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PolyU secures funding for four cutting-edge projects in Third Round of RAISe+ Scheme

PolyU secures funding for four cutting-edge projects in Third Round of RAISe+ Scheme PolyU has earned funding support for four high-impact research projects in the third round of the Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus (RAISe+) Scheme, administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. Spanning areas from advanced manufacturing to artificial intelligence (AI), these projects demonstrate significant potential for industry impact—a testament to the University’s research excellence and translation.  All the funded projects are led by PAIR members. Details of the projects: Project Title and Description Project Leader Forging with Clarity: Intelligent In-Situ Laser Melt Pool Monitoring Technology IntraSpect™ is redefining precision manufacturing with its 3rd-generation intelligent in-situ melt pool control technology. By integrating advanced high-frequency optical tomography with a multi-modal AI engine, the team has developed an “industrial eye” capable of penetrating metal vapour to deliver micron-level 3D real-time monitoring and closed-loop control, effectively eliminating hidden defects such as porosity. This solution matches the performance of top-tier international competitors at half the cost, offering a rapid ROI of less than one year. Closely aligned with the “15th Five-Year Plan” and “China Intelligent Manufacturing 2030”, IntraSpect™ empowers the EV battery and electronics sectors to transition from passive defect detection to proactive quality prevention. Prof. H.C. MAN Founding Director and Member of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (RIAM), Member of Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports), Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Cheng Yick-chi Chair Professor in Manufacturing Engineering and Chair Professor of Materials Engineering WiseLaw: Next Generation Agentic AI for Legal Services WiseLaw Digital Technology Co., Ltd is Hong Kong’s first technology enterprise specialising in AI applications for cross-border legal and compliance services. Incubated by PolyU, WiseLaw brings together PolyU alumni and technical experts from leading internet companies in Chinese Mainland. WiseLaw deeply integrates AI with professional legal and compliance expertise, driving the intelligent transformation of legal services and corporate compliance management. As WiseLaw’s core product, “Lawrence” is an AI Digital Employee designed to empower corporations, financial institutions and law firms. Distinct from conventional software tools, Lawrence is built to “work like an employee”. It provides continuous support across cross-border business scenarios, including legal research, compliance review, contract analysis, risk identification, knowledge management and workflow coordination. Leveraging world-leading LLM capabilities and professional knowledge, further enhanced by WiseLaw’s proprietary Harness Engineering and Agentic Memory solutions, Lawrence enables users to improve operational efficiency, reduce compliance costs and mitigate legal risks. It provides enterprises with a more sophisticated and efficient framework for navigating global expansion and international operations. Prof. LU Haitian Management Committee Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) and Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Member of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), and Hong Kong Sustaintech Foundation Professor in School of Accounting and Finance ShieldTrade: Multi-layer Defense System for Secure Web3 Transactions The project aims to develop ShieldTrade, a next-generation Web3 security system that