BUILDING
CAPABILITY
Sustainability Report 2007
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability
CONTENTS
01 About this Report
02 From the Chief Executive Officer
04 About MTR Corporation
08 Management Discussions
12 Governance
13 Merger Case Study
16 Commentary:
Value Strategy
18 Social Responsibility
Online Reporting
20 Commentary:
Society’s Challenge This is our fifth year in reporting under the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) - 2002
Sustainability Reporting Guidelines. The 2007 GRI Content Index is posted online, and links
28 Environmental Stewardship
to this printed Report and further discussions of particular indicators. A summary table for
30 Commentary: our 2001-2006 GRI Content Indices is available along with an additional table reviewing this
Response to Climate Change
year’s environmental performance reported under the G3 Guidelines.
32 Basis of Reporting
Webcasts
33 Independent Assurance Report
To facilitate an understanding of MTR Corporation’s business case in sustainable development,
34 Performance Data
the Sustainability Development Department has developed a series of webcasts that use
36 Definitions audio and animated graphics to explain the selected models and drivers to our sustainable
development. Amongst them are the Sustainable Competitive Advantage model, Enterprise
Risk Management, stakeholder engagement, the Materiality Map and the Maturity Matrix.
These can be accessed on our sustainability website.
Six Sustainability Drivers
Provide value for money to customers while delivering safe and environmentally sound rail and
property services
Pursue a business model that promotes long-term economic and financial viability for
MTR Corporation
Provide employees with a safe, healthy and caring work environment
Develop and build environments that create quality living and working communities in
Hong Kong and beyond
Maintain ongoing stakeholder communications and build relations that seek to achieve
common objectives
Sustain environmental, health and safety standards in relationships with suppliers, contractors
and business partners
* 1 January to 31 December 2007 inclusive. The financial data captured in this Report includes audited data from the KCRC
as of post-merger date 2 December 2007. The non-financial data captured includes data from the KCRC as of post-merger
date 2 December 2007 and NP360 Cable Car, except page 9 and where indicated.
This year, MTR Corporation holds a unique institutionalises sustainability in context of It is our hope that this Report will serve
position amongst our peer group of global a corporate merger. Discussions examine as a reference tool and practical guide in
reporters. The 2007 year, in addition to how the Sustainable Competitive Advantage sustainable development for organisations
meeting performance expectations, posed model synthesises the merger process that are facing substantial change through
the singular challenge of preparing for a and how the Company’s sustainable mergers or significant acquisitions of assets.
major corporate merger under sustainable development process may operate in future. To our knowledge MTR Corporation is one
best practice. of the first to publicly disclose the testing
Our internet site, www.mtr.com.hk/
of the principles of sustainability in a
Our theme, building capability, guides this sustainability, supports this document with
merger/acquisition environment. We seek
Report citing the initiatives undertaken extensive data, webcasts and information
to establish a dialogue with readers on our
during the year to advance the principles of as well as addressing the implementation of
efforts to address this challenge.
sustainability and to leverage the scalability management directives under our identified
of skills and management systems in order six sustainability drivers. The purpose The Corporation values stakeholders’
to direct and grow the organisation. This is to demonstrate how sustainable best feedback. You serve as independent sources
applies to both ongoing operations and the practices are cascaded down and across of information and a constructive critique on
year’s transition planning for the merger. the organisation. Online information that how we report and what areas are in need of
augments this Report is marked with , our attention. We encourage your feedback
We continue our dialogue on best practices,
and links to cited external organisations are to help us better deliver the information
measuring the year’s progress in social,
indicated on the relevant pages. you seek. Contact the Head of Sustainability
economic and environmental stewardship
Development, sdmngr@mtr.com.hk , for
under our Sustainable Competitive To maintain continuity in reporting, we have
further information or any queries in regard
Advantage model and the Maturity elected in 2007 to remain with the GRI - 2002
to this Report and our online discussions.
Matrix developed in accordance with Sustainability Reporting Guidelines for our
British Standard’s Guidance for Managing last year in operating as the pre-merger
Sustainable Development (BS8900:2006). In MTR Corporation. We have continued to
addition, we highlight the introduction of retain PricewaterhouseCoopers to conduct
the Corporation’s Climate Change Policy and assurance on our reporting exercise. As in
its practical application within operations. previous years, they focus on the critical
social and environmental responsibilities
We also introduce by way of a case study
and economic contributions of the
a predictive-corrective methodology
Corporation. Their independent assurance
to explore a valid framework that
report is on page 33 of this Report.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability About this Report 01
FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Chief Executive Officer of MTR
Corporation, C K Chow, discusses the
organisation’s sustainability journey
in context of the major events and
opportunities of the past year and how
they will shape the Corporation’s future.
Following are the highlights of his remarks.
The Rail Merger
We enter the 2008 year as an empowered
organisation. We have greater business
capacity, broader capabilities, a greatly
extended transport network and, critically,
the opportunity to bring change that fosters
social, economic and environmental benefits
for the communities we serve.
The rail merger has established the means
to better facilitate a major business
objective, that is, to be the backbone of
public transport in Hong Kong. Essentially,
the intent has not changed but rather
demands a higher degree of care and
responsibility in stewardship. We continue
our mission to serve as the premier public
transport operator, to build or reinvigorate
communities along our rail lines and to
bring our expertise to mainland China and
the international markets. The change
comes in how we deliver; that is, how we
have evolved sustainable competitive
advantage to manage the increased risks
and in parallel, optimise opportunities.
Realising the economic and social benefits
as a result of operational synergies is only
the beginning.
The process of the merger itself demanded
a high degree of stakeholder engagement
02 From the Chief Executive Officer
“There is the recognised need for greater care and responsibility in stewardship of
the merged company and in the future undertaking of new rail projects. Growing
sustainably is a cornerstone tenet of success in both these areas.”
both internally and externally, which rail, designating Hong Kong as the southern we have steadily progressed. We are well
continues today. In this latest stage terminus of this system. Following the advanced by way of addressing risks and
involving the actual integration and example of existing high-speed railways including our stakeholders in decisions
implementation of systems and cultures, we worldwide, this express service brings relevant to our enlarged businesses in
recognise the need to have a more inspiring together the broader regional communities rail and property. What we have put
vision-mission-values set in order to move while delivering on the social and economic into practice over the years serves as
forward cohesively as an organisation. This aspirations of travel convenience, services a knowledge bank and foundation for
supposition arises out of the apparent accessibility and spacious, affordable living new projects while we remain vigilant in
challenge to mobilise both corporate environments. responding to society’s evolving aspirations
body and spirit as a single force powering and expectations.
Community Rail
forward to achieve common corporate and
The evolving practices covering social, As a member of the global rail community
community benefits.
economic and environmental stewardship we continue to push forward with our
Growth are paying dividends in our endeavour to work in the UITP (International Association
The rail merger is only a part, albeit of major be a true community railway. The West of Public Transport) and most recently, in
strategic importance, of our 2007 story. Island Line (WIL) is a prime example. The adopting a formal Climate Change Policy.
Hong Kong is entering a phase of dynamic deliberate early-stage public consultation We also pointedly continue to participate in
growth in which four new rail lines form part has revealed the overwhelming local the many benchmarking exercises to
of the major territory-wide infrastructure community support for the line and has maintain our SEE profile amongst international
planning announced under the year’s identified for us where investment can stakeholders and standards organisations.
HKSAR Government Policy Address. be leveraged to bring growth to the
This poses an exciting future for MTR community, kick-start urban renewal while The 2008 year is a challenging one. We are
Corporation as it heralds the opportunity maintaining sensitivity to local heritage on an uphill climb to maintain our high
to expand our footprint within Hong Kong and, more importantly, provide connectivity standards for sustainable development
and to extend our services and capabilities and convenience through a series of while working to successfully integrate
into the Pearl River Delta and, by default, to network-linked escalators, elevators and two corporate cultures and operations into
greater mainland China. passageways that serve to connect the .
“One Company, One Team” At the same
entire community outside our stations. As time, it presents the singular opportunity
Some 60 kilometres of rail line are expected to review how we can effectively and
we plan and build future lines the dynamics
to be added to our local network over efficiently implement best practice under
of such engagement will change, as each
the next decade, reaching into new the competitive advantage framework for
community has its vested interests to be
communities and creating local hubs of the new organisation.
considered. Their input, combined with
social and commercial activity. The result
our expertise and work ethos of continual
will establish seamless cross-territory
improvement, can only further our vision
travel and enhance rail as the preferred
to be a company that connects and grows
mode of public transport. The new regional
communities with caring services.
express link announced as part of this CK Chow
broad infrastructure plan integrates the Sustainability Report Card Chief Executive Officer
Hong Kong network into mainland China’s In reviewing our progress for the 2007 year 15 April 2008
12,000+ kilometres of national high-speed in context of sustainability development,
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 03
MARKET SHARE OF FRANCHISED PUBLIC TRANSPORT
(In percentage)
MTR KCRC Buses Mini-buses Trams & Ferries
MTR (December 2007 only) All other public transport modes (December 2007 only)
3.7 3.6 3.5
13.8 14.2 14.4
41.6
41.9 41.6 41
25.2 25 26.7
58.4
15.4 15.6 14.4
2005 2006 2007
AbOUT MTR Capturing Synergies Centralised control over future rail
To optimise business outcome of the projects establishes better planning with
CORPORATION Government and optimises the across-the-
merger, extensive reviews of both
organisations’ operations were conducted board efficiencies in how new rail lines will
with the intention of identifying “best of be built. This paves the way to facilitate
Expanded Corporate Footprint
both” in management and systems as the the development of the four rail projects
Following the enactment of the Rail Merger
underlying basis for future operations. confirmed by Government in the 2007-08
Ordinance effective from 2 December 2007,
From this, the new organisational structure Policy Address.
the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation
(KCRC) granted MTR Corporation the 50-year was shaped and, significantly, the social, The land bank acquisition, which gives rise
service concession to operate, manage and economic and environmental risks to the to substantial revenue potential, extends the
maintain the operational assets of the KCRC. merger and future operations as a single long-term stream of recurrent income from
Additionally, under the terms of agreement rail network were identified for further property sales and investments. Emphasis
for the merger, MTR Corporation acquired action. The process also identified potential is given to green building so as to create
the portfolio of investment properties and synergies and other revenue enhancement sustainably built environments.
property development rights of the KCRC. opportunities that will support the long-
The new Fare Adjustment Mechanism
term sustainability of the new organisation.
(FAM) using a direct-drive formula based
The merger consolidates Hong Kong’s mass
A set of drivers was established that dictated on changes to the composite consumer
transit rail network into a single entity
the new organisational footprint and price and wage indices creates a measure of
managed under MTR Corporation. This
necessarily evolved best practices: certainty in respect of fares, which will fairly
network includes nine domestic rail lines,
balance the interests of, and benefit,
cross-boundary services, a light rail system, With the licence to operate the combined rail
all stakeholders.
the dedicated Airport Express and bus network, some 6,000 employees comprising
Integration of the two rail networks
services, collectively capturing about 41% mainly front-line staff and maintenance
introduces an expanded network with
of the city’s overall public transport market. crews are added to the existing 6,500-strong
seamless connection and reduced fares
The bulk of MTR Corporation’s operations MTR Corporation staff, a decision taken to
across the board for commuters, in
continues to be in Hong Kong, with home ensure the continuity of quality rail services
particular for lengthy journeys and network
market contributions to revenues being over across the expanded network. A parallel
interchanges. This positions MTR to better
95% of the total at 2007 year-end. programme to realise operational synergies
compete with other transport providers and
including staff rationalisation optimises
in time, with better planning and services
deployment and retraining opportunities for
delivery, become the preferred mode of
the some 1,300 new positions identified.
public transport in Hong Kong.
