Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has outlined his administration’s primary concerns regarding the recently implemented single-use plastics ban in Hong Kong. He highlighted the crucial need for a steady supply of acceptable substitute products at affordable prices for consumers.
Lee believes that residents will need to adjust their habits to some extent, recognizing it as a shared responsibility in promoting environmental awareness. However, he does not anticipate drastic lifestyle changes for most people.
The ban, which took effect on Monday, prohibits the distribution of polystyrene products and disposable plastic utensils such as cutlery and straws for takeaway purchases. Single-use plastic tableware is also no longer available for dine-in customers.
While some residents have embraced the change, others have expressed concerns about the quality of replacement utensils. For instance, paper straws have been criticized for becoming soggy too quickly when used for beverages.
Despite these complaints, Lee expressed optimism, noting that many restaurants and plastic product suppliers are cooperating with the new policy. He hopes that market forces will drive improvements in the quality of replacements.
The government will continue to monitor the situation and gather feedback on the policy, including suggestions for providing more options for substitute products.
Simon Wong Ka-wo, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, estimates that around 70% of the organization’s 18,000 members have yet to secure alternatives to the banned items within the six-month grace period before penalties commence.
Some businesses have adopted a more radical approach, like LH Group chairman Simon Wong Kit-lung, who announced the suspension of takeaway services at four of his Japanese restaurant chains to lessen the burden of the ban.
Wong emphasized that this decision was not meant as resistance to the government’s policy but rather a strategy to reduce hassle and encourage dine-in customers.
He believes that reusable cutlery or dining in are viable alternatives to disposable plastic, depending on individual circumstances. Wong also stressed that while paying for a set of disposable cutlery might adhere to the law, it is not the most environmentally friendly option. He encourages the public to recognize that the ban is not as drastic as some have suggested and that dining in can be a convenient solution.