prevents users from transacting with blacklisted or sanctioned addresses, malicious or deceptive smart contracts, and phishing or fraudulent applications that attempt to obtain unauthorised token approvals or asset transfers. ShieldTrade provides end-to-end security protection for Web3 users by detecting risky transactions before execution and blocking malicious activities in real time. It analyses wallet interactions, smart-contract behaviours and transaction patterns to identify blacklisted or sanctioned addresses, malicious or deceptive contracts, and phishing or fraudulent “dApps” designed to steal assets or token approvals. Through advanced binary analysis, fuzzing and symbolic execution, ShieldTrade delivers proactive defence against emerging Web3 threats and ensures safer participation in decentralised ecosystems. Prof. Allen AU Man-Ho Member of Research Institute for Quantum Technology (RIQT), Associate Head (Research and Development) and Professor of the Department of Computing New Generation of Miniature Quantum Chip with Embedded System for Cybersecurity In today’s information-driven era, safeguarding data has become an exceptionally critical concern. Traditional encryption methods may prove highly vulnerable in the face of potential quantum computing attacks in the near future, underscoring the need to develop new technological solutions with high security standards. The project aims to develop a new generation of miniature quantum chips with embedded systems that enable secure communication by integrating optical quantum components with classical electronics (ARM and FPGA) on a single chip, often using CMOS fabrication to reduce size and cost. These chip-scale devices support high-speed communication, while allowing easy integration into IoT devices, handheld devices, fibre-optic networks, data centres and other applications. Prof. LIU Ai-Qun Director of RIQT, Chair Professor of Quantum Engineering and Science of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Hong Kong Global STEM Scholar   理大四個前沿科研項目獲第三輪「產學研1+計劃」資助 香港理工大學（理大）於香港特別行政區政府創新科技署的第三輪「產學研1+計劃」中，共有四個具影響力的研究項目獲資助。這些項目具備帶領行業發展的深厚潛力，涵蓋先進製造、人工智能等多個領域，充分印證理大具備卓越科研及研究成果轉化的實力。所有獲資助項目均由理大高等研究院成員領導。 有關研究項目詳情如下： 項目名稱及簡介 項目領導 灼見精工：智慧原位熔池精控科技 IntraSpect™（英特珀激光科技）憑藉第三代智慧原位熔池精控技術，重新定義高端精密製造的質量標準。團隊採用領先的高頻光學斷層掃描結合多模態 AI 引擎，打造能穿透金屬蒸汽的「工業透視眼」，實現微米級熔池內部 3D 實時監測與閉環控制，徹底解決氣孔及虛焊等隱蔽缺陷。 產品性能對標國際頂尖品牌，成本僅需一半，回本期短於一年。為緊貼「十五五」規劃與「中國智造 2030」戰略，項目致力賦能新能源電池及 3C 電子等高增值產業，助力企業實現從「攔截缺陷」到「主動預防」的品質革命。 文効忠教授 先進製造研究院創始院長及成員、體育科技研究院成員、工程學院院長、鄭翼之製造工程學講座教授及材料工程講座教授   智法數科：新一代法律服務智能體系統 WiseLaw 智法數科是香港首家專注於跨境法律及合規 AI 應用的科創企業，由理大孵化，匯聚香港理工大學優秀校友及內地頭部互聯網企業技術專家，致力於將AI技術與法律、合規專業知識深度融合，推動法律服務與企業合規管理智能化升級。 作為WiseLaw 旗下核心産品 ，「Lawrence」是面向企業、金融機構及律師事務所打造的法律合規 AI 數字員工。不同於傳統軟件工具，Lawrence 更強調「像員工一樣工作」，圍繞跨境業務場景持續提供法律檢索、合規審查、合同分析、風險識別、知識管理及流程協同等服務。 依托全球領先的大模型能力、多法域專業知識庫及法律專家的經驗、WiseLaw獨有的Harness工程技術和Agentic Memory解決方案，Lawrence 能夠有效幫助客戶提升工作效率、降低合規成本、規避法律風險，爲企業出海和國際化經營提供更智能、更高效的支持。 陸海天教授 潘樂陶慈善基金智慧城市研究院及環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心管理委員會成員、可持續城市發展研究院成員、香港可持續技術基金會教授   ShieldTrade：安全 Web3 交易的多層防護系統 項目旨在開發新一代 Web3 安全防護系統ShieldTrade，其致力於保護使用者免受黑名單或受制裁地址、惡意智能合約，以及企圖獲取未經授權代幣授權或資產轉移之釣魚應用程式的侵害。 ShieldTrade 為 Web3 用戶提供端對端的安全保障，能於交易執行前偵測高風險操作，並即時阻截惡意行為。系統會深入分析錢包互動、智能合約行為及交易模式，藉此識別黑名單或受制裁地址、惡意或具欺騙性的合約，以及旨在竊取資產或代幣授權的釣魚或詐騙類「去中心化應用程式」。透過先進的二進制分析、模糊測試與符號執行技術，ShieldTrade 針對新興的 Web3 威脅提供主動式防禦，確保用戶能更安全地參與去中心化生態系。 區文浩教授 量子技術研究院成員、,電子計算學系副系主任（研究及發展）及教授   新一代嵌入式微型量子芯片及網絡安全應用 在數位化與智能化快速發展的今天，數據及通信安全已成為社會運行和產業發展的核心需求。隨着量子計算技術不斷發展，傳統密碼體系在未來面臨安全考驗，因此亟需發展更高安全等級的新型技術方案。 本項目致力於研發新一代嵌入式微型量子芯片及網路安全應用，通過將量子物理與微電子技術深度融合，將光量子器件與經典電子系統（如 ARM、FPGA）集成於同一芯片之上。基於 CMOS 製造工藝，該技術有望實現芯片的小型化、低成本和高集成度。該量子安全芯片不僅可支援高速安全通信，還能夠進一步嵌入物聯網終端、手持設備、光纖通信網路及數據中心等應用場景，為未來訊息安全提供新一代核心技術。 劉愛群教授 量子技術研究院院長、電機及電子工程學系量子工程與科學講座教授、香港全球傑出創科學人      

