Hong Kong to pulp waste paper locally from October

Starting October 1, Hong Kong will begin processing all recovered waste paper locally at the EcoPark facility in Tuen Mun instead of exporting it, according to the Environmental Protection Department. Assistant Director of Waste Management Steve Wong explained that the facility, which began operations at the end of July, is a key component of the city's circular economy. In the past, all collected waste paper in Hong Kong was shipped overseas for processing.

The new pulp processing facility boasts an annual capacity to handle 720,000 tonnes of waste paper, transforming it into raw materials for new products like books and packaging boxes. This expanded recycling capability will now accept a wider range of waste paper, including previously excluded items like mixed paper, paper bags, and packaging boxes. Wong emphasized the importance of maintaining clean recycling practices, such as avoiding wet materials and removing impurities.

Wong also highlighted that the Waste Paper Pulping and Export Services contract ensures the facility operator purchases waste paper from collectors and recyclers at a minimum price set in the contract, known as the Designated Purchasing Price (DPP). The DPP has recently increased from HK$1,200 per tonne to the current level of HK$1,295.51 per tonne. Additionally, waste paper collectors and recyclers must now pay frontline collectors a minimum of HK$0.65 per kilo for quality waste paper.

Ng Sui-lun, chairman of the New Territories Cargo Transport Association, noted that the move from export to local processing is largely similar. His sector is responsible for sorting and processing the collected waste paper before shipment. Previously, waste paper had to be loaded onto containers and shipped by sea, but now it can be sent directly to EcoPark.

However, Ng expressed concern that the pulp processing facility may impact baling plants, as some customers may choose to send their waste paper directly to the facility, potentially reducing business by 10 to 20 percent.

Regarding pricing, Ng mentioned that the HK$1,295 per tonne minimum is subject to market conditions and hopes for a coordination mechanism between the department and the pulp processing facility to adjust prices in real-time.