“We are not in Batanes,” said KONE Philippines managing director Peterri Kyrklund, contrasting the serene, undeveloped landscapes of the northern Philippine province with the rapidly urbanizing cities across the region. The quip came as KONE emphasized the pressing need to modernize aging vertical transport infrastructure in Asia-Pacific.
According to KONE, over 40 percent of elevators and escalators in the region are more than 25 years old, with many falling short of current safety and energy efficiency standards. “We move two billion people annually,” Kyrklund noted, “but we must ensure we’re doing it sustainably.”
The company said that buildings account for nearly 40 percent of global carbon emissions, two-thirds of which are operational. KONE’s modernization strategies focus on selective upgrades to extend asset life, minimize waste, and support national climate goals—including the Philippines’ 75 percent emissions reduction target by 2030.
Notably, regenerative drives in KONE equipment can recover up to 40 percent of energy use, while modernizing outdated systems can cut 78 percent of associated emissions.
With the Philippines issuing over 180,000 building permits in 2024 (up 5 percent YoY), the sustainable vertical transport market is estimated at US$14 billion. KONE executives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting smart, green urban development as city growth accelerates.
“Sustainability is not an option,” said Effie Chew, KONE’s head of sustainability for Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. “It’s business-critical.”
