Recently, the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department issued a consultation document, recommending the implementation of the "Control Disposable Plastic Tableware Project" (disposable plastic tableware, disposable plastic tableware) to reduce the use of disposable plastic tableware from the source to reduce plastic pollution to the ecological environment and humans. The health effects also help reduce carbon and mitigate climate change.
The government's study on the feasibility, scope and mechanism of the control of disposable plastic tableware has been completed. With reference to experiences around the world and taking into account the local situation, the research report recommends legislation to regulate disposable plastic tableware in stages, including styrofoam tableware, drinking straws, stirring rods, eating utensils (such as forks, knives and spoons), plates, cups, etc. Cup lids, food containers (such as bowls and boxes) and food container lids are exempted based on individual special circumstances.
The plan proposes to give priority to the control of disposable styrofoam tableware and prohibit the sale of disposable styrofoam tableware in the local area. Catering establishments also prohibit the provision of disposable styrofoam tableware to customers. As for other non-styrofoam disposable tableware, the plan proposes to control in two stages.
In the first phase, catering establishments will be completely prohibited from providing all kinds of disposable plastic tableware to dine-in customers; while for takeaways, disposable plastic drinking straws, stirring rods, forks, knives, spoons and dishes will be prohibited.
The second phase of take-out regulation will be in line with that of dine-in.
