HKUST Advances Sustainability Leadership: Key Achievements in 2023/2024

In alignment with its 2031 Strategic Plan, HKUST has reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a global leader in sustainability and quality practices. The University’s recently published Net-Zero Action Plan outlines a clear roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, reinforcing its dedication to climate action. Additionally, HKUST continues to make strides toward its 2028 Sustainability Challenge, with a strong focus on community well-being and biodiversity. 

The latest ESG Report highlights HKUST’s sustainability achievements in the 2023/24 academic year, showcasing tangible progress in operations, education, and partnerships. Below are some of the key milestones: 

Global Recognition & Partnerships 

• THE Impact Rankings Debut: HKUST secured 19th place worldwide and ranked first in Hong Kong and Mainland China, reflecting its leadership in sustainability. 

• Expanding Sustainability Networks: Through partnerships like the Joint Declaration on Embracing a Living Lab Approach to Promote Carbon Neutrality, HKUST strengthens its role in global sustainability initiatives, including memberships in ISCN, AASHE, and HKSCC. 

Innovative Reporting & Climate Leadership 

• Enhanced ESG Transparency: Adopted double materiality methodology and the TCFD 

Sustainable Campus Transformation 

• Net-Zero Building Standards & Campus Renewal: 

• New policies include net-zero building standards and a tree felling policy, with a long-term Campus Renewal Plan extending through 2035. 

• Staff Quarters Tower D will feature cutting-edge sustainability upgrades, such as solar-integrated façades, cool roof paint, recycled materials, and enhanced daylighting. 

• Waste & Energy Success: 

• 47% reduction in landfill waste (toward a 75% goal by 2028 vs. 2014). 

• Despite campus expansion, electricity use rose only 3.9% (vs. 2014), while greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 34% (vs. 2014). 

Community Engagement & Well-Being 

• Outreach Initiatives: 

• 1,500+ participants in the DEI workshops, 5,000+ in the open dialogue exhibitions, 2,500+ in mental health activities, and 660 volunteer opportunities with 34 community partners. 

• Improved Staff Well-Being: 

• 86% increase in Net Promoter Score for non-academic staff and 21% decrease among academics. 

Awards & Academic Excellence 

• ISCN Best Practices Report Award 2024: Recognized for upcycling felled trees to reduce embodied carbon in construction. 

• Sustainability Education: 94% of graduates took at least one sustainability course in their undergraudate education. 

• Sustainability Living Lab: Funded six projects (HK$4M total), engaging 504 visitors and 39 collaborators. 

Looking Ahead 

HKUST remains steadfast in its mission to integrate sustainability across all operations, research, and education. With ambitious net-zero and 2028 targets, the University is paving the way for a greener, more inclusive future. 

Join us in this journey—learn more at HKUST Sustainability.