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Opinion | Hong Kong should become a stage for green mega-events
In a world increasingly concerned about environmental impact, the success of the city’s mega-events must go beyond attendance
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Hong Kong’s stature as a host of world-class mega-events is growing. Headline-making events – from Art Basel and the Hong Kong Sevens to the Coldplay concerts – stimulate economic growth, create jobs and enhance the city’s reputation as a vibrant international destination.
Major events in the first half of 2025 are expected to attract 840,000 visitors and generate HK$3.3 billion in spending, as well as HK$1.8 billion in additional economic value.
The success of such events goes beyond attendance and revenue, however, as global audiences and investors increasingly focus on environmental impact, particularly carbon emissions. Decarbonising these events is both essential and an opportunity for Hong Kong to lead the region in sustainability, thereby boosting its reputation as a progressive global city.
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This November, all eyes will be on southern China as the 15th National Games unfold for the first time across Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau. More than a sporting milestone, the games are a significant opportunity to promote sustainable practices.
Large-scale events worldwide are notorious for their carbon emissions, energy consumption and waste. The influx of visitors, increased demand for transport, extensive on-site catering and significant waste generation further contribute to the environmental burden.
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The challenge for Hong Kong, which is striving to become a sustainable city, is clear: how can it balance economic gain with environmental responsibility and utilise mega-events as a catalyst for green transformation?
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