Edwin Lau Che-feng, founder of The Green Earth, has warned of a shrinking space for green advocacy in Hong Kong. The 68-year-old activist, who resigned from his director role last August, reflected on his 36-year career, citing the government's abrupt pause of a waste-charging scheme as the biggest blow.
Edwin Lau Che-feng, founder of The Green Earth, has spent 36 years campaigning for environmental protection in Hong Kong, most vocally advocating a waste-charging scheme for over two decades. The pay-as-you-throw policy, requiring residents to use designated prepaid trash bags, was proposed in 2004, passed by the legislature in 2021, and scheduled to take effect in 2023 after 18 months of preparation. However, the government shelved it indefinitely on May 27, 2024, after two delays amid public concerns over its impact on the cost of living and implementation uncertainties. Lau recalled the suspension vividly: “It feels impossible. Never in my life have I heard of a law in Hong Kong that has already been passed, yet fails to be implemented.” He suggested authorities could have started with waste charging in government premises first, adding, “The government lacked the determination and confidence, as well as the initiative to take action and implement this bill.” Now 68, Lau resigned from his director role last August to focus on his health and hobbies. His career included roles on the Advisory Council on the Environment and receiving the Medal of Honour. The article highlights his warning of a ‘shrinking space’ for green advocacy in Hong Kong.