The BDO ESG Awards recognises outstanding listed companies in Hong Kong that have made a positive impact in the areas of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) – those that implement outstanding sustainability initiatives.

Having started in 2018, the Awards was the first in Hong Kong to encourage companies to be more aware of their social responsibility to incorporate sustainability into their business model. As always, the BDO ESG Awards has an independent judging panel to review and evaluate participating companies and select the final winners. With the standard of ESG reports of listed companies continuing to improve in recent years, BDO has brought in an independent professional organisation to conduct preliminary screening of the participating companies, in the hope of raising the standing of the Awards.

This year's Theme Awards, titled 'ESG AI Excellence Awards', recognise the growing intersection between sustainability and artificial intelligence. While AI is still not widely embedded in the daily ESG work of many companies, it is increasingly recognised as a powerful tool to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and insightfulness of sustainability efforts. Amid mounting regulatory requirements, rising investor expectations, and the complex challenges of data management, companies are actively exploring how AI can drive stronger ESG outcomes. At the same time, it is essential that organisations closely monitor the ethical and safe use of AI to ensure responsible innovation that strengthens business models and improves operational efficiency. The Theme Awards celebrate listed companies that leverage AI to advance ESG practices and reporting, while demonstrating sound AI governance and a firm commitment to ethical standards.

'Outstanding ESG Performance of H-share Companies' is to recognise specifically the H-share companies that have outstanding performance both in ESG and its reporting. Only H-share companies are eligible for this award.

In addition to the 'Theme Awards' and 'Outstanding ESG Performance of H-share Companies', 'Best in ESG', 'Best in Reporting', and 'ESG Report of the Year' will be awarded to recognise companies that have outstanding performance in the areas of ESG.

The sixth year's BDO ESG Awards presentation ceremony was successfully held on 11 December 2024 to announce the winners. A total of 18 companies were awarded the 'Best in ESG', 'Best in Reporting', 'ESG Report of the Year', 'Outstanding ESG Performance of H-share Companies and 'Theme Awards'.