16th August 2025 – (Hong Kong) Over a year after implementing the first phase of restrictions on single-use plastic tableware, the initiative has been deemed highly successful by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Tse Chin-wan. To build on this progress, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has recently launched a trial programme for non-plastic containers, marking a potential second phase of the city’s “plastic-free” policy.
Speaking on a radio programme today, Tse revealed that 1,000 restaurants have already enrolled in the trial, with plans to gradually expand participation to 2,000 to 3,000 establishments. He described the initiative as a “pilot approach,” allowing businesses to adapt to non-plastic alternatives before introducing legislative regulations. Tse expressed concern that enforcing the second phase prematurely could lead to widespread public dissatisfaction, stating, “Forcing the change might cause major backlash.” Instead, he emphasised the importance of ensuring public acceptance of alternative materials before mandating their use.
Tse also addressed the delayed announcement regarding the future of the postponed waste-charging scheme, which was initially expected last month. He explained that public sentiment must be taken into account for government policies. Preliminary feedback suggests that the majority of citizens believe the timing is currently unsuitable for implementing the scheme. Tse assured the public that the government will continue gathering opinions and proceed cautiously, with plans to report to the Legislative Council at an appropriate time.
