Under the Used & Retired Bus Programme by a bus company that operates franchised services in Hong Kong, decommissioned single and double-decker buses are to be donated to schools and non-governmental organisations. Till today, 24 buses have been donated. The vehicles are then converted into classrooms and interactive learning centres with various themes. Educators believe the revamped buses provide a unique and inspiring learning environment for students.

The Buddhist Chi Kang Primary School was one of the recipients of a retired bus which now serves as a library and learning centre. The original features of the bus such as steering wheel and handrails were retained to provide the children with an exciting learning venue. It also serves as a reminder to the younger generation on the importance of recycling and repurposing.

Initiatives by other transport companies have also gained recognition for their green efforts. One such company is Kowloon Motor Bus. The company was awarded the Gold Award for its advanced green technologies and innovative ideas in the transport and logistics sector at the 2018 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence.

The company’s award-winning efforts include installing solar panels on the roof of its double-decker buses, marking a 40 percent increase in coverage area compared to the first generation of buses. The panels convert solar energy into electricity to power the ventilation system which cools down the bus while it is parked. The company also estimates fuel consumption to be reduced by 3 percent.

Other innovations include a Green Bus Shelter Scheme whereby roofs of bus stops would be equipped with solar panels to power lights and mosquito-repellent devices.