In line with the "polluter-pays" principle, all waste disposed of by residential and non-residential premises (including commercial and industrial sectors) in Hong Kong will be subject to charging based on its quantity.
MSW charging covers the following waste:
Domestic Waste
such as household waste and waste generated from daily activities in institutional premises (e.g., schools)
Commercial & Industrial Waste
such as waste arising from shops, restaurants, hotels, offices, markets in private housing estates and all industrial activities
The need for waste reduction is becoming ever more imminent as our three existing landfills are expected to be filled up in the coming years.
MSW charging is an effective policy tool to drive enterprises and the public to practice waste reduction and recycling, and at the same time facilitate the sustainable development of related industries and the creation of green job opportunities.
To push for carbon emission reduction and combat climate change.
Medium-term Target
To gradually reduce the per capita MSW disposal rate by 40-45%, and increase the recovery rate to about 55% through implementing MSW charging, other policies and regulations, waste reduction and recycling measures, and conducting publicity and education, etc.
Long-term target
To move away from reliance on landfills in the long run and achieve "Zero Landfill" by developing adequate waste-to-energy facilities in around 2035
The Government has announced to defer the implementation of municipal solid waste charging (MSW charging) and will commence a series of measures including enhancing recycling facilities, stepping up public education and promotion, as well as studying how to improve the MSW charging scheme. The Government will assess the readiness of society and the implementation of the measures, with a view to reporting work progress to the Legislative Council towards mid-2025.
There are two charging modes, i.e. (i) charging by designated bags/ designated labels, and (ii) charging by weight through "gate-fee". The applicable charging mode depends on the waste collection services used by the waste producers.
(i) Charging by designated bags/ designated labels
(ii) Charging by weight through "gate-fee"
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(The content retained on this website is based on the prevailing MSW charging scheme being suspended. The information will be updated in due course upon the completion of the review on the scheme.)
Please contact us if you have any comments/queries on MSW charging.