Eco & Ethical - Sassy Hong Kong

Where To Donate Or Sell Clothes, Furniture & Homeware In Hong Kong

Team Sassy — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 22:00:23 +0000

Donate or sell your clothes, furniture, electrical appliances, books and more in Hong Kong to make sure they get a second lease of life…

It’s no secret that our tiny apartments in Hong Kong can accumulate a whole lot over the years. If you’re anything like us and have a tendency to hoard, we bet you’re constantly left wading through piles of clothes and fancy dress odds and ends. That’s why we’re strong advocates of a good old fashioned clear out. Clothes, books, furniture, even electronics – sort through it all, then donate or sell the things you don’t want to these awesome charities, non-profits and consignment stores.

Sassy Tip: Do you have broken or poor quality unwanted items? Scroll to the end to find out where you can legally discard these belongings.

Jump To:
Where To Donate In Hong Kong
Where To Sell In Hong Kong
Where To Discard In Hong Kong

Where To Donate In Hong Kong

Redress – Donate clothing

Local environmental charity Redress works to prevent and transform textile waste in the fashion industry. With this in mind, its clothing recycling scheme makes it easy for you to give your old garments a new lease of life. The bulk of donated clothing will be redistributed to Redress’ charity partners for re-use by their beneficiaries.

What you can donate: Clothing (excluding shoes, bags and home textiles)
How to donate: Simply drop off your donations at any of the locations listed here

Redress, www.redress.com.hk

Refugee Union – Donate clothing, bedding, kitchen items, books and more

Hong Kong’s first and only refugee-led society, Refugee Union, was founded in 2014 and has been working to improve the protection, well-being and future prospect of all refugees in Hong Kong. Refugees here are prohibited by law from working and there is no provision for essentials like clothing, personal care and baby products and electrical appliances that are necessary in everyday life.

What you can donate: Baby formula and diapers, bedding, kitchen items and appliances, books, non-perishable foods, clothing and shoes for all ages, laptops, mobile phones and other small electronics
How to donate: WhatsApp 9828 7176 for information on how to donate

Refugee Union, 3/F, 102 First Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9828 7176, www.refugeeunion.org

Crossroads Foundation – Donate clothing, furniture, office supplies and more

This long-standing NGO is no stranger to Hong Kong. Crossroads has been helping people in the community and around the globe for more than 20 years. Any donated goods will be distributed to charities and individuals in need across both Hong Kong and the globe.

What you can donate: All electrical appliances, furniture, household goods, clothing, toys and office supplies
How to donate: Donate using Crossroads’ GoodCity.HK app

Crossroads Foundation, Building 32, Crossroads Village, 2 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2984 9309, www.crossroads.org.hk

Pathfinders – Donate sanitary and baby items

Ensuring that each woman and child is treated with respect and has access to basic resources through its its social welfare and health care services, Pathfinders accepts donations that could be used by babies and mums alike.

What you can donate: Baby items and sanitary item
How to donate: You can drop off items at either the head office (address below), Redress collection boxes (clothing items only) or WhatsApp Martha on 5508 8304 to arrange for delivery

Pathfinders, Unit 2D, 2/F, Worldwide Centre, 123 Tung Chau Street, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 5500 5486, www.pathfinders.org.hk

Friends of the Earth – Donate clothing, shoes and handbags

Friends of the Earth launched its Used Clothes Recycling Program in 2001 with the aim of encouraging the city to reduce, reuse and recycle. All donated items will be sent to the needy or resold to places with high demand for used clothes, with any profits going towards the organisation’s operations and education work.

What you can donate: Clothing, shoes and handbags. Friends of the Earth also collect empty toner and ink cartridges. Head here for more info.
How to donate: Drop off at a dedicated Used Clothes Recycling Bin or apply for door-to-door collection (conditions apply)

Friends of the Earth, 3184 1507, www.foe.org.hk

Christian Action – Donate clothing, books, small appliances and more

Christian Action serves those who are disadvantaged, marginalised, displaced or abandoned. All items collected through its Green Collection Charity Drive will either be offered for sale at Christian Action Community Sales Outlets, distributed to service users and vulnerable communities, or exported to developing countries.

