Advocates Industry to Harness Green Finance to Tackle Climate and Ecological Challenges for Building a Sustainable Future

HONG KONG, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) held the Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certificate Presentation Ceremony on 26 November, presenting 35 certificates, bringing the cumulative total to 100 certificates to date. This marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong’s building industry on the path towards net zero. At the same event, the HKGBC officially launched the Third Edition of the “HKGBC Climate Change Framework for Built Environment”, which not only updates the original chapters but also features a new chapter on “Biodiversity & Nature-based Solutions”, further responding to the urgent global need to address climate change and ecological conservation, calling on the industry to leverage green finance to jointly tackle climate and ecological challenges.

The ceremony was officiated by the Guest of Honour, Mr TSE Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology, the Government of the HKSAR, and Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC. The event brought together approximately 200 industry leaders and experts to witness this important moment. A total of 35 “Zero-Carbon-Ready-Building Certifications” were presented, covering 34 building projects across government department, developers, property management companies and the banking sector. These include the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Sino Group, Great Eagle Group, Shui On Group, Hong Yip Service Co. Ltd., JLL, China Construction Bank, Citigroup Inc., Hang Seng Bank. Among these, five projects were awarded “Target Setting Certificates” and one project received the first-ever “Progress Certificate”, demonstrating their commitment to achieving carbon reduction targets ahead of schedule and highlighting the industry’s proactive action in driving low-carbon transformation.

The “Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme” is launched under the “HKGBC Climate Change Framework for Built Environment”, aimed at supporting the industry in formulating net zero strategies and promoting carbon reduction in the built environment. Since its launch, the Framework has recorded over 45,000 downloads, covering more than 50 regions globally, demonstrating Hong Kong’s leading position in the field of green building.

The Third Edition of the Framework has been revised by the HKGBC through the Editorial Panel and five Expert Groups comprising 46 industry experts. Major revisions include updates to the content and guidance on embodied carbon, operational carbon, carbon offsetting, climate risk assessment and disclosure, as well as showcasing practical case studies on climate adaptation and resilience. The edition also features a new chapter on “Biodiversity & Nature-based Solutions”, responding to the close interconnection between nature, biodiversity and climate change, and promoting Hong Kong as a low-carbon and resilient city.

Speaking at the event, Mr TSE Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology, the Government of the HKSAR, welcomed the launch of HKGBC’s Third Edition of Climate Change Framework for Built Environment. He said, “The new edition has incorporated the latest developments to address not only carbon emissions, but also carbon offsetting, biodiversity, and nature-based solutions. With local case studies compiled to illustrate effective applications, the updated Framework is a valuable reference for the building sector in achieving ‘net-zero’.” Secretary TSE also expressed appreciation to the recipients of the “Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certificate” and thanked HKGBC for promoting “greener buildings”, adding that he looked forward to forging a more sustainable future together.

Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC, remarked, “A biodiverse built environment can enhance liveability, residents’ wellbeing and climate resilience. However, human development can also disturb nature. As financial institutions increasingly integrate nature into their investment decisions, companies that effectively manage nature-related risks will have greater access to green finance. The Third Edition of the Climate Change Framework for Built Environment provides clear and definitive direction for the industry, helping enterprises strike a balance between development and conservation, while seizing green finance opportunities to jointly build a sustainable future for Hong Kong.”

Ir Prof. PAN Shu-jie, Chairman of the Sustainable Development Committee of the HKGBC, remarked in his closing speech, “The new chapter in the Third Edition of the Framework encourages the building industry to disclose nature-related impacts in line with established standards, and to assess associated risks, opportunities and dependencies, thereby identifying potential areas for improvement. We sincerely hope that this Framework will continue to advance Hong Kong towards a greener and more sustainable built environment.”

At the ceremony, Ir Harry LAI, BBS, Executive Director of the HKGBC, together with the convenors of various chapters, including Prof. Jack CHENG of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; Ir Dr Raymond YAU of Raymond Yau & Co.; Ms Grace KWOK of Allied Sustainability and Environmental Consultants Group Limited; Ir Dr Bruce CHONG of Arup; and Mr Alexander (Sandy) Main DUGGIE of URBIS Limited, introduced the updates in the new edition and future development directions.

