A Guide to Recycling and the MSW Charging Scheme in HK

Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a population of over 7.5 million people and a land area of only 1,108 square kilometres. As a result, the city faces a serious challenge in managing its municipal solid waste (MSW), which includes domestic, commercial, and industrial waste.

In 2022, Hong Kong generated about 11,128 tonnes of MSW a day, which is equivalent to 1.51 kg per person. This amount of waste not only poses environmental and health risks but also consumes valuable land resources for disposal.

To address this issue, the Hong Kong government has introduced the MSW charging scheme to be implemented in August 2024. Based on the “polluter pays” principle, this plan aims to encourage waste reduction and recycling by making waste generators pay for the amount of waste they dispose of, which means that those who produce more waste should bear more responsibility for the environmental impact of their waste. 

The MSW charging scheme introduces a straightforward system that applies to all sectors of society, from households to businesses, institutions, and public organisations. It covers various waste types, including domestic, commercial, industrial, and construction waste.

Under this scheme, waste generators will be responsible for the cost of their waste disposal. They can do this either by using designated garbage bags or by paying based on the weight of their waste. The designated garbage bags, marked for MSW disposal, come in different sizes, with prices ranging from $0.3 to $11 per bag. These bags are readily available at convenience stores, supermarkets, post offices, and other outlets.

Alternatively, waste generators can opt for a “gate-fee” system where they pay based on the weight of their waste. This applies to waste collected and disposed of by private waste collectors (PWCs) using RCVs without rear compactors, with a charge of $365 per tonne. In this mode, designated bags or labels for waste disposal are not required.

The MSW charging scheme is expected to reduce MSW disposal and extend the lifespan of the existing landfills by decades. This scheme is also likely to generate revenue, which will be used to support waste reduction and recycling initiatives, as well as environmental education and community engagement.

The upcoming implementation of the MSW charging scheme aims not only to tackle waste issues but also to incentivise people to engage actively in waste recycling practices. Recycling isn’t just about reducing waste; it’s a crucial step towards conserving resources, saving energy, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Hong Kong boasts a comprehensive network of recycling facilities and programmes targeting various materials, including paper, plastic, metal, glass, food waste, and batteries. Here’s a closer look at how you can participate in recycling:

Recycling bins

Recycling bins in HK are scattered throughout public spaces such as parks, housing estates, and schools, providing convenient drop-off points for specific types of recyclables. Colour-coded and clearly labelled, they make it easy for individuals to sort and deposit items like paper, plastic bottles, and aluminium cans. GREEN@COMMUNITY is a community recycling network that serves as an additional hub for recycling, facilitating local recycling efforts with designated drop-off locations.

Recycling bin bags

For those without access to traditional recycling bins, recycling bin bags offer a practical alternative. These specially designed bags, similar to designated garbage bags but free of charge, come in various sizes and colours. Available at community recycling centres in HK, they enable individuals to sort and store recyclables at home before dropping them off at convenient collection points.

Food waste recycling

Addressing food waste is a top priority in Hong Kong’s waste management strategy, given its significant contribution to MSW. Food waste recycling offers various options, from home composting and participation in government-led projects to donating surplus food to those in need. These initiatives not only divert food waste from landfills but also yield valuable products like compost and biogas, contributing to a more sustainable waste management ecosystem.

Battery recycling

Don’t overlook the importance of battery recycling. Battery recycling plays a crucial role in waste management efforts by salvaging valuable metals and preventing environmental pollution. Rechargeable batteries can be dropped off at designated rechargeable battery recycling boxes located in public places, while single-use batteries have designated collection points at Community Green Stations and other locations. 

Recycling in Hong Kong is not only a way to save money under the MSW charging scheme but also a way to protect the environment and contribute to a circular economy. By using recycling bins, recycling bin bags, and other recycling tools, you can easily sort and collect your recyclable items and dispose of them properly. You can also join or support various recycling programmes for food waste, batteries, and other types of waste. Recycling in Hong Kong is easy and rewarding, so why not start today?

If you’re looking for quality waste management and recycling products, look no further than RS Components. We offer a wide range of waste and recycling bins, as well as other waste and recycling products, including waste bags, bin lids, and recycling containers.

Browse through our products and order online today. Let us help you with your waste management and recycling needs and support you in achieving a greener and cleaner Hong Kong.