Letters | What Japan can teach Hong Kong about tackling plastic waste

Japanese people’s excellent attitude and awareness of waste recycling is bolstered by strong education and product design

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Better product design, with easily removable labels, and greater public awareness are the best ways to beat plastic waste. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 6:30am, 15 Mar 2021Updated: 6:30am, 15 Mar 2021

I am writing in response to the welcome news in your report, “Refund for returning plastic bottles, levy for drink suppliers mulled in scheme to boost waste recycling in Hong Kong” (February 22). These new approaches hold promise in tackling the landfill crisis that Hong Kong has faced for decades.

Beyond economic signals, I would like to highlight two other points that deserve equal billing. The first is design. Those jurisdictions that have made progress in tackling plastic waste have nearly always ensured that producers emphasise straightforward design and clear labelling. Stickers and labels stuck on plastic products should be easily removable, which is certainly not the case today in Hong Kong. Poor design lowers the likelihood that citizens will incorporate good practice into their daily lives.

Second, recycling awareness must be enhanced as soon as possible. Many people are aware of plastic bottle recycling but struggle with the several subcategories such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PP (polypropylene). Drink containers, egg cartons and other containers of regularly consumed items are recyclable, but most people simply throw these into the rubbish bin out of habit and convenience.

Hongkongers should learn from their peers in Japan and their outstanding performance in waste recycling. The attitude and awareness of Japanese citizens, facilitated by strong design and education, are examples for us.

Without action on these fronts, Hong Kong will struggle to free itself of the plastic waste crisis.

Wilson Leung, Ma On Shan