Plastic ban begins at chain restaurants, certain stores provide utensils for HK$1

The first phase of the legislation to control disposable plastic tableware and products came into effect today, with a six-month adaptation period.

Some large chain restaurants have recently introduced measures to stop providing disposable plastic tableware for takeout. Customers can purchase disposable, eco-friendly tableware for an additional HK$1.

At a chain fast food restaurant in San Po Kong, some citizens said they support the plastic ban and won't need tableware for home takeouts.

However, when eating takeout outside, they will buy disposable, eco-friendly tableware because it is inconvenient to carry reusable tableware with them.

Some citizens buy takeaways to take to their workplace and spend HK$1 to buy disposable eco-friendly tableware but believe disposable plastic tableware is more convenient.

Joyce Chiu, group director of a fast-food restaurant chain, said customers have expressed their understanding and acceptance of the new laws.

Posters have been posted in stores to inform them of the new arrangements, and initial reactions have been positive.

She also said that the cost of eco-friendly takeout tableware is about twice as high as that of plastic tableware.

The group has previously tested different environmentally friendly tableware with suppliers, hoping to find an ideal material to replace plastic, but she believes that it will take some time for diners to adapt.

She also said that the group charges HK$1 as a token fee from diners who ask for disposable eco-friendly tableware and encourages diners to use more reusable tableware.

The group has also launched reusable tableware printed with cartoon characters for citizens to exchange for purchases.