EPD launches Non-Plastic Container Trial Programme open for eateries to participate with over 1 000 catering outlets already signed up (with photo)
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The trial programme has received enthusiastic support from the trade. At present, nearly 100 catering brands (covering more than 1 000 outlets) and nearly 30 tableware suppliers have taken the lead in participating. The trade will collaborate with the Government to further explore going plastic-free in catering operations, working together to achieve the goal of "Protect the Earth, Use Less Plastic".
An EPD spokesman said, "Plastic is difficult to decompose and can remain in the environment for a very long time. Over time, it can even fragment into microplastics, causing far-reaching harm to the environment and ecology as well as human health. To safeguard the environment and public health, we need to gradually reduce the use of disposable plastic. However, non-plastic container alternatives are still in the developmental stage. While many products are available, they have yet to fully meet all the application needs of the trade."
He continued, "Through the trial programme, participating non-plastic container suppliers will offer discounts to encourage catering businesses to test and gradually expand the use of non-plastic containers based on their circumstances, without having to wait for perfect alternatives to come along. At the same time, more comprehensive data on application could be collected for the improvement of product design and supply chains."
The EPD will continue recruiting local catering businesses and non-plastic container suppliers to join the trial programme, testing containers made of different materials (e.g. paper, bamboo pulp, bagasse) and providing feedback based on actual operational scenarios and product performance (e.g. heat resistance, oil resistance, sealing capability). Eateries may also conduct internal testing of new alternatives before applying them at the customer level or carry out phased market trials in selected outlets. There is no need for full-scale adoption at once, and different alternatives may be tested. The EPD will continually consolidate data and industry feedback for reference by catering businesses and tableware suppliers.
The spokesman emphasised, "Before further mandating the use of alternatives through legislation, the Government will thoroughly consider the maturity, availability and affordability of the relevant non-plastic alternatives with the goal of aligning environmental protection with industry needs and public acceptance, thereby pragmatically advancing plastic reduction."
The EPD calls on the catering sector to actively participate in the trial programme and contribute to environmental protection. For details and enrolment, please visit the Green Tableware Platform website (www.greentableware.hk) or email sup_hotline@epd.gov.hk for enquiries. Members of the public and relevant industry stakeholders can also share their experiences with non-plastic containers via the platform, collectively driving improvements in alternative products to expand the market with better plastic-free options.
Ends/Friday, August 15, 2025
Issued at HKT 14:36
Issued at HKT 14:36
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