A study has found that more than 95% of marine refuse originates from local sources, especially from shoreline and recreational activities.
The Inter-departmental Working Group on Clean Shorelines conducted the study between April 2013 and March 2014.
It found that over 80% of marine refuse originates from land-based sources, while more than 70%, excluding natural debris, comprises plastic and foam plastic items. Non-local refuse, which was identified with simplified Chinese character labels, accounts for less than 5% of the marine refuse collected.
It also showed that marine refuse accounts for less than 0.5% of municipal solid waste.
Releasing the findings today, Assistant Director of Environmental Protection Amy Yuen said the working group will focus on preventing marine refuse through public education.
It will encourage people to reduce waste at source by avoiding the use of disposable items and recycling. For example, more water fountains will be installed at beaches and other recreational areas so people do not need to bring bottled water.
The study also identified 27 priority sites prone to refuse accumulation. Miss Yuen said relevant departments will clean those locations more frequently.
Click here for the full report.
