ABOUT CRYSTAL CLIMATE CHARITY FOUNDATION
Established in 2022 by Mr. Kenneth LO, Crystal Climate Charity Foundation (the "Foundation") is a charitable trust (exempt from tax under section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance) in Hong Kong.
The Foundation is committed to promote education on climate change as well as to relieve poverty due to climate change in Hong Kong and the operating countries of Crystal International Group Limited, including but not limited to Bangladesh, Cambodia, Mainland China, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
We support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ("SDGs")
Our primary goals emphasise addressing critical global challenges which align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals ("SDG(s)"). We are dedicated to SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 13: Climate Change. These goals are central to our objectives of alleviating climate-related poverty and promoting climate education.
Our key strategic foci include SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 14: Life Below Water and SDG 15: Life on Land, which are vital to achieving our overarching objectives. By supporting and engaging impactful programmes and projects related to these SDGs, we aim to create sustainable livelihoods that contribute to SDG 1: No Poverty and support SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. For instance, our solar streetlight projects under SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy exemplify our commitment to these goals.
The Foundation is also dedicated to supporting various climate-related educational programmes for a spectrum of students, including those in kindergarten, primary, secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels, as well as the general public. This enhances the quality of education at all levels in order to achieve SDG 4: Quality Education.
By focusing on these primary goals and strategic areas, the Foundation is committed to making a lasting impact on both the environment and the communities we serve.
INITIATIVES
Crystal Climate Charity Foundation (the "Foundation") has invested in various projects promoting education on climate change as well as relieve poverty due to climate change since 2022.
The Foundation and Mil Mill Introduce Pilot Textile Waste Recycling Initiative in Hong Kong with TV Coverage
The Foundation, in partnership with Crystal International Group Limited, has sponsored the acquisition of a Hollander Beater for Mil Mill's new textile waste recycling system (the "Initiative"). Mil Mill, a pulp mill operated by Secure Information Disposal Services Limited, specialises in confidential paper recycling and waste consultancy in Hong Kong. This new machine, with a processing capacity of 500 kilograms per hour, will significantly enhance Mil Mill’s ability to recycle cotton and linen textile waste and reduce the landfill pressure in Hong Kong which represents one of Hong Kong's pioneering efforts in textile recycling.
The quality of the recycled paper is enhanced by adding pulp made from recycled textiles processed by the Hollander Beater, which incorporates long fibers from the textiles.
The sponsorship will not only support the recycling of approximately 1,650 metric tons of textile waste annually but also promote environmental education. The Initiative also includes tour visits to Mil Mill’s education centre, where the Hollander Beater will be showcased, to educate the community about textile recycling and climate change, thereby fostering greater environmental awareness and responsibility. This collaboration between the Climate Foundation and Mil Mill is a vital step towards sustainable waste management and community engagement.
An earlier interview with the Climate Foundation and Mil Mill on Now TV's programme
Mr. Kenneth Lo, Chairman of Crystal International Group Limited and the Foundation, said:
"By supporting Mil Mill’s textile recycling initiative, we aim to reduce landfill pressure in Hong Kong and explore scalable solutions for circular economy development. Through technology, education, and community engagement, we hope to inspire more stakeholders to participate in textile recycling and take action towards a more sustainable future."
An earlier interview with the representatives from the Climate Foundation and Mil Mill on Hong Kong Now TV' s programme《碳中和》, featuring the sponsored textile waste recycling system will first be broadcast on 333 Now Business News Channel on 27 February 2025 (Thursday) at 7:20 pm and rebroadcast within a week on 333 Now Business News Channel and 332 Now News. The episode will be available from 28 February 2025 (Friday) on the Now Business News Channel App, website, and Facebook page.
