{"id":3916,"date":"2024-01-23T15:46:58","date_gmt":"2024-01-23T07:46:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.hk\/blog\/?p=3916"},"modified":"2024-01-23T15:46:58","modified_gmt":"2024-01-23T07:46:58","slug":"hong-kong-waste-charging-scheme","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.hk\/blog\/hong-kong-waste-charging-scheme\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything You Need to Know About Hong Kong\u2019s Waste-Charging Scheme"},"content":{"rendered":"

In an effort to cut down on the sheer amount of trash in landfills, Hong Kong\u2019s waste charging will come into effect on the first of August after the idea\u2019s conception 20 years ago.<\/p>\n

With several months to go until the measure\u2019s implementation, the public remains largely oblivious to the regulations, and there has been reported confusion on the details.<\/p>\n

To make sure locals, expats,or travelers know what to expect by that time, this Pacific Prime Hong Kong<\/a> blog post will go through the details of Hong Kong\u2019s waste charging scheme.<\/p>\n

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\"General<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n

Overview<\/h2>\n

The waste charging scheme is a measure that aims to reduce the amount of rubbish sent to landfills, which involves requiring residents to buy government-approved garbage bags. The scheme will cover most residential and commercial areas.<\/p>\n

From the effective date onward, Hongkongers must use prepaid, government-approved garbage bags to dispose of rubbish. Designated labels will also be available for larger items.<\/p>\n

The Delay<\/h3>\n

This long-awaited waste charging measure was previously slated to come into effect on April 1st, after already being pushed back once last year, but was delayed to the first of August instead.<\/p>\n

Hong Kong\u2019s secretary for Environment & Ecology, Mr. Tse Chin-wan, announced the delay of the waste charging scheme on Friday. The postponement of the measure implementation is to allow more time for relevant publicity work.<\/p>\n

The Secretary of the Hong Kong Institute of Housing, Mr. Wong Wing-lok, also believes the postponement of the measures will help reduce confusion when they take effect.<\/p>\n

He pointed out that while the measures involve simple ideas such as the use of designated garbage bags and labels, people erroneously believed doing their part was as simple as buying these designated items.<\/p>\n

Moreover, the extra management fees imposed on residents in private housing estates may have also contributed to the confusion. Insufficient recycling facilities and small garbage rooms also proved to be problematic for the implementation.<\/p>\n

Demonstrations<\/h3>\n

In place of the original implementation date of the measures, though, government departments and selected buildings will conduct demonstrations to raise public awareness and understanding of the scheme.<\/p>\n

These tests will also help identify and address any issues in advance, just in time for the implementation date in August.<\/p>\n

Trash Bags: Where to Buy and Prices<\/h2>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Starting at the end of January, members of the public can buy garbage bags, which will be available in nine sizes, from around 3,000 supermarkets, convenience stores, and pharmacies.<\/p>\n

Below are garbage bag prices according to their size:<\/p>\n