Lessons from Singapore to reduce packaging waste

Like many urban centres, Hong Kong faces significant challenges in managing packaging waste. With its high population density and reliance on imported goods, the city generates a substantial volume of packaging waste, much of which ends up in landfills.

Fruit packaged as gifts in supermarket (Image source: Hong Kong Free Press)

According to the Environmental Protection Department, packaging materials account for a significant portion of municipal solid waste.[1]The city’s reliance on single-use packaging, coupled with limited recycling infrastructure, has led to overflowing landfills and environmental degradation. While Hong Kong has attempted to address the growing volume of packaging waste through voluntary initiatives and recycling programs[2], they lack the regulatory teeth needed to drive systemic change.

Composition of MSW disposed of at landfills in 2023 (Image source: EPD)

Singapore may have an answer to our problems though. The city-state, similarly dense and resource-constrained, has a mandatory framework, Mandatory Packaging Report (MPR) scheme[3], under the Resource Sustainability Act[4]to hold businesses accountable and incentivise waste reduction. It mandates companies to report their packaging data and submit 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) plans.[5]Hong Kong could draw valuable lessons in achieving waste reduction.

Under MPR, companies with an annual turnover exceeding S$10 million are required to report their packaging data. This includes details on the type of packaging material (e.g., plastic, paper, metal, glass) and packaging form (e.g., bottles, carrier bags), along with the corresponding weights. A key feature is that companies have to outline initiatives to reduce packaging, improve recyclability, and promote the use of recycled materials. Companies must also set key performance indicators and report progress annually.

Common types of packaging (Image source: National Environment Agency)

Hong Kong could enact a similar packaging waste act, establishing legal obligations for businesses and penalties for non-compliance. Businesses should be encouraged to adopt sustainable practices like better packaging designs, take-back schemes and such.[6]By aligning the legislation with international best practices, Hong Kong can position itself as a leader in sustainable waste management.

To streamline compliance and enhance transparency, a centralised digital platform should be developed for data reporting. A phased approach—targeting large companies with significant packaging footprints first—wouldensure a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.

Collaboration between the government, businesses, and NGOs will also be critical to raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices. This could involve organising workshops to provide practical guidance, publishing best practice guides, and running public education campaigns to encourage consumers to reduce packaging waste and support eco-friendly businesses.[7] Strong partnerships across sectors would ensure a more coordinated and effective approach to waste reduction.

Education workshop organised by Friends of the Earth (HK) (Image source: FoE (HK))

Hong Kong may face challenges in implementing a mandatory reporting scheme, including resistance from businesses, data collection difficulties, and enforcement complexities. To address these issues, the government could provide grants or tax breaks to support the sustainable transition. Technical assistance and training could also help companies comply with reporting requirements, while a dedicated task force could monitor compliance and address non-compliance effectively.

Singapore’s MPR offers a proven blueprint for reducing packaging waste through regulation, accountability, and innovation. Hong Kong could adapt the model, tailoring it to local needs, and take a significant step toward waste reduction and building a more sustainable future. With political will, industry collaboration, and public support, Hong Kong can transform its waste management system and pave the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.