PolyU supports seven innovative research projects to advance campus-wide sustainability

PolyU supports seven innovative research projects to advance campus-wide sustainability To proactively address pressing global challenges such as climate change, PolyU launched the Carbon Neutrality Funding Scheme in 2022 to support PolyU researchers in developing impactful technologies for climate change mitigation and adaptation, and translating carbon neutrality research outcomes into practical applications on the PolyU campus, thereby advancing PolyU’s carbon neutrality goals. Under the Carbon Neutrality Funding Scheme 2025/26, seven research projects have been awarded over HK$12.5 million in total.  All funded projects are led by PAIR researchers. Funding proposals are assessed based on three core criteria, including the potential to reduce carbon emissions, effectiveness in addressing societal concerns, and ability to generate tangible University R&D outcomes. Each funded project may receive up to HK$2 million, inclusive of matching funds provided by the respective Faculty, School or Department, and may run for a maximum of two years. Carbon Neutrality Funding Scheme 2025/26 List of Awardees: Principal Investigator Project Title Awarded Amount (HK$) Prof. JIANG Liming Member of Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (RIAM) and Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), Associate Head (Partnership) and Associate Professor of Department of Building Environment and Energy Building Bring Low-carbon Timber-integrated Design to PolyU Campus Powered by Architecture-driven Timber-3DCPSteel Composite Construction 1,900,000 Prof. Jerry YAN Jinyue Associate Director and Management Committee Member of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Management Committee Member of RISUD, Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE), Chair Professor of Department of Building Environment and Energy Building Accelerating PolyU Campus Carbon Neutrality through Digital Carbon Inventory and Pilot Market 1,880,000 Prof. WANG Yuhong Management Committee Member of RISUD, Member of Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS), RISE and Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE), Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Development of a Lightweight Roof-top Cool Canopy Based on Climbing Plants for Effective Building Cooling, Energy Saving, and GHG Reduction 1,458,100 Prof. Charles WONG Man Sing Associate Director of RISUD, Management Committee Member of RILS, Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) and Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT), Associate Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment and Professor of Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics From Data to Credits: Smart Monitoring and Economic Optimization for Carbon Neutrality at PolyU 1,912,000 Prof. XU Zhenglong Management Committee Member of Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), Member of RIAM, Photonic Research Institute (PRI) and RISE, Associate Professor of Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Intelligent Zero-Carbon Mobile Charging Station Enabled by Upcycling Spent Alkaline Batteries into Solar-Rechargeable Aqueous Zn-ion Batteries 1,592,000 Prof. LAU Shu Ping Associate Director of PRI, Management Committee Member of RISE, Member of RIAM, RCDSE, RCRE, Chair Professor of Nanomaterials of Department of Applied Physics On-Site CO2 Capture and Closed-Loop Carbonation for Sustainable Sparkling Beverages 1,900,000 Prof. FEI Bin Management Committee Member of RCRE, Member of Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR), PRI, Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF), Professor of School of Fashion and Textiles Smart-Coat PolyU: Retrofitting Campus Envelopes with Cooling Aerogel Skins for Year-Round Decarbonization 1,876,000   理大支持7項創新研究項目 推動校園可持續發展 為積極應對包括氣候變化在內的全球挑戰，理大於2022年推出「碳中和科研基金」，支持校內科研人員開發具影響力的氣候緩解與適應技術，並將碳中和研究成果在校園落地應用，從而支持推動理大實踐碳中和承諾。在「2025/26年度碳中和科研基金」下，7項研究項目合共獲批逾1,250萬港元資助，所有項目均由理大高等研究院學者領導進行。 項目評選以三大標準為核心，包括技術的減碳潛力、回應社會需求的實際效益，以及對推動大學科研成果的具體成效。每項獲資助項目最高可獲200萬港元資助，包括由學院、學系或部門提供的配對資金，為期最多2年。 2025/26年度碳中和科研基金獲資助項目︰ 首席研究員 項目名稱（只有英文） 資助金額 （港元） 江黎明教授 先進製造研究院及可持續城市發展研究院成員、建築環境及能源工程學系副系主任及副教授 Bring Low-carbon Timber-integrated Design to PolyU Campus Powered by Architecture-driven Timber-3DCPSteel Composite Construction 1,900,000 嚴晉躍教授 環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心副主任兼管理委員會成員、可持續城市發展研究院管理委員會成員、潘樂陶慈善基金智慧能源研究院成員、建築環境及能源工程學系能源與建築講座教授 Accelerating PolyU Campus Carbon Neutrality through Digital Carbon Inventory and Pilot Market 1,880,000 王予紅教授 可持續城市發展研究院管理委員會成員、土地及空間研究院、潘樂陶慈善基金智慧能源研究院及碳中和資源工程研究中心成員、土木及環境工程學系教授 Development of a Lightweight Roof-top Cool Canopy Based on Climbing Plants for Effective Building Cooling, Energy Saving, and GHG Reduction 1,458,100 黃文聲教授 可持續城市發展研究院副院長、潘樂陶慈善基金智慧城市研究院及旅遊業數字化轉型研究中心成員、建設及環境學院副院長及土地測量及地理資訊學系教授 From Data to Credits: Smart Monitoring and Economic Optimization for Carbon Neutrality at PolyU 1,912,000 徐正龍教授 深空探測研究中心管理委員會成員、先進製造研究院、光子技術研究院及潘樂陶慈善基金智慧能源研究院成員、工業及系統工程學系副教授 Intelligent Zero-Carbon Mobile Charging Station Enabled by Upcycling Spent Alkaline Batteries into Solar-Rechargeable Aqueous Zn-ion Batteries 1,592,000 劉樹平教授 光子技術研究院副院長、潘樂陶慈善基金智慧能源研究院管理委員會成員、先進製造研究院、深空探測研究中心及碳中和資源工程研究中心成員、應用物理學系納米材料講座教授 On-Site CO2 Capture and Closed-Loop Carbonation for Sustainable Sparkling Beverages 1,900,000 費賓教授 碳中和資源工程研究中心管理委員會成員、智能可穿戴系統研究院、光子技術研究院及未來服裝紡織科技研究中心成員、時裝及紡織學院教授 Smart-Coat PolyU: Retrofitting Campus Envelopes with Cooling Aerogel Skins for Year-Round Decarbonization 1,876,000        

PolyU study urges smarter transport governance, with three recommendations to advance smart circular city development

