Tighter Curbs On Plastic Bag Use On The Cards

The Secretary for the Environment said the government will consider cutting the number of exemptions from the current plastic bag levy scheme, to effectively reduce the number of plastic bags used, without significantly affecting people's consumption habits.

Speaking on an RTHK radio programme, Wong Kam-sing questioned the need for free plastic bags to be given out for items such as apples, which will be washed before consumption.

He also pointed out how some bakeries use plastic bags for individual items and then put them into another bag.

Talking after the show to RTHK's Janice Wong, the secretary said countries in the region have moved aggressively to curb the use of plastic.

He said the levy scheme that was started here a decade ago has proved successful in cutting down the number of plastic bags given out by almost 50 percent.

"But when we compare with other cities in Asia, their latest schemes are more aggressive, in terms of the charging levels and also in the limitations of exempt items. So it is timely to review the regulation," he said.

He said these issues, including a possible adjustment of the current 50-cent levy, will be included in a public consultation to be launched next year.