Henderson Land Signs HK $ 2.5 Billion Green Loan with Bank of China (Hong Kong)

Henderson Land Development Company Limited (‘Henderson Land’ or “the Group”) (Stock code: 12) has signed a HK$2.5 billion green loan with Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited (‘BOCHK’). Earlier this year, the Group has also signed a green loan with Bank of China Shanghai Branch. These marks the Group’s first green financing facilities approved by commercial banks in onshore and offshore markets respectively. This green loan is unsecured and has a tenure of three years.

In keeping with the Group’s commitment to reducing environmental impacts, the proceeds will be used for strengthening its green portfolio of investment and development properties with BEAM Plus, BEAM, LEED and Green Building Design Label pre-certifications.

Commenting on the first of the Group’s green and sustainability-linked loans, Mr. Andrew FUNG Hau-chung, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Henderson Land said: ‘At Henderson Land, we are committed to designing green, healthy and smart buildings. We strive to incorporate renewable energy features, as well as other green building features, to reduce emissions and waste in our properties. Green building features, such as improved lighting environment, better air quality and greenery, have also been proven to improve the health and well-being of occupants. This green loan echoes the Group’s “Green for Planet” strategy and provides the necessary funding to advance our environmental goals into achievements. We are delighted to have BOCHK alongside us as we continue our green journey. We shall continue to do our part to contribute to a more sustainable future.’

Ms. LU Ying, General Manager of Global Corporate Banking Department, BOCHK, said, ‘BOCHK is pleased to arrange the green loan for Henderson Land, our long-term business partner, in support of its vision to create green and liveable communities. Sustainability is at the core of our business strategy. We have been actively promoting and encouraging corporates to develop a sustainable business model by offering them a comprehensive suite of financial solutions such as green deposits, loans, bonds, and green advisory services. We will continue to expand our green offerings to facilitate our customer to achieve their goal of low-carbon, contributing towards a more sustainable future together.’’

Henderson Land is dedicated to embracing sustainability through building designs, as evidenced by the variety of green building certifications and awards it has been honoured with. As of December 2020, the Group has cumulatively achieved 41 BEAM Plus, 19 BEAM, 14 LEED and 7 China Green Building Design Labels.

2020 marked the launch of Henderson Land’s revised sustainability strategy, which is a new focus on how the Group views its contributions to the economy, society and the environment. It comprises four key drivers: Green for Planet, Innovation for Future, Value for People and Endeavour for Community. Under the ‘Green for Planet’ driver, the Group focuses on adopting smart and climate resilient building designs, as well as reducing the environmental footprint of operations. An 8.6% reduction in energy consumption has already been achieved between 2020 and baseline year 2015, compared to the 10% reduction target by 2025. Additionally, the Group has used 70% less timber formwork in 2020 as a result of its ‘Timberless Construction’ approach.