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Hong Kong is moving towards round-the-clock recycling, with automated collection points designed to make dropping off household recyclables easier.
Environment secretary Tse Chin-wan outlined the push on Saturday, 10 October, as the government pursues waste reduction after shelving its waste-charging scheme.
Speaking on Commercial Radio, Tse said convenience would be central to encouraging more people to recycle. RTHK reported that the GREEN@COMMUNITY app, which offers points and coupons, now has 1.2 million users.
Recycling beyond opening hours
The 2026 Policy Address sets out plans to progressively turn GREEN@COMMUNITY Recycling Stores into 24-hour self-service smart facilities.
The first upgraded store is expected to open by the end of 2026, with the remaining upgrades scheduled for 2027.
The government also plans to expand smart recycling bins from about 140 sets to around 3,000, starting in mid-2027.
These are planned rollout dates, rather than confirmation that every neighbourhood already has round-the-clock access.
Power-company returns face review
Tse also said the government would review the permitted returns of Hong Kong’s two electricity suppliers when their Scheme of Control Agreements expire in 2033, according to the South China Morning Post.
The Environment and Ecology Bureau confirms that the agreements covering CLP and HK Electric run until 31 December 2033.
The announcement signals a future review; it does not establish a new permitted return or promise a cut in electricity bills.
Tse separately outlined efforts to bring more zero-carbon electricity into Hong Kong from mainland China. RTHK reported that a large-scale transmission facility at Tseung Kwan O forms part of that strategy.
For residents, the nearer-term change is easier access to recycling. Any changes to the power companies’ returns remain a matter for future negotiations.