Jan
2025
Hong Kong
Jan
2025
Cambodia
The Foundation Brings Clean Water to Thousands of Cambodian Students and Community
Crystal Climate Charity Foundation (the "Foundation"), in partnership with Crystal International Group Limited ("Crystal Group"), has successfully completed two water filter machines installation projects in communities near YDCL in Cambodia. The first project, completed in April 2024, involved the installation of four water filter machines in Russey Srok Primary/Secondary School, Roteang Orphanage, and the Children's Restaurant. Following the success of the first project, six water filter machines were installed in four schools — Heng Sam Rin Chheu Teal Primary School, Preaek Svay Primary School, Hun Sen Sre Ampil Primary School, and Mondul Akphivat Sre Ampil Primary School — in the second project, completed in January 2025. Two projects have completed the installation of water filtration machines in a total of seven organisations.
YDCL First Water Filter Machines Project: Water filter machine installed in Children's Restaurant
These water filter machines installations aim to provide a reliable source of clean drinking water, significantly improving the health and well-being of children and community members while reducing the community's reliance on single-use plastics and the energy required for boiling water. In total, around 2,000 students and children benefit from the clean water provided by the newly installed machines across these two projects, significantly enhancing their daily living conditions. For better protection of the water filer machines, storerooms were built at some of the schools. Additional support, including connecting to clean water sources and upgrading electricity system, was also provided to installation locations in need.
YDCL Second Water Filter Machines Project: Students using water filter machines in the storeroom at Heng Sam Rin Chheu Teal Primary School
Mr. Kenneth Lo, Chairman of Crystal Group and the Foundation, said:
"Providing clean and safe drinking water to these communities is a powerful way to address climate poverty. These projects not only improve health and well-being but also reduces environmental impact, showcasing our commitment to comprehensive and sustainable solutions. These projects strengthen our connection with the communities and demonstrates our long-term commitment to sustainable development."
The completion of the water filter machine installation projects near YDCL in Cambodia is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to improving community health, promoting environmental sustainability, and combating climate change. Our efforts are paving the way for a future where clean drinking water is accessible to all, and communities can thrive in harmony with the environment. The Foundation plan to initiate more similar projects, thereby extending the benefits of sustainable practices to even more communities in future.
The Foundation Supports and Donates to WWF-Hong Kong for 2024 Coral Tree Donor Wall Campaign
Certificate of Appreciation from WWF-Hong Kong
The Foundation is pleased to announce its support to the 2024 Coral Tree Donor Wall Campaign by the World Wide Fund for Nature Hong Kong ("WWF-Hong Kong") (the "Campaign"), with a donation of HK$100,000. The Campaign aims to restore the vibrant marine life and conserve the invaluable biodiversity that thrives in Hong Kong’s coastal waters. This donation will contribute to nurturing local talents specialised in ocean conservation, supporting the operation of Hoi Ha Marine Life Centre and carrying out development work to protect and conserve marine ecosystems.
Supporting the protection of sea life and the ocean plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Oceans are the largest carbon sinks on our planet; they absorb about a quarter of the carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere by human activities. Healthy oceans and abundant marine life ensure the continuation of this vital process. Marine plants, such as seagrasses, mangroves, and phytoplankton, contribute significantly to carbon sequestration. Furthermore, the ocean regulates the Earth’s climate by distributing heat through global currents. Protecting marine ecosystems maintains biodiversity, supports resilience against climate change, and helps to stabilise our global climate system. By safeguarding marine environments, we are taking vital steps to preserve the natural balance and reduce the adverse effects of climate change.
Mr. Kenneth Lo, Chairman of Crystal International Group Limited and the Foundation, said:
"We are immensely proud to nurture the local talents specialised in ocean conservation and to support the Campaign with this donation. Protecting our marine ecosystems is not just about preserving biodiversity; it’s about ensuring the future health of the planet Earth. Healthy oceans are vital for regulating the climate and supporting life on Earth. Our support reflects our deep commitment to environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change."