04 About MTR Corporation
PASSENGER NUMBERS MTR CORPORATION ASSETS FOOTPRINT
Total (1) MTR Services (2) Airport Express
The Company’s assets and related operating activities have expanded in size and scope.
Total no. of passengers Total no. of passengers Pre-merger Post-merger Increase (%)
(MTR Services, in millions) (Airport Express, in millions)
1000 Route length (km) 91 211.6 133
28
950 Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car √ √ No change
24
900 Stations 53 82* 55
850 20 Light rail, bus services √ New business
800 Freight √ New business
16
750 Rail consultancy √ √ No change
700 12
Mainland China rail line 1 1 No change
650 8 European rail operating concession 1 1 No change
600
4 Investment properties (lettable floor area in m2) 231,184 272,141 18
550
Land development rights (million m2) 2.15 3.32 54
500 0
Property management
98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07
Residential units 61,997 71,851 16
(1) The KCRC leased transport assets from 2 December 2007 included Commercial / office space in m2 663,530 756,556 14
(2) Domestic, cross-boundary & light rail services, bus & intercity
services * Excludes 68 light rail stops
A World-class Enterprise the norm for Hong Kong, the principal
Our long-term goal is to be a world-class mode of rail supported by a secondary road
transport network is the long-term objective 2004
enterprise, growing sustainably in Hong
Kong and beyond while focusing on our we collectively pursue. Government tables proposal for merger of
the KCRC and MTR Corporation defining five
core strengths in rail, property and related
With urban transport infrastructure set to parameters to be achieved:
businesses.
move towards a clearer pathway, better Adoption of a more objective and
opportunities for shaping the communities transparent fare adjustment mechanism
Under the hybrid rail plus property business
around our rail lines arise. Our evolving Abolition of a second boarding charge
model, we have sustained ourselves for
and review of fare structure with the
over 28 years as a commercially viable master plan in property development
objective of reducing fares to the public
organisation through building and closely aligns to changes in social Early resolution of interchange arrangements
operating the mass transit network of Hong aspirations and directly influences how our for new rail projects under planning
Kong. The development rights help us to partnering developers plan and build new Job security for front-line staff of both rail
communities. The LOHAS Park development operators
ensure a commercial return is achieved
demonstrates this strategy in progress. The Provision of seamless interchange
that can support construction of future
arrangements in the long run
railway projects. This business model has additional development properties acquired
facilitated competitive fare arrangements through the merger give the potential to
2006
for passengers while maintaining our extend this strategy considerably.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
profitability and leading the way towards signed outlining the terms and conditions
Our reputation in sustainable rail
providing a “quality of life” environment for of the merger:
development and operating expertise
the broader community. Lease arrangement of the KCRC rail assets
has bolstered our international presence,
and operations
The merger enhances the opportunity to particularly in mainland China and Purchase of property and development
achieve more sustainable urban planning recently, in Europe. Projects include a rail rights by MTR Corporation
under this model. The rail network line development joint venture in Beijing, Joint Merger Report details structure of the
managed under a single entity allows for operating concession in the UK and a series merged organisations.
a more holistic view in urban transport of consultancies worldwide on rail design,
building, operations and maintenance. 2007
development and consolidates our position
in working with Government on sustainable Rail Merger Ordinance passed by the
Legislative Council.
transport policies. As satellite cities become www.lohaspark.com.hk
MTR Corporation Limited independent
shareholders vote on Rail Merger.
Merger announced 2 December 2007.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 05
MTR OPERATING NETWORK WITH FUTURE EXTENSIONS
Existing network Legend
Airport Express Station
Disneyland Resort Line Station with Depot
East Rail Line Interchange Station
Rail and Related Services Island Line Proposed Station
Provision of rail transport and Kwun Tong Line Proposed Interchange Station
maintenance of facilities Light Rail Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Station businesses and marketing Ma On Shan Line Shenzhen Metro Network
Operating and maintaining Tseung Kwan O Line * Racing days only
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Tsuen Wan Line
Properties Owned / Developed /
Tung Chung Line
Managed by the Corporation
Pi ong
Property
ng
L
West Rail Line
01 Telford Gardens / Telford Plaza I and II
40
Urban planning, design and joint- 47
Projects in progress 02 World-wide House 48
ai
venture development
W
03 Admiralty Centre
ui
Kowloon Southern Link
Sh
n
Managing investment properties
Ti
Tseung Kwan O South 04 Argyle Centre
g
Managing non-owned commercial 05 Luk Yeung Sun Chuen /
n
Ho
Luk Yeung Galleria
u
Si
properties Extensions under study
06 New Kwai Fong Gardens
Guangzhou-Shenzhen-
Managing residential properties Sun Kwai Hing Gardens
un
07
Hong Kong Express Rail Link
M
en
08 Fairmont House
Tu
Kwun Tong Line Extension
Projects 29 30 45
09 Kornhill / Kornhill Gardens
Shatin-to-Central Link
Rail line design and development 10 Fortress Metro Towers 28
South Island Line (East)
in Hong Kong 11 Hongway Garden / Vicwood Plaza
West Island Line
12 Perfect Mount Gardens
China and International Future extensions 13 New Jade Garden
Development and operations of North Island Line 14 Southorn Garden
mainland China rail line Northern Link
15 Heng Fa Chuen / Heng Fa Villa /
Paradise Mall
Operation of European rail South Island Line (West)
16 Park Towers
operating concession Tseung Kwan O Line Extension Felicity Garden
-
17
po rld
Ex Wo
Provision of consultancy services
ia
18 Tierra Verde / Maritime Square
As
Property Developments under 19 Tung Chung Crescent / Citygate /
t
or
rp
Construction / Planning Novotel Citygate / Seaview Crescent /
Ai
Coastal Skyline / Caribbean Coast
19 Tung Chung Station Package 3
20 Central Park / Island Harbourview /
21 Kowloon Station Package 5, 6 & 7 Park Avenue / Harbour Green /
23 Tseung Kwan O Station Area 56 Bank of China Centre / HSBC Centre /
Olympian City One /
34 LOHAS Park
Oympian City Two
35 Ho Tung Lau Site A
21 The Waterfront / Sorrento /
Lantau Island
36 Wu Kai Sha Station The Harbourside / The Arch / Elements
37 Tai Wai Maintenance Centre The Cullinan / Harbourview Place /
International Commerce Centre
38 Che Kung Temple Station
22 One International Finance Centre /
39 Tai Wai Station
Two International Finance Centre /
40 Tin Shui Wai Light Rail Terminus IFC Mall / Four Seasons Hotel /
41 Kowloon Southern Link Site C Four Seasons Place
42 Kowloon Southern Link Site D 23 Central Heights / The Grandiose /
The Edge
24 Residence Oasis / The Lane
West Rail Line Property Development 25 No 8 Clear Water Bay Road / Choi Hung
(As Government Agent) Park & Ride
43 Nam Cheong Station 26 Metro Town
44 Yuen Long Station 27 Royal Ascot / Plaza Ascot
45 Tuen Mun Station 28 Pierhead Garden / Ocean Walk
46 Tsuen Wan West Station 29 Sun Tuen Mun Centre / Sun Tuen Mun
Shopping Centre
47 Long Ping Station
30 Hanford Garden / Hanford Plaza
48 Tin Shui Wai Station
31 Citylink Plaza
49 Kam Sheung Road Station
32 MTR Hung Hom Building / Hung Hom
50 Pat Heung Maintenance Centre
Station Carpark
51 Kwai Fong Station 33 Trackside Villas
06 About MTR Corporation
Yu
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LOHAS Park
07
new fares implementation on merger day, implementation of an increasing number of
single network operating performance, job internal programmes that bring CSR to life.
security, merger cultural gaps and safety These can cover a wide range of activities,
systems performance. Due to intensive including work-life balance, volunteerism,
mitigation actions taken over the last two energy savings and waste minimisation. To
business Case
years, several risks have been downgraded improve their effectiveness, programmes,
Sustainable competitive advantage drives
while others linked to the integration regardless of size or scope, from 2008
the business decisions that manage the
process roll-out remain at the significant onwards are subject to a rigorous set of
social, economic and environmental impacts
level and thus require senior management’s criteria supervised by a mandated Board-
of MTR Corporation. At the working level
continued attention. level CSR Committee that aligns each
this translates as the dynamics of risk
initiative to business case justification.
management and stakeholder engagement The Priority Business Risks table (page 9)
interacting with corporate strategy to expresses the sustainable competitive The opportunities identified through the
deliver value performance. advantage management process in terms sustainable competitive advantage process
of our economic, social and environmental are often manifested as better efficiencies in
Risk management works within the
performance for 2007. New risks have ongoing operations or even a new business
framework of the Enterprise Risk Management
been added in recognition of changing strategy that gives rise to innovation in
(ERM) system. A series of risk registers
business conditions, social aspirations and product or services. At MTR Corporation, this
identify and rank risks for impact on
stakeholder interests. value performance has on balance proven to
stakeholders and the organisation. Through
be evolving rather than step change or short
defined management process, ownership Change Management
term by nature. This aligns closely with how
and mitigation actions are assigned and The risks and stakeholder interests managed
our organisation learns and how, as a rail
monitored and the management outcome is under the Sustainable Competitive
company, we foster gradual yet substantial
reported for future actions. Advantage model are specific to MTR
social and environmental change where we
Corporation’s sustainability journey and
Similarly, stakeholder engagement can be of greatest influence (and sustainably
consequently, subject to change.
works within a process of identification, effective) in planning the city’s infrastructure
prioritisation, ownership, mitigation, The Corporation views corporate social and the wider community development.
monitoring and reporting that manages responsibility (CSR) as the vehicle through Examples of how identified opportunities
expectations and integrates their influence which internal change is implemented have instituted change both internally
into business decisions. Engagement works and controlled. It can drive initiatives that and externally are discussed in the context
in a more flexible environment that takes influence corporate strategy such as our of social, economic and environmental
into account the changing priorities of master development plan for LOHAS Park impact commentaries (pages 16, 20 and 30,
stakeholders at any given time in addition or the introduction of a new corporate respectively) of this Report.
to including any changes in their interests policy as demonstrated through the Climate
Sustainability Principles
and the subsequent ability to influence the Change Policy. Alternatively, it will give
The Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Corporation over time. rise to division-specific programmes such
model by nature of its processes embraces
as the community engagement processes
the four principles of sustainability
At the enterprise level, risks are quantified used in Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (NP360)
(stewardship, integrity, transparency and
in terms of their severity in such areas and the WIL . Overall, CSR initiatives
inclusivity). By recognising these principles
as finance, safety, operations, political/ historically have been embedded into the
as inherent to the business case, we do not
reputation and legal compliance against continual improvement culture of the wider
lose sight of the sustainability journey and
the scaled likelihood of occurrence. In 2006, organisation and integrated as part of job
can easily translate these principles into
a selected number of risks attached to the skills training.
measurable actions initiated within the
merger process were added to the existing
The Sustainability and CSR (S&CSR) Steering risk management and stakeholder
register with appropriate mitigation actions
Committee established in 2005 oversees engagement cycles.