PolyU study urges smarter transport governance, with three recommendations to advance smart circular city development A study led by Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of the Faculty of Business, Interim Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics, points out that urban transport governance should no longer be confined to fragmented and reactive management practices.  Instead, it should adopt a more systematic and targeted, tiered policy approach to address transport issues at different levels. The study notes that, in the face of increasingly severe road congestion, road expansion and widening alone cannot fundamentally relieve transport pressure.  If there is insufficient integration among different modes of transport, including buses, the MTR, cycling, walking and shared mobility, increasing road capacity alone is unlikely to bring meaningful improvements to the overall travel convenience for the public. The research further argues that promoting the development of a “circular city” requires going beyond a narrow focus on road congestion when addressing transport issues.  It requires a comprehensive response to six major challenges: traffic congestion, air pollution, inadequate public transport efficiency, poor connectivity between transport links, ageing infrastructure and a heavy reliance on fossil fuels.  Prof. Lai believes that urban transport governance should move away from a fragmented response model towards a tiered strategy based on the nature of different problems, supported by appropriate technological tools to enhance overall governance effectiveness. Prof. Lai added that, compared with tackling congestion in isolation, issues such as air pollution and transport mode integration should be treated as more pressing priorities, as they directly affect the public’s daily travel experience, public health and quality of life.  The study suggests that artificial intelligence can be applied to traffic flow forecasting, real-time monitoring, demand analysis and multimodal connection optimisation.  Blockchain technology, meanwhile, can help facilitate transparent data sharing, emissions tracking, smart contract execution, and the establishment and development of carbon credit mechanisms. At the policy level, the study proposes three recommendations.  First, policymaking should be guided by a problem-oriented approach, with appropriate matching of technologies to identified issues.  Second, a unified data platform should be established to strengthen collaboration across government departments and transport operators.  Third, procurement and performance evaluation mechanisms should be reformed, shifting away from a system that prioritises equipment acquisition to one based on outcomes. Prof. Lai emphasised that cities seeking to advance smart mobility should adopt a pilot-first and progressive implementation strategy.  By integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, transport governance can evolve from a short-term, emergency-response model into a long-term, low-carbon and resilient circular city governance system. Online coverage: Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/3Q9gg4u   理大研究指交通治理須智慧轉型 三項建議推動「循環城市」發展 一項由香港理工大學環境，社會，及治理促進研究中心聯席主任、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系署理系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授領導的研究指出，城市交通治理不宜再局限於零散及被動應對的管理方式，而應採取更具系統性及針對性的分層施策策略，以回應不同層面的交通問題。 研究指出，面對日益嚴重的道路擠塞，單靠擴闊道路未必能從根本上紓緩交通壓力。若巴士、港鐵、單車、步行及共享出行等不同交通方式之間欠缺有效銜接，即使增加道路容量，市民的整體出行便利程度亦未必能獲得實質改善。 研究進一步指出，推動「循環城市」發展，不應僅將交通問題視為道路擠塞，而須全面應對六大挑戰，包括交通擠塞、空氣污染、公共交通效率不足、接駁系統不暢、基礎設施老化，以及對化石燃料的高度依賴。黎教授認為，城市交通治理應由碎片化的應對模式，轉向按問題性質分層施策，並配合適切技術工具，以提升整體治理效能。 黎教授續指，相較於單一處理交通擠塞問題，空氣污染及交通模式整合等議題更具迫切性，原因在於該等問題直接影響市民的日常出行體驗、公共健康及生活質素。研究認為，人工智能技術適用於車流預測、即時監察、需求分析及多模式接駁優化，而區塊鏈技術則有助促進數據透明共享、排放追蹤、智能合約執行，以及碳信用機制的建立與發展。 就政策層面而言，研究提出三項建議：第一，政策制定應以問題導向為本，並配合合適的技術方案；第二，建立統一數據平台，以促進跨部門及跨營運商協作；第三，改革採購及績效評估機制，由以往偏重設備採購的模式，轉向以成果為本的制度設計。 黎教授強調，城市在推動智慧交通發展時，應採取試點先行、循序漸進的策略，並結合人工智能與區塊鏈等新興技術，推動交通治理由短期應急模式，逐步邁向長遠、低碳及具韌性的循環城市治理體系。 網上報導：香港經濟日報 - https://polyu.me/3Q9gg4u

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung: Dynamic capabilities and digital collaboration as key to supply chain competitiveness