What you can donate: All wearable clothing, books, toys, small appliances and housewares
How to donate: Apply for pick-up service here or drop off at one of the many Donation Collection Points

Christian Action, 2456 2220, www.christian-action.org.hk

Po Leung Kuk Orphanage – Donate clothing, books, stationery, electrical appliances and more

Po Leung Kuk provides welfare, educational and cultural services to its young community. All donations will help to fulfil the basic needs of its service recipients, particularly children, the elderly and low-income families.

What you can donate: Electrical appliances, computers, stationery, toys, books, household accessories, clothing and cookware
How to donate: Email plkinfo@poleungkuk.org.hk or call 2277 8158 for information on how to donate

Po Leung Kuk Orphanage, 2277 8158, www.poleungkuk.org.hk

Vision First – Donate clothing, bedding, kitchen appliances and more

Advocates of human rights for refugees, Vision First strengthens these individuals with knowledge, skills and support to address their challenges and concerns. What better way to support than by providing them with basic necessities that they otherwise wouldn’t have?

What you can donate: Blankets and bedding, clothing, phones, cameras, computers, kitchen appliances (e.g. kettles, rice cookers) and more. Head here for the full list.
How to donate: Drop off or send donations directly to its Sai Ying Pun office

Vision First, 5/F, 102 First Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, www.vfnow.org

Hong Kong Salvation Army – Donate clothing, books, electrical appliances and more

The Salvation Army is one of the most established organisations for recycling goods. Some of the collected items will go to those in need, such as the elderly, street sleepers and ex-prisoners; the rest will go to the Salvation Army’s retail chain to be sold with discount.

What you can donate: Electrical appliances, clothing, footwear, toys, stationery and books
How to donate: Donate via the dedicated Salvation Army Recycling Bins located across Hong Kong. Alternatively, if the donation quantity is five large bags or more, please drop off at one of the collection centres listed here. Large or heavy items may be eligible for pick-up by the Salvation Army logistics team – call 2332 4433 or WhatsApp 9688 5670 for more info.

Hong Kong Salvation Army, various locations across Hong Kong, 2572 2879, www.salvationarmy.org.hk

Remar HK – Donate furniture and large electrical appliances

A Christian charity dedicated to helping those fighting drug addiction, the homeless and other people in need. All donated items will be sold as secondhand goods, with the money raised going to support Remar centres.

What you can donate: Large electrical appliances and furniture
How to donate: Simply give them a call to arrange for a pick-up

Remar HK, 1/F, 19 Shui Tau Tsuen, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5828 2424, www.remarhk.com

Lily Bookshop – Donate books, CDs and DVDs

As the name suggests, flowBOOKS recycles secondhand books, CDs and DVDs. Since opening in 1997, is has processed more than half a million books! All donations will be either sold to the public or donated to charities and individuals in need.

What you can donate: Books, CDs and DVDs
How to donate: Drop off donations to the store directly

Lily Bookshop, Room F-G, 1/F, Kai Fung Mansion, 189-205 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/lilybookshophk

Read More: The Best Bookstores In Hong Kong

Other Notable Mentions For Donating Used Goods In Hong Kong

Green Dot Home – Collects and recycles used furniture and homeware to be donated to the public or sold in secondhand markets, with proceeds going towards charity. www.green-dot-home.com.hk
Hong Kong Federation of Handicapped Youth – Donated toys, stationary and books will help to support local youth with disabilities. www.hkfhy.org.hk
Mother’s Choice – Donate baby items and small electrical appliances to support single girls facing crisis pregnancies. www.motherschoice.org
Caritas – Social service agency that accepts all wearable clothing. www.caritas.org.hk
Happyshop – Accepts electrical appliances and offers free furniture collection services for all suitable donations. www.happyshop.hk

Where To Sell Secondhand Goods In Hong Kong

Green Ladies – Sell women’s clothing and accessories

This fashion consignment store is actually a social enterprise initiative by St James’ Settlement. The project aims to promote eco-friendly habits, in addition to providing job opportunities and economic stability for the middle-aged women that run it. Consignors can earn up to a maximum 30% rebate of the selling price (this rebate can also be donated to St James’ Settlement). If your items remain unsold after two months, they will automatically be donated to the store.

What you can sell: Ladieswear (including shoes, bags, scarfs and accessories)
How to sell: Visit any of the stores in person. Staff will then screen your items to ensure they are suitable for sale. Head here for all the details.