prepared. These included such risks as
www.np360.com.hk
08 Management Discussions
Priority business Risk Key Stakeholder Performance Indicator 2005 2006 2007
Economic
Financial sustainability Government, Operating profit from railway and 5,101 5,201 5,912
Shareholders, related business before depreciation and
Business partners amortisation (HK$ million)
Social
Maintaining Shareholders, Passenger trips 2.52 2.55 2.63
passenger numbers Staff (weekday average in million)
Maintaining rail and Passengers Customer Service Pledge achieved:
retail patronage Train service delivery (%) 99.9 99.9 99.9
Passenger journeys on time (%)
MTR 99.9 99.9 99.9
Airport Express 99.9 99.9 99.9
Train punctuality (%)
MTR 99.6 99.7 99.7
Airport Express 99.9 99.9 99.9
Train reliability (revenue car-km/incident) 928,563 1,448,915 1,808,854
Develop and retain staff Staff Staff turnover rate (%) 1.9 2.3 2.8
Ensuring the health and Passengers Passenger safety
safety of passengers, Fatality 0 0 0
staff and contractors Number of serious injuries 5.77 4.11 4.10
per 100 million passengers
Staff Staff safety on the operating railway
Fatality 0 0 0
Loss time injury frequency rate 0.77 0.63 0.52
per 200,000 man-hours worked
Contractors Contractor safety on the operating railway
Fatality 0 0 0
Reportable accident frequency rate 0.12 0.08 0.09
per 100,000 man-hours worked
Construction and Construction safety for railway extension
Contractors’ staff projects
Fatality 0 1(2) 0
Reportable accident frequency rate 0.88 0.34 0 0.60
per 100,000 man-hours worked
Contractor safety for property development
projects
Fatality 1 00 0
Reportable accident frequency rate 0.62 0.69 0 0.49
per 100,000 man-hours worked
Environmental
Breaches of statutory Government Legal compliance (MTR Corporation) - 0 0 0
environmental number of successful prosecutions
requirements
Government, Legal compliance (project contactors) - 0 0 0
Contractors number of successful prosecutions
Long-term Shareholders, Greenhouse gas emissions 613,708(3) 615,066 675,560
energy supply Passengers, (tonnes CO2eq)
without renewables Customers,
(GHG emissions) Suppliers,
Community
Climate change Staff, Passengers, Annual review of risk - the annual review n/a(4) n/a(4) Review
(Response to pandemics Customers, comprises a risk assessment and a continuous completed
and other climate Community, process of risk management actions
change risks) Suppliers, (see pages 30 and 31)
Contractors
(1) Economic data captured includes audited data from the KCRC as of post-merger date 2 December 2007. Social and Environmental data captured excludes the KCRC and NP360
Cable Car except where indicated.
(2) A member of the contractor’s specialist team suffered fatal injuries during the construction phase of NP360 Cable Car.
(3) Data restated in 2006 due to changes in conversion factors
(4) Risk not prioritised at enterprise level
Refer to pages 36 and 37 for definitions of the terms used.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 09
MTR CORPORATION MATURITY MATRIX 2003-2007
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Stakeholder engagement
4
Reporting
Key drivers
3
2
Review
Leadership, vision
and governance
1
Environmental
assessment
Managing risk
Key management
issues Sustainability
development culture
Building capability
Principles Practices 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Inclusivity Stakeholder engagement 2.8 3 3.5 3.6 3.7
Key drivers 2.8 3 3.5 3.5 3.6
Integrity Leadership, vision and governance 3.2 3.5 4 4 4
Managing risk 2.8 3.2 3.5 3.6 3.8
Sustainability development culture 3.2 3.4 3.5 3.5 3.5
Building capability 3 3 3 3.2 3
Stewardship Key management issues 2.5 3 3.5 3.5 3.6
Environmental assessment 3.2 3.5 3.8 3.8 3.8
Transparency Review 3 3.5 3.8 4 4
Reporting 3.2 3.5 3.8 3.8 4
10 Management Discussions
Community Investment – The “More Time Reaching Community” scheme attracts 1,800 staff volunteers and benefits some
12,000 people.
Employment and Social Affairs – The “Sustainability, My Responsibility” slogan campaign kicks off the future of CSR educational
programmes for staff.
Sustainability and Environment – The energy management initiative saves 14,258 MWh electricity for MTR rail system.
Public Recognition – Thirty-four Hong Kong and international awards are received, recognising outstanding performance in social
and environmental stewardship.
With over seven years in reporting on sections on social and environmental assess our strengths and weaknesses in a
sustainable development, we realise that stewardship expand these discussions. time-sensitive framework and subsequently
our corporate metrics in sustainability act upon them in a consistent and
Integrity, Transparency and Inclusivity
must support the growing number of progressive manner.
The Sustainable Competitive Advantage
key performance indicators demanded
model drives integrity, transparency and Our progress to build capability is included
by external organisations relevant to
inclusivity of operations. Through the in this assessment. Although initiatives
our operations and reputation. Robust
inherent processes of risk management and (discussed online and in the Social
management systems, clear governance and
stakeholder engagement, we capture and Responsibility and Environmental Stewardship
work procedures, and strong data capture
practise these principles in a methodical and sections of this Report) were undertaken,
facilitate our ability to measure against the
transparent process. activities pertaining to the merger transition
growing number of international guidelines
planning took precedence for all staff time
and standards guided by and aligning to the Prioritisation of the material issues for
and training, and therefore achievement
four above-mentioned principles. As a result, purposes of reporting to stakeholders
in this area has fallen short of our target
our reporting capabilities currently adhere is derived from our internal materiality
expectations for the year.
to the industry-specific benchmarking mapping process. This process identifies
exercises (CoMET, UITP) as well as the wider and categorises outcomes as critical,
global reporting frameworks captured under substantial or important to our sustainability
the GRI, WBCSD, UNEP, BSI, AccountAbility, Our management discussions for the 2007
as an organisation. Critical outcomes form
the DJSI , Ethibel and FTSE4Good indices, year necessitate addressing the approach to
the basis of discussions in this printed
and other relevant environmental and social how sustainability factors into the merger.
Report. Substantial outcomes are treated
benchmarking organisations. A special section of this Report, Merger Case
in our online reporting and the important
Study, examines our approach and analysis
outcomes, the bulk of the materiality issues,
Stewardship of the business case for a sustainable
are not discussed as they generally sit at the
Our performance is based on a business MTR Corporation post merger. It describes
divisional risk/engagement levels and are
culture driven by the ethos of continual how the Sustainable Competitive Advantage
managed at these levels.
improvement and guided by the six model has been applied to the assessment
sustainability drivers. These drivers continue This same mapping process defines the of risks and stakeholder influence for
to evolve the organisation as we move inclusivity principle in reporting both in both the process of the merger and in
through the merger-related changes in terms of stakeholders engaged as well as the new corporate entity. Although we
corporate culture, external expectations, the scope of issues that are addressed. cannot predict the exact outcome of our
work competencies and management assessment, we have, at minimum, identified
practices. The underlying systems and The Scorecard
the new sets of prioritised risks and
processes that measure and improve against Our internal scorecard for 2007 in managing
stakeholders, and the means by which to
internal targets in conjunction with global MTR Corporation under the sustainability
manage them.
industry standards remain the framework principles is reflected in the BS8900:2006
for workplace achievement. The following Maturity Matrix. This Matrix helps us to
www.comet-metros.org www.globalreporting.org www.unep.org www.accountability21.net www.ethibel.org
www.uitp.com www.wbcsd.org www.bsi-global.com www.sustainability-index.com www.ftse.com
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 11
GOVERNANCE The 2007 Annual Report includes a An outcome of the recommended
governance report, which provides further organisational structure was the
information on the governance of our identification of economic efficiencies that
corporate performance and management would serve both the Corporation’s and
MTR Corporation functions under a strong
for the year. shareholders’ interests. These efficiencies
governance framework supported by
form part of the anticipated three-year
control mechanisms that clearly delineate
programme of realised cost and revenue
the responsibilities and accountability of the Of importance to our readers in reporting
synergies (HK$450 million/year) tabled
Board of Directors, the Executive Directorate on governance during the 2007 year, we
to shareholders. For discussions of the
and company managers. elect to focus on governance in terms of
Board-level actions undertaken during the
sustainability and the merger. That is, how
Governance is executed through the merger, refer to our online discussions. For
best practice under a specified governance
Board and the Executive Directorate. The additional details on the merger in terms of
framework was identified during the
overall management of MTR Corporation’s future sustainable best practice, refer to the
merger process and how sustainability/CSR
businesses is vested in the Board, which has Merger Case Study (page 13).
governance will be integrated at the Board
delegated the day-to-day management of
level under the expanded MTR Corporation CSR Committee
the Company’s business to the Executive
organisation. These two issues are essential Of particular interest for future sustainable
Directorate and focuses its attention on
to understanding how practices and development is the Board-level CSR
matters affecting the Company’s overall
decisions taken in the run-up to the merger Committee that is to be established in
strategic policies, finances and shareholders.
foreshadow the new internal governance 2008. This decision reflects the substantial
The Board is responsible for the system
framework and management systems commitment to establish the corporate-
of internal controls, setting appropriate
that will help drive forward the long-term wide CSR policy and related practices.
policies and reviewing the effectiveness of
sustainable development of MTR Corporation. Implementation will become active
such controls. The Board also oversees the
upon announcement of the Committee’s
management of other executive committees Merger management structure.
through the Executive Directorate. In anticipation of the complexity of
integration, the Merger Integration Office In 2008, the CSR Policy will be introduced
The Board comprises a 13-member
(MIO) was established in 2006 to manage and the Committee structure and
panel, two of whom were appointed in
the merger integration process. This office membership formalised. Under direct
December 2007. The majority (12) are
planned and assisted in the implementation governance of the Board, the Committee is
non-executive directors, eight of whom are
of the organisational structure for the new charged with policy formulation and related
independent non-executive directors. The
rail entity, and also worked to enhance duties to supervise implementation and
Executive Directorate comprises the Chief
the relationships among the stakeholders review of policy directives. The Committee
Executive Officer (CEO), also a member
involved to ensure that the stated goals of is responsible for the appointment and
of the Board, and the heads of the seven
the merger could be achieved. overseeing of a management committee
divisions (Operations, Projects, Property,
which will draw upon existing in-house
China and International Business, Legal ,
Working on the basis of “best of both”
sustainability and CSR expertise, and
and Procurement, Finance, and Human a bottom-up assessment of existing systems
through the S&CSR Steering Committee,
Resources and Administration). Members and related management practices was
will supervise and implement appropriate
of the Executive Directorate are appointed conducted which established best practices
activities across the organisation. Within this
by the Board and are responsible for the and how such practices would influence the
framework, the Committee has the power
implementation of strategy and policies organisational structure. Essential in this
to recommend improvements, allocate
as decided by the Board. They oversee the process was the input from staff across both
resources and, if deemed appropriate,
ongoing management of the Company and, companies and an independent third party
introduce new organisational initiatives.
together with senior managers, regularly acting as best practice arbitrator. One of
This structure will reinforce and clearly
report to the Board on the performance of the objectives was to embed accountability
identify CSR as a key objective of sustainable
the principal activities of the Company. into the new organisational structure and to
development and will promote the
put in place the systems and mechanisms to
necessary senior-level ownership to ensure
identify, monitor and measure performance.