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung: Dynamic capabilities and digital collaboration as key to supply chain competitiveness Amid growing uncertainty in global supply chains, firms that continue to rely solely on internal resources and established operating models are finding it increasing difficult to maintain a long-term competitive edge. A study by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) finds that, in the face of multiple challenges, including geopolitical risks, cost volatility and increasingly stringent environmental regulations, businesses must strengthen the dynamic capabilities of their supply chains, deepen value co-creation mechanisms, and embrace digital transformation to effectively enhance supply chain resilience and overall competitiveness. The study was led by Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement, Associate Dean (Academic Support) of the Faculty of Business, Interim Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics. The research identifies three core dimensions of supply chain dynamic capability. The first is sensing capability, that is, a firm’s ability to identify external risks and potential opportunities at an early stage. The second is adaptive capability, i.e., the ability to respond swiftly and make effective decisions during crises or sudden changes in the operating environment. The third is reconfiguring capability, which refers to the capacity to flexibly adjust supply chain resource allocation and operating models in response to shifts in both internal and external environments. The study further highlights that dynamic capabilities do not necessarily lead to innovation performance or competitive advantage. Their impacts must be realised through the process of value co-creation. Specifically, firms need to build closer collaborative relationships with suppliers, customers and logistics partners. Through joint product design, process optimisation and information sharing, capabilities at the individual firm level can be extended across the wider supply chain network, thereby fostering knowledge integration, resource coordination and innovative outcomes. The study also finds that digital transformation plays a significant reinforcing role in this process. The higher a firm’s level of digitalisation, the greater its efficiency in information flows, cross-organisational coordination and supply chain transparency. This, in turn, enhances the effectiveness of value co-creation and further amplifies the positive impact of dynamic capabilities on innovation and performance. In other words, digital technology is not merely a tool for improving operational efficiency, but also a critical enabler of collaborative innovation and strategic transformation across supply chains. The study emphasises that future market competition will no longer be confined to rivalry between individual firms, but will instead centre more on multi-faceted competitions between supply chain ecosystems in terms of collaborative capability, resilience and innovation performance. Firms that can effectively integrate dynamic capabilities, value co-creation and digital transformation will therefore be better placed to build sustained competitive advantage in a highly uncertain external environment and to strengthen their leadership within the wider industrial ecosystem. Online coverage: HK01 - https://polyu.me/4vpkmpl   黎基雄教授：動態能力與數碼協同成供應鏈致勝關鍵 在全球供應鏈不確定性持續上升的情況下，企業若僅依賴內部資源與既有營運模式，已難以維持長遠競爭優勢。香港理工大學（理大）一項研究指出，面對地緣政治風險、成本波動，以及環境規管日趨嚴格等多重挑戰，企業必須同步提升供應鏈的動態能力、深化價值共創機制，推動數碼轉型，方能有效提升供應鏈韌性與整體競爭力。 該項研究由理大環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授領導。研究將供應鏈動態能力歸納為三類核心構面。其一為洞察能力，即企業及早識別外部風險與潛在機遇的能力；其二為應變能力，即企業在危機或環境突變下迅速回應並作出決策的能力；其三為重構能力，即企業因應內外部條件變化，靈活調整供應鏈資源配置與運作模式的能力。 研究進一步指出，動態能力本身並不必然直接轉化為創新績效或競爭優勢，其作用須透過價值共創過程方能實現。具體而言，企業需與供應商、客戶及物流夥伴建立更緊密的協作關係，透過共同產品設計、流程優化及資訊共享等方式，將個別企業層面的能力延伸至整個供應鏈網絡，從而促進知識整合、資源協同及創新成果產出。 此外，研究亦發現，數碼轉型在上述過程中發揮顯著的強化作用。企業的數碼化程度愈高，其資訊傳遞效率、跨組織協調能力及供應鏈透明度亦相應提升，從而有助提升價值共創的成效，並進一步放大動態能力對創新與績效的正面影響。換言之，數碼技術不僅是提升營運效率的工具，更是推動供應鏈協同創新與策略轉型的重要基礎設施。 研究強調，未來市場競爭的核心，將不再局限於單一企業之間的競逐，而是供應鏈生態系統之間在協同能力、韌性表現與創新水平上的綜合較量。因而，能夠有效整合動態能力、價值共創與數碼轉型三者的企業，將更有條件在高度不確定的外部環境中建立持續競爭優勢，並鞏固其在產業生態中的領導地位。 網上報導：HK01 - https://polyu.me/4vpkmpl    

PolyU study: EV charge point operators upgrading service quality and facilities are key to EV adoption and green transition