Green Ladies, various locations across Hong Kong, gl.sjs.org.hk/greenladies/concept

2nd Chance Hong Kong – Sell furniture and home accessories

This platform to buy and sell quality secondhand furnishings and accessories at reasonable prices was dreamt up by a husband and wife duo in early 2006. Since then, 2nd Chance has given many great pieces of furniture new homes.

What you can sell: Furniture and home accessories
How to sell: Head here to discover how to sell

Sassy Tip: Feel like donating your profits to charity? 2nd Chance has a list of local organisations for you to choose from. The team can also issue you a receipt for tax purposes. Find out more here.

2nd Chance, Unit 14, 2/F, Kin Fat Industrial Centre, 13 Kin Fat Street, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2496 1222, www.2ndchance.com.hk

Other Notable Mentions For Selling Used Goods In Hong Kong

Asia Expat
GeoExpat
Carousell
Craigslist
Facebook Market Place (click the Market place icon on your Facebook sidebar and filter accordingly)

For the most part, all that’s required for these sites are photos of your item, your asking price and any contact details. Don’t forget to include measurements as well as a few notes on the condition and age. Make sure to also upload photos that show a few different angles – it’ll save you from an influx of questions later on.

Where To Discard In Hong Kong

If your items are not in any condition to donate or sell, consider looking into whether you’re able to recycle your goods. Small and large electronic appliances for instance, including fridges, ovens, washing machines and air-conditioning units, can be scraped for parts. Head here to explore the different government recycling resources available.

Alternatively, if there really is no saving your items, the city has quite a few refuse points where you can leave larger items that won’t fit in your regular trash. It may take some manpower to carry that mattress half way across Central, but know that it’s illegal to fly-tip in Hong Kong and you may face a hefty fine for just leaving your furniture by the bins. Click on the links below to see where your nearest refuse point is.

Refuse points:

Editor’s Note: “Where To Donate Or Sell Clothes, Furniture & Homeware In Hong Kong” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in September 2023.

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What To Know About Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Where To Buy It In Hong Kong

Team Sassy — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 22:00:31 +0000

Here’s everything to know about coral reef-safe sunscreen, sunblock, and SPF, including where to buy a bottle now in Hong Kong.

By now, we should all be aware of the importance of wearing sunscreen (FYI, you should really wear some form of UV protection daily, not just when you’re out in the sun!). But beyond that, have you ever stopped to consider what your choice of SPF is doing to our coral reefs and marine life? Here is what you should know about reef-safe sunscreen and sunblock, and the choices that promise to both protect our skin and the sea — all available to shop in Hong Kong.

Jump To:
What To Consider About Reef-Safe Sunscreen And The Sea
How Do I Know If My SPF Is Really A Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Reef-Safe Sunscreens We Love

What To Consider About Reef-Safe Sunscreen And The Sea

It’s a known fact that UV rays and sun exposure can cause sunburn, premature ageing and, worst yet, skin cancer; but we have to acknowledge that while we need to stay safe, our choice of sunscreen could be harming the environment in a big way. The numbers say it all: 14,000 tons of sunscreen are thought to wash into the oceans each year, while up to 82,000 chemicals from personal-care products may be tainting the seas.¹ These toxic ingredients not only lead to coral bleaching and the destruction of our reefs but can also detrimentally affect marine life.

So, what can we do about it? While there are many enemies of reefs (plastic pollution and sewage to name but a few), our choice of sunscreen is one factor that we can completely control, and immediately! Luckily, scientific advances have made it possible for us to opt for “reef-friendly” or reef-safe sunscreen and SPF products, which use physical UVA and UVB filters as opposed to harmful chemical ones.

Read More: The Best Beaches In Hong Kong

How Do I Know If My SPF Is A Reef-Safe Sunscreen?

It’s important to note that the terms reef-safe and reef-friendly are not regulated, so you can’t always trust products with this description. A safer bet is to take a long, hard look at the ingredients list, and make sure to avoid sunscreen and sunblock² that contains the following:

Products which contain petrolatum (commonly known as mineral oil), which is harmful, even fatal, to marine life and birds. It takes years to biodegrade.
Oxybenzone, octinoxate, butylparaben and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, which cause coral bleaching.³

While we can only hope that more countries will follow in Hawaii’s footsteps and pass a bill to ban sunscreen and sunblock that can harm coral reefs, as individuals we all have the power to make small changes by switching to products that don’t contain harmful ingredients. Here are a few of our favourites to help you get started…

