Hongkongers are objecting to or feel repulsed by the waste charging scheme, says a catering veteran, who agrees with the government's decision to defer its citywide implementation to August 1.
Simon Wong Kit-lung, honorary president of the Institute of Dining Professionals, said yesterday that the lack of publicity by the government has resulted in a "lose-lose situation" for environmental protection in the city. He added that many people do not understand the intention behind the new policy.
According to the municipal solid waste scheme, which originally was to be implemented from April 1, citizens will be required to purchase designated trash bags and labels to dispose of their domestic rubbish. The designated bags will range from 30 HK cents to HK$11, depending on the size, and there will be an additional HK$11 charge for oversized bags.
Wong said many citizens misunderstood the purpose of the charging scheme and believed that it was aimed at generating revenue for the government.
He said various sectors have been promoting environmental protection in the city for decades, and people's awareness has been raised accordingly. However, Wong added, "recently there has been a sudden aversion to environmental protection, attributing this to insufficient publicity and the poor state of the economy."
Wong supported the extension of the implementation date and urged the government to introduce the scheme when the economy recovers, to avoid further discouraging consumption. He said the government should consider whether waste disposal or the economy would have a greater impact on people's lives.
Meanwhile, electrical appliance stores reported a 30 percent surge in sales of food waste processors, as citizens seek to save money. These processors, which cost from HK$2,000 to HK$3,000, can grind food into waste powder, which can then be easily flushed away. Jackie, a kitchen appliance shop manager, said more customers are inquiring about the processors due to the charging scheme, resulting in a 30 percent increase in sales.
A citizen named Tse said the use of a food waste processor would help reduce the costs associated.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, speaking before the executive council meeting yesterday, said deferring the scheme to August 1 is a practical decision, as it will allow officials more time to explain the details to the public.
However, public buildings will still implement the scheme on April 1, from which the government can gain insights and improve measures.
Lee urged for more publicity and education during the trial period, including reading materials and videos, and added that officials would explain the policy to district council members. He appealed for cooperation, saying: "I hope the public can understand that this is a scheme that involves over seven million citizens and will change the waste disposal habits of the whole society."
ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com