PolyU study: EV charge point operators upgrading service quality and facilities are key to EV adoption and green transition A study by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has found that digital word-of-mouth about charging stations, together with actual charging experiences, has become a key yet largely invisible driver of electric vehicle (EV) registration rates, and its influence is far beyond what the public and policymakers recognise.  The study highlights how operators and property managers of EV charging stations exercise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities and contribute to emissions reduction and green transition through enhanced charging experiences and overall service that goes beyond basic power provision.   The research, led by Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement, Associate Dean (Academic Support) of the Faculty of Business, Interim Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics, analysed more than 246,000 online reviews of charging stations across the United States between 2019 and 2023. The findings show that EV adoption is not determined solely by government subsidies or the number of charging facilities. Actual user experience at charging stations, together with online reviews, has become an important force of local EV registration rates and the diffusion of EVs into neighbouring areas, and is a factor frequently overlooked in environmental policy design.   In the case where charging experiences are poor, even a continued increase in the number of charging facilities in a given area may be undermined by the large volumes of negative online reviews. This weakens residents’ willingness to switch to EVs and indirectly slows progress on emission reduction and the green transition.   At the societal level, consumers are increasingly relying on user comments on mobile apps and social media platforms to assess the safety, convenience and day-to-day practicality of charging facilities. Fine details such as the long-term occupancy of parking spaces by non-EVs, poor on-site conditions, inadequate lighting or potential security risks often shape the public’s perception of and willingness to purchase EVs, more directly than official statistics.   At the corporate governance level, charging station operators and property managers must regard charging as an integrated service product rather than simply power supply. Other service elements include clear and easy-to-understand user instructions, fair and transparent pricing structures, reliable and timely maintenance and support, and appropriate locations and supporting amenities. At the same time, companies should establish systematic mechanisms for monitoring and responding to online word-of-mouth, treat positive reviews as an important intangible asset, and enhance brand image through responsible operations and information disclosure, thereby raising governance standards and promoting sustainable development across the entire sector.   Online coverage: Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/4m1greg   理大研究：營運商提升充電服務質素及配套成電動車普及與綠色轉型關鍵 香港理工大學一項研究顯示，充電站的電子口碑與實際充電體驗，已成為影響電動車登記率關鍵隱形力量，其影響力遠高於一般公眾與決策者的普遍想像。研究強調，電動車充電站營運商及物業管理公司能透過優化充電體驗，提供除基本供電外更全面的服務配套，以有效履行環境、社會及企業管治（ESG）責任，為減排目標及綠色轉型帶來積極作用。 是次該研究由環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授領導，分析了2019至2023年間美國各地充電站逾24.6萬則網上評價。研究指出，電動車的普及並非僅由政府補貼或充電硬件數量所決定，充電站的實際使用體驗以及線上評價，已成為左右各地電動車登記率及其周邊地區擴散效應的重要驅動因素，是環境政策設計中經常被忽視的一環。 若充電體驗欠佳，即使當地充電設施數量持續增加，亦可能因大量網上負評而削弱了市民轉用電動車的意願，從而間接拖慢減排與綠色轉型的進程。 在社會層面，消費者日益依賴手機應用程式及社交平台上的用戶分享，以判斷充電設施的安全性、便利度及實用性。例如車位遭非電動車長期佔用、現場環境惡劣、照明不足或治安隱患等細節，往往比官方統計數據更能直接影響市民對電動車的觀感及購買意欲。 在企業管治層面，充電站營運商及物業管理方須將充電視為一項完整的服務產品，而非單只是提供電源供應。其他服務細節亦包括：清晰易明的使用指引、公平透明的收費制度、可靠快捷的維修和支援機制，以及適切的場地及配套設施。同時，企業亦應建立系統化的電子口碑監察與回饋機制，把正面評價視為重要無形資產，透過負責任的營運模式及資訊披露，提升品牌形象，並推動整個行業的治理水平與可持續發展。 網上報導：香港經濟日報 - https://polyu.me/4m1greg                        

Prof. Mike LAI writes in newspaper: Appropriate ESG disclosure is key — accurate reporting matters for corporate risk reduction and competitiveness

Prof. Mike LAI writes in newspaper: Appropriate ESG disclosure is key — accurate reporting matters for corporate risk reduction and competitiveness Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement, Associate Dean (Academic Support) of the Faculty of Business, Acting Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, recently penned an article for HK01, titled “Bidding Farewell to the ‘More is Better’ Myth – Mastering the Art of Accurate ESG Disclosure”, in which he explores issues related to green finance and ESG disclosure.   Prof. Lai notes that, in recent years, green finance and ESG information disclosure have become global trends, with enterprises generally believing that greater transparency attracts more investors.  However, his research team’s study of listed manufacturing companies in China found that the relationship between ESG disclosure transparency and corporate risk follows a U-shape curve: moderate disclosure helps reduce share price volatility, but excessive disclosure increases risk.  Disclosing an appropriate amount of ESG information can alleviate information asymmetry, boost investor confidence and reduce the impact of unexpected events on share prices.  Conversely, over-disclosure of commercially sensitive information may enable competitors to copy business practices, thereby weakening a company’s advantages and increasing its risk exposure.  The research also indicates that artificial intelligence and intellectual property protection can mitigate the risks associated with excessive disclosure and enhance corporate competitiveness.   Prof. Lai believes that the priorities of institutional investors also affects the impact of ESG disclosure on risk, and that enterprises should adjust their disclosure strategies according to market conditions.  For Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises, accurately disclosing information about the most distinctive and improvable ESG aspects, alongside technological and patent planning, can help enhance bargaining power and secure green loans.  At the policy level, the government should emphasise the quality and relevance of disclosures, encourage enterprises to make good use of artificial intelligence tools, and improve the efficiency and accuracy of reporting.  ESG disclosure should be seen as a strategic tool for enterprises to manage risk and strengthen competitiveness, rather than merely a compliance burden.   Online coverage: HK01 - https://polyu.me/4bZibB7   黎基雄教授於報章撰文：ESG資訊披露需適度 精準披露助企業減風險、強競爭力 香港理工大學環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授，近日於《香港01》撰文，以「告別『愈多愈好』迷思——掌握ESG精準披露的藝術」為題，探討綠色金融及ESG資訊披露的議題。 黎教授指出，綠色金融及ESG資訊披露近年成為全球熱潮，企業普遍認為透明度愈高，愈能吸引投資者。然而，其研究團隊針對中國製造業上市公司的研究發現，ESG披露透明度與企業風險呈現「先降後升」關係：適度披露有助減少股價波動，過度披露反而增加風險。適量公開ESG資訊能紓緩資訊不對稱，提升投資者信心，降低突發事件對股價的衝擊；但若過度披露商業敏感資訊，其營運模式則可能被競爭對手模仿，削弱企業優勢，導致風險上升。研究亦指出，人工智能及知識產權保護可緩衝過度披露帶來的風險，提升企業競爭力。 黎教授認為，機構投資者的關注焦點亦會影響ESG披露對風險的作用，企業應根據市場情況調整披露策略。對香港中小企而言，精準披露最具特色及改善潛力的資訊，配合技術與專利佈局，有助提升議價能力及獲得綠色貸款。在政策層面，政府應重視披露質量與相關性，鼓勵企業善用人工智能工具，提升報告效率與準確度。ESG披露應成為企業管理風險及強化競爭力的策略工具，而非單純合規負擔。 網上報導：HK01 - https://polyu.me/4bZibB7                      