CSR integration into our business strategy.
12 Governance
acting independently. Undertaking the Testing the New Dynamics
rail merger in this context is an exercise in At the time of the MOU a set of perceived
risk management that marshals available key business risks was established by the
resources to realise a set of synergies that Enterprise Risk Committee. Mitigating these
Challenges to Institutional Change
reduces risk exposure in the combined risks was central to the licence to operate
The merger initiates a series of institutional
railways to a level that could not be realised and assuring the future sustainability of
changes that substantially affect the dynamic
under the separate operating networks. the new organisation. The Sustainable
balance of MTR Corporation’s sustainability
Competitive Advantage model, which
management system (Sustainable In 2004, the HKSAR Government tabled
provides the process to manage the social,
Competitive Advantage model) due to new a proposal based on this framework of
economic and environmental impacts on
inputs arising from the process. To this optimisation to merge the two rail network
the organisation, served as the platform to
end, we have dedicated this section of the operators in Hong Kong, MTR Corporation
manage these identified risks.
Report to addressing the unique challenge and the KCRC. In this proposal, five principal
of maintaining the sustainability perspective parameters were identified that would drive
Sustainable competitive advantage
while undergoing a major corporate the merger agreement for the purposes of
operates as the dynamic interaction of risk
reorganisation, in this case, a merger. promoting the future of rail as the backbone
management and stakeholder engagement
of public transport. These parameters were:
Our approach is a test of the integrity and acting independently or collectively with
portability of the Sustainable Competitive Adoption of a more objective and the corporate strategy to deliver value-
Advantage model as an underlying transparent fare adjustment mechanism added performance. Each operates under
hypothesis for developing the business case Abolition of a second boarding charge and a process of identification, prioritisation,
in sustainability. By applying the model to review of fare structure with the objective mitigation, monitoring and reporting as new
the new set of identified priority business of reducing fares for the public inputs impact the process, giving rise to a
risks attached to the new organisation and Early resolution of interchange reiterative system of management. The chart
to the merger process itself, we investigate arrangements for new rail projects under on sustainable competitive advantage (page
and test the model’s ability to effectively planning 9, Sustainability Report 2005) graphically
reduce the collective risks and deliver on represents the dynamics between risk
Job security for front-line staff of both rail
expected outcomes. To this end, we will management and stakeholder engagement.
operators
assume that the model can be used to predict The Materiality Map (page 12, Sustainability
Provision of seamless interchange
a correct outcome of the risk management Report 2006) gives guidance on how risk and
arrangements in the long run
and/or stakeholder engagement processes. engagement are prioritised and reported.
However, as a predictive-corrective exercise, MTR Corporation perceived these five
we will then consider correction to the parameters as the performance value In applying a predictive-corrective approach
basic components of the Sustainable outcomes to be achieved through sustainable to the model’s processes, the outcome of
Competitive Advantage model by looking at competitive advantage application. the mitigation measures the level of success
process outcomes in future years. To assist in risk reduction and identifies where gaps
In April 2006, the MOU was signed, which
in understanding this process, refer to the remain. This provides an understanding of
included the rail merger structure and
illustrative graph immediately following this the resilience of the merged entity’s future
the key terms of the merger agreement
case study discussion. sustainability and points to those areas
with due consideration to the five value
background in need of further action. Likewise, the
outcomes. The subsequent Rail Merger
The purpose of a merger is to arrive at a predictive-corrective approach confirms the
Ordinance and Transaction Agreements
sum of the risks or a sum of the mitigation importance of those gaps when considering
form the legal and commercial basis upon
of risks that is lower in the combined stakeholder engagement.
which MTR Corporation operates as the
organisation than in the individual entities merged organisation.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability Merger Case Study 13
The model has also been applied to Industrial discontent was identified potentially damaging social and economic
mitigating those risks identified at the as the risk mitigation focus. Using the impacts while delivering on the expected
divisional levels for the merger. These dynamics of stakeholder engagement, value outcome of job security.
included cultural integration, job skills, the Human Resources management
As continuous mitigation using the risk
service standards and other specific conducted sessions with staff
management and stakeholder engagement
business unit needs. By using the risk representative bodies including
processes brings change forward into
management and stakeholder engagement unions, staff and relevant consultants
sustainable actions at the enterprise
processes, actions and programmes were to enact programmes that reduced
level, the need to address adjustment in
structured and implemented to build the the potential of industrial action and
the vision-mission-values has become
capabilities required to smoothly integrate resolved contentious remuneration
apparent. By introducing the new vision-
the two organisations. points. This was achieved through
mission-values set, sustainable competitive
clear communications and consensus
An illustrative example of the model’s advantage is institutionalised. With such
building for constructive employment
application at the enterprise level is the change, performance outcomes will align
practices within the new organisation.
management of the linked risks to ensuring more closely with the specific long-term
job security for front-line staff in both rail A deed poll was issued prior to the business goals of MTR Corporation. This
operators (one of the five defined value merger that effectively guaranteed next step is currently under review with the
outcomes). Under the Enterprise Risk job security for relevant front-line new set of vision-mission-values expected
Management system, the priority business staff post merger as well as keeping to be issued by mid-2008.
risks related to the merger outcome were existing remuneration packages intact.
identified as service maintenance in The threat of industrial action was
conjunction with the more direct risk to subsequently substantially reduced
the development and retention of staff, along with the enterprise risk. Since
both having substantial social impact on the merger, the introduction of unified
MTR Corporation. Triggering these risks employment packages has actually
would be a general industrial discontent by increased earnings opportunities for
staff prior to the merger if job security was such staff.
not resolved. This would directly result in
Value Outcome
widespread services disruption. Such an
Within the predictive-corrective
adverse event would have subsequently
approach, we have successfully
damaged the merger process. With 80%
back cast the job security issue to
of staff in the combined organisations in
substantiate the effectiveness of the
front-line jobs, such actions would severely
Sustainable Competitive Advantage
threaten the merged organisation’s licence
model’s ability to reduce risk and, in
to operate and its reputation.
turn, drive the business case of the
merged organisation. In this case,
it demonstrates the mitigation of
14 Merger Case Study
ROADMAP TO SUSTAINABILITY
R Risk Management E Stakeholder Engagement VMV/Corporate Strategy
The graph illustrates how the Sustainable Competitive Advantage model is applied to the merger
process. In the lead up to the merger, risk management is heightened to focus on the combined risks
of two companies and of the merger process itself. In response, stakeholder engagement increases at
deeper levels to ensure inclusivity and comprehensiveness of interests. Finally, the vision-mission-values
set is reassessed as an appropriate corporate strategy. The end objective is to bring the model’s
dynamics back into balanced interaction.
“One Company,
One Team”
R E
Strategy/ VMV review
Reduced risk portfolio
R E
Enlarged risk
portfolio
Heightened
engagement
R E
Enlarged risk
portfolio
Heightened
engagement
R E
R E
05 06 07 08 09
Risk management is conducted through the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) system,
an organisational tool which is used to identify, prioritise and allocate ownership of risks and then
serves to develop, enact, monitor and report on the mitigation to reduce the risk impacts. It is
reiterative and involves a hierarchy of risk managers to supervise the process.
Stakeholder engagement works within a flexible management approach that endeavours to prioritise
and manage both stakeholder groups and their expectations. These two categories change in
importance in direct relation to their influence on our divisional business activities at any given time.
Engagement functions within a process of identification, prioritisation and ownership of stakeholder
issues, followed by mitigation and the follow-up to monitor and report on the corrective actions. As
with risk management, it is reiterative and works within a hierarchy of assigned managers, mainly at
divisional levels.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 15
Mass transit rail is a community asset that
fosters economic prosperity.
Value Strategy
MTR Corporation is a conduit to promoting widespread economic value. Through our preferred rail
plus property business model supported by sustainable business practices, the Corporation maintains
profitability while investing in and building new rail projects.
Underlying this model is the financial objective, investing on a WACC+ (Weighted Average Cost of Capital)
basis, a corporate premise announced at our public listing in 2000. The WACC+ approach guides assessment
of rail project viability irrespective of development models. With expansion into international markets
and more recently, in Hong Kong, alternative financial models in rail developments will be considered
where property rights are not feasible. While the rail plus property business model remains the primary
vehicle, utilising alternatives under the WACC+ basis widens our scope for business opportunities without
compromising our value promise to shareholders.
In broader terms, we are a community asset. Our world-class transport infrastructure is recognised as a
contributing factor to Hong Kong’s status as an international business and financial centre. In addition to
being the mainstream public transport provider, we support Hong Kong’s service-based industries through
our supply chain and significantly contribute to tourism with operations of the Disneyland Resort Line and
Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and tourist village. Our transport network, which connects commercial centres
and residential developments across Hong Kong, provides the blueprint for an affordable quality of life in
urban and community development.
The resilience of our rail strategy broadens our long-term economic value to the communities we serve.
With the introduction of rail to older, more suburban communities, as seen with the South Island Line (SIL),
the Corporation facilitates the revival of communities while keeping local heritage and identity intact.
New stations are optimised for both social and economic value by soliciting early community input that
leverages planning and design in terms of potential usage and development costs.
The rail merger introduces immediate economic benefit to our wider group of stakeholders, in particular,
passengers and staff. In response to the five objectives underlying the merger agreement, fares have been
cut across the board for commuters, the Fare Adjustment Mechanism affords transparency and objectivity
and, jobs are guaranteed for the 80% of MTR Corporation staff holding front-line positions.
16 Commentary: Value Strategy
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 17
The PAS55-1 specification sets out the
requirements for a system to manage
physical infrastructure assets. Based on
this specification, MTR Corporation’s rail
Value to our stakeholders is achieved through operations utilise a framework taking
practices that drive sustainable competitive advantage a risk-based approach that links asset
management to business objectives. The
in the workplace. goal is to minimise life-cycle costs of assets
while maximising their value to the business.
