Hong Kong will join the global community tomorrow to celebrate World Standards Day 2008. Its theme this year is "intelligent and sustainable buildings".

The Government will continue promoting the adoption of internationally accepted standards and conformity assessment services, and updating prevailing standards' requirements, the Innovation & Technology Commission says.

Standards increase production efficiency, optimise resources, disseminate knowledge and new technologies, and facilitate free trade and fair competition, the commission stressed.

International standards allow for the practical global application of principles in the building and construction sector relating to health, safety and security, energy efficiency and quality of life. They also help ensure integration with information and communication technology networks and interoperability, making "intelligent and sustainable buildings" a reality. 

The Government regularly explores opportunities to adopt sustainable design principles in public building projects -such as sustainable planning, energy conservation, waste management, use of materials, operation and maintenance.

It encourages local businesses to participate directly in the work of developing international standards through the

world's largest developer and publisher of international standards, the ISO.

The Innovation & Technology Commission also nominates interested parties to participate in this body, offers a technical enquiry service and standards sales service, and maintains a standards library. Click here for details.