PolyU knowledge transfer: Digital twin system for smarter, greener government and corporate buildings

PolyU knowledge transfer: Digital twin system for smarter, greener government and corporate buildings A team led by Prof. XIAO Fu, Associate Director of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE), Management Committee Member of Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT), Member of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), and Associate Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment, has developed a highly practical digital twin system, which has been successfully implemented in the central air-conditioning systems across the PolyU campus and further extended to Hong Kong Government Office buildings and the headquarters of Midea Group in Guangdong. The system constructs high-precision digital models of buildings and uses IoT sensors to monitor real-time data such as temperature, pressure and power consumption.  By combining artificial intelligence (AI) analysis with physical engineering models, it can accurately predict equipment failures and automatically optimise air-conditioning start-stop times, water temperature settings, and pump operation strategies.  This intelligent approach significantly reduces energy consumption and carbon emissions while ensuring indoor comfort and air quality. Furthermore, the system integrates mixed reality technology to transform maintenance operations.  By simply wearing smart glasses, maintenance staff can “see through” ceilings and walls to reveal concealed pipes and equipment.  The system not only displays real-time operating parameters and AI diagnostic results but also features indoor navigation to guide personnel precisely to the point of failure.  This intuitive interface allows technicians—even those without an AI background—to quickly gain proficiency, vastly improving the efficiency of troubleshooting and repairs. As cloud technology continues to mature, this solution will be expanded to more commercial buildings, supporting Hong Kong’s transition towards green building standards and carbon neutrality goals. Online coverage: Hong Kong China News Agency - https://polyu.me/3OpMOXd   理大科研成果轉化：數字孿生系統助政府及大型企業實現綠色智慧建築管理 由潘樂陶慈善基金智慧能源研究院副院長、旅遊業數字化轉型研究中心管理委員會成員、可持續城市發展研究院及環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心成員、建設及環境學院副院長肖賦教授領導的團隊，研發出一套具高度實用性的「數字孿生」系統，成功應用於理大校園的中央空調系統，並進一步推廣至香港政府合署大樓及美的集團廣東總部。 該系統為建築物構建高精度的數碼模型，並透過物聯網感測器實時監測溫度、壓力及耗電量等數據。系統結合人工智能分析與物理工程模型，能精準預測設備故障，並自動優化冷氣開關、水溫設定及水泵運轉策略。這一智慧方案在確保室內舒適度與空氣品質的同時，亦能顯著降低能源消耗與碳排放。 此外，系統整合了混合實境技術，徹底改變了維修操作方式。維修人員只需佩戴智能眼鏡，即可「透視」天花板與牆內的隱蔽管道與設備。系統不僅即時顯示運行參數與人工智能診斷結果，更具備室內導航功能，引導人員精確抵達故障點。這種直觀介面讓即使沒有人工智能專業背景的技術人員亦能快速掌握流程，大幅提升故障排查與維修效率。 隨著雲端部署技術日益成熟，該方案將逐步擴展至更多商業建築，助力香港實現綠色建築轉型與碳中和目標。 網上報導：香港新聞網 - https://polyu.me/3OpMOXd      

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung appointed as member of Hong Kong Logistics Development Council

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung appointed as member of Hong Kong Logistics Development Council Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, has been appointed as a member of the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council (LOGSCOUNCIL) for the 2026-2027 term. Established in December 2001, LOGSCOUNCIL serves as a forum for the HKSAR Government and industry stakeholders to advise on strategic initiatives that promote the development of Hong Kong’s logistics industry.  Its members represent a wide spectrum of stakeholders, bringing diverse expertise and knowledge from across the supply chain sector.   黎基雄教授獲委任為香港物流發展局成員 環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任 、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授，獲委任為香港物流發展局2026-2027年度成員。 香港物流發展局於2001年12月成立，旨在為香港特區政府和物流業界持份者提供平台，就推動本港物流業發展的策略及措施提出建議。成員來自業界不同範疇，並具備豐富供應鏈知識及經驗，為香港物流業的持續發展提供多元專業意見。

High-value maritime services key to Hong Kong’s global trade standing, Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung writes

