PRINCIPLES, LAWS, AND REGULATIONS
HONG KONG'S POLICIES AND REGULATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
As sustainability becomes a global priority, Hong Kong has increasingly strengthened its regulatory framework to align with environmental and social goals, directly impacting the hospitality sector. Hotels and related businesses must adhere to evolving policies, ordinances, and laws governing areas such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and biodiversity protection.
Non-compliance can lead to financial penalties, legal repercussions, and reputational harm, while proactive alignment offers opportunities to enhance operational resilience, attract eco-conscious guests, and contribute to Hong Kong’s sustainability vision. This section outlines key regulations, being categorized under the three pillars of GREEN Hospitality, which collectively shape responsible practices.
By staying informed and integrating these standards, hospitality stakeholders can not only meet legal obligations but also drive innovation, reduce costs, and position themselves as leaders in sustainable development. Explore the resources below to navigate Hong Kong’s regulatory landscape and advance your sustainability journey.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION ONE: GENERAL PRINCIPLES FROM INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ORGANIZATIONS CONCERNING SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY
1.1 Internationally recognized organization’s strategic plans towards sustainable development in hospitality industry
I
Principles on Forced Labour for the hospitality industry
Publisher: World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
Year of publication: 2022
Description: These principles provide a framework for hotels and hospitality businesses to prevent, identify, and eliminate forced labor in their operations and supply chains. Aligned with international standards like the ILO Forced Labour Convention and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, they address modern slavery risks inherent in global hospitality supply chains (e.g., construction, textiles, food sourcing, and migrant labor)
II
Global Code of Ethics For Tourism
Publisher: UN Tourism
Year of publication: 1999
Description: A set of 10 principles promoting responsible, ethical, and sustainable tourism. It emphasizes cultural respect,
environmental protection, and equitable benefits for local communities
III
Publisher: World Travel & Tourism Council
Year of publication: 2022
Description: Hotel Sustainability Basics is a globally recognised and coordinated set of sustainability indicators that all hotels should implement as a minimum. Developed by the industry for the industry, they represent the 12 actions that are fundamental to hotel sustainability. WTTC is calling on destinations and accommodation stakeholders around the world to implement the criteria and raise the bar of sustainability in the sector
IV
Publisher: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Year of publication: 2010
Description: the Circular Economy Principles provide guidelines to eliminate waste and promote circular resource use (e.g., recycling, upcycling). Applied to hotel operations like waste management
V
Global Sustainable Tourism Council Standards
Publisher: Global Sustainable Tourism Council
Year of publication: 2008
Description: The GSTC Standards (known previously as GSTC Criteria) serve as the global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism. The Standards are used for education and awareness-raising, policy-making for businesses and government agencies and other organization types, measurement and evaluation, and as a basis for certification
1.2 Internationally recognized organization’s frameworks towards sustainable development in hospitality industry
I
Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality v2.0 Framework
Publisher: World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
Year of publication: 2023
Description: The Net Positive Hospitality v2.0 Framework is a comprehensive roadmap designed to guide the global hospitality industry toward achieving net-positive impacts—meaning businesses give back more to the environment and society than they take. This updated framework builds on its predecessor to address urgent sustainability challenges, aligning with global goals like the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
II
Travalyst Accommodation Framework
Publisher: Travalyst
Year of publication: 2022
Description: Travalyst developed its Accommodation Framework to drive industry-wide sustainability standards for hotels, lodges, and other lodging providers. The framework aims to harmonize sustainability practices, empower travelers to make eco-conscious choices, and reduce the environmental and social footprint of accommodations globally
III
Global Tourism Plastics Initiative
Publisher: UN Tourism
Year of publication: 2020
Description: The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative is a global commitment to reduce plastic pollution in the tourism sector. It aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water)a
IV
Social Transformation Framework
Publisher: World Benchmarking Alliance
Year of publication: 2021
Description: This framework explains how the World Benchmarking Alliance assesses and incentivises the 2,000 most influential companies to support social transformation. It sets out expectations that companies should meet in order to leave no one behind, support the SDGs and help create a future that works for everyone
V
Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI)
Publisher: World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
Year of publication: 2021
Description: Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) is a methodology and free tool for hotels to calculate the carbon footprint of hotel stays and meetings in their properties
