At HKUST, we maintain a strong partnership with the Transport Department (TD) to ensure efficient and sustainable transportation for our university community. This collaboration encompasses both regular operations and special event planning. We have established a system of ongoing meetings with the TD and relevant operators, creating a platform for continuous review and improvement of public transport services. These sessions allow us to address the evolving needs of our university community while promoting sustainable commuting options.

Our collaboration extends to coordinating additional public transport services for high-attendance occasions, such as Spring/Fall term commencements, Congregation, Information Day, and new student welcoming events. This proactive approach ensures that we can accommodate increased transportation demands during these peak periods while maintaining our commitment to environmental consciousness. For a detailed overview of our transportation planning for major events, please click here to view.

Our multi-faceted promotion campaign aims to encourage all University members to utilize public transport and shuttle bus services, particularly during the commencement of academic terms. This initiative includes setting up informational booths in high-traffic campus areas and disseminating electronic messages to staff and students through various channels. For more details on our promotional efforts, please click here to view.

We are implementing a phased approach to significantly increase our electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities on campus. Our ambitious plan aims to expand from just 1% coverage in 2021 to 30% (equivalent to 360 parking spaces) by 2028. Concurrently, we are transitioning our fleet of official vehicles to EVs, demonstrating our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint.

As part of our sustainable transport strategy, we are actively working towards introducing electric buses on campus. We are coordinating with our staff bus contractor to implement this change once the appropriate charging infrastructure is in place, further reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

In partnership with KMB, Hong Kong's largest franchise bus company, we are increasing the number of buses equipped with solar panel systems on HKUST routes. These innovative buses directly channel solar-generated electricity to their main batteries, enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, HKUST is pioneering the integration of public bus stops within the campus starting this fall term, encouraging the use of higher-capacity double-decker buses and promoting more sustainable mass transit options.

Our commitment to sustainable transportation extends to our official vehicle fleet, which now comprises electric and hybrid Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs). These vehicles serve various essential functions, including staff transportation for meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, and airport pickups, demonstrating our dedication to reducing emissions across all university operations.

To further reduce commuting-related emissions, we have introduced flexible work arrangements for non-academic staff in late 2024. Eligible employees now have the option to work from an alternative location one day per week, subject to operational requirements. This initiative not only promotes work-life balance but also contributes to our overall sustainable commuting goals by reducing the frequency of campus commutes.

HKUST is actively exploring the implementation of electric buses for our shuttle service, despite challenges posed by our unique geographical location and terrain. While there are no precedents for non-franchise bus companies operating electric buses in Hong Kong's challenging topography, we remain committed to sustainable transportation solutions. Our extensive service network covers 19 routes with over 50 stopping points across New Territories, Kowloon, and Hong Kong Island. Our recent tender exercise revealed the potential for integrating at least one electric bus by 2025, contingent on the University providing suitable charging facilities. However, this non-binding commitment faces several challenges that we continue to address as we explore innovative and environmentally friendly options for our shuttle service.