Changing Priorities customer interface, has improved staff
Prior to the merger, both MTR Corporation
Hong Kong’s empowered society capabilities in taking a proactive approach
and the KCRC achieved certification under
increasingly raises the bar in quality of life to their jobs. Performance feedback is
PAS55-1, thus giving the merged company
expectations. Our performance directly measured through regular customer
the distinction of being one of the few
reflects how we respond to and deliver on service engagement exercises and by a
railway organisations globally to achieve
such expectations. campaign for public nominations of the
certification under PAS55-1.
best service station team and individual
Established programmes that purposefully Upgrading the existing network services
station staff for annual awards. The
guide the revitalisation of the people, is an ongoing programme that seeks
frequent visits by senior management and
services, operations and asset dimensions to improve connectivity, enhance the
company directors to individual stations
of our business continue to serve us well in community rail vision and deliver safe and
to hold discussions with staff on service
responding to expectations: reliable services. In 2007, a further two
issues confirms this campaign as a front-line
underground passage ways at high-traffic
“Service from the Heart” the ongoing
, service training priority.
stations opened to facilitate convenient
campaign to hone staff skills at the rail
all-weather access to rail stations. In-
18 Social Responsibility
station refurbishment accommodates the identified under our priority business risks. Capturing New Customers
fast-developing consumer technology These pledges serve to support continued In planning and designing new rail
innovations and continues to modernise rail and retail patronage, passenger safety lines, demand and destination play an
and reconfigure station retail space for and commuter numbers. increasingly pivotal role in network strategy
better convenience and tenant retail mix. The 2020 Vision was tabled in 2007 for and delivery. With the acquisition of light
In managing our shopping centres and consideration by senior management. rail services under the merger and the
commercial and residential properties, It outlines the scenario planning for proposed SIL , the network is better
a new chapter in customer services managing our rail assets to anticipate positioned to reach new catchment areas.
commenced with the opening of Elements, customer-of-the-future expectations The ability to build and manage light and
Hong Kong’s largest premier shopping and the hard asset response to them. It medium rail lines justifies the investment to
centre. In addition to providing spacious examines three levels of response, with extend our network to these more suburban
retail and entertainment facilities that business-as-usual the mean scenario. The areas within the HKSAR, which would not
strategically use skylights, the Union Square study addresses such issues as the need normally meet our traditional heavy rail
public park located above the mall brings for capacity management, barrier-free specifications. The SIL is configured as a
a tranquil respite from city life with a green access for the disabled, aging population medium capacity rail project supported by
country park in the heart of Kowloon. expectations, improved train environment sustainable design innovation and advanced
and the expansion of options within the technologies to justify the future viability
Assets optimisation combined with staff
network that capitalise on consumer of the line. It is currently in the advanced
capability development underpin successful
technology innovations. This document stages of approval by Government.
delivery of the 13 Customer Service Pledges
for rail management and services. These serves as the starting point for collective
pledges, in conjunction with other major thinking on the changing risks inherent to
programmes such as occupational safety the long-term maintenance and growth of
and health, set internal targets and the KPIs the rail network patronage.
www.elementshk.com
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 19
20 Commentary: Society’s Challenge
An empowered Hong Kong society increasingly
raises the bar in quality of life expectations.
Society’s Challenge
Mobility, reliability and connectivity drive the high-density, high-convenience transport model for city
development. In Hong Kong, economic and trade growth has and continues to evolve this strategy.
Rail now connects and serves several regional commercial hubs and logistics centres across Hong Kong
and, recently, in the Pearl River Delta, thus enabling the separation of residence from workplace and
lowering density without sacrificing the critical convenience factor.
Population growth, affluence and marked changes in social aspirations are as well reshaping local
community development. MTR Corporation progresses with such aspirations through our disciplined
and iterative stakeholder engagement process. We have established an industry model for collective
environmental stewardship when developing projects, pioneered an interactive communications
programme that invites local community participation in new rail line development and, in recent years,
marshalled grass roots support for urban renewal linked to rail line introduction.
Under our rail plus property business model, new township developments are in progress that are
resilient to changing and maturing social expectations. Our master planning continues to evolve,
emphasising green and open community spaces, eco-efficiency of built environments, larger individual
residential spaces, barrier-free access to amenities and the proximity of service facilities. These communities
of the future are linked to wider regional centres through a coordinated transport system in which rail is
the primary travel mode, supported by road-based connection to surrounding local regions. LOHAS Park,
the new mini-city taking shape over the next ten years, takes this vision forward.
Aligning to our premise that sustainability is inherent to the business case, our social investment strategy
links directly to the economic benefits achieved. The Value Strategy commentary on page 16 discusses
resilience in economic strategy. Combining this with the above discussions on inclusion of society’s voice
in organisational development, we demonstrate how we contribute to more effective and widespread
economic prosperity while being mutually beneficial to our business and to the communities we serve.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 21
Investing in Communities rights allocated under the rail plus property project, multi-party negotiations agreed
Creating a railway is a people and community business model. on a solution for a community heritage
proposition. Under our long-term planning building use. For longer-term urban
Social risks affecting our property
vision of “Rail to People People to Rail”, our development, LOHAS Park will deliver a
development strategy are now registered
stations are built and managed to be focal green built environment and captures our
as critical enterprise risks. A general
points for local community activities while management approach to mitigating such
proliferation in community resistance
serving as regional transport hubs. risks posed by the increasingly stringent
to some property developments and
community expectations in living and
Proactive stakeholder engagement has infrastructure projects as a result of the
lifestyle environments.
guided the successful community buy-in desire for heritage conservation and
to the building of the WIL. Through early healthier, greener living spaces gives rise The community railway vision for our
identification of the stakeholders and to our active management in addressing stations and network continues to grow with
their interests, the Corporation proposed these growing social influences. High-rise the further expansion of our established “art
a community-oriented rail line, sensitive developments that create a “wall effect” in mtr” programme, which stages cultural
to local heritage and urban renewal within the densely populated districts programmes and exhibitions by local artists
opportunities. Frequent dialogue with and adjacent to our network stations require a within stations to enhance the customer
input from the local communities on design rethink in development scales, plot ratios experience. These activities and events
and access points for the rail line facilitated and alternatives to wind-blocking high augment the increasingly diverse range of
the planning and design championed rises. Our Property and Projects Divisions’ retail outlets and infotainment programmes
by these future users. The influence of risk registers now include these and other available to commuters, which add the
the community voice arising from this anti-development sentiments as part of essential convenience factor in travel.
engagement exercise aided in the timely their assessment programmes along with
Staff and Career Development
approval of an alternative rail development the added impacts of heritage conservation.
The 2007 year focused on close and
model which requires government financial Although still in the active management
comprehensive workforce engagement.
support in lieu of property development stage, the results are promising. In the WIL
MILLENNIUM CITIES DATABASE FOR SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY
The UITP has compiled a database of 100 of the world's major cities to make available to the transport
industry a set of metrics for benchmarking or measuring industry performance. The database covers 66
raw indicators relevant to the global industry enabling interested parties to design 223 standardised
overall mobility indicators for their use.
The graph below compares transportation cost as part of the % GDP with population density.
Hong Kong is the most efficient, with approximately 5% GDP expenditure to serve some 320 inhabitants
per square hectare.
Cost of Urban Transportation (%GDP)
14 Houston Bangkok
12
10
New York
8
Paris
6
Munich
Singapore Hong Kong
4
2
Shanghai
0 100 200 300 400
Density (Inhabitants per ha2)
22 Social Responsibility
With the merger in a fluid position due Low morale and job insecurity amongst staff Building Capability
to protracted government and legislative are major risks in merger and acquisition Skills training forms a critical component of
negotiations, staff motivation and career situations. Managing these requires the job competency. In addition to the diverse
development were some of the greatest mobilisation of extensive resources to range of training opportunities related to
challenges facing the organisation. discuss and secure job status for employees, specific processes or services sponsored by
identify deployment opportunities and each division, each employee undergoes
In communicating change for corporate
retraining and, for employees choosing to an annual review to assess and assist in
life post merger, the Joint Consultative
leave, structuring a voluntary separation individual career paths. This designates the
Committee (JCC), the Staff Consultative
scheme. The decisions and final programme roadmap for personal development and aids
Council (SCC) and the two MTR Corporation
for these issues were and continue to in the achievement of individual KPIs for
unions provided responsible and effective
be undertaken with open dialogue and advancement.
staff support and representation in the
feedback with employees and their
transition planning and in structuring future Despite the best efforts in nurturing staff
representatives prior to any decisions taken
job security status for most employees. towards realising individual career aspirations,
so as to arrive at mutually satisfactory terms.
The high degree of trust between these the uncertainty of the merger process
organisations and our management Supplementing these formalised hindered a number of efforts to initiate
developed over time aided in the timely consultations is a broad communications sustainable best practices. This is reflected
resolution of differences. Due consideration campaign to keep staff informed as to in the year’s slow progress in fostering the
was given to and extensive consultation merger progress and decisions. This culture of sustainable development and
was undertaken with the three unions campaign supplemented by CEO and in implementing the tools and training
representing the KCRC staff. The issues were director briefings, intranet and staff to further workplace capabilities. For
in essence the same, but required a more newsletter announcements, and divisional 2008, the focus will remain on building
specific dialogue and agreement process meetings address the questions and staff capabilities, with the added target of
to reassure the KCRC representatives of concerns of staff and will continue into 2008 bringing overall cohesion to work activities.
management’s good faith. as part of the integration progress.
AVERAGE TRAINING DAYS TOTAL STAFF STRENGTH
MTR Corporation Hong Kong Station commercial and Offshore employees Property and Projects
rail-related businesses other businesses
Annual average days Corporate management Operations China and international
per employee and support departments businesses
7 14,134
305
6 1,311
6.4(1)
1,141
5
942
4 1,530
6,629 6,555 7,363(2) 8,770
3 6,991(2)
61 67 82
5 5 82
486 733
2 642 660 688 832
2.6(2) 398 362 242 260
793 792 810 823
1 4,730 4,669 4,600 4,521
0
05 06 07
83 112 135
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car 03 04 05 06(1) 07
(2) Data restated due to IHRM changes in study parameters
and in measurement methodolgy (1) Excludes NP360 Cable Car
(2) Data restated to include full-tme staff employed outside Hong Kong
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 23
Consultation and communication with staff
were critical to achieving the rail merger’s
objectives and in securing the successful future
integration of corporate cultures.
Merger and Cultural Integration “preserve, adapt or change” The objective to
. The task to integrate corporate cultures
The merger of the two rail operators has find “best of both” in systems and processes remains a priority issue and a merger risk.
significant social impact on the organisation was undertaken systematically through Buy-in at middle management and front-line
and for our stakeholders. Early recognition the bottom-up approach, with appropriate service levels remains the pivotal challenge
of these impacts gave rise to the formalised support from independent management to integration, as some 12,500 employees
Joint Integration Committee formed in consultants. Final choice of corporate practice have been affected by the change
2004, which drew up the blueprint for was approved by the MIMC and adopted management process. To lower the risks
change management using the Sustainable into the merged organisation. The smooth of resistance and inertia, in addition to the
Competitive Advantage model (page 13, operations on “Appointed Day” and the early broader restructuring in remuneration and
Merger Case Study). Under this committee realisation of merger benefits have justified alternative career choices, each division is
functions the Merger Communications the extensive preparation to create the undertaking from 2007 onwards a series of
Committee (MComC), which deals with seamless network travel of MTR system today. programmes that target skills development
external and internal communications; the in conjunction with job placement.
HR Integration Management Committee In 2008, the MIO will provide input into Cultural integration is a complex issue, and
(HRIMC), which manages staff and job critical areas of the merger to ensure a we seek to maintain focus on achieving the
migration; and the Merger Integration seamless integration progress: set targets as we continue on the integration
Management Committee (MIMC), which
Stabilise the merger integration process, path. Regardless, our long-term objectives
drives merger integration activities.
including operational deliverables, are clear:
The Merger Integration Office (MIO), achieving budget controls and synergy We maintain the high service standards
working full time and accountable to the targets and accountably implementing the expected by our rail and retail customers.
MIMC, serves as the resource centre for year-one management programme.
We fulfil the five parameters under the
action. Working against a tight schedule Communicate with stakeholders on the merger framework agreement to retain
and with limited availability of resources, progress and implementation of the merger. our licence to operate.
some 11 task forces and 37 sub-teams
Provide interface support for line We grow our brand franchise.
including subject-matter experts reviewed
management in implementing inter-
and assessed different functional areas of We are an employer of choice.
divisional/departmental tasks.
the organisation using the guideline of We deliver new railway and extension
projects on time and within budget.
