Building a Greener Hong Kong

Belu strives to support Hong Kong businesses’ sustainability goals by offering high-quality drinking water options through its sustainable water systems, known as Belu “Filter in Action”. These systems utilise filtered water dispensers, which help reduce waste, deliveries, recycling, storage costs, and carbon emissions.

The Hong Kong government actively promotes sustainability through green initiatives, including the forthcoming Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) charging scheme. Belu, a sustainable drinks business and social enterprise, offers a solution to address this upcoming policy. 

Founded in London in 2002 to bring an environmentally improved bottled mineral water proposition to the market, Belu expanded into filtered water solutions in 2015. Its environment-first approach means that Belu will only offer “Filter in Action” outside of the United Kingdom to minimise carbon footprint. Belu entered Hong Kong in 2021 after being approached by a luxury hotel. 

Belu’s social enterprise business model means that all profits are invested in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals through clean water and sanitation, water stewardship and climate action projects. Since 2011, over £5.5 million (approximately HK$55 million) of net profit has been given to WaterAid, the global water charity.

Currently, Belu supplies the hospitality sector with filtered water dispensers that provide still or sparkling, chilled or hot water, along with reusable glass bottles. By embracing Belu refills, CO2 emissions are reduced, and the consumption of single-use glass or plastic bottles is minimised, making a valuable contribution to waste reduction efforts in society. This year, Belu plans to launch in the Hong Kong workplace sector to assist multinational corporations (MNCs) in achieving their supplier diversity goals, following their success with investment bank and insurance firm clients in the United Kingdom.

Pioneering Sustainable Solutions

Claire Pearson, the Global Growth Director of Belu, believes that the city presents remarkable opportunities. “Hong Kong is not only a vibrant metropolis but also a renowned culinary destination,” she said. “Given the city’s extensive hospitality scene and the increasing emphasis on sustainability, we saw a perfect fit for Belu to expand into our first global territory.” With its sustainable water solutions, Belu aims to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly practices in Hong Kong businesses.

As for Belu, its growth positions it as a pioneer of green and purpose-led business initiatives in Hong Kong. “Changes in attitudes, incoming waste charges, government legislation on single-use plastic water bottles, and single-use bottle levies are helping to fast-track businesses’ switch from single-use bottles to on-site refills,” Pearson stated. With the brand now established in the local hospitality industry, Belu is setting its sights on launching in workplaces, as well as introducing a refillable bottle to the market later in the year. “On the retail front, we would also like to explore partnerships with key retail malls to trial premium water refill stations where visitors can refill free of charge,” she noted.

High-quality Talent Pool

Pearson highlighted the appeal of the local talent pool. “Hong Kong boasts a high-quality talent pool with individuals who are hardworking, friendly, and eager to make a positive impact. These desirable attitudes align with our team DNA,” she explained. 

“Moreover, Hong Kong provides an excellent environment for networking and building a strong community. The city’s vibrant dining scene is exceptionally diverse, and we have found a very welcoming business community that is happy to help us grow,” Pearson said. “Hong Kong is a great place to live, with both the bustling metropolis and the tranquility of nature within easy reach. I am excited about what 2024 holds, with hope of increasing tourist numbers, as the city continues to thrive and offer ample opportunities for growth and success.”