Hong Kong’s John Lee shrugs off criticism over single-use plastics ban, says ‘market forces’ will lead to better utensils
- Chief Executive John Lee says administration’s main concerns are steady supply of alternative products and affordability for consumers
- Some have complained over quality of products replacing single-use plastics, such as paper straws that turn soggy quickly, after ban came into effect on Monday
“At the start, residents will need to adjust their behaviour to a certain extent. I think this is necessary in our common effort to push the concept of environmentalism,” he told reporters before his weekly meeting with the key decision-making Executive Council.
“Overall, I don’t think everyone needs to change to the extent that it greatly affects their daily lives.”
The first phase of the ban took effect on Monday and covers styrofoam products and throwaway plastic utensils such as cutlery and straws prohibited for takeaway purchases. Single-use plastic tableware is no longer available to patrons dining in.
Some residents were unfazed, but others complained about the quality of replacement utensils, including customers who were annoyed over using paper straws for drinks because some became soggy quickly.
