Friends of the Earth (HK) Response to the “Regulation of Disposable Plastic Tableware”

The Environmental Protection Department launched the consultation on the "Regulation of Disposable Plastic Tableware” today. The government proposes to regulate the use of single-use plastic tableware including cutleries, cups, and food containers for dine-in and takeaway services at 2025 earliest.

Plastic waste has consistently accounted for around 20% of the municipal solid waste we dispose in landfills every day. The overuse and mismanagement of single-use plastics have now become a menace to our environment as they pollute coastlines, near shores, and even the depths of deep-sea trenches.

Many municipalities and countries have proposed or imposed bans on single-use plastics. Mainland China has already moved to ban single-use expanded polystyrene (EPS) tableware and non-degradable plastic straws starting this year. Friends of the Earth (HK) urges the government to catch up with the world to protect our health and ecosystems.

We would also remind that, besides disposable tableware, single-use plastic packaging from supermarkets and other retail food stores are a major source of plastic waste and need to be regulated as well.

Friends of the Earth (HK) will publish a proper response at a later date after reading the consultation in full.

Please click the below link to read the consultation document:
https://www.rdpt.hk/en/