英譯概念：Plastic pollution
【明報專訊】News Summary
The government is planning to introduce a phased ban on the provision of disposable plastic tableware by catering establishments for customers. The Council for Sustainable Development recommends banning the sale of disposable plastic tableware at retail outlets, at the same time providing exemptions for special circumstances. It is believed that the move will make the control of disposable plastic tableware more effective. Furthermore, it is also recommended that the sale of disposable plastic products, such as plastic cotton buds, inflatable party thunder sticks and balloon sticks, be banned.
As for disposable plastic products such as umbrella bags and hotel toiletries that are distributed for free, the Council believes that a ban will not be the most effective control measure. The Council suggests exploring a ban on the free distribution of these products as well as looking for suitable alternatives such as umbrella drainers and wall-mounted shampoo dispensers.
According to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD)'s Monitoring of Solid Waste in Hong Kong - Waste Statistics for 2021, the average daily disposal volume of waste plastic is 2,331 tonnes, the second highest volume of all types of waste. The waste plastic recycling rate is only about 10.9%.
Mock Examination Question
Explain two difficulties that the Hong Kong government may encounter when implementing a "plastic-free takeaway" policy.
(4 marks)
Suggested Answers
(1) Lack of environmental awareness
The public's lack of environmental awareness might make it difficult for a "plastic-free takeaway" policy to be implemented in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has a prevalent culture of using disposable items. Furthermore, many citizens do not have a plastic-free habit, as they do not tend to bring their own lunch boxes or cutlery when buying takeaways and drinks. Some people also find it inconvenient not to have straws when consuming chilled drinks, thus unwilling to go plastic-free. The public might not be environmentally minded and might prioritize personal interests, making it difficult for the government to promote a plastic-free policy.
(2) Increase in operating costs
"Plastic-free takeaways" will increase the operating costs of restaurants, making the catering industry unwilling to follow. This is one of the difficulties the government might face. Although there are alternatives to disposable plastic, such as paper straws and biodegradable lunch boxes, their costs are higher than disposable plastic cutlery. If the government promotes "plastic-free takeaways", the operating costs of the catering industry will increase significantly. If the government does not provide economic incentives such as financial support, the industry might be unwilling to work towards the goal.
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[智學公民 第067期]
