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Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau launches the public consultation on extending the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags.
Views sought on extending bag levy
May 17, 2011
Public views are being sought on whether to extend the Environmental Levy Scheme on Plastic Shopping Bags to cover all retailers regardless of business scale.
Speaking to the media today on the release of a public consultation document on the levy extension, Secretary for the Environment Edward Yau said the proposal will increase the fee's coverage from 3,000 major supermarkets, convenience stores and personal health and beauty stores, to a total of 60,000 retail outlets.
Except for those used on food hygiene grounds, handleless bags will also be regulated under the proposed extension.
Public opinion is being sought on whether retailers should retain the 50 cent bag charge, rather than remitting it to the Government.
"Since its implementation on July 7, 2009, the levy scheme has received good support from citizens and retailers, and achieved remarkable results. It is time to move ahead to fully extend the scheme."
It is estimated there has been a 90% reduction in the number of bags distributed by retailers taking part in the scheme.
About $25.5 million in levies was collected in the first year of its implementation, which was far less than the $200 million originally estimated, showing the broad-based support of the public.
The Government said the extension is one of several important initiatives to encourage waste reduction at source.
"Hong Kong is facing an imminent and serious waste problem. I call on citizens and retailers to support this meaningful waste-reduction measure. Let us save money, and save the environment together," Mr Yau said.
People can send their views about the consultation document by August 16, by
email, fax (2318 1877) or post (Environmental Protection Department, Waste Management Policy Group, Room 4522, 45/F Revenue Tower, 5 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai). Click
here for the document.
