Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change

As climate change accelerates, climate-related extreme events are increasing in frequency and intensity, among other changes to historical weather patterns. In 2023, extreme weather events in mainland China and Hong Kong, including the torrential rain in Hebei Province and the once-in-500-year heavy rain in Hong Kong, reminded people about the risks of climate change.

Purpose

At Hang Lung, we are committed to taking proactive measures to adapt to climate change. Our goal is to anticipate climate change and prepare for its effects, prioritizing the safety and security of our occupants, safeguarding the value of our assets, and meeting the increasing market demand for sustainable and resilient buildings.

Strategy

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Clear Roadmap

Guided by our Adaptation Roadmap to 2025, we have developed a broad range of climate change adaptation measures to strengthen our resilience and manage the impacts of climate change. 

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Technical Analysis 

Our approach involves conducting an in-depth climate hazard and vulnerability assessment for our properties to analyze their climate exposure, existing risk controls, and additional adaptive capacity. The assessment considers climate hazards such as flooding, heat waves, and typhoons based on scientific projections and data. 

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Apply Adaptation Measures 

We then evaluate the vulnerability of each property and location, based on the likelihood and intensity of extreme weather events and their impact on individual buildings, infrastructure, and the surrounding environment. With this knowledge, we can plan and implement measures to enhance the resilience of our properties and minimize risk. 

Adaptation Roadmap to 2025

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Since 2021, we have conducted thorough technical analyses of our properties to evaluate their exposure to climate risks and plan appropriate adaptation measures. Our goal is to complete these analyses for all properties by 2025. As of March 2024, we have already completed analyses for 25 properties, which account for 94% of the total floor area of our existing properties and 83% of our development projects.

We cannot eliminate the physical risks from climate change. But by developing and implementing a science-based climate adaptation program, asset owners can take steps to reduce risks, enhance safety, and strengthen resilience.

John Haffner

Deputy Director – Sustainability

Success Story: Riverside 66, Tianjin, Mainland China

Nestled in the bustling business district along the Haihe River in Tianjin, our property Riverside 66, has faced a growing threat from heavy rainfall in recent years. In July 2016, a torrential downpour unleashed a record-breaking 250mm of rain upon the city, resulting in a RMB1.64 million loss for the property.

Riverside 66, Tianjin

Through meticulous analysis and evaluation, we identified 26 enhancements specifically tailored for locations at higher risk of flooding. Our solutions were as diverse as they were effective. For example, to manage the excessive backflow of rainwater, we constructed rainwater reservoirs. These reservoirs serve a dual purpose: they help control the overflow and allow us to repurpose the stored rainwater for irrigation and flushing.

To manage excess water, we installed a high-power drain pump and auxiliary facilities such as supporting hoses and water pipes. Water retaining plates were strategically placed to fend off infiltration, while generators and water pumps were upgraded to provide an extra layer of flood prevention. In addition, we collaborated closely with the local government to make the rainwater drainage systems around our property more effective.  

With these comprehensive measures in place, Riverside 66 has stood strong against the elements. During several subsequent intense rainfall events, the property effectively managed flood risks, safeguarding both our assets and the safety of our occupants.

All the major equipment are evaluated to avoid flooding

All the major equipment are evaluated to avoid flooding

All basement plant rooms have installed flood gate

All basement plant rooms have installed flood gate

Conclusion

Riverside 66, Tianjin

Our dedication to employing climate adaptation strategies has yielded tangible results, as demonstrated by our experience at Riverside 66, Tianjin. By implementing strong flood prevention measures, we successfully shielded our property and its occupants from the negative impacts of exceptionally high rainfall. 

We continue to look for ways to implement climate adaptation measures. For example, we are planning to enhance our adaptive capacity by retrofitting equipment, installing flood detection and warning systems, and providing flood gates at potential water entry points, among other initiatives. Whether it’s a heatwave, typhoon, or other extreme weather event, we are committed to providing a safe haven for all our tenants and customers.