Hong Kong is pioneering an eco-conscious construction revolution by transforming everyday glass waste into innovative building materials. At The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, groundbreaking research is reshaping how we build for tomorrow—one recycled bottle at a time.     Professor Poon Chi Sun / The Hong Kong Polytechnic University   "Construction waste holds tremendous potential for recycling. In Hong Kong alone, we discard 200 tons of glass daily—material we now repurpose by grinding it into powder that replaces up to 50% of cement's carbon footprint."     "Our team has engineered permeable eco-blocks from this recycled glass. Their unique micro-porous design acts like a sponge, absorbing water while allowing CO₂ penetration—triggering a chemical reaction that actually strengthens the material over time."     These innovations represent just the beginning. By merging sustainable materials with smart construction methods, Hong Kong is charting a course toward truly carbon-neutral development—a blueprint the world urgently needs.     Iris Wong / Host: "True green buildings must excel in both construction and operation. But can skyscrapers really achieve net-zero energy use?"     The answer towers over us—literally. The CSCEC Science and Innovation Building, China's first near-zero-energy high-rise at 150+ meters, demonstrates what's possible through intelligent design.     Zhou Zilu / China Construction Fourth Engineering Division "This landmark incorporates 31 green technologies, including climate-responsive 'cool alleys' inspired by traditional Lingnan architecture. Their natural ventilation dramatically reduces mechanical cooling needs."     The building's energy strategy operates on two brilliant fronts: regenerative elevators that recapture kinetic energy to power lighting, and a massive 8,000m² solar panel array generating 200,000 kWh annually—equivalent to planting 550,000 trees in carbon offset terms.     From recycled glass skyscrapers to self-cooling paints, Hong Kong's construction revolution proves that sustainability and urban development aren't just compatible—they're mutually reinforcing. The future of building isn't just greener; it's smarter, more efficient, and already rising around us.