Research
HKUST scientists are committed to tackling looming environmental problems facing the 21st century through an integrated approach with multidisciplinary collaboration. HKUST’s research strengths span across air, water, marine, land, and energy to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
Sustainable Smart Campus as a Living Lab
Our Living Lab program transforms our campus into a testbed for learning, experimentation, and showcasing approaches to sustainability to benefit Hong Kong and our region. Since its launch in 2019, the program has encouraged students, faculty, and operations teams to submit project proposals, with selected initiatives receiving funding for implementation within campus operations. This allows researchers to refine ideas, assess real-world impact, and explore scaling the initiatives to the wider community.
Learn more about the Living Lab program.
Research Institutes and Labs
Institute for the Environment (IENV)
The IENV collaborates with many academic, industrial, and environmental non-governmental partners to conduct research into improving the environment of Hong Kong, the Pearl River Delta, and beyond.
Otto Poon Center for Climate Resilience and Sustainability
The Otto Poon Center for Climate Resilience and Sustainability at HKUST drives cutting-edge research and global collaboration to advance knowledge and technologies for a more sustainable future.
HKUST-KF Joint Laboratory for Sustainable Technologies
The HKUST-KF Joint Laboratory for Sustainable Technologies combines HKUST’s research strength with King’s Flair’s industry expertise to create innovative, eco-friendly materials and products that support carbon neutrality and sustainable living.
JC STEM Lab of Convection and Precipitation
The JC STEM Lab of Convection and Precipitation enhances understanding and prediction of extreme rainfall through advanced data analysis and modeling, supporting better weather response and regional resilience.
Center for Applied Economic Social and Environmental Research (CAESER)
Established in 2009, CAESER aims to promote quantitative analysis of social and economic issues and their impacts on human welfare in both Hong Kong and mainland China
Energy Institute
The HKUST Energy Institute advances sustainable energy through multidisciplinary research, technology, and education, driving solutions that shape policy, nurture talent, and support a low‑carbon future for Hong Kong and beyond.