Reef-Safe Sunscreens We Love

Australian Gold, Botanical Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, $155.50

Avasol, Surfer’s Barrier Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+, $180

Badger, Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $115.90

Beauty of Joseon, Relief Sun SPF 50+ PA++++, $107

Drunk Elephant, Umbra Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30, $285

Pai, British Summer Time Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30, $283

REN Clean Skincare, Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30, $319.50

ROUND LAB, Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++, $25.20 USD

Salt & Stone, Lightweight Sheer Daily Sunscreen SPF 40, $280

Supergoop!, Unseen Sunscreen, From $190

The Ordinary, Mineral UV Filters SPF 15, $82.50

Thinksport, Sunscreen SPF 50, $171

¹Zachos, Elaina and Rosen, Eric. “What sunscreens are best for you—and the planet?”, National Geographic, 3 June, 2023.
²It’s common now to use the terms sunscreen and sunblock interchangeably, which we have done here for ease, but sunblock technically refers to SPF with a physical shield (i.e. block) and sunscreen refers to ones with chemical filters that absorb UV light and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Many SPF products on the market today combine physical and chemical filters, as well as UVB and UVA-targetted filters. You can find out more here.
³Sources: Badger Balm and Save The Reef

Editor’s Note: All listed prices were correct at the time of publication. “What To Know About Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Where To Buy It In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in June 2023 by Team Sassy. With thanks to Lexi Davey, Jessica Ng and Sakina Abidi for their contribution.

The post What To Know About Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Where To Buy It In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

Sassy Supports: HELP for Domestic Workers

Nicole Moraleda — Mon, 01 May 2023 22:00:58 +0000

In light of Helper Appreciation Month in May and International Domestic Workers Day in June, we’re spotlighting HELP for Domestic Workers — who ensure migrant domestic workers receive access to justice through rights education, advice and assistance.

Migrant domestic workers play an integral part in our city and are the backbone of many families, not just in Hong Kong, but around the world. In celebration of their invaluable contribution, Helper Appreciation Month and International Domestic Workers Day, we’re spotlighting HELP for Domestic Workers, a local charity that supports migrant domestic workers through rights education, advice and assistance.

The domestic worker community remained one of the most vulnerable amid the pandemic, with many of them facing sudden job loss, pay cuts and delays in starting new employment contracts, so it’s imperative for us to give support where we can. Ahead, Avril Rodrigues, Head of Communications at HELP, shares why the charity was founded, what it does to support the city’s migrant domestic workers, and how we can get support its cause.

Tell us about HELP.

We were founded by Barrister James Collins in 1989 in response to the acute need for migrant domestic workers to receive access to justice through rights education, advice and assistance. The resources provided by HELP grew in lockstep with the exponential growth in the demand for our services.

As Hong Kong developed and transformed, so have the needs of migrant domestic workers both in terms of scale and the complexity of services required. Therefore, there was a need for HELP to grow and transform to better serve the community and ensure access to justice for migrant domestic workers.

We support domestic workers and employers in making informed decisions about their rights and responsibilities through education, and one-to-one advice and assistance. Through our initiatives, we aim not only to bridge the gap between domestic workers and employers but also to create pathways for access to justice for both parties.

What issues are HELP tackling?

For many decades, we have strived to establish a society where migrant domestic workers are treated fairly, their legal rights are protected, and most importantly, their contribution is respected and valued.

An organisation is only as important as its mission. One of our main goals is to ensure migrant domestic workers have access to their basic rights under the laws of Hong Kong. We try to deliver on that by committing to work with both the workers and their employers in an empathetic and fair way.

With the rise in COVID-19 variants, domestic workers faced numerous challenges such as sudden job loss, pay cuts and a delay in starting new employment contracts. Their employers faced their own challenges as well. Adding to this, isolation, heavy workloads, bereavement and related fears are triggering a mental health crisis among domestic workers if not exacerbating existing ones.

There is an acute need for awareness and counselling on both sides of the employer-employee relationship. HELP provides educational support for employers while assisting them with reaching a mutually beneficial relationship with domestic workers. This is imperative for the long-term sustainable change that we seek.

How can we get involved?

We need to step up and build our resources to better serve the domestic worker community which remains one of the most vulnerable to the pandemic.

