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HK begins to establish 'plastic-free' culture: Tse Chin-wan

The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Tse Chin-wan, stated that Hong Kong is beginning to establish a "plastic-free" culture, with a number of citizens starting to bring their utensils. (ISD)

The first phase of the regulation to ban disposable plastic utensils and other plastic products has completed its six-month adaptation period.

The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Tse Chin-wan, stated that Hong Kong is beginning to establish a "plastic-free" culture, with a number of citizens starting to bring their utensils. The vast majority of restaurants comply with the legal requirements, and during the adaptation period, 30 million sets of disposable utensils were reduced, while the amount of plastic waste in Hong Kong is also gradually decreasing.

As for when the second phase of regulation will be implemented, Tse said today (Oct. 25) in a radio program that it will depend on the maturity, price, and social acceptance of alternative products.

"The government is currently testing alternative products with the catering industry... if societal acceptance is high, the policy can be implemented more deeply and broadly; otherwise, there may be a backlash from the community."

Tse emphasized that the implementation of the policy draws from the experiences of waste charging and highlights the government's attention to public opinion. Regarding whether the current government will reintroduce waste charging within its term, he mentioned that they need to assess societal acceptance and participation in waste reduction and recycling before proceeding.

The government plans to report the situation to the Legislative Council by mid-next year, according to Tse.

Tse also noted that although the government has temporarily postponed waste charging, there have been positive aspects during the promotional process, with increased public awareness and support for waste separation and recycling.

He pointed out that since January, the amount of household food waste has increased fourfold, and other types of recyclables have risen by 50% to 60%.

Additionally, starting in June, the government has gradually provided residents of all public housing estates with 20 designated garbage bags per month for free, as part of an educational campaign. Tse indicated that from June to now, the amount of recyclables collected in public housing estates has increased by 70%, and household food waste has also risen by half.

 

Related News:

Six-month adaptation period of new regulation on disposable plastic products to end tomorrow

Environment protection first: Six-month adaptation period of plastic-free campaign ends today

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