Tse Chin-wan also confirmed that no timeline has been set to broaden a regulatory regime against disposable plastic products, although related industries will be invited to take part in a pilot scheme on a voluntary basis.
Originally slated for implementation last August, the waste charging initiative was shelved indefinitely.
In an interview with RTHK, Tse acknowledged calls in society to put off the plan at the moment, but noted similar schemes have been implemented around the world.
“It certainly has its value; otherwise, so many countries wouldn’t be adopting it. Therefore, I think we should be more careful and cautious in considering whether we should push it or not,” he said.
“We believe this is an important issue, so I hope to gather more opinions before we make a decision.”
While the waste charging scheme was pushed back, a ban against disposable plastic products went ahead as scheduled.
Phase one, which included a ban on polystyrene products, plastic cutlery and straws, took effect in April 2024.
Phase two, which will see the ban extended to plastic food containers, was “tentatively set for 2025”, according to a government statement.
Tse said authorities have been in touch with the food and beverage sector and tableware manufacturers to source alternatives, such as environmentally-friendly lunch boxes and soup bowls.
He admitted some alternative products don’t perform well, but felt that instead of dragging its feet on the matter, the trade should be encouraged to pick products which suit their needs.
“We cannot enforce this by law, because it then becomes mandatory. We will encourage the trade to use as many alternative products as possible, with a trial scheme to come in the next month or two,” he said.
“It’s not compulsory. We’ll then find out which products are useful, and also receive feedback regarding products which are not good enough.”
Tse added that in promoting environmental policies, the government will seek to minimise the impact on economic development, citizens and industries.
