As the Government's initiative to encourage the construction of green buildings in Hong Kong, the then Environment, Transport and Works Bureau technical circular (Works) (the TCW) requires all works departments to adopt energy efficient features and renewable energy technologies in government projects and installations wherever practicable.  Under the TC(W), all new government buildings with construction floor area exceeding 10,000 square metres should aim to obtain at least the second highest grade under an internationally or locally recognized building environmental assessment system.  The C&ED Inbound Cargo Examination Building was thus enrolled in the local Hong Kong Green Building Council BEAM Plus scheme with target gold grading which is the second highest grading under the BEAM Plus scheme.

The Government’s policy was a strong driver in the planning and design stages of the C&ED Inbound Cargo Examination Building.  The installation of island-wide green facilities (e.g. District Seawater Cooling System and Reclaimed Water System) has brought significant environmental benefits to all HKP users.  The use of District Seawater Cooling System consumes less electrical energy and minmises greenhouse gases and contaminants to the environment.  The use of Reclaimed Water System for flush water supply does not only save water but also reduce the amount of treated effluent being discharged to the adjacent water body and thus benefits the North Western Water Control Zone water quality.

The C&ED Inbound Cargo Examination Building’s commissioning, government officers working at the building have been benefited from the well-designed indoor air, acoustic, thermal and lighting quality.