Online shopping frenzy sparks trash concern

Workers sort packages at an express delivery firm in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province on Nov 11, 2016. [Photo/IC]

According to estimates from the China Resource Recycling Association, a ton of paper pulp can be turned into 0.8 tons of new paper, which means the remaining 0.2 ton will be filled by chopped trees. New pollution will occur and more energy will be consumed during the recycling process.

Moreover, materials such as tapes, air bags and plastic bags may take at least 100 years to degrade if buried in soil and produce massive pollutants if burnt.

In August, authorities rolled out a plan to promote "green packaging", pledging to make breakthroughs in "key enterprises and regions".

"The loss caused by inappropriate or unregulated disposal of packaging waste may be over 10 billion yuan," an anonymous expert told chinanews.com.

Chang Jiwen, an expert in environmental policies at the State Council Development Research Center, called for laws and regulations in packaging standards to be urgently developed for online retailers. Chang also noted that tax can have leverage effects in encouraging greener packaging.

Shao Zhonglin, former deputy secretary-general of the China Express Association, said it would take a joint effort from consumers, the market and the whole society to realize that goal.