Hong Kong's Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Tse Chin-wan, recently announced that the city's waste generation has peaked, marking a significant milestone in its environmental management efforts. The daily waste generated per person decreased from 1.51 kg in 2022 to 1.44 kg in 2023, reflecting a 4.7% drop. Overall, the total daily waste averaged 10,884 tonnes last year, down 2.2% from the previous year. Notably, domestic food waste saw a decline of 12.6%, while plastics and metals decreased by 10.5% and 9.5%, respectively. The number of plastic bags disposed of also fell dramatically, from 5.4 billion in 2022 to 3.7 billion in 2023, following the doubling of the plastic bag levy to HK$1 in December 2022.
Despite these positive trends, the proposed waste-charging scheme was shelved in April 2024 after facing opposition from 80% of residents. This decision highlights the challenges the government faces in implementing effective waste management policies. However, there is a silver lining as municipal solid waste recycling increased from 1.91 million tonnes in 2022 to nearly 1.97 million tonnes in 2023. To further enhance recycling efforts, the government plans to increase the number of recycling collection points from 160 to over 800 by early 2025.
These developments in Hong Kong's waste management reflect a broader global trend towards sustainability and responsible waste handling. As cities worldwide grapple with waste management challenges, Hong Kong's experience may serve as a valuable case study for balancing public sentiment with environmental responsibility. The ongoing efforts to reduce waste and increase recycling capacity are crucial steps towards a more sustainable future for the city.