Hong Kong Residents' Lack of Awareness About Microplastics: Green Council Calls for Increased Awareness

The environmental organisation and certification body, the "Green Council," released a survey result today (23rd) titled "Survey on Hong Kong Residents' Awareness of Microplastics." The survey reveals that 40% of respondents are unaware of microplastics and do not realise that everyday products may contain or release them, indicating a lack of concern about plastic pollution among the public.

In response to the "Reduce Plastic" theme for this year's United Nations World Environment Day, the Green Council collected 1,515 online questionnaires from April to May to explore Hong Kong residents' awareness and consumer considerations regarding products containing microplastics. Despite the increasing attention to the dangers of microplastics, public knowledge remains insufficient, and widespread use of such products could exacerbate environmental and health risks.

Insufficient Awareness May Impact Health

The survey found that over 80% of respondents were unaware that tea bags and coffee filter bags could release microplastics. Professor Cheung Siu-kin from the City University of Hong Kong's Chemistry Department stated that these materials, when soaked in high temperatures (95°C), can release billions of microplastic particles, including nanoplastics. It is estimated that Hong Kong residents consume about 6,200 microplastic particles annually through non-alcoholic beverage packaging. Recent studies show that the microplastic levels in Hong Kong residents' feces are significantly higher than in other regions. International research has explored the potential impacts of human ingestion of microplastics; notably, a 2024 study particularly mentions a possible association between microplastic intake and the risk of dementia.

Environmental Mindset Needs Adjustment to Avoid Counterproductive Outcomes

The survey results indicate that 60% of respondents frequently use non-woven bags because they believe they are "environmentally friendly." However, non-woven fabric is not actually a sustainable choice. Project Manager Chino Wong pointed out that the production of non-woven materials consumes large amounts of plastic and energy, and they can easily oxidise and break down into microplastics during use. Their decomposition after disposal is also time-consuming, resulting in significant environmental burdens throughout their lifecycle. The Green Council urges citizens to stop using non-woven products and for businesses to reduce the distribution of non-woven items or replace them with other natural materials.

Over 70% of Respondents Unaware of How to Identify Microplastics in Products

The survey also showed that more than 70% of respondents did not know how to identify whether products contain microplastics, with only about 20% checking ingredient labels. This reflects a lack of effective identification methods, making it difficult for the public to make informed consumer choices. When informed that a product may contain microplastics, as many as 70% of consumers expressed reluctance to purchase such items, suggesting that raising awareness could drive behavioural change. The Green Council’s Chief Operating Officer, Steven Choi, pointed out that the most effective identification method is through product testing and environmental certification. For instance, Germany has implemented eco-labels for products free of microplastics to help consumers choose more sustainable options. The Environmental Protection Department's "Bye Bye Microbeads" online platform also provides information on brands that do not contain microplastics. With the increasing demand for "plastic-free" products, manufacturers should keep pace with this trend and introduce more "plastic-free" options to mitigate plastic's impact on the environment.

Media Inquiries

Mr. Choi/ Ms Wong | Tel：2810 1122 | Email: hkgreenday@greencouncil.org

About Green Council

The Green Council is a non-profit, non-partisan, tax-exempt charitable (Ref. No.: 91/6063) environmental stewardship organisation and certification body (Reg. No.: HKCAS-027) of Hong Kong established in 2000. The Green Council aims to encourage the industrial and commercial sectors to include environmental protection in their management and production processes.

With the motto of “Conservation begins with Education”, the Green Council is fully committed to provide continued education and training on sustainable procurement, environmental management, waste management, energy conservation, etc.