VI
Hotel Water Measurement Initiative (HWMI)
Publisher: World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
Year of publication: 2017
Description: Hotel Water Measurement Initiative (HWMI) is a methodology and tool for hotels to calculate the water use in their properties
SECTION TWO: GENERAL PRINCIPLES FROM THE HONG KONG GOVERNMENT CONCERNING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
2.1 Hong Kong Government’s strategic plans towards sustainable development
I
Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2030+
Publisher: Environment Bureau
Year of publication: 2017
Description: The Hong Kong Green Building Council’s Climate Action Plan outlines strategic measures to achieve carbon neutrality and enhance sustainability in Hong Kong’s built environment through green building practices, energy efficiency improvements, and collaborative stakeholder engagement
II
Hong Kong Climate Action Plan 2050
Publisher: Council for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development (CCNSD)
Year of publication: 2021
Description: The “Climate Action Plan 2050” outlines Hong Kong’s strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through reducing emissions, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing climate resilience across energy, transport, waste, and urban planning sectors
III
Clean Air Plan For Hong Kong 2035
Publisher: Environment Bureau, Transport and Housing Bureau, Food and Health Bureau, and Development Bureau
Year of publication: 2021
Description: The Hong Kong Clean Air Plan 2035 is a comprehensive government strategy outlining targeted measures and initiatives to improve air quality, safeguard public health, and achieve a carbon-neutral, livable city by 2035 through cross-sector collaboration, emission reduction policies, and sustainable development practices
IV
Hong Kong Smart City Blueprint 2.0
Publisher: Innovation and Technology Bureau
Year of publication: 2020
Description: The Hong Kong Smart City Blueprint 2.0 is a strategic government initiative leveraging technology and innovation to enhance urban management, sustainability, and economic efficiency, aiming to improve citizens’ quality of life and position Hong Kong as a globally leading smart city
V
Hong Kong Blueprint for Sustainable Use of Resources (2013–2022)
Publisher: Environment Bureau
Year of publication: 2013
Description: The Hong Kong Blueprint for Sustainable Use of Resources (2013–2022) is a strategic policy framework outlining initiatives and targets to reduce waste, enhance recycling, and promote sustainable resource management through public engagement, legislation, and infrastructure development for long-term environmental sustainability
VI
Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0
Publisher: Culture, Sports, and Tourism Bureau
Year of publication: 2024
Description: The Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 is a strategic plan outlining initiatives to enhance the region's tourism sector through sustainable development, cultural and creative experiences, infrastructure improvements, and collaboration with stakeholders to bolster economic growth and global competitiveness.
VII
Publisher: Planning Department
Year of publication: 2021
Description: The Hong Kong 2030+ plan is a strategic long-term development blueprint by the Hong Kong government that outlines spatial planning, sustainable growth strategies, and initiatives to enhance quality of life, address population and climate challenges, and promote regional integration with the Greater Bay Area
2.2 Sustainability frameworks in Hong Kong
I
Guiding Principles of Hong Kong’s Sustainable Development
Publisher: Environment and Ecology Bureau
Year of publication: 2021
Description: This guiding principle by the Hong Kong government outlines a holistic framework for sustainable development, integrating environmental protection, social equity, and economic growth through collaborative policy-making and balanced long-term planning
II
Roadmap on Sustainability Disclosure in Hong Kong: Ambition.Assurance.Enablement
Publisher: Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB)
Year of publication: 2024
Description: The Hong Kong Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau's 2024 Roadmap outlines strategic initiatives to strengthen the city’s role as a global financial hub by fostering innovation, sustainable finance, market competitiveness, and deeper integration with Mainland China’s development
III
Year of publication: 2014
Description: This Hong Kong government consultation document outlines a plan to revitalize local agriculture through sustainable practices, technological modernization, and enhanced food security while addressing urban development challenges
IV
Construction 2.0: Time to change
Publisher: Development Bureau
Year of publication: 2018
Description: The Construction 2.0 plan outlines a strategic initiative to modernize the construction industry through innovation, digital technologies (e.g., BIM, AI), sustainability practices, enhanced safety, and workforce development to improve quality, productivity, and professionalism
V
Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2021
Publisher: Environment Bureau
Year of publication: 2016
Description: The Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2016-2021) is a comprehensive framework outlining strategies and actions to conserve biodiversity, enhance public awareness, and promote sustainable use of natural resources in Hong Kong through collaborative efforts among government, stakeholders, and the community
VI
Year of Publication: 2015
Description: The Energy Saving Plan for Hong Kong’s Built Environment 2015~2025+ is a government-led strategy aimed at reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions in buildings through regulatory measures, technological upgrades, and public engagement to promote sustainable urban development.
