Earth Day 2024

For Earth Day 2024 on April 22nd, the Associations are unwavering to end plastic for human and planetary health, demanding the 60% reduction in the production of ALL plastic by 2040.

But, how to end plastic pollution? We have to be more conscious.

  1. 8.3 BILLION Metric Tons (9.1 BILLION US Tons) of plastic has been produced since plastic was introduced in the 1950s.
  2. 79% of plastic that has ever been made still sits in landfills or the natural environment (with the exception of the small amount that has been incinerated or recycled)
  3. The world produces more than 26 million US tons of polystyrene (plastic foam which is used for packaging) each year.
  4. At least 14 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans every year. Many countries lack the infrastructure to prevent plastic pollution such as: sanitary landfills; incineration facilities; recycling capacity and circular economy infrastructure; proper management and disposal of waste systems.
  5. When plastics end up in landfills, they aren’t harmless. They break down into tiny toxic particles that contaminate the soil and waterways and enter the food chain when animals accidentally ingest them.

There are many ways to show support on Earth Day in Hong Kong today and throughout the year, whether it is to buy clothes sustainably (the fashion industry is responsible for 8% of greenhouse emissions!), go on a family hike, participate in a cleanup nearby, recycle, get educated about Hong Kong’s soon to be rolled-out waste charging scheme or even make your kids more climate and environmentally literate.

Among the many sustainability initiatives underway, Hong Kong’s upcoming ban on disposable plastic tableware items, expected to come into effect on 22 April, serves as an important step in the right direction.

How the Hospitality Industry can be Leader in Sustainability?

In constant interaction with customers, suppliers, and the public at large, hotels, restaurants, bars, caterers and more have a unique opportunity to lead the change and inspire sustainable practices. Here are some tips:

  • Source alternative reusable or compostable Serviceware for dining and takeaway. Excellent options include bamboo, wood, paper, and plant-based plastics. 

  • Provide guests with reusable bottles and encourage refilling. Place filtered water dispensers in common areas and meeting spaces to cut plastic water bottle waste.

  • Replace miniature plastic toiletries with bulk dispensers, soaps, and scrubbers. Use recyclable paper packaging when needed.

  • Use cloth napkins and tablecloths instead of plastic varieties. Choose sustainable fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo (see our BIT products HERE)

  • Train staff on sustainability practices and upholding the plastic requirements. Ensure they can communicate this to customers as well.

  • Communicate sustainability efforts through menus, signage, TV screens, websites and more. Inspire guests to take part.

 

Small changes, when multiplied, can make a big difference. Additionally, being an industry leader in driving change in plastic reduction is beneficial to brand reputation as well. Hong Kong's plastic ban serves as a model for more regions worldwide to follow.

 

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