The Foundation recognises the profound impact of marine ecosystems on global climate stability and biodiversity. By engaging in the Campaign, we are taking a significant step toward supporting the conservation efforts needed to ensure the long-term health of our oceans. For more information on the Campaign, please visit the WWF-Hong Kong's website at https://coraltree2024.wwf.org.hk/.
Nov
2024
Hong Kong
Jul
2024
Hong Kong
Crystal Climate Charity Foundation, Crystal International Group Limited x HK Repertory Theatre “Crystal Net Zero 2050” Kindergarten Tour Performance — “Carbon Reduction Alliance Saves Our Earth” Concludes with Resounding Success
Photo by @HKREP
The Foundation is proud to announce the successful conclusion of Crystal Climate Charity Foundation, Crystal International Group Limited ("Crystal Group") x Hong Kong Repertory Theatre ("HKREP") "Crystal Net Zero 2050" Kindergarten Tour Performance — "Carbon Reduction Alliance Saves Our Earth" (the "Tour Performance"). The Tour Performance has been well-received since it began, reaching over 1,500 K2 and K3 students and teachers in twenty kindergartens across Hong Kong, effectively spreading the message of environmental stewardship and carbon reduction.
Over the two months from May to July 2024, the "Carbon Reduction Alliance Saves Our Earth" production has visited twenty kindergartens, captivating kid audiences with its interactive and dynamic performances. The story, centred on the members of the "Carbon Reduction Alliance" working together to combat climate change and stop the Carbon Emission Monster from invading the Earth, has been praised for its ability to convey important environmental messages in a fun and relatable manner. The Tour Performance has not only entertained but also educated the kid audiences, providing them with practical ways to reduce their carbon footprints and protect the environment. Teachers and parents have noted the positive influence the performance has had on children, sparking conversations about sustainability and inspiring eco-friendly behaviours at home and in school.
Photo by @HKREP
Mr. Kenneth LO, chairman of Crystal Group and the Foundation, expressed his satisfaction with the Tour Performance's outcomes:
"By engaging children through drama performance, we have sown the seeds of environmental consciousness that will grow and flourish as they do. This is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. Watching children connect with the story and understand the importance of environmental responsibility has been incredibly rewarding. The joy and understanding we have seen in the children's eyes reaffirm our belief that education is the cornerstone of lasting environmental change."
The Foundation would like to extend its sincere thanks to all the kindergartens, teachers, students, and especially HKREP, who made this Tour Performance such a memorable and impactful experience. The positive feedback and enthusiasm have affirmed the importance of integrating environmental education into early childhood learning. As a result of the success of the Tour Performance, the Foundation intends to continue it for two more years, in 2025 and 2026, so that the benefits of the show can be enjoyed by more kindergartens in Hong Kong.
The Foundation's interview with HKREP with highlights of the Tour Performance is available here:
Please also visit the following media articles and HKREP's website for more details:
The Foundation Awards Scholarships to Students from CityU and HKMU for the Academic Year 2023/2024
The Foundation is pleased to announce that the "Crystal Climate Charity Foundation Scholarship" (the "Scholarship(s)") for the 2023/2024 academic year has been awarded to a total of twelve outstanding students from City University of Hong Kong ("CityU") and Hong Kong Metropolitan University ("HKMU"). The Foundation has established the undergraduate scholarship programme in collaboration with CityU and HKMU to promote climate education and encourage students to pursue sustainable development and careers focused on tackling climate change. The Scholarships, commencing from the academic year 2023/24, will run for two years, providing financial support to students who exhibit exceptional academic performance and a strong dedication to developing climate change resilience and advancing net zero goals.
