. We are proud to be able to share some of our best practice in areas such as biofuels, climate-friendly transportation and climate-resilient resource management with other nations.
“With increasing worldwide demand for innovative technologies that tackle pollution, manage waste and reduce carbon, there is significant economic opportunity for Scotland to gain early competitive advantage through the adaptation of existing technology and the design and development of new products and services.
“Today’s agreement with Hong Kong is just one example of how we are working with international partners to facilitate opportunities for Scottish companies to enter new markets with vast opportunity for development.”
The Scottish Government, through Scottish Enterprise and international arm Scottish Development International, is committed to supporting Scotland’s businesses to make the transition to a low carbon economy as well as helping them seize new international market opportunities.
