HK Bank Foundation launches pilot scheme to promote adoption of electric vehicles

The Hongkong Bank Foundation is partnering with The Conservancy Association to launch a local Green Rehabilitation Bus Pilot Scheme (Green Rehabus), to help Hong Kong NGOs switch to electric vehicles when providing transport services for people with disabilities or mobility difficulties.

Seven local NGOs will be selected to participate in the three-year Pilot Scheme. Each will receive an electric bus – a Green Rehabus – with barrier-free facilities, as well as support in setting up charging facilities and optimising bus routes to conserve energy. During the Pilot Scheme, the Green Rehabus fleet is expected to serve over 80,000 users and reduce CO2 emissions equivalent to planting 2,000 new trees.

This Pilot Scheme aims to make long-term impact by helping accessible transport service providers transition to low-carbon operations. From the experience of this Pilot Scheme, a comprehensive guide will be prepared for other NGOs looking to switch to electric rehabilitation buses. In addition, an impact financing guidance tool will be developed to help NGOs gain access to financing for greening their fleets.

Supporting organisations of the Pilot Scheme include CIC-Zero Carbon Park, CLP Power Hong Kong, Environmental Protection Department, HK Electric, Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth, The Hong Kong Council of Social Service, and The Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation.

Luanne Lim, chief executive of HSBC Hong Kong said, “Green Rehabilitation Bus is yet another move to drive wider adoption of electric vehicles in Hong Kong. Many NGOs are keen to reduce their carbon footprint but may not have the know-how. This Pilot Scheme aims to help NGOs gain practical knowledge about operating and financing electric vehicles, paving the way for more green rehabilitation buses on the streets of Hong Kong. HSBC is transforming our own operations and supply chain to achieve Net Zero by 2030. We hope more like-minded organisations will join us and contribute to Hong Kong’s carbon neutrality.”

Chung Shan Shan, chairperson of The Conservancy Association said, “Using electric rehabilitation buses reduces not only carbon emissions but also roadside pollution. This project gives regard to the underprivileged of the community and the environment at the same time.”

The Green Rehabus Pilot Scheme is part of the HSBC Climate Solutions Partnership which combines the Bank’s financial and commercial expertise with the insights of NGO partners to deliver new climate solutions into reality. Backed by USD100 million in philanthropic funding from HSBC, the HSBC Climate Solutions Partnership is focused on energy transition initiatives and climate-related innovation.

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