VII
Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles
Publisher: Environment Bureau
Year of publication: 2021
Description: The Hong Kong Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles outlines the government's strategies to achieve widespread Electric Vehicles (EV) adoption by expanding charging infrastructure, providing incentives, phasing out fossil fuel-powered vehicles by 2035, and advancing carbon neutrality goals
VIII
Total Water Management Strategy 2019
Publisher: Development Bureau and Water Supplies Department
Year of publication: 2022
Description: The Total Water Management Strategy 2019 is Hong Kong's holistic plan to ensure sustainable water security through diversified resources, demand management, advanced technology, public engagement, and climate resilience measures
SECTION THREE: LAWS AND REGULATIONS RELATED TO THE ROADMAP THREE PILLARS
3.1 Energy & Infrastructure
3.1.1 Energy Efficiency
I
Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance (Cap. 610)
Description: The Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance (Cap. 610) is a Hong Kong law establishing mandatory energy efficiency standards for building services installations (e.g., air conditioning, lighting, lifts) in commercial and residential buildings, requiring compliance with the Building Energy Code to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability
II
Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Ordinance (Cap. 598)
Description: The Energy Efficiency (Labelling of Products) Ordinance (Cap. 598) is a Hong Kong regulation requiring specific products to display energy efficiency labels, empowering consumers to make informed choices and promoting energy conservation through improved product standards
3.1.2 Water Conservation
I
Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS)
Description: The Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS) is a Hong Kong government initiative that rates water-using products based on their efficiency to promote water conservation by helping consumers make informed, water-saving choices
3.2 Waste Management & Circularity
3.2.1 Food Waste Management
I
Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap. 354)
Description: The Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap. 354) is a Hong Kong law regulating waste management practices, including collection, treatment, disposal, and enforcement of licensing requirements, to prevent pollution and protect public health
II
Municipal Solid Waste Charging Scheme (2024)
Description: The Municipal Solid Waste Charging Scheme (2024) is a Hong Kong initiative implementing a pay-as-you-throw system requiring residents and businesses to use designated bags or labels for waste disposal, aiming to reduce landfill waste and promote recycling for environmental sustainability. It is now being deferred indefinitely
3.2.2 Plastic Reduction
I
Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance (Cap. 603)
Description: The Product Eco-responsibility Ordinance (Cap. 603) is a Hong Kong law establishing a regulatory framework to reduce environmental impact by imposing eco-responsibility measures, such as levies or recycling schemes, on specified products to promote sustainable waste management and resource recovery
II
Regulation on Disposable Plastic Tableware
Description: The Regulation on Disposable Plastic Tableware is a policy that restricts or bans single-use plastic items in food service to reduce environmental pollution and encourage adoption of sustainable alternatives
3.2.3 Other Waste Management
I
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ordinance (Cap. 603)
Description: The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ordinance (Cap. 603) is a Hong Kong regulation that establishes a producer responsibility scheme to ensure proper collection, recycling, and disposal of e-waste, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices
3.3 Sourcing & Biodiversity
3.3.1 Supply chain ethics
I
Guidance on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Description: The Guidance on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by the Hong Kong government outlines principles and practices for businesses to integrate social, environmental, and ethical considerations into their operations, fostering sustainable development and responsible corporate behavior
II
Description: Listed companies in Hong Kong are obligated to report on various aspects of ESG – environmental, social, and governance – predominantly following a comply-or-explain approach
3.3.2 Traceability of food and non-food items
I
Food Safety Ordinance (Cap. 612)
Description: The Food Safety Ordinance (Cap. 612) is a Hong Kong law establishing a regulatory framework to ensure food safety through surveillance, traceability systems, and control measures, safeguarding public health by regulating food from production to sale
3.3.3 Biodiversity
I
Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586)
Description: The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586) is a Hong Kong legislative measure that regulates the import, export, possession, and trade of endangered species to align with international conventions like The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(CITES), ensuring their conservation and sustainable use
II
Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499)
Description: The Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) is a Hong Kong regulatory framework requiring environmental impact assessments for designated projects to ensure environmental protection and sustainable development through evaluation, public consultation, and governmental approval
III
Air Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 311)
Description: The Air Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 311) is a Hong Kong law aimed at regulating and mitigating air pollution by controlling emissions, setting air quality standards, and enforcing measures to protect public health and the environment
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GREEN Hospitality provides access to sustainability-related policies, laws, and regulations in Hong Kong for informational purposes only. While we strive to share valuable content, we do not guarantee the most updated versions of these materials. GREEN Hospitality assumes no responsibility for outcomes related to the use of these resources and disclaims all liability for
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