Hong Kong Metro operator, MTR Corporation (MTRC) is setting a new standard for sustainable transportation with its latest railway projects. Seven new stations under development have been awarded "BEAM Plus" Provisional Gold or above certification.
Additionally, MTRC is collaborating with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology to develop software that quantifies the embodied carbon of new projects, further aiding in low-carbon construction practices.
These stations, including the Tung Chung Line Extension and Tuen Mun South Extension, are expected to achieve a 20% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional stations, translating to 900 tons less carbon per year – the equivalent of planting over 40,000 trees. This achievement is in tune with MTRC's "Keep Cities Moving" vision, which prioritises both mobility and sustainability.
"The BEAM Plus accreditation is a strong endorsement of our commitment to carbon reduction," said Mr Carl Devlin, capital works director of MTRC. "We are integrating innovative green initiatives into the design and construction of these stations, creating a new generation of low-carbon infrastructure that serves liveable communities and contributes to a carbon-neutral Hong Kong."
The new stations prioritise two key aspects of sustainable design: community integration and resource efficiency. This includes features like natural ventilation, energy-saving lighting, and rainwater harvesting systems.
Sustainable design elements feature prominently in the Tuen Mun South station which has a purposely open design to help with ventilation and natural airflow. Sustainability is also a key concept at other stations with natural green roofs helping reduce indoor temperatures alongside the installation of solar panels to recycle the energy created for the station's electricity reserves.
A large scale district cooling system has been installed also along some of the lines, reducing energy consumption even further.
Last week, the operator revealed their new Q-Train design which has been built by the Chinese manufacturer, CRRC. The new trains are part of a bigger fleet renewal system and also boast carbon reduction credentials.
Photo Credit: Hong Kong Metro/MTR