24 Social Responsibility
The internal agenda for the merger process The Integrated Management System (IMS) adopting for the new organisation the
in 2008 focuses on a few selected points is the overarching framework that pre-merger KCRC’s construction safety
which encompass the broader spectrum of directs the key areas of system safety and management system, considered more
issues that will drive our future cohesion: occupational safety and health, aligning to advanced than current internal systems and
external OHSAS 18001 certification. During processes. From 2008, this new system will
Integration of cultures and systems
2007, the operating railway maintained oversee the construction safety aspects in
Maintaining reputation and brand value
its overall excellent track record in safety the several rail projects currently in varying
Developing skills, not just jobs performance. stages of planning and approvals. In other
The six sustainability drivers provide the areas of safety, risk management systems
MTR Corporation participates in the annual
framework to achieve these. and processes follow the existing
CoMET benchmarking exercise, which invites
methodology, albeit, being realigned to
11 leading metros worldwide to undertake a
address the additional operational risks and
Safety series of benchmarking exercises to gauge
stakeholders’ interests principally introduced
Safety, a key risk that affects our licence best practices and identify new pportunities
by the merger.
to operate, spreads across a number for improvement. Now in our 13th year
of stakeholder groups to include staff, of participation, we have maintained an Developing External Partnerships
customers, contractors and suppliers. The average ranking amongst the top three Developing working partnerships with our
Corporate Safety Management Committee, operators in the safety category since joining. suppliers, contractors and business partners
established in 2006 in response to growing In 2007, we ranked as number one when leverages our opportunity to influence
business needs in and outside Hong Kong, comparing safety performance in respect of sustainable best practice outside our
supervises safety management. Under fatality per billion passenger journeys. immediate corporate footprint. Substantial
direct governance of the Board of Directors, advancement in managing both up- and
the Committee, supported by divisional Safety was identified as a critical risk downstream impacts was made during the
committees, oversees the implementation element in the merger transition process, year that affects our supply chain, property
of the Safety Policy and guides the with extensive risk analysis attached to development strategy and international
management of safety across operations its subsequent management from Board business ventures.
and businesses. level downwards. Under the “best of both”
working guidelines for the merger, MTR
Corporation took the significant step of
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 25
Objective Description Target Performance
Passenger safety Fatality 0 0
No. of serious injuries per 100 million passengers 6.8 or below 4.10
Staff safety Fatality 0 0
on the operating railway
Lost time injury frequency rate per 200,000 man-hours worked 0.61 or below 0.52
Contractor safety Fatality 0 0
on the operating railway
Reportable accident frequency rate per 100,000 man-hours worked 0.26 or below 0.09
Contruction safety for railway Fatality 0 0
extension projects
Reportable accident frequency rate per 100,000 man-hours worked 0.60 or below 0.60
Construction safety for property Fatality 0 0
development projects
Reportable accident frequency rate per 100,000 man-hours worked 0.85 or below 0.49
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car
Procurement management or prosecution history, but International Business
The Procurement Department, which rather to work with suppliers to improve The Corporation secured during the year
directs corporate-wide supply chain practices. the seven-year concession to operate the
management, took a major step forward London Overground in joint venture with
Our future plans include continued
in 2007 with the completion of the CSR Laing Rail. The concession covers five rail
cooperation with other railways and
survey of human and labour rights issues. lines that serve 20 of London’s 33 boroughs.
corporations, mainly multinationals,
The survey, undertaken principally with our Under the agreement, MTR Corporation
using like methods to build a consensus
PRC contractors and suppliers, reviewed will bring to the table its expertise and
on sharing information on suppliers. In
corporate governance on labour issues brand reputation to support upgrading of
2008, the targets are to set up a code on
within our top 70 suppliers in order to customer services, revitalising rail assets,
information sharing and a liaison group to
identify areas where attention is needed improving train performance and reliability,
widen interest in this initiative.
and where improvement actions are to achieving stringent environmental targets
be undertaken. An underlying purpose of In promoting better management of and promoting growth of the network
this exercise is to respond to membership environmental issues in the general supply in line with the overall city-wide rail
criteria for the DJSI and FTSE4Good chain processes, we took a leadership role in strategy. Our sustainability drivers will play
indices. Going forward, our agenda is to becoming one of the 11 founding members a significant role in the overhaul of these
extend procurement practices to include of the Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter. lines to deliver performance value in rail
environmental and labour issues as part Initiated by the Green Council, the driving assets and enhance people skills. Plans
of the tender pre-qualification processes. strategy is to consolidate the many scattered are currently in the early stages, with the
The strategy behind this is not to exclude initiatives across Hong Kong in order to project driven by our Hong Kong team in
or punish because of a lack of good establish common goals and standards in conjunction with an expanded London
managing our city’s collective green future. office staff.
www.lorol.co.uk
26 Social Responsibility
CoMET CAPACITY KM PER ROUTE KM CoMET PASSENGER JOURNEYS ON TIME
(Asset Utilisation) PER PASSENGER JOURNEYS
Our(1) performance vs best performance (%) Our(1) performance vs best performance (%)
(Best performance = 100) (Best performance = 100)
100 100 100 100 100 97.7 100 99.8 100 100 99.9 99.9
90 90
80 80
70 70
60 60
50 50
40 40
30 30
20 20
10 10
02 03 04 05 06 02 03 04 05 06
CoMET TRAINS ON TIME CoMET CAR KM
PER TOTAL TRAINS PER TOTAL LABOUR HOURS
Our(1) performance vs best performance (%) Our(1) performance vs best performance (%)
(Best performance = 100) (Best performance = 100)
100 98.9 99.6 99.9 99.7 99.8 100
90 90
80 80
70 70
60 60 62.1
50 50
40 40 39.0 39.3(2) 38.7
34.1
30 30
20 20
10 10
02 03 04 05 06 02 03 04 05 06
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car
(2) Figure restated by CoMET
Changes in Partnering of projects that lie outside our areas of rail operate. During the year, engagement and
Our partnering and subcontracting strategy expertise, we have now made the decision management of their interests in regard to
was reviewed in depth in response to the to employ the necessary expertise in house the merger shaped the long-term structure
temporary closure of Ngong Ping 360 where we find a vacuum of professional and performance management of MTR
Cable Car (NP360) during the year. An capabilities in such projects. This assures Corporation.
after-hours incident in June 2007 involving us of the ability to build and manage
The Rail Merger Ordinance and Transaction
a gondola dislodged from the overhead diverse business projects supported by our
Agreements that bind the merger enshrine
cableway during a test run led to an official own systems and processes that meet our
our responsibilities to Government and
enquiry and the eventual taking over of stringent targets in performance.
the community for services. They identify
the management from the subcontracted
Upon completion of the enquiry and the the parameters and objectives in
operator. As the owner of the cable car,
change in management, NP360 reopened performance delivery, including financial,
ultimate responsibility lies with us to
for business on 31 December 2007 to customer services and broader community
respond publicly to stakeholders and rectify
capacity crowds. obligations. In the run-up to finalisation
the situation.
of these legally binding obligations, the
Government Relations
This incident was a turning point in our Corporation negotiated directly through
The HKSAR Government ranks as a primary
contractor relations. Having already the Executive Directorate with Government
stakeholder to our business. They are
discovered and taken on board the need to on relevant issues.
our largest shareholder and, as official
actively look for risks in the development
transport regulator, grant us the licence to
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 27
CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY
In December 2006, the Corporation issued its Climate Change Policy. The aim of the Policy
is to work towards a positive impact on the global environment, and it is intended to apply
consistently across all our businesses and in the diverse markets in which we operate. Under
this policy we are committed to adapting and mitigating risks presented by climate change
and becoming one of the most resource-efficient and ecologically sustainable railways and
property-service providers in the world.
The key actions to be taken under the Policy are to assess the risks and opportunities posed
by climate change and implement actions to mitigate those risks. We will work to reduce
our direct carbon emissions in a targeted and continuous fashion and actively influence our
energy providers to address the climate-change issue. As part of our commitment to change,
we will report on achievements annually.
This programme influences several
workplace initiatives across all divisions,
including annual energy reviews conducted
on our managed properties and the rail
In committing to reduce the impacts of climate change, network energy optimisation programme.
we are not just thinking locally but rather in terms of the The merger has prompted the large-scale
challenges to regional and global communities. review of energy efficiency and synergy
opportunities within the KCR network
Climate Change Energy Management benchmarked against MTR Corporation best
The Climate Change Policy establishes the Several of the risks identified under the practices. The subsequent study plans the
change management strategy that will UITP’s Policy and Strategy have been improvement in the KCRC asset efficiencies
reduce emissions and waste, and most adopted and measured for impact under from 2008 onwards. These include better
importantly, fosters the initiatives and our internal ERM system. Resulting train headway management, cars and
methodologies to progressively reduce assessment, in particular the increase in equipment upgrades, and station energy-
our environmental footprint in future. electricity consumption, has prompted use audits.
further actions aimed at better efficiency
Our Policy is modelled on the UITP’s
and tighter annual targets.
sector-wide Greenhouse Gas Policy and MTR Corporation is the single largest
Strategy introduced in 2006. As Chair of The Energy Management Committee electricity consumer in Hong Kong on a
the Sustainable Development Commission drives the initiatives to manage electricity megawatt basis. Despite the economies
within the UITP, MTR Corporation played expenditure, our single largest energy of scale this presents, the influence on our
a significant role in leading the discussions issue. Having identified rail operations upstream energy impacts is limited due to
on policy as well as contributing to a set and property management as the current government policy on franchised
of KPIs for operators when measuring and biggest sources of GHG emissions, we electricity generation and the subsequent
mitigating carbon footprints under the UITP have inaugurated several proactive duopoly of suppliers. At present, suppliers
initiatives. These indicators are expected actions, such as the USE (usage, staff and do not offer any significant alternative or
to be issued in late 2008. This step forward efficiency) programme for reduction. green-energy choice to consumers. However,
supports the MOU between the UITP and That is, we stringently control energy we publicly encourage their current studies
the United Nations Environment Programme through optimisation, we educate staff in alternative fuel source technologies.
(UNEP) signed in 2005 and tables the clear to be energy-minded, and we employ
Anticipating the need for future efficiency,
leadership role public transport can take in technological innovations to upgrade
we are now addressing energy usage as
global climate change initiatives. existing assets’ efficiency and performance.
a factor in the design of our capital works
28 Environmental Stewardship
GRI Reporting – As in our
tonnes CO2eq
previous year’s Report, we elect
Activity 2005 (2) 2006 2007 to construct a supplement to the
Electricity - railway operations 406,588 412,574 444,984
year’s GRI Content Index which
Electricity - headquarters 6,099 6,001 6,290
reports on our environmental
performance using the G3
Electricity - managed properties 184,433 188,263 215,955
Guidelines. This supplement, the
Fuel - road fleet, locomotives, rail grinding units 2,253 2,093 2,149
GRI Content Index for 2007 (using
Waste disposed to landfill - railway operations 13,920 4,563 4,408
and extension projects the 2002 Sustainability Reporting
Staff flights 415 1,572 1,774 Guidelines) and our previous six-
Total 613,708 615,066 675,560 year performance can be viewed
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car online at www.mtr.com.hk/
(2) Data restated in 2006 due to changes in conversion factors
sustainability.
projects. Strategies include life-cycle Within our operations, Government standards and other internal targets
costing issues, station and depot design to Environmental Protection Department’s down into the front-line are numerous
secure better efficiency and maintenance, (EPD) regulations serve as the minimum programmes that progressively require
and the more efficient uses of resources in baseline in environmental management. reduction and efficiency. These include
construction. The South Island Line (East) We monitor and control air quality in all our sorting at source and programmes for reuse,
will be our first rail project to integrate fully stations on a frequent and regular basis. recycling and responsible disposal of waste
this project delivery strategy. For the fourth year in a row, our stations from our offices, train depots and stations.
have been 100% compliant to regulations.
