As April 1 approaches, green groups are visiting schools to remind students that plastic shopping bag charging will be fully implemented on that day..

All retailers large and small regardless of their business nature must charge customers 50 cents for each shopping bag provided – a move to encourage people to bring their own bags when they go shopping.

The environmental group Green Power is holding talks in primary schools across Hong Kong. It invites students to join in activities to help them understand the charging scheme details, and why it matters to them.

They learn, for example, that retailers may give plastic bags without charging the levy for foods that are not contained in airtight packaging, chilled or frozen food, and bags containing drinks or medicine.

In the first month, officials will first give verbal warnings to retailers who do not charge for bags when they should. Environmental Protection Department officers will conduct random checks at retail shops. Violation of the new rule could result in a $2,000 fine.