Henderson Land Completes Hong Kong’s First Biodiversity Loans With HSBC And Hang Seng Bank

Henderson Land Development Company Limited (“Henderson Land” or “the Group”) (Stock code: 12) today announced it has closed Hong Kong’s first biodiversity loans with HSBC and Hang Seng Bank. The pioneering facilities will support biodiversity-enhancing initiatives at Central Yards, the Group’s flagship mixed-use development on the New Central Harbourfront.

The facilities align with the Green Loan Principles of the Loan Market Association (LMA), the Asia Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA), and the Loan Syndications and Trading Association (LSTA), with a specific focus on urban biodiversity restoration, conservation, and enhancement.

The use of proceeds will facilitate the procurement of native plant species, adoption of smart systems to support the maintenance and management of the newly established urban forest and implementation of surveys, assessments and monitoring to evaluate the progression of urban biodiversity at Central Yards.  As part of the project, more than 400 trees and a diverse range of plant species will be planted across multi-levels of landscape gardens, enhancing overall ecological value of the development.  The wildlife habitat bridge further connects habitat zones across the district, strengthening ecological networks and supporting community well-being.

Professor Andrew Fung, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Henderson Land, said: “At Henderson Land, sustainability is integral to how we create long-term value. Through Central Yards, we aim to strengthen the connection between the city and nature and foster a healthier, more resilient community where people and biodiversity can thrive together. As Hong Kong’s first biodiversity loan, this pioneering financing aligns our capital strategy with our sustainability ambitions, and we are delighted to partner with HSBC and Hang Seng Bank on this innovative transaction. As the Group marks its 50th anniversary, we remain committed to creating lasting value for future generations.”

Matthew Hung, Head of Global Corporates, Hong Kong, Corporate and Institutional Banking, HSBC, said: “According to HSBC’s Sustainability Pulse Survey, around 60% of Asian businesses now identify climate transition as a key strategic focus. As this focus sharpens, this first-in-market biodiversity loan for Henderson Land demonstrates how the right sustainable financing can help businesses integrate urban development with ecological stewardship. HSBC is proud to lead the way in structuring innovative financing solutions that empower our clients to achieve their sustainability goals while enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a leading international sustainable finance centre.”

Regina Lee, Head of Commercial Banking of Hang Seng Bank, said: "Hang Seng is pleased to support Henderson Land on Hong Kong’s first biodiversity loan for Central Yards, bringing nature-positive finance into the heart of the city. As Hong Kong’s homegrown bank, we work closely with corporate clients to turn sustainability targets into bankable outcomes. Building on our track record of market-first sustainable finance solutions, we’re glad to sustain that momentum with this landmark transaction. We hope it provides a practical, scalable blueprint for nature-positive urban regeneration across Hong Kong — the kind of innovation that can deliver long-term value for clients and the community.”

Central Yards is defined by its commitment to people-centric and biophilic urban design, featuring over 300,000 square feet of multi-level open green spaces. At the heart of the project is Central’s largest sky garden—an approximately 300-metre elevated garden spanning over 160,000 square feet. It plays a vital role in the green network of the core business district, connecting surrounding green spaces to form a green ecological corridor. The design also incorporates innovative features like “Urban Windows” to enhance the microclimate and overall environmental comfort by channelling fresh air and maximising natural daylight throughout the development.

The development target the highest achievements of 10 top-tier global green certifications, including BEAM Plus for New Building and Neighbourhood, LEED, WELL, The Sustainable SITES Initiatives (“SITES”), China Green Building Design Label (“CGBL”), China Healthy Building Label (“CHBL”), SmartScore and WiredScore.

The first phase of Central Yards is scheduled to open in the second half of 2027, while the second phase is expected to be completed in 2032.