We are investing further time and resources in strengthening and developing beneficiary programmes, technology and infrastructure, and personnel capacity, to better serve the needs of the community. We hope the Hong Kong community will double down on their support in every possible way as we seek to provide some semblance of certainty in an uncertain time – head here to pledge your support. To stay updated with our future activities and ways to get involved by signing up for our newsletter.

HELP strives to be at the forefront of serving migrant domestic workers and employers by addressing their unique challenges. If you seek help, write to info@helpfordomesticworkers.org

The post Sassy Supports: HELP for Domestic Workers appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

Your Guide To Zero Waste & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong

Lexi — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 22:00:35 +0000

Grab a tote bag and head to these zero waste and bulk food stores for plastic and package-free products in Hong Kong.

Looking to take a step towards zero-waste living? It can be as simple as refusing plastic bags, carrying a reusable bottle with you and making the effort to shop at places that limit the amount of plastic packaging you take home. With a number of zero waste stores dotted around the city with refill stations for pantry staples, washing up liquids, plastic-free beauty products and more, it’s easier than ever to be an eco-conscious shopper in Hong Kong. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of where to buy your day-to-day essentials — waste-free! Here’s to reducing, reusing and recycling…

Jump To:
Zero Waste And Bulk Food Stores
Reusable Lifestyle Products
Eco-Friendly Home Essentials

Zero Waste Stores & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong

Beyond Plastic — Plastic-free biodegradable and compostable household items, on Hong Kong Island

Swap out your single-use plastic items with eco-friendly alternatives at Beyond Plastic. Here you’ll find everything from bamboo tablewear to sugarcane takeaway boxes — a whole range of zero-waste, biodegradable, compostable and ecological household products. What’s more, Beyond Plastic donates 20 percent of its profits every year to a charity in Cameroon helping young rural women continue their education.

Beyond Plastic, Unit 1, 3/F, Ocean Industrial Centre, 2 Lee Lok Street, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9689 4130, beyondplastic.com.hk

The Bulk Shop by Margella — Eco-friendly and package-free products, located in Tai Po, New Territories

The Bulk Shop’s founders Margot and Ella (aka Margella!) set up shop in the New Territories, hoping to change how people connect in their community and help them adopt more sustainable ways of living. The range of eco-friendly and package-free products includes beeswax wraps, compostable bin liners, plastic-free deodorant sticks and more.

The Bulk Shop by Margella, Shop 9E, 2/F, Jade Plaza, 3 On Chee Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5161 9454, thebulkshoppershk.com

Lively Life — Organic and fresh produce, grains and more plus local beauty, located in Wan Chai

Find everything you need to live a waste-free life at Lively Life on Hennessy Road. Here you’ll be able to snap up fresh produce, different kinds of vinegar, rice and noodles that are all available to bulk buy as well as an array of organic kitchen and beauty items, some of which are locally made. There’s even a free water station.

Lively Life, Shop UG 6, UG/F, CC Wu Building, 302-308, Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 6730 0643, livelylifehk.com

Live Zero — Hong Kong’s first zero-waste grocery store, locations in Sai Ying Pun, Happy Valley and Sai Kung

Claiming the title of Hong Kong’s first, completely zero waste and packaging-free grocery store, Live Zero stocks a huge array of organic products including pantry staples, beauty and home essentials. Forget your container? Use one of the many food containers and reusable bottles donated by the community!

Live Zero Bulk Foods, various locations across Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9433 3394, livezero.hk

Organic We — Organic food items, cruelty-free beauty and eco-friendly cleaning and lifestyle products, located in Mong Kok, Kowloon

Going the extra mile to study the ingredients, sources and even the manufacturing process of all its products, Organic We is a great place to shop for cruelty-free makeup, vegan pantry staples, eco-friendly period, lifestyle and cleaning products and more. As a bonus, Organic We offers BYOB discounts on selected products to customers who bring their own containers.

Organic We, Room 1601, 16/F, Good Hope Building, 5 Sai Yeung Choi Street South, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3791 2666, organicwe.com

Regency Spices — Top spices from all over the world, located in Tsuen Wan, New Territories

Family-owned business Regency Spices sources some of the best spices from all corners of the globe. A one-stop for stocking up on all your spices, seasonings and herbs, it’ll even create custom blends for you upon request — just let the staff know what you’re looking for!

