CityUHK UN-FIRST Programme Showcases at the Science and Technology Fair of “Science in the Public Service” 2026
28 September 2026
The UN-FIRST Programme, together with the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and i2Cool Limited, participated in the “Science in the Public Service” (「科學為民」服務巡禮 2026) Science and Technology Fair held at the Hong Kong Science Museum from 25 to 27 September 2026.
The fair brought together academic institutions, government departments, and the general public to highlight how scientific research and innovation are applied to enhance public livelihood, community well-being, and global sustainability.
At the event, the FIRST Team showcased different technologies that will be deployed through the FIRST Programme, particularly its Passive Radiative Cooling technology, led by Prof. Edwin Tso, Associate Dean and Chair Professor of SEE and Programme Director of the UN-FIRST Programme. This zero-energy cooling technology reduces building energy demands without relying on traditional power systems, contributing directly to carbon neutrality. The innovation has been successfully commercialized through i2Cool Limited, an incubator start-up under CityUHK’s HK Tech 300 initiative.
Endorsed by UNESCO as an official initiative under the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), the UN-FIRST Programme is dedicated to developing affordable technologies for global application. Prof. Tso noted that translating laboratory innovations into real-world solutions, particularly for underprivileged communities, is central to the programme's mission.
Through public engagement platforms and events such as the “Science in the Public Service” Fair, the UN-FIRST Programme brings science closer to society, serving not only as a platform for showcasing innovation but also as a valuable public education initiative. By enhancing public understanding of sustainability, climate resilience, and emerging technologies, the Programme enables innovative solutions to reach communities, improve lives, and inspire collective action towards a more sustainable future for all.