In mid-2024, we partnered with Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (“KFBG”) to conduct a one-year biodiversity baseline study, documenting the biodiversity and conservation value of our four largest developments in Hong Kong – Citygate, Cityplaza, Pacific Place and Taikoo Place – through regular faunal and floral surveys.

These surveys made some fascinating and important discoveries that included birds of global conservation value, uncommon migratory birds and observations on the breeding behaviours of various birds and butterflies in our portfolio. Over the course of the study, we observed increases in bird and butterfly species when we compared the figures to a 2019/2020 pre-redevelopment survey, while birds were frequently seen bathing and drinking from water features at our developments. The number of winter bird species observed around Taikoo Place increased from eight in 2020 to 14 in 2024.

According to the autumn survey report, the occurrence of the Orange-headed thrush, a species of local concern in Hong Kong, in the Taikoo Square suggests that this garden, designed to mimic natural vegetation, has already attracted different wildlife and could serve as a stopover site for rare migratory birds.

The baseline biodiversity study was completed in 2025, and we conducted a sharing session on its findings and recommendations with the portfolio team. We will continue our biodiversity monitoring and enhancement work in 2026 at all our properties through the new KPIs set by our SD 2050 Strategy.

Taikoo Square showcases Swire Properties’ focus on biophilic design, promotes urban biodiversity and connects people with nature by offering green open space for the community to enjoy.

At the design stage of Taikoo Square, Swire Properties partnered with an ecological expert from the University of Hong Kong to assess the state of urban biodiversity in the Quarry Bay area. The results inspired the selection of over 260 native and exotic plant species that were hand-picked to enhance the overall ecological value for local wildlife in Taikoo Square and Taikoo Garden.

These components form a green corridor for birds, butterflies and other insects as they move between the green areas within Taikoo Place and the neighbouring Mount Parker and Quarry Bay Park. To investigate the success of our efforts, we engaged researchers from Canada’s Concordia University to assess and quantify how Taikoo Square and Taikoo Garden contribute to the habitat connectivity network of the area.

The assessment is being conducted at three scales: neighbourhood (Quarry Bay), district (Eastern District), and island (Hong Kong Island), using a connectivity indicator that was employed in the City Biodiversity Index.

At Taikoo Li Sanya, we are committed to reintegrating nature into the urban environment to protect and enhance the rich biodiversity surrounding our development. This initiative began with an ecological survey, where experts conducted field assessments to map local species and habitats. The findings guided the design of green corridors that connect fragmented ecosystems, allowing wildlife to move freely. Our landscape design prioritises habitat restoration by incorporating native species that provide essential food, water and shelter, helping to restore the natural balance. By blending greenery into public spaces, we aim to create life-friendly environments where both people and nature can thrive together.

Additionally, we have embraced nature-inclusive and biophilic design principles, along with climate adaptation measures. We will implement an ecological corridor design concept to strengthen connectivity among green areas, including rooftop gardens, vertical gardens and other landscapes. This approach ensures the selection of native plant species to support and promote urban biodiversity, enriching our community’s relationship with the natural world.

Before construction commenced, the Savyavasa site was home to mature trees, many of which had thrived undisturbed for over 30 years. Early in the planning process, we honoured the ecological and aesthetic value of these trees by deciding that no trees would be removed or destroyed from the site. Instead, we implemented a comprehensive tree preservation plan. When construction began, 268 trees were relocated to nurseries, where they were preserved and cared for during construction. So far, 68% of these trees have successfully been replanted. The remaining trees are still under professional care, ensuring they will be in an optimal condition before they are replanted.

This summer, Cityplaza hosted a roving exhibition by The Nature Conservancy on oyster reef restoration, educating the public about oyster reefs and their associated ecosystems. Swire Properties was proud to help raise public awareness about marine conservation and highlight the critical role oyster reefs play in restoring and protecting ecosystems.