The HML team has spent considerable time in consulting with interior designers and green / engineering consultants on the use of green materials for construction and operations, as well as placing an emphasis on construction safety, noise and IAQ, management plan and overall water and energy savings.

The newly revamped Congress Plus is covered by a “green” carpet incorporating 50% recycled materials, as well as bamboo flooring, which is classified as a rapidly renewable material. Furniture and finishes and wall panels made of sustainable timber from FSC/PEFC certified forest are used. Decorative screens made from recycled glass bottles were being used, which is not only pretty but environmentally-friendly.

Congress Plus put in huge efforts in reducing energy consumption, including installing an intelligent zone control air-conditioning system which reduced supply air fan power consumption by 80%, where Good Class IAQ is achieved. Kitchen equipment and refrigerators with “US Energy Star Label” were also being used. All lightings are LED with 95% operated with a dimmer system to cater for required lighting variations and window side lighting is controlled by sun-light sensors, eliminating glare and promoting the panoramic views of Hong Kong beyond. On the other hand, the restaurant reduces water consumption by installing water saving faucet in kitchen, and sensor type faucet and flushing valve in toilets.

Operation of the restaurant is also in line with the green concept. Sustainable seafood offered is certified by the WWF Seafood Guide.  Paper products such as paper napkins, paper toweling and toilet paper certified by the Green Council are being used. Green and biodegradable cleaning products are also applied to reduce the impact to the environment. 

Being a responsible corporate citizen, HML has been long committed to sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint in event management, daily office administration as well as restaurant operation. It is our core value and ongoing practice to adopt environmental friendly facilities and designs of the latest technologies to build a greener HKCEC. As a result, when HML embarked the renovation of Congress Plus, we employed a green design consultant on this project, to make sure every aspect of the interior confirm and reflect the company’s corporate commitment to sustainability.

In line with HML’s green and CSR policy, Congress Plus partners with Food Angel and Giving Love to donate unconsumed food to the underprivileged. Recycling bins for coffee residue, paper, plastic, metal and glass are also strategically placed in behind-the-scenes work areas and waste matter will be collected and taken to recycling facilities instead of landfills.

Furthermore, the restaurant put artworks on display by Art with the Disabled Association artists, helping showcase the talent of artists with disabilities to the general public, and providing a platform for the charity to reach out to the public.