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Can Hong Kong Lead the Way in Green Transportation?

2024-10-26 01:36:28.459000

Hong Kong is positioning itself as a potential regional leader in green transportation, with ambitious goals aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The transport sector, which accounts for 18% of the city's emissions, is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. To meet this target, Hong Kong plans to cut transport emissions by 59% by 2030 and eliminate combustion engine vehicles by 2035. In 2023, the city recorded 11.5 million daily public transport trips, underscoring the importance of a sustainable transport system. [e711ff39]

In a significant move towards sustainability, the Sun Ferry has ordered two diesel-electric hybrid ferries, while the Airport Authority aims to reduce emissions by 55% by 2035. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) system, which accounts for 71% of the distance traveled by public transport users, is also set to undergo changes, with plans for a 7km smart transit line in East Kowloon expected to be completed by 2033. This development will include seven new MTR stations designed to emit 20% less than current standards. [e711ff39]

The city is also ramping up its electric vehicle infrastructure, with plans to deploy 700 electric buses, 3,000 electric taxis, and establish 200,000 charging spots by 2027. Notably, Hong Kong debuted its first hydrogen-fueled bus on July 14, marking a significant step in diversifying its green transport options. Legislative amendments to support hydrogen fuel are planned for 2025, which will further enhance the city's commitment to sustainable transport solutions. [e711ff39]

As Hong Kong embarks on these initiatives, it has the potential to mentor other cities in sustainable transport practices. The Office of Mobility Innovation in Detroit has also recognized hydrogen as a critical component in decarbonizing transportation, aligning with global trends in clean energy. Detroit's focus on hydrogen solutions for long-haul trucking and other heavy-duty applications reflects a growing recognition of hydrogen's role in achieving broader decarbonization goals. [b61dc0ad]

The recent success of Citybus in Hong Kong, which completed the first cross-harbor trip of a hydrogen double-decker bus, showcases the practical applications of hydrogen technology in urban transport. Citybus aims to phase out diesel buses and transition to a fleet consisting of 70% hydrogen buses and 30% electric buses by 2045, highlighting the city's commitment to a greener future. [2bf63597]

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