Scope and Objectives

Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) was commissioned by Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) to verify the Department's first Sustainability Report 2004 (hereinafter the "Report") which covers on ArchSD's economic, environmental and social performance (hereinafter "ArchSD's performance") during the calendar year of 2003.The objectives of HKPC's verification work are to:

	Assess whether the Report covers all relevant issues in relation to ArchSD's performance;
	Assess whether the selected statements and data presented in the Report are accurate;
	Assess whether the data collection and information management systems used to prepare the Report are reliable; and
	Provide recommendations for future reports

Approach

Our verification procedures comprised a review of the Report, selection of a representative sample of statements and data and interviews with representatives from ArchSD. During the interviews, the documented supporting materials relating to the selected statements and data as well as ArchSD's management practices and sustainability initiatives were explained to and examined by our consultants.

Results

Report Completeness

The Report presents a balanced and comprehensive overview of ArchSD's performance with respect to its core roles, responsibilities and activities. The Report presents extensive information in a structured manner to communicate ArchSD's commitments to promoting sustainable development of Hong Kong and the progress in achieving its economic, environmental, health, safety and social objectives and targets. The Report also sets out directions and long-term goals for the future.

Report Accuracy and Reliability

The Report is considered to be reliable and reflects an accurate account of ArchSD's management practices and performance. The data collection and information management systems used are considered to be both effective and reliable.

Recommendations for Future Reports

ArchSD is commended for expanding its previous Environmental, Health and Safety Report to this first Sustainability Report and including more information on its performance. In addition, we congratulate ArchSD on continually improving its performance and we further encourage ArchSD to consider the following in the preparation of its future reports:

	To enhance the readability by providing a linkage between ArchSD's activities and initiatives in pursuing sustainable development and subsequently how its performance contributes to the sustainable development of Hong Kong; and
	To further enhance the data collection and management systems in order to facilitate efficient analysis and presentation of data within the defined reporting period

K L Tsang
Technology Services Manager
Environment & Product Innovation
Hong Kong Productivity Council
17 December 2004