Speech by SEN at 4-in-1 infrastructure trade show (English only)
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    Following is the speech by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, at the opening ceremony of 2008 Asian Elenex, Asian Building Technologies, Asian Building Interiors and Asian Securitex today (June 4):

Mr Cheung, Mr Poon, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    Good morning.  It gives me great pleasure to be here today to officiate at the opening ceremony of 2008 Asian Elenex, Asian Building Technologies, Asian Building Interiors and Asian Securitex. To those who have travelled from other parts of the world to attend this event, may I extend to you a very warm welcome to Hong Kong.

    This four-in-one biennial infrastructure trade show is a timely event to promote the flow of trade information, not only in the area of building services, but also in electrical engineering and security.  With more than 700 participating companies and trade associations from different parts of the world, the event will provide a valuable opportunity for suppliers and trade stakeholders to meet.  The industry seminars to be held concurrently will definitely facilitate the exchange of experience on various issues, including environmental issues such as indoor air quality and building energy efficiency.

    With the increasing concerns over high energy prices and the threat of climate change, countries around the world have been placing more emphasis on the efficient use of energy.  According to the International Energy Association, the global primary energy demand is projected to grow by 55% between 2005 and 2030. About half of the expected increase will be accounted for by increases in Asia, especially in China and India, and this will open up business opportunities.

    I notice that the theme of one of the technical seminars is on energy efficient and sustainable buildings. Energy efficiency is an effective way to address energy shortage and climate change challenges.  Through joint efforts, we will be able to reduce our energy consumption and lower our carbon footprints, contributing significantly to a sustainable environment for our present and future generations.

    The exchange of experience and sharing of knowledge on new energy efficient technologies through this trade show and its associated seminars is important for Hong Kong. Though Hong Kongˇ¦s per capita electricity consumption is lower than many economies with a similar level of economic development, our total energy consumption still recorded an annual increase of 1.3% on average between 1995 and 2005.  We will endeavour to achieve the energy intensity reduction target set by the Asia Pacific Economic Forum last year, which is to reduce energy intensity by at least 25% by 2030 when compared with 2005.  This target has been put in our Policy Address last year.

    We are firmly committed to various policies in enhancing the energy efficiency of our city.  We have just implemented a mandatory Energy Efficiency Labelling Scheme for energy-using products, covering room air-conditioners, refrigerating appliances and compact fluorescent lamps in its first phase.  To maximise the environmental benefits in using energy-efficient products, we will gradually extend the scheme to cover other products. There will be an increasing market demand for energy efficient products in Hong Kong.

    As buildings account for 89% of the total electricity consumption of Hong Kong, we have just completed a public consultation on the proposed mandatory implementation of the Building Energy Codes.  With the overwhelming support of the professional bodies and the general public, we are now preparing the relevant legislative proposal to improve energy efficiency and conservation in buildings. This will create a significant market opportunity for energy efficient building technologies.

    With our advanced infrastructure and human capital, Hong Kong is well placed to be a hub for green business and a centre of excellence in the latest technological applications for sustainability. With your staunch support and contribution, I am confident that we can achieve this common goal.

    Finally, I would like to congratulate Hong Kong Exhibition Services Ltd for organising this meaningful event.  I wish all of you a most happy and enjoyable experience in the trade show as well as during your stay in Hong Kong.

Ends/Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:24

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