In April, Hong Kong implemented a bill designed to regulate disposable plastic tableware and other plastic products – but HML is actually one step ahead. In terms of sustainable development, under the campaign slogan “Think Before Plastic”, HML launched a series of plastic reduction measures as early as 1 July 2018.

Plastic disposable cutlery, straws and stirrers, with previous consumption of 1.6 million pieces per year, have been replaced by wooden or paper alternatives. Glass or canned beverages are provided through vending machines and restaurants instead of plastic bottled versions.

In addition, eco-friendly meal boxes made with bagasse (dry residue from sugar cane) and plant fibres have been used at the HKCEC since October 2023. HML has also introduced reusable stainless-steel meal boxes for pre-ordered lunch boxes since July 2023 and has received encouraging response from event organisers. These initiatives could save more than 930,000 non-reusable and non-degradable meal boxes yearly. Organisers are also encouraged to choose reusable stainless-steel meal boxes for pre-ordered lunch boxes for events to contribute to sustainability.