The list of the twelve scholarship recipients for 2023/2024 is as follows:
City University of Hong Kong
-
ALI Hassan (Year 3)
BEng in Environmental Science & Engineering
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CHAN Ho Chun (Year 4)
BEng in Environmental Science & Engineering
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CHEN Junyi (Year 3)
BEng in Energy Science & Engineering
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HU Jiuniu (Year 2)
BEng in Energy Science & Engineering
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WANG Yan Yan (Year 4)
BEng in Environmental Science & Engineering
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YEUNG Shun (Year 3)
BEng in Environmental Science & Engineering
Hong Kong Metropolitan University
-
PAT Siu Kwan (Year 3)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
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CHOI Sze Nga (Year2)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
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WONG Ka Fung (Year 2)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
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CHAN Yin Chun (Year 2)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
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LAM Kin Hang (Year 4)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
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LAM Yuk Yu (Year 3)
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science and Green Management
Mr. Edmund Ng (Foundation Secretary) attended HKMU 2023-24 Scholarships and Awards Gala on behalf of the Foundation.
Mr. Kenneth Lo, Chairman of Crystal International Group Limited and the Foundation, said:
"Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, and it is crucial to equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle this global issue. The Scholarships are part of our ongoing commitment to foster sustainability and climate education and nurture innovative ideas among the young generation to combat climate change. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the twelve scholarship recipients from CityU and HKMU and look forward to witnessing their contributions to a more sustainable future."
Jun
2024
Hong Kong
Jun
2024
Cambodia
The Foundation Completes the Solar Lighting Project near SLA in Cambodia, Enhancing Community Safety
The Foundation is pleased to announce the successful completion of one more solar lighting project in Cambodia, in collaboration with Crystal Group, aimed at serving the communities near the SLA factory (the "Project"). A total of 87 solar streetlights have been installed across three sites: along the village street of Phum Pear Raing in Prey Veng Province, two streets in the village of Phum Chornleung in Kandal Province, and the main road of Phum Toul Trea in Kandal Province. Collectively, the Project illuminates approximately 2.1 kilometres of vital community roads and benefits a total of 156 families of SLA workers.
The selected installation locations previously lacked adequate lighting, making night travel hazardous and unsafe for residents. This was especially distressing for SLA workers, who had to navigate through darkness after being dropped off at designated points by bus drivers. The installation of solar streetlights has effectively alleviated these safety concerns, providing reliable illumination that ensures safe nighttime travel, enhances visibility for local activities, and allows workers to walk home securely, especially benefiting women and other vulnerable community members.
The communities have expressed immense happiness and gratitude, particularly the elderly, children, and women. The solar streetlights have significantly improved their daily lives by providing reliable and environmentally friendly lighting. With these lights, residents feel safer walking or driving at night, children can engage in outdoor activities in the evening, and businesses may see increased foot traffic in well-lit areas.
Mr. Kenneth Lo, the Chairman of Crystal International and the Foundation, stated:
"The solar streetlights have illuminated the communities and showcased the potential of clean and renewable solar energy in creating safe neighbourhoods. This Project has also strengthened our bond and engagement with our workers and the surrounding communities. The Foundation looks forward to continuing its efforts to bring positive change through sustainable energy climate poverty relief solutions. Again, I would like to thank the SLA team for their contribution and for completing this meaningful project."
Light Up Communities in Vietnam near YDVL and CETVN
The Foundation is pleased to announce the completion of two more solar streetlights projects in partnership with Crystal Group's factories in Vietnam in January 2024, which are the project with YDVL in Phu Tho Province (the "YDVL Project") and the project with CETVN in Binh Duong Province (the "CETVN Project" ), serving communities near YDVL and CETVN. These projects mark a significant step in Crystal Group's commitment to environmental protection and community support.
YDVL Project
51 sets of solar streetlights were installed on the inter-commune road connecting Xuong Thinh to Tung Khe in the Cam Khe district. The YDVL Project creates a safe neighborhood at night for residents nearby, including 860 YDVL workers who regularly pass this road.
