Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has received an environmental, social and governance (ESG) rating of 75 out of 100 in the Standard & Poor Global Ratings (S&P).
The rating – up from the strong inaugural rating of 74 AAHK received last year – demonstrates the authority’s preparedness for adapting to potential disruptors as it works to maintain Hong Kong International Airport’s position as a hub for global and regional aviation.
The higher overall rating is mainly due to improved environmental sustainability performance. S&P highlighted the land reclamation works for the Three-runway System project as demonstrating sound management of the associated environmental risks throughout this phase of the project. S&P also commended AAHK’s “2050 Net Zero Carbon” target and carbon management plan – which covers not only emissions from direct operations, but also those from aviation-related business partners – as effective ways to manage greenhouse gas emissions.
AAHK also continued to maintain strong scores across its social and governance profiles. Over the past year, AAHK has leveraged digital technology to help achieve service quality as well as employee and passenger safety and wellbeing. Its collaborations with business partners and the local community were also recognised. Meanwhile, AAHK’s disclosures and reporting were deemed granular and comprehensive, including the publication of a green bond report covering allocation and impact reporting. The authority’s governance structure was judged to have an adequate level of independence.
Julian Lee, executive director, finance, AAHK, said, “We are delighted to receive an advanced ESG rating from S&P. The globally renowned validation once again marks an achievement that reflects AAHK’s commitment to ESG principles, across every aspect of the airport operations and developments. As the operator of an international aviation hub, we shall continue to work closely with the airport community to bring positive changes to Hong Kong International Airport as well as the aviation industry worldwide.”
Image: Airport Authority Hong Kong
