Hong Kong’s single-use plastics ban will saddle hotels with extra costs, may deter patrons: industry chiefs

Some major hotel operators say impact of adopting eco-friendly alternatives still manageable, despite some options costing 70 per cent more than plastic

First stage of ban will take effect from April 22, covering items such as bottled water, toothbrushes and toothpaste, toiletry kits, shaving razors

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Winnie To, a hostel manager, has said her establishment will sell items covered by the plastics ban in vending machines. Items such as bottled water, toothbrushes and toiletry kits will come under the ban. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

Published: 8:30am, 20 Apr 2024Updated: 11:19pm, 20 Apr 2024

Some Hong Kong hoteliers have expressed concerns that a coming ban on single-use plastics will increase operating costs and may dissuade customers, hampering the recovery of operators amid a sluggish economy.

But others said the impact of adopting eco-friendly alternatives was manageable, despite some options costing 70 per cent more than the plastic ones currently provided.

The first stage in the two-part ban launches on April 22, prohibiting single-use plastic products at venues such as hotels.

Items covered in the policy include bottled water, toothbrushes and toothpaste, toiletry kits, shaving razors, nail files, combs and shower caps.

The second stage will ban the free distribution of earplugs and dental floss picks. Environmental authorities have said the latter stage will be implemented once alternatives are available.

Glass bottled water on display at Mira Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui. Photo: Xiaomei Chen

David Leung Tai-wai, founder and chairman of the Hong Kong Guest Houses Association, which represents 700 of the city’s 1,300 guest houses and hostels, said some patrons were hesitant to accept changes brought on by the coming ban.