Swire Properties has partnered with Spare-it, a Boston-based cleantech start-up, to introduce a Smart Waste Reduction Pilot Programme, engaging office tenants and its own staff in a challenge to reduce waste generated in the workplace. "Tenants and building users account for about 90% of the waste generated in our portfolios," says Elizabeth Kok, Director & Senior Advisor of Swire Properties. The six-month programme involves 15 teams drawn from tenants in seven of Swire Properties' office towers in Hong Kong, as well as its own offices. The programme is supported by the Swire Pacific Sustainable Development Fund.
Participating teams are advised on optimising the design and layout of waste bins in their offices. Individual desk-side bins are replaced with centralised collection and sorting stations fitted with smart scales to collect waste disposal data. Digital dashboards enable teams to monitor and benchmark their waste reduction progress in real time against fellow participants - helping them visualise the cumulative impact of their current disposal habits and meet collective waste reduction goals. Regular forums are conducted to encourage teams to share ideas and overcome challenges collaboratively.