Furthermore, Ir LAI moderated a panel discussion exploring issues related to climate change in the built environment. Panellists included Mr Arthur LEE, JP, of Environment and Ecology Bureau; Mr Ronald YOUNG of Hong Kong Monetary Authority; Ms Kitty CHEUNG of Hang Seng Bank; and Ir Joe CHOW of the IFMA Hong Kong Chapter. The discussion covered policy aspects including Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 and the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance, how Hong Kong’s built environment can respond to climate change and leverage green finance to build a sustainable future, and emphasised the urgent need for the Framework to guide the industry towards achieving net zero emissions targets.

For more details of the “Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme”, please refer to https://zcrbc.hkgbc.org.hk/

To download the Third Edition of the “HKGBC Climate Change Framework For Built Environment”, please refer to:
https://general.hkgbc.org.hk/guidebook/ClimateChangeFramework.html

About the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC)

The Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) is a non-profit, member-led organisation established in 2009 and has become a public body under the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance since 2016. The HKGBC strives to promote the standard and development of sustainable buildings in Hong Kong. The HKGBC also aims to raise green building awareness by engaging the government, the industry and the public, and to develop practical solutions for Hong Kong’s unique, subtropical built environment of high-rise, high density urban area, leading Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and to become a world’s exemplar of green building development. The Founding Members of the HKGBC include the Construction Industry Council (CIC), the Business Environment Council (BEC), the BEAM Society Limited (BSL) and the Professional Green Building Council (PGBC).

To learn more about the HKGBC, please visit www.hkgbc.org.hk.

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin today released its 2025 Annual Review, titled “A Renewed Brand. A Year Built on Trust.” The report highlights a pivotal year in the company’s evolution, marked by a clear strategic focus on compliance, security, and long-term platform sustainability.

2025 was a transformative year for KuCoin. Guided by its mission to build a trusted blockchain infrastructure that enables the protected and open flow of value, the company transitioned from a phase defined by resilience into a new era shaped by trust, regulatory alignment, and institutional maturity. While continuing to serve a broad global user base, KuCoin refined its platform and brand strategy to reflect a deeper commitment to safeguarding user assets and operating within evolving regulatory frameworks. Key milestones included major compliance progress in Europe and Australia, the launch of a USD $2 billion Trust Project, and the completion of four internationally recognized security certifications — laying the foundation for KuCoin’s next stage of development.

Despite a dynamic market environment, KuCoin delivered steady operational performance throughout 2025.
The average daily spot trading volume reached $4.76 billion, representing 55% year-on-year growth, while futures trading averaged $6.47 billion per day, up approximately 30% year-on-year, ranking KuCoin fourth globally by futures volume. These results reflected a balanced approach focused on liquidity, risk management, and platform stability. These outcomes were achieved without compromising KuCoin’s long-term priorities, as operational growth in 2025 was deliberately anchored in security, transparency, and risk discipline.

Security remained a core strategic priority in 2025. KuCoin achieved the industry’s “Quadruple Crown” of security certifications, including SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and CCSS, reinforcing its commitment to institutional-grade safeguards. The platform also maintained 36 consecutive months of Proof of Reserves verification, independently audited by Hacken, and was ranked #1 globally for security by CER.live, underscoring its emphasis on transparency and accountability. Central to these efforts was the launch of KuCoin’s USD $2 billion Trust Project, designed to strengthen asset protection, risk controls, and long-term operational resilience. Alongside technical safeguards, KuCoin continued to advance regulatory alignment as a parallel pillar of platform trust.

KuCoin made significant advances in regulatory alignment across multiple regions during the year. In Australia, the company secured AUSTRAC registration and established a dedicated local office in Sydney. In Europe, KuCoin obtained a MiCA license through KuCoin EU, enabling operations under the European Union’s unified regulatory framework. In Turkey, the company submitted an official application to the Capital Markets Board (SPK), aligning with local regulatory requirements. This regulatory and security foundation also shaped KuCoin’s approach to product development, ensuring that innovation progressed within a framework of responsibility and long-term sustainability.

Product development in 2025 focused on infrastructure-level innovation and user experience improvements. KuCoin expanded participation products such as GemPool, HODLer Airdrops, and Spotlight, supporting user engagement with structured protection mechanisms.

AI capabilities became an increasingly important part of the platform with the rollout of KIA, KuCoin’s crypto-native AI assistant, alongside KuCoin Feed, an AI-powered market intelligence hub. User experience upgrades, including KuCoin App 4.0 and KuCoin Lite, balanced advanced functionality with improved accessibility. Additionally, the mining ecosystem expanded through the integration of KuMining and KuPool, achieving a top-four global ranking in LTC/DOGE hashrate.

