Hong Kong’s ban on single-use plastics began on Monday, coinciding with Earth Day. A variety of disposable plastic tableware and other plastic products are now prohibited from being sold or taken away. The first six months following the roll-out will be an “adaptation period,” which means the government will not take enforcement action against non-compliant businesses. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said in an April briefing session that it will focus on “promotion and education” during this period, and send staff to inspect around 20,000 restaurants and 20,000 retail stores as …