Business-NGO Relationships for Environmental Conservation in Hong Kong: Capacity Building for NGOs and the Roles of Government and Business-Related Organisations

Voluntarism and relationships involving partnerships and other alliances are exerting an increasingly powerful influence over developments in environmental policy in Europe, USA and elsewhere but have yet to figure prominently on the environmental agenda in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, there are problems such as the lack of relevant skills and knowledge, of sufficient and independent funding sources for non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and of trust and understanding between NGOs and businesses, as well as a relatively weak civil society compared to the high level of power exerted by business firms. Positive action is required by the relevant parties to ensure the long-term development of business-NGO relationships. Also required is more concerned environmental legislation, and corporate social responsibility education on the environment. Key needs are capacity building and funds for NGOs in order for them to establish balanced and meaningful relations with businesses in relation to environmental matters. These are matters addressed in this article on the basis of 31 in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders, including environmental NGOs, businesses, government departments, business-related organisations, and a legislative councilor. The stakeholders' views highlight the current problems and possible roles of the government and business-related organisations in Hong Kong in assisting in the forging and sustaining of business-NGO relationships of significance to environmental conservation.