Reflecting on the year, BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin, said:

  “2025 required us to make deliberate choices focused on long-term responsibility rather than short-term momentum. Compliance and security are not optional for KuCoin — they are foundational to how we protect users and contribute to the industry’s sustainable future.”

As the crypto industry continues to evolve, KuCoin stated it will remain focused on disciplined execution, regulatory alignment, and technology-driven trust. The company views 2025 as a foundational year, positioning the platform for steady, long-term development in the years ahead.

For more details, readers are invited to explore the full 2025 KuCoin Annual Review.

About KuCoin

Founded in 2017, KuCoin is a leading global crypto platform trusted by over 40 million users across 200+ countries and regions. The platform delivers innovative and compliant digital asset services, offering access to 1,000+ listed tokens, spot and futures trading, institutional wealth management, and a Web3 wallet.

Recognized by Forbes and Hurun, KuCoin holds SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001:2022 certifications, underscoring its commitment to top-tier security. With AUSTRAC registration in Australia and a MiCA license in Austria, KuCoin continues expanding its regulated footprint under CEO BC Wong, building a reliable and trusted digital-asset ecosystem.

Learn more: https://www.kucoin.com/

• Recognizing entrepreneurial excellence and cross-border innovation, eBay hosted 100 top sellers from global emerging markets at its annual flagship event in Hanoi, Vietnam.
• Singapore sellers SCC Consignments, Creation Watches, and MachineryAsia, took home three awards from the event’s gala awards in categories such as Fashion, Collectibles, and Business Industrial Excellence.
• The event empowered sellers with insights into emerging trends, AI-powered commerce, and strategies for scaling internationally, through a range of keynotes, interactive workshops, and networking sessions.

HANOI, Vietnam, Dec. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — eBay, one of the world’s largest online marketplaces connecting 134 million buyers across more than 190 markets, hosted its annual Exporter of the Year 2025 event in Hanoi Vietnam this December, recognizing outstanding sellers from emerging markets who are driving global trade, innovation, and sustainable commerce.

The two-day event brought together more than 200 top performing sellers from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, India, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, creating a global platform for connection, learning, and recognition. During the awards night, 22 exceptional sellers were honored for their strong growth performance and continued commitment to delivering trusted world class buyer experiences. These sellers distinguished themselves by effectively leveraging eBay’s ecosystem, including marketplace access, logistics, advertising, and seller tools, to succeed in cross border trade despite ongoing global uncertainty.

Southeast Asia eBay sellers emerged as a standout powerhouse within the global emerging markets region. From Singapore, SCC Consignments representatives Lau Boon Yang and Junius Chia received the Collectibles Excellence Award. Dennis Tan from Typhon Machinery was honored with the Business and Industrial Excellence Award, while Amit Chilgunde from Creation watches earned the Fashion and Watches Excellence Award. In addition, Yuumi Ngui from Singapore and Johanthan Indra from Indonesia were named runners up for the Collectibles Excellence Award.

Setting sellers up for success with insights, tools, and resources

The Hanoi edition featured keynote addresses from global eBay leaders alongside interactive workshops and networking sessions, offering actionable insights into emerging trends, AI-powered commerce, and global growth.

Highlights included a 2026 global market outlook, category-focused workshops on Parts & Accessories and alternative inventory models, sessions on managed shipping and advertising strategies, interactive eBay Live experiences, and 1:1 consultation with experts.

Vidmay Naini, General Manager of Global Emerging Markets at eBay, emphasized the company’s dedication to empowering sellers: “Exporter of the Year 2025 is more than a celebration of success—it reflects the resilience, innovation, and global ambition of our sellers. At eBay, we enable businesses of all sizes to access more than 190 markets and connect with millions of buyers worldwide, empowering them to participate meaningfully in cross-border trade. Through trusted buyer relationships, a thriving circular commerce model and a strong end-to-end seller ecosystem, we are helping entrepreneurs transform global challenges into sustainable, long-term growth.”

To learn more about becoming an eBay exporter, visit https://export.ebay.com/en/

About eBay Inc.

eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) is a global commerce leader that connects people and builds communities to create economic opportunity for all. Our technology empowers millions of buyers and sellers in more   than 190 markets around the world, providing everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive. Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world’s largest and most vibrant marketplaces for discovering great value and unique selection. In 2024, eBay enabled $74.7 billion of gross merchandise volume. For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebayinc.com.