Discharges, Effluents and Waste Our principal source of waste, being
Air quality in our managed properties is
Improved efficiency in rail operations and construction related, was negligible during
continuously monitored against stringent
property management continues to be the 2007 due to relatively little construction
internally set air-quality targets that exceed
main focus area to manage better resources in rail development. The WIL, using the
compliance to the EPD’s recommended
and reduce wastage. PAS55-1 system, leverages our current
levels for indoor air quality.
series of contractors’ targets that reward
Air quality
Water achievement beyond the specified
No other environmental factor in Hong
Although we meet our licensing requirements requirements in reducing waste on site. In
Kong has such vocal and visual impact as
for effluent discharge consistently, water future, the same PAS55-1 system will impose
air quality. Within the public dialogue, we
management is reviewed regularly for better a more stringent and life-cycle management
choose to take a quiet leadership role to
efficiency. Cross-divisional cooperation approach that will steer resource management
help change this untenable situation.
in usage of recycled water and reduction when planning, designing and developing
We are a part of the solution to cleaner air of clean water consumption are primary new projects. The SIL will be the first rail line
within the territory. While vehicular traffic targets for the future. In such cooperation, to fully utilise this system.
represents only a portion of the causes of a programme to recycle grey water from
the city’s air pollution, the renewed impetus depots is in progress. A specially-built
The many systems, programmes and
of focusing rail as the backbone of public recycling plant adjacent to LOHAS Park has
external standards that drive our operations
transport supports the future sustainability been finalised, which will supplement the
and provide the roadmap to achieve
of public transport infrastructure through irrigation of the 6.2 hectares of landscaped
best practice are reported in our online
emissions reduction and overall “cleaner” open spaces for this urban development.
sustainability discussions. These initiatives
urban development. Refer to Society’s Waste management are supported by an archive of case studies
Challenge (page 21) and Value Strategy All waste generated by our rail operations that illustrate management in practice.
(page 16) in this Report for our position in and businesses is managed under ISO14001
supporting Hong Kong’s sustainable future. certification standards. Driving these
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 29
Environmental management is a learning
process that requires a balance between what is
acceptable to stakeholders and the cost at which
acceptance is tolerated.
Response to Climate Change
MTR Corporation has taken a decisive position on environmental stewardship with the adoption of the Climate
Change Policy. This Policy commits us to a series of key actions driven by risk assessment and mitigation. It also
obliges us to reduce our carbon footprint in a targeted and continuous manner and to endeavour to influence
our energy providers so as to address the broader scope of climate change.
Aligning to this commitment, MTR Corporation undertakes through a reiterative process the risk assessment of
impacts that would most likely affect our operations in conjunction with the identification of our primary sources of
GHG emissions. These identified impacts are mainly sourced from the UITP’s model for industry practices on climate
change, and further corporate-specific risks are added to secure a balanced view in assessment. In particular,
the possible outbreak of pandemic illnesses, the expected rise in energy usage due to a warmer climate and
the continued deterioration of air quality are closely monitored.
To address these and other energy-related issues, a series of stepped-up programmes are in progress to reduce GHG
emissions across the organisation. These include annual energy audits on all managed properties, initiatives under
the Energy Management Committee, energy optimisation of the rail system and numerous smaller department-
specific programmes.
The Climate Change Policy is changing our development future. Planning and design in both rail and property now
consider the issues of increasingly constrained resources and the related impact on the efficient life-cycle
management of built assets. We are currently in the early stages of addressing these and exploring global industry
advances as benchmark guidelines. LOHAS Park is our first step in this learning curve to find viable long-term solutions.
In our broader environmental stewardship strategy, which links us to economic and social expectations, we subscribe
to international certification. Certification serves a dual purpose in advancing strategy. First, it pushes our business
forward by linking environmental objectives to real business practices. This involves risk management, target setting
and the use of recognised performance benchmarks and standards as KPIs. Second, certification motivates staff.
By imposing targets on performance, we raise awareness in each employee in such areas as energy consumption and
efficiency in waste management, and most importantly, we provide the education that instils practice beyond the
workplace environment.
30 Commentary: Response to Climate Change
CLIMATE CHANGE RISK IDENTIFICATION
The Enterprise Risk Mangement (ERM) system is applied to assess our environmental risks
in relation to climate change. The table represents assessed risks ranked within an E1- E4
rating framework.
The Enterprise Risk Committee monitors the development of the risks annually and
evaluates if any of the risks need to be studied in greater detail. Post assessment, all risks
will be allocated to relevant risk registers wherein the process of prioritisation, ownership,
mitigation, monitoring and reporting is undertaken to manage each risk and its impacts.
This management process is continuous and, like the ERM system, is sensitive and responsive
to the changing business environment and to the influences of stakeholders, the natural
environment also being a principal stakeholder.
Risk Rating
E2 Pandemics affecting staff and business continuity
Avian flu
Other pandemics
E3 Climate change risks affecting business continuity
Increased water cost
Reduced access to water
Increased electricity use and cost
Flooding affecting operations
Reduced efficiency of electrical and mechanical (E&M) plant
Additional air filtration or purification costs
Increased deterioration of infrastructure
Reputation impacts
Carbon tax
E2 Risk : High risk. Director / divisional oversight required
E3 Risk : Medium risk. Line management to monitor
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 31
bASIS OF REPORTING based upon the principles of sustainable readers with a relative comparison on
development under the BS8900:2006, issued performance. The external sources of data
by the BSI Group. The indicators captured are specified accordingly throughout the
under this series form a standardised basis Report where applicable and verifiable.
MTR Corporation produces its annual
for measuring and benchmarking the
sustainability report to support and Although we are in principle confident in
Corporation’s performance over time, and
supplement our yearly financial reporting the integrity of the non-financial data used
allow for comparability in terms of industry
exercise and other corporate reporting in the Report, we acknowledge that in the
and global corporate performance.
initiatives through the in-depth discussion measurement, calculation and estimation
of our performance in the social, economic Reporting Scope of some of the environmental and social
and environmental stewardship of the The scope of this Report covers the 2007 responsibility data, there are limitations that
Corporation. The purpose is to augment economic, social and environmental cause a degree of uncertainty in relation to
the business case, provide a snapshot of our performance data of MTR Corporation in the data reported. These include different
sustainable development in action and to Hong Kong. Data presented for our activities interpretations of the reporting guidelines,
provide a comparison to peer companies outside Hong Kong is specified where such as those used for greenhouse gases;
when reporting on sustainability for our applicable. The financial data captured in inaccuracies in data resulting from the
readers. Our purpose is to engender this Report includes audited data from calculation and analysis methods used;
trust amongst stakeholders, especially the KCRC as of post-merger date 2 accuracy and sampling by environmental
those concerned with socially responsible December 2007. The non-financial data measuring equipment; and data sourced
business and investment practices, and to captured includes data from the KCRC from external entities and/or business
demonstrate our working commitment as of post-merger date 2 December 2007 partners where the Corporation has no
to the long-term sustainability of the and NP360 Cable Car, except page 9 and controlling interest in projects or contracts.
Corporation. where indicated. Our practice is to keep within a 5% range
Financial data reporting in variance and to state within data tables
This year, the decision was taken to continue
The financial and economic contribution where variance is applicable.
to report under the Global Reporting
Initiative (GRI) - 2002 Sustainability data covered in this Report includes the Target setting
Reporting Guidelines, as 2007 marks the accounts of MTR Corporation and all In practice, corporate targets are set through
last year of reporting in operating as MTR its subsidiaries except Octopus Cards discussions with senior executives and
Corporation pre merger. This allows the Limited, a non-controlled subsidiary of the directors based on past performance and
Corporation to present in 2008 a new set Corporation. The data is prepared according measured expectations. Divisional targets
of full-year social and environmental data to and aligns with the accounting policies of are set through discussions within individual
as the expanded organisation under the the Corporation’s financial statements. divisions in consensus with the Executive
G3 Guidelines. We also continue to follow Committee, and are based on the principle
The environmental and social responsibility
the World Economic Forum Framework for of continual improvement.
data is aggregated from the seven divisions
Corporate Citizenship Initiative.
within the Corporation, our business partners
We have included in this Report the five- and where applicable, from independent
year mapping exercise of performance bodies or organisations so as to provide
32 Basis of Reporting
Assess whether the subject matter is We have not provided assurance over
reasonably supported by underlying all contents of this Report, nor have we
evidence; undertaken work to confirm that all relevant
Read the Report to assess the consist- issues are included.
ency of the information presented
To the Directors of MTR Corporation We have not carried out any work on
with the findings of our work.
data reported in respect of targets or
Introduction – MTR Corporation has
Assurance work performed – future projections. We have not provided
issued a Sustainability Report 2007 (“the
Our procedures were limited to: assurance for previous years’ data.
Report”), covering its approach to corporate
sustainability and detailing the social Interviews with management and We have not performed work on the
responsibility, environmental and economic personnel in the sustainable development, maintenance and integrity of information in
contributions it has made during 2007. We operations, property, project and human- the Report published on MTR Corporation
have been asked to provide assurance over resources divisions involved in providing website.
selected data in the Report. The objectives information for inclusion in the Report in
It is also important that, in order to
of our assurance, the scope of our work and relation to the subject matter;
obtain a thorough understanding of the
our findings are detailed below.
Examination on a test basis of financial results and financial position of
The Directors are solely responsible for the documentary evidence relating to the MTR Corporation, the reader should consult
contents of the Report, the reliability of the subject matter on which we report; MTR Corporation Annual Report for the year
information presented and its maintenance ended 31December 2007.
Assessment of the relevant sections of
and integrity on the internet. Our
the Report relating to the subject matter to Conclusion – We have reported to
responsibility is only to the management
check for consistency with the findings of management that based on the work
of the Company and is to report on the
our work. performed and described in this report:
subject matter indicated based on our
assurance work and on the terms agreed basis of our work – We planned The subject matter is reasonably
with management for this purpose. The and performed our evidence-gathering supported by underlying evidence.
work described below has been carried out procedures to obtain a basis for our Nothing has come to our attention
solely for the Directors and was not planned conclusions in accordance with the to indicate that the subject matter is
in contemplation of any third party relying International Standard on Assurance materially misstated;
on it. Accordingly, PricewaterhouseCoopers Engagements (ISAE) 3000 Assurance The information presented in the Report
will accept no responsibility for the use or Engagements other than Audits or Reviews relating to the subject matter is consistent
interpretation of the results of its work by of Historical Information, approved with the findings of our work.
any third parties. December 2003 by the International
Auditing and Assurance Standards Board.
Our objectives – The subject of the
assurance engagement is the 2007 Considerations and limitations –
performance (hereafter referred to as the It is important to read the statements PricewaterhouseCoopers
“subject matter”) of the table entitled and data in the context of the reporting Certified Public Accountants
Selected Priority Business Risks, Key policies and limitations explained on page
Hong Kong
Stakeholders, Performance Indicators and 32 of the Report. Environmental and social
15 April 2008
2007 Performance on page 9. Definitions of responsibility data is subject to many more
the subject matter are on page 36. inherent limitations than financial data
given both their nature and the methods
The overall objectives of our procedures
used for data determination, calculation or
were to:
estimation.
