Plastic Culture Changing
Plastic Waste In Hong Kong
In 2022, Hong Kong faced a significant challenge with the disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW), totalling a staggering 5.97 million tonnes. Alarmingly, more than 4 million tonnes, which accounted for nearly 70%, ended up in just two landfills. Among the various types of waste, plastic waste emerged as the second largest contributor, with a daily average of 2,369 tonnes. Specifically, plastic bags alone accounted for approximately 878 metric tons per day that were disposed of in municipal solid waste landfills. Moreover, an additional average of 206 metric tons of plastic bottles were also sent to landfills on a daily basis in the same year.
Data Charts
Plastic Waste In Hong Kong
Since April 22, 2024, significant efforts have been undertaken to address the chronic waste problem, particularly in relation to non-biodegradable plastics found in landfill sites. This initiative is being implemented in two phases, each targeting specific areas of concern. In the first phase, the primary focus is on regulating disposable plastic tableware and products, as well as restricting the distribution of hotel and guesthouse toiletries that contribute to plastic waste. In the second phase, attention shifts towards the banning of single-use plastic cups and boxes from takeaway services, aiming to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in this sector. These measures are crucial in combatting the environmental impact of plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices.
Plastic Change In Hong Kong
Plastic Restrictions In Other Countries
Japan
Japan has made significant efforts to address plastic waste and promote recycling. In 2022, the volume of plastic waste in Japan was around 8.23 million tons, showing a decrease from previous years. To tackle this issue, Japan enacted the Act on the Promotion of Resource Circulation for Plastics in April 2022. This legislation aims to improve the circulation of plastics and promote their use throughout various product ranges. Moreover, Japan is a global leader in plastic bottle recycling, with a recycling rate exceeding 80%, far surpassing Europe and the United States. In some regions, stricter regulations have been implemented, such as the city government of Kameoka in Kyoto Prefecture, which banned businesses from providing shoppers with plastic bags
Singapore
Singapore faces a significant challenge with plastic waste, generating approximately one million metric tons of plastic waste per year. Unfortunately, only 4% of this waste is recycled, while the remainder is either incinerated or sent to landfills. To address this issue, initiatives like the Bring-Your-Own Singapore Movement were launched by Zero Waste SG in 2017. This movement encouraged retailers to provide incentives to customers who bring their own reusable bags, bottles, or containers. Over 2.5 million pieces of plastic disposables were reduced through the participation of 430 retail outlets.
Korea
South Korea has been grappling with a significant plastic waste problem, generating around 390 million metric tons of plastic waste annually as of 2021, making it the highest producer of plastic waste at that time. To address this issue, the South Korean government has implemented several measures and set ambitious targets. They aim to reduce plastic waste by 30% in 2022 and by 50% by 2030, while increasing the recycling rate to 70% from the current 34% by 2030.
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In an effort to restrict plastic waste, the government introduced a law in August 2022 that bans single-use items such as paper cups, plastic straws, and plastic stirrers in cafes and restaurants. This ban came into effect on November 24, 2022, and violations of the law can result in fines of up to 3 million won. These measures are part of South Korea's broader strategy to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste and promote a more sustainable approach to resource management.
Australia
Australia is grappling with the increasing demand for plastic products and the subsequent rise in plastic waste. Each year, the country adds approximately 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste, with a staggering 84% of it ending up in landfills and less than 13% being properly recycled. By 2050, the consumption of plastic in Australia is expected to more than double, highlighting the urgent need for a plastic recycling scheme and measures to reduce waste. Currently, only 14% of plastic waste is diverted from landfills. Recycling of LDPE (low-density polyethylene) is limited, although some supermarkets provide collection bins for plastic bags, which can be dropped off at specific locations.
Australia has released various plans, including the 2018 National Waste Policy and the 2019 National Waste Policy Action Plan, as well as the Australian Packaging Covenant, with a goal to recycle or reuse 100% of plastic waste and eliminate plastic pollution by 2040. Further measures, such as a plastics tax and policies to cap or phase down plastic use, are also necessary to address the issue effectively.
Ways To Avoid Plastic Waste
Use REUSABLE water bottles
helps reduce single-use plastic waste and promotes a more sustainable way of consuming beverages.
Use REUSABLE containers
reduces the need for disposable plastic packaging, contributing to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Learn to RECYCLE
ensures that valuable resources are diverted and can be transformed into new products.
Say NO to plastic straws
helps reduce plastic pollution in oceans and landfills, safeguarding marine life.
Always carry a cloth bag
reduces the consumption of single-use plastics, minimizing pollution and protecting wildlife.
Spread Awareness
Spread awareness and inspire sustainable habits to reduce plastic waste.