Photos of YDVL Project:
CETVN Project
The Foundation has successfully installed a total of 57 sets of solar streetlights in Ngoc Quy Social Protection Facility (the "Facility") (Cơ sở Bảo trợ xã hội Ngọc Quý), Binh Chuan Secondary School (the "School") (Trường Trung học cơ sở Bình Chuẩn) and Binh Chuan 21 Street (Đường Bình Chuẩn 21). All CETVN workers and members of the Facility and the School, which amounted more than 2,500 people, could benefit from the CETVN Project.
Photos of CETVN Project:
These locations, previously without adequate lighting, now enjoy the benefits of renewable energy, which improves night-time visibility and enhances security for residents.
Mr. Kenneth LO, the Chairman of Crystal Group and the Foundation, said
"Our solar streetlights projects in the areas surrounding Crystal Group's factories go beyond just improving infrastructure; it also demonstrates our strong commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainable environmental protection. As we illuminate the roads and facilities by the solar streetlights, we are also lighting the way for a brighter, greener future for our workers, their families, and the surrounding communities in needs."
Jan
2024
Vietnam
Dec
2023
Vietnam
Crystal Climate Charity Foundation Completes the First Solar Lighting Project in Vietnam (near Regent 1, 2 & 3)
The Foundation is pleased to announce the completion of the solar lighting project in partnership with Regent 1 & 2 of Crystal Group in serving communities near Regent 1, 2 and 3 (the "Project"). The Project is the Foundation's first solar lighting project in Vietnam, which installed a total of 72 sets of solar streetlights in remote residential areas of Hai Duong Province, Vietnam including Nguyen Giap commune in Tu Ky District, Lai Vu commune in Kim Thanh District, Ai Quoc commune in Nam Sach District and Hoang Hoa Tham commune in Chi Linh District. The Project benefits more than 250 workers and residents nearby Regent 1, 2 and 3, and achieves the goal of "Lighting up country roads with green energy". Although the installation of solar streetlights in remote mountainous areas was full of challenges, the lighting effect is better than expected. The local government and residents of the communities are very satisfied and express their heartfelt gratitude to the Foundation and Crystal Group for the support. All solar streetlights have been awarded to the local governments on 26th and 27th December 2023.
Kenneth LO, the Chairman of Crystal International and the Foundation, said
"We thank and recognise the colleagues from Regent and the local authority for their efforts and the cooperation in this Project. The Foundation will continue to support the local community in fighting against climate change by various climate poverty relief projects."
Meanwhile, following the success of this Project, the Foundation is going to launch other new solar streetlights projects in other regions in Vietnam in near future to fulfil the Foundation's objective of relieving climate poverty.
Establishment of Climate Education Scholarships with Two Local Universities to Encourage Young Generation in Pursuing a Career in Tackling Climate Change
To promote climate education and innovative ideas from the young generation to tackle climate change, the Foundation has established undergraduate students' scholarship program, "Crystal Climate Charity Foundation Scholarship" (the "Scholarship(s)") with City University of Hong Kong ("CityU") and Hong Kong Metropolitan University ("MU"), respectively. Commencing from the academic year 2023/24, the Foundation will provide financial support to the scholarship program for CityU and MU for a duration of two years. Each year, the Scholarships will be awarded to up to 12 students of environment or energy-related disciplines with outstanding academic performance and strong passion for developing climate change resilience and advancing net zero.