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability Independent Assurance Report 33
PERFORMANCE DATA
CoMET OPERATING COSTS PER CAR KM CoMET TOTAL COMMERCIAL REVENUE CoMET OPERATING COSTS
PER OPERATING COST PER PASSENGER JOURNEY
Our(1) performance vs best performance (%) Our(1) performance vs best performance (%) Our(1) performance vs best performance (%)
(Best performance = 100) (Best performance = 100) (Best performance = 100)
100 100 100
97.0 95.5 95.2
90 90 (2) 90 89.8
87.4
80 80 80 80.5
76.5
70 70 70
62.5 62.3(2)
60 60 60 60.0
50 50 50
45.7 44.7
40 41.0 41.6(2) 41.7 40 40
30 30 30
20 20 20
10 10 10
02 03 04 05 06 02 03 04 05 06 02 03 04 05 06
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car
(2) Figure restated by CoMET
DEBT / EQUITY FIXED ASSET GROWTH EBITDA
Operating profit from railway and related operations
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders Service concession assets before depreciation and amortisation
Loans outstanding HK$ billion
Investment properties
Other property, plant and equipment 10
HK$ billion
9
100
HK$ billion 8
90 132.4
80 15.2 7
91.0 106.9
99.7 103.3 5.91
70 96.9 6
26.3 38.1 5.10 5.20
60 14.2 18.9 22.8
5 4.53
50 3.75
4
40
82.7 80.8 80.5 80.6 79.1 3
30
20 34.1 2
10 1
03 04 05 06 07 03 04 05 06 07 03 04 05 06 07
Issue Division 2003 (2) 2004 2005 (3) 2006 2007
GHG Emissions
GHG emissions (tonnes CO2eq) Corporate-wide 570,110 616,525(4) 613,708(4) 615,066 675,560
Electricity consumption
Total (MWh) Operations 782,273 785,273 781,900 778,442 780,673
Per revenue car-km (KWh/car-km) 6.11 6.02 5.94 5.73 5.68
Traction energy (KWh/car-km) Operations 2.29 2.40 2.33 2.25 2.25
Waste Generation
Metals recycled (tonnes) Operations 1,204 1,231 1,258 1,573 1,650
Spent oil recycled (litres) Operations 15,800 18,654 25,792 20,610 36,212
(% total) 100 100 100 100 100
Water Usage
Water consumption (m3) Operations 253,579 324,751 281,633 290,634 347,771
Note:
(1) Excludes data from the KCRC and NP360 Cable Car
(2) Operations commenced on TKO Line
(3) Operations commenced on Disneyland Resort Line and the Asiaworld-Expo Station
(4) Data restated in 2006 due to changes in conversion factors
34 Performance Data
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
2005 2006 2007
Profit and Loss Account (HK$ million)
Turnover (fare and non-fare) 9,153 9,541 10,690
Operating profit from railway and related operations before depreciation and amortisation 5,101 5,201 5,912
Depreciation and amortisation (2,682) (2,674) (2,739)
Profit on property developments 6,145 5,817 8,304
Interest and finance charges (1,361) (1,398) (1,316)
Change in fair value of investment properties 2,800 2,178 8,011
Profit attributable to shareholders 8,450 7,759 15,180
Dividend (2,299) (2,328) (2,522)
balance Sheet (HK$ million)
Total assets 113,666 120,421 155,668
Loans, obligations under financial leases and bank overdrafts 28,264 28,152 34,050
Deferred income 3,584 1,682 515
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the company 69,875 76,767 91,014
Financial Ratios
Operating margin 55.7% 54.5% 55.3%
Non-fare revenue as a % of turnover 31.4% 31.6% 33.4%
Net debt/equity ratio 40.4% 36.3% 48.5%
Interest cover (in times) 7.6 6.7 9.0
ECONOMIC CONTRIbUTION
2005 2006 2007
Financial Performance
Turnover (HK$ million) 9,153 9,541 10,690
Profit for the year attributable to shareholders (HK$ million) 8,450 7,759 15,180
Return on average equity attributable to equity shareholders (%) 12.8% 10.6% 18.1%
Interaction with Hong Kong, Asian and Global Economics
Number of staff 6,991(1) 7,363(1) 14,134
Staff costs and related expenses (HK$ million) (1,614) (1,653) (1,802)
Energy and utilities (HK$ million) (541) (539) (576)
Repairs and maintenance (HK$ million) (496) (511) (521)
Stores and spares consumed (HK$ million) (120) (120) (130)
Railway capital expenditure (HK$ million) (1,987) (1,524) (1,400)
Total number of passengers (HK$ million) 866.5 876.4 945.3
Share of franchised public transport in HK (%) 25.2 25.0 26.7
Interest payments on borrowings (HK$ million) (1,377) (1,532) (1,544)
Dividend payment (HK$ million) (2,299) (2,328) (2,522)
Taxes paid overseas (HK$ million) (1) (2) (3)
(1) Data restated to include full-time staff employed outside Hong Kong
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability 35
DEFINITIONS
CoMET Community of Metros (CoMET) is a programme of international railway benchmarking,
comprising a consortium of 11 metropolitan metros. Members include Hong Kong
MTR Corporation, Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe, London Underground Limited, New
York City Transit, Sistema de Transporte Colectivo, Régie Autonome des Transports
Parisiens Metro, Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens Réseau Express Régional,
Metropolitano de São Paulo, Moscow Metro, Metro de Madrid and Shanghai Metro
Operation Corporation
Contractor Staff Reportable Accidents Those accidents to contractor staff while they are on duty within MTR premises and
result in inability to work for a period of 3 days or more immediately after an accident
Contractor Staff Reportable Accident Number of reportable accidents per 100,000 man-hours worked
Frequency Rate
Customer Service Pledge Annually published 13 performance targets in accordance with the Operating
Agreement
GHG (Greenhouse Gas) Emissions Calculated based on resource consumption of greenhouse gas-generating activities
and related emission factors according to “The GHG Protocol for Project Accounting”
jointly published by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and
World Resources Institute
KCR or KCR System Collective name for East Rail Line, West Rail Line, Ma On Shan Line, cross-boundary
service, Light Rail, bus and intercity services
KCRC Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation, a statutory corporation established under the
KCRC Ordinance wholly owned by the Financial Secretary Incorporated on behalf of
the Government in accordance with the KCRC Ordinance
KCRC Ordinance The Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation Ordinance (Chapter 372 of the Laws of
Hong Kong)
MTR Corporation or MTR Corporation Limited, a company incorporated in Hong Kong under the
Company or Corporation Companies Ordinance (Chapter 32 of the Laws of Hong Kong) on 26 April 2000
MTR Ordinance The Mass Transit Railway Ordinance (Chapter 556 of the Laws of Hong Kong)
MTR or MTR System Collective name for the Kwun Tong Line, Tsuen Wan Line, Island Line, Tung Chung Line,
Tseung Kwan O Line, Disneyland Resort Line and Airport Express
NP360 Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, formerly referred to as Tung Chung Cable Car
Operating Agreement The agreement entered into the Company and the Government on 30 June 2000
for the operation of the MTR System in the Pre-Merger period and a new agreement
entered on 9 August 2007 for the operation of the integrated MTR System after the
Rail Merger
PAS55-1 A voluntary Publicly Available Specification (PAS) that provides a consistent framework
for physical infrastructure asset management systems based on the structures for ISO
quality and risk management standards
Passenger Fatality Figure does not take into account fatalities owning to passenger suicide or
passenger’s own medical conditions
Passenger Journeys on Time Calculated as percentage applying formula [(Incoming patronage in a month) –
(passengers in a month delayed by at least 5 minutes)]/ [Incoming patronage in a
month] x 100%. Calculated monthly over operating period and then calculating the
mean thereof. MTR and AEL passenger journeys on time calculated separately using
same formula
Passenger Trips Fare-paying passengers entering the railway network
36 Definitions
Property Development Projects Property development projects include the foundation, building, alteration and
addition works for the property developments at Kowloon Station, Olympic Station,
Tung Chung Station, Tiu Keng Leng Station, Tseung Kwan O Station and LOHAS Park
Railway Extension Projects Railway extension projects include all civil and electrical and mechanical works for
LOHAS Park Station
Serious Passenger Injuries Those that require admission to hospital for observation or treatment immediately
after an accident, including injuries due to trespassing on the track and reckless
behaviour involving MTR equipment or operation, but excluding suicide, attempted
suicide, brawls between passengers or injuries owing to passenger’s own medical
conditions
Staff Lost Time Injuries Those injuries where a staff member, as a result of an accident while on duty, is unable
to work for one complete shift or more immediately after the accident
Staff Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate Number of staff lost time injuries per 200,000 man-hours worked
200,000 man-hours are approximately equivalent to 100 staff per year
Staff Turnover Rate Sum of 12-monthly turnovers calculated as number of voluntary staff resignations/
total staff strength by month-end
Train Punctuality Calculated as percentage applying formula: [(actual train trips in a month) – (train
trips in a month delayed by at least “y” minutes)]/ [actual train trips in a month] x
100% where “y” = 2 for MTR and 5 for AEL. Calculated monthly over operating period
and then calculating the mean thereof. MTR and AEL train punctuality calculated
separately using respective formulae
Train Reliability Calculated as revenue car-km per incident applying formula: (actual revenue car-km
run in a month/ total number of train failure incidents with trains delayed by at least 5
minutes in a month). Calculated monthly over operating period and then calculating
the mean thereof
Train Service Delivery Calculated as percentage applying formula: [(actual train trips in a month)/ (scheduled
train trips in a month)] x 100%. Calculated monthly over operating period and then
calculating the mean thereof
Train Trip A journey run by a train from one end of a line or an intermediate point on a line to
the point on a line that is scheduled by the Corporation to be the destination for
that train. In the event of a train being withdrawn from service before reaching its
destination point, train trip shall be determined by the Corporation on a pro-rata basis
based on the distance run by that train between its starting point and the point at
which it is withdrawn from service, and the distance between its starting point and its
destination point
Transaction Agreements The Merger Framework Agreement, the Service Concession Agreement, the Sale and
Purchase Agreement, the Operating Agreement, the Supplemental Service Concession
Agreements (if any), the Job Security Deed Poll; the KSL Project Management
Agreement, the West Rail Agency Agreement, the Property Package Agreements, the
US CBL Assumption Agreements, the US CBL Allocation Agreement, the Outsourcing
Agreement, the Liaison Committee Letter, the Land Comfort Letter, and any other
document designated in writing as a “Transaction Agreement” by Government, MTR
Corporation and KRCR, each as defined in the Merger Framework Agreement
Waste Disposed to Landfill Waste generated from railway operations and railway extension projects, excluding
waste from property development projects and managed properties owned by the
Corporation
www.mtr.com.hk/sustainability Project Management & Editorial: Streeter Strategic Limited • Design: CoDesign Ltd • Photography: Leong Ka Tai 37
MTR Corporation Limited
MTR Headquarters Building
Telford Plaza, Kowloon Bay
Hong Kong
Tel (852) 2993 2111
Fax (852) 2798 8822
www.mtr.com.hk
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