High-value maritime services key to Hong Kong’s global trade standing, Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung writes Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, recently penned an article in the Hong Kong Economic Times,  discussing the challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong amid our country’s 15th grand national strategy. Prof. Lai pointed out that Hong Kong’s future success does not hinge on building another terminal, but rather on whether it can take the lead in transforming from a traditional port city into one offering high value-added maritime services. He explained that as our country accelerates its development as a maritime power and reshapes global trade patterns, competition will increasingly focus on influence in finance, technology, and regulatory frameworks. Only cities with these core strengths will be able to take a leading role in shaping new international rules and gaining market advantages. . He further noted that Hong Kong should actively develop high-end services such as maritime finance, smart ports and green shipping in the industry, while strengthening international connectivity and enhancing its capacity for institutional and technological innovations. This approach will not only help consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international shipping centre, but also inject fresh impetus into the local economy and enable Hong Kong to continue playing a leading role in the global maritime industry chain. Online coverage: Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/3NPGk3t (Chinese only)   黎基雄教授：高端海事服務是香港全球貿易地位的關鍵 環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任 、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任、航運及物流講座教授黎基雄教授近日於《香港經濟日報》撰文，探討香港在國家新一輪海事版圖重組下，所面臨的挑戰與機遇。 黎教授指出，香港要成功突圍，關鍵不在於再建一個碼頭，而是在於能否率先成功從傳統港口城市轉型至高增值海事服務城市。他解釋，隨著國家加快建設海洋強國，並重塑全球產業鏈及貿易格局，未來競爭焦點將集中於金融、科技與制度的話語權。唯有具備這些核心競爭力的城市，才能在新一輪國際規則制定及收益分配中佔據主導地位。 他續指，香港應積極發展海事金融、智慧港口、綠色航運等高端服務，並加強與國際接軌，提升制度與科技創新能力。這不僅有助於鞏固香港作為國際航運中心的地位，更能為本地經濟注入新動力，推動香港在全球海事產業鏈中持續發揮領先作用。 網上報導：香港經濟日報 - https://polyu.me/3NPGk3t

PolyU research: Supply chain finance enhances supply quality and predictability of collaboration

PolyU research: Supply chain finance enhances supply quality and predictability of collaboration A research study co-authored by Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, examined the impact of supply chain finance on supply chain resilience from three perspectives: (1) the accuracy of supply-demand matching; (2) the stability of supply-demand relationships; and (3) the quality of supply. The findings indicated that supply chain finance can effectively enhance performance in these three areas, thereby strengthening enterprises’ ability to cope with frequent—albeit relatively minor—disruptions such as demand fluctuations and localised logistics delays in day-to-day operations. Furthermore, the study found that higher levels of supply chain finance foster stronger collaboration between upstream and downstream participants in the logistics industry, leading to more stable, closer supply-demand relationships. By extending the creditworthiness of core enterprises to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supply chain finance helps them overcome financing challenges and improve cash flow. Meanwhile, banks can leverage data such as orders, shipments, and payments to continuously monitor contract performance, reduce moral hazard and default risk, and enhance the predictability of collaboration. The study recommended that enterprises incorporate supply chain finance into their long-term cooperation frameworks, rather than viewing it merely as a short-term financial instrument, and design dedicated financing solutions for core suppliers and customers to secure stronger collaborative commitments, such as supply priority and joint contingency arrangements. Prof. Lai suggests that enterprises can promote supply chain finance in three steps: First, establish a robust data foundation by integrating Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), logistics, and financial systems to ensure that order, inventory, and payment information can be securely accessed and verified by banks and fintech partners. Second, select an appropriate supply chain finance model. Export-oriented enterprises may focus on developing accounts receivable factoring and order financing, while those with a high proportion of procurement from the Chinese Mainland may consider building platforms in partnership with core suppliers and Mainland banks. Finally, link supply chain finance to resilience KPIs. In addition to monitoring financing costs, enterprises should also continuously track indicators such as the supply stability rate, fluctuations in transaction cycle, days of inventory for key materials, and innovation output, to provide a concrete assessment of the effectiveness of financial tools. Online coverage: Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3ZAXhBf   理大研究：供應鏈金融提升供應質素及合作可預測性 由香港理工大學環境，社會，和治理促進研究中心聯席主任、工商管理學院副院長（學務統籌）、物流及航運學系暫任系主任兼講座教授黎基雄教授參與進行的一項研究，從三個層面探討供應鏈金融對供應鏈韌性的影響，包括：一、供求匹配的準確性；二、供求關係的穩定性；三、供應的質素。研究結果顯示，供應鏈金融能有效提升上述三方面的表現，增強企業應對日常頻繁但規模較小的擾動（如需求波動、局部物流延誤等）的能力。 此外，研究亦發現，供應鏈金融水平愈高，物流行業上下游的合作亦隨之提升，供需關係更趨穩定緊密。核心企業的信用可透過供應鏈金融延伸至中小企業，協助其紓緩融資困難及資金周轉慢的問題。銀行則可運用訂單、出貨及回款等數據，持續監控合同履行情況，降低道德風險及違約行為，提升合作的可預測性。 研究建議，企業宜將供應鏈金融納入長期合作框架，而非僅視其為短期財務工具，並為核心供應商及客戶設計專屬融資方案，以換取更高的合作承諾，如供貨優先權及共同備援方案安排。 黎教授指出，企業可循三個步驟推動供應鏈金融：首先，建立穩固的數據基礎，整合ERP、物流及財務系統，確保訂單、庫存及收付款資料能安全地供銀行及金融科技夥伴讀取與驗證。其次，選擇合適的供應鏈金融模式。出口導向型企業可重點發展應收賬款保理及訂單融資，而內地採購比重高的企業，則可考慮與核心供應商及內地銀行合作共建平台。最後，將供應鏈金融與韌性KPI掛勾，企業除關注融資成本外，亦應持續監測供貨穩定率、交易週期波動、關鍵物料庫存天數及創新產出等指標，以具體量化金融工具的成效。 網上報導: 文匯報 - https://polyu.me/3ZAXhBf