Oct
2023
Hong Kong
Sep
2023
Hong Kong
The Foundation Sponsored the World’s Largest Sustainable Fashion Design Competition, "Redress Design Award 2023"
The Foundation is also committed to promoting education on sustainable practices in the fashion industry for alleviating the impact of climate change. As the climate education partner, the Foundation sponsored the world's largest sustainable fashion design competition, "Redress Design Award 2023" (the "Award"), to support emerging designers while encouraging them to embrace circular fashion principles. Organised by Redress, a Hong Kong-headquartered, Asia-focused environmental NGO, the Award educates emerging fashion designers about sustainable design theories and techniques in order to reduce waste and motivate the fashion industry and consumers to drive growth towards a circular fashion system. Entries to the Award were received from over 40 countries globally. For more details about the Award, please refer to the link below for full press release on Redress Limited's official website:
https://www.redressdesignaward.com/s/RDA-2023-Winners-Press-Release-1.pdf
The Foundation Completes the First Solar Lighting Project near Yi Da Manufacturer Co., Ltd. in Cambodia
The Foundation is pleased to announce the completion of the first solar lighting project in partnership with Crystal Group in serving the communities near Yi Da Manufacturer Co., Ltd. ("YDCL") (Address: Phum Russey Srok, Khum Chheu Teal, Srok Kien Svay, Kandal Province, Kingdom of Cambodia). YDCL in Cambodia (the "Project"). A total of 90 sets of solar streetlights are installed in three sites, including Russey Srok Secondary School, Russey Srok Village, and the main road outside YDCL. The solar streetlights provide sustainable lighting in the school, and along the road in front of the school, two streets in the village and the 500-metre-long main road in the east outside YDCL. The solar streetlights provide a safe environment for the local communities at night by renewable energy. This Project is part of the Foundation's climate poverty project providing the solar streetlights for communities in need near Crystal's factories.
Kenneth LO, the Chairman of Crystal International and the Foundation, said
"Through installing solar streetlights, we light up the local communities and demonstrate how to utilise clean and renewable solar energy to create a safe neighbourhood. The Project also deepens the bonding and engagement with the stakeholders in the communities at the same time. Together, we can make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those in need."
Sep
2023
Cambodia
2023
Vietnam & Cambodia
Climate Change Poverty Relief Projects in Vietnam and Cambodia
The Foundation is exploring opportunities in carrying out climate change poverty relief projects in communities nearby factories of Crystal International Group Limited in Vietnam and Cambodia. Relevant feasibility studies and preparation works are started. Various stakeholders like local villagers and government authority were engaged. Relevant projects shall be rolled out in due course.
English Competition and Activities on Climate Change Education Organised by English Wise Learning Center
The Foundation started the climate change related education in Hong Kong by subsidising the speech competition and online English classes on climate change organised by English Wise Learning Center in the amount of HK$100,000. A total of 80 students and 120 students participated in the speech competition and online English classes, respectively. These activities raised the awareness of participants on environmental concerns and educated them concepts, issues on climate change, and strategies for combating climate change.
2023
Hong Kong
Aug
2023
Mainland China
Renewable Energy Showcase and Education Pilot Project of Law Ting Pong Secondary School (Shunde District, Foshan City)(佛山市順德區羅定邦中學)
With the advocacy and support of the Foundation and the local authority, the rooftop solar photovoltaic ("PV") project of Law Ting Pong Secondary School (Shunde District, Foshan City) in the amount around RMB500,000 was just completed. This project includes the installation of solar PV panels on the rooftop of one of the school buildings of a total area of 700 sq. metres with total capacity of approximately 124kW. It is estimated that in the next 25 years upon installation of solar PV panels, electricity of approximately 3.8 MWh will be generated and the emission of carbon dioxide will be reduced by approximately 3,800 tonnes. This project aims at educating the public about sustainable living and promising return from renewable energy generation.
WORK WITH US
HOW TO APPLY FOR FUNDING
We are eager to support projects that contribute to promoting education on climate change as well as to poverty relief due to climate change in Hong Kong and the operating countries of Crystal International Group Limited, including but not limited to Bangladesh, Cambodia, Mainland China, Sri Lanka and Vietnam.
Please follow the instructions below to help us continue selecting the right initiatives.
THE PROCESS
Please submit a brief letter (no more than two sides of A4 paper) containing a summary of your organisation, its goals and objectives, the amount of funding you require and an explanation of its intended use. You can either send a letter or an email to the addresses opposite.
If we are interested in your proposal, we will contact you to explore further and explain the next steps*.
*Please note that an annual report and/or audited accounts will be required.
