There is now widespread agreement around the world that single-use plastic products should be banned because they are bad for the environment. Hong Kong is finally becoming one of the many places that forbids these kinds of things. Similar to other eco-friendly campaigns aimed at altering personal and corporate behaviour, awareness-raising and education are crucial. To guarantee that the prohibition can be applied without a hitch, the authorities should collaborate closely with the impacted industries.
The two-phase ban, which is both symbolic and comprehensive, is set to go into force on April 22, Earth Day. The first phase focuses on the distribution and sale of disposable plastic dinnerware, including cutlery, stirrers, expanded polystyrene containers, and straws. Items like glow sticks, cotton buds, and umbrella covers that have non-plastic substitutes are also included. Also prohibited will be the provision of complimentary in-room water in plastic bottles and the provision of toiletries in artificial disposable containers.