Mark Webb Johnson - Chairman of Charged Hong Kong

Good morning, and thank you for tuning in. Imagine this: a bustling city where the air is cleaner, the streets less clogged, and our daily commutes not only get us from A to B but also protect the planet for generations to come. That’s the vision of sustainable transport, and here in Hong Kong, it’s not just a dream; it's a necessity we’re already chasing. I’m Mark Webb-Johnson, and over the next few minutes, I’ll take you on a journey through why sustainable transport matters, the unique challenges we face in our vibrant city, and the steps we can all take to drive positive change.

Firstly, what exactly is sustainable transport? At its core, it’s about moving people and goods in ways that minimize environmental harm, promote social equity, and support economic growth. Think low-emission vehicles, efficient public transit, cycling and walking friendly urban designs. Globally, the transportation sector accounts for about a quarter of all energy related greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change, air pollution, and health issues such as respiratory diseases. But in a compact, high-density city like Hong Kong, the stakes are even higher. Our transport system is amazing, but it’s also under immense pressure.

Let’s talk about Hong Kong’s reality. Our city thrives on connectivity. The MTR, our underground lifeline, carries millions daily with remarkable reliability. Buses, ferries, and trams weave through our iconic skyline, whilst private cars, though fewer per capita than in many places, still jam our roads during peak hours. Yet, this comes at a cost. Air quality remains a concern; roadside pollution from diesel vehicles often exceeds safe levels; especially 1 2 in areas like Causeway Bay or Mong Kok. According to recent data, transport contributes around 18% of our local carbon emissions, exacerbating global warming and our vulnerability to extreme weather such as the increase in super typhoons.

But the good news is that Hong Kong is stepping up. Our government has ambitious goals under the Roadmap on Popularisation of Electric Vehicles; aiming for zero vehicular emissions by 2050. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a surge in electric vehicles - with two-thirds of new private vehicle registrations recently being electric. This growth is supported by incentives such as first registration tax waivers, but also an expanding charging network such as the EHSS scheme that is bringing charging to 140,000 of our home parking spaces. Imagine swapping your petrol car for an EV: quieter rides, lower running costs, and a smaller carbon footprint. Both CLP and HK Electric are working to help make this seamless.


But sustainable transport isn’t just about cars. It’s about rethinking how we move. Public transport is our backbone, with over 90% of daily trips relying on it. Our fully electric MTR network is the foundation of this, and we must continue to push for full electrification of our bus fleets; Shenzhen achieved that, and so can we. In a city once deemed too hilly for cycling, initiatives like the New Territories Cycle Track Network are changing that. Stretching over 82 kilometers, these paths connect communities from Tsuen Wan to Sheung Shui, promoting exercise and cutting emissions. And let’s not forget walking: pedestrianization schemes in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui are turning concrete 2 3 jungles into lively, green spaces, reducing noise and pollution while boosting local businesses.

Of course, challenges persist. Our geography, with hilly terrain and limited space, leads to narrow roads. But ride-sharing apps and new taxi fleets are bridging gaps, and the government’s Smart City Blueprint integrates technologies like real-time traffic apps to optimise flows.

Sustainability also ties into equity. From high-rise buildings to rural villages, we must ensure everyone benefits. Subsidies for low-income families to access green transport, or better connectivity to outlying islands via electric ferries. It’s about building a system that’s inclusive, not just eco-friendly.

So, what can each of us do to help? Start small: opt for the MTR or bus over a taxi. If you’re in the market for a car, go electric, and check out the One-for-One Replacement Scheme to help the move from petrol or diesel to electric. Advocate for more green spaces. Businesses can and should invest in employee shuttles and EV fleets. Together, these actions add up. In closing, Hong Kong’s path to sustainable transport is paved with potential. By embracing EVs, enhancing public systems, and fostering active mobility, we can curb emissions, improve health, and preserve our city’s unique energy. Let’s commit to this ride together, for a cleaner, brighter future. Thank you for listening.