Secretary for the Environment KS Wong today praised the Food Wise Hong Kong Campaign for bringing a 'food wise' culture to the community.
Officiating at the Food Wise Hong Kong Steering Committee's First Anniversary Ceremony at Discovery Park in Tsuen Wan today, Mr Wong presented certificates of appreciation to Food Wise Charter signees to commend their support.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Wong said about 9,000 tonnes of solid waste is thrown away every day in Hong Kong, of which 40% is food waste.
He said the committee's programmes have led to behavioural changes and reduced food waste, while the popular character Big Waster, who symbolises food wastage, has helped encourage proactive action in tackling the food waste problem.
With Christmas and the New Year approaching, Mr Wong and Big Waster visited a supermarket and a restaurant to promote the campaign. They encouraged people to cherish food while celebrating the holidays, and to donate surplus edible food to food-recycling organisations.