Regency Spices, Shop 8A, Ming Wah Industrial Building, 17-33 Wang Lung Street, Tsuen Wan, New Territories. Hong Kong (call ahead before visiting), 3525 0060, www.regencyspices.hk

Read More: The Best Cheese Shops In Hong Kong

Seed — Zero waste store with kitchen staples, spices, household products and other items, located in Sai Kung

If you’re out in Sai Kung, Seed is on hand to give you the means to live a more zero-waste and plastic-free lifestyle. You’ll find everything you need to keep the kitchen well-stocked (think spices, cupboard staples like pasta, dried nuts, fruit and legumes) as well as eco-friendly household cleaning products (laundry detergent, soaps etc.), beauty and personal items.

Seed, 29 Yee Kuk Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5703 2223, seedhongkong.com

Slowood — One-stop zero waste store with kitchen staples, home items, vegan and gluten-free products, cruelty-free beauty and more, locations in Kennedy Town, Sha Tin, Yuen Long and Central Market

A one-stop zero waste store, Slowood stocks literally everything from healthy, bulk organic groceries options to plant-based personal care products and refillable household essentials. With a wide range of globally sourced items from top eco-friendly and cruelty-free brands, you can confidently add things to your bag with a clean conscience. Bring along a container on your next visit and enjoy 5 percent off on bulk or non-packaged items!

Slowood, various locations across Hong Kong, 2818 0203, www.slowood.hk

vomFASS — Liquors, vinegars, oils, wines, whiskeys and rum, locations in Central, Admiralty and Yuen Long

Offering liquors, kinds of vinegar, oils, wines, whiskeys and rums, vomFASS is the go-to for zero waste liquid staples. Sample spirits, oils and vinegar directly “vom fass” (German for “from the cask”). You’ll also find a small selection of gourmet foods and condiments.

Sassy Tip: Purchase a container on your first visit to get $10 off when you bring them back for a refill.

vomFASS, various locations across Hong Kong, www.vomfass.com.hk

Reusable Lifestyle Products

We’re thrilled to see that coffee shops across Hong Kong are offering up discounts and incentives for customers who bring their own coffee cups. These small changes can make a huge difference, and once bought, can be used again and again. If you’re not sure where to buy one for yourself, check out some of the stores stocking reusable bottles and straws below:

Keep Cups & Reusable Bottles

Thorn and Burrow, www.thornandburrow.com
Live Zero, livezero.hk
Seed, seedhongkong.com
The Lion Rock Press, thelionrockpress.com
Cotton On, cottonon.com
Eco Concepts, www.ecoconcepts.com.hk
Bamboa, bamboahome.com

Metal, Bamboo & Glass Straws

Live Zero, livezero.hk
KIRR, kirrconcept.com
Slowood, www.slowood.hk
Seed, seedhongkong.com
Bamboa, bamboahome.com

Refillable And Package Free Home Essentials

It’s not just food packaging that we need to be held accountable for, but it’s time we thought about our day-to-day cleaning and beauty essentials too. Just think about all the tubes of mascara and bottles of lotion and dishwashing liquids we use and throw away on the regular. If you were to add up the amount of plastic that goes to waste, it wouldn’t be a pretty number — but these zero-waste stores dotted all around the city are giving us the chance to change our wasteful habits. Instead of repurchasing products, we can repurpose what we already have by refilling empty bottles, buying package-free makeup and more.

Refillable & Package-Free Cleaning Products

Slowood, www.slowood.hk
Live Zero, livezero.hk
Seed, seedhongkong.com

Refillable & Package-Free Beauty Essentials

LUSH — shampoo bars, solid body wash and toothpaste tabs, www.lush.com
Slowood, www.slowood.hk
Live Zero, livezero.hk
Seed, seedhongkong.com

Editor’s Note: “Your Guide To Zero Waste And Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong” was originally written by Lexi Davey, and was most recently updated by Sakina Abidi in April 2023. With thanks to Nicole Moraleda for her contribution.

The post Your Guide To Zero Waste & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

15 Local Sustainable Fashion Brands We Love

Team Sassy — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 22:00:04 +0000

Support these local sustainable fashion brands in Hong Kong for eco-conscious and responsible buys.

Why do local sustainable fashion brands matter? Well, Hong Kong generates an average of 392 tonnes of textile waste per day into landfills, resulting in a rise of 32.4 percent over the past ten years. It’s clear that the fast-fashion crisis is still alive and kicking. So, what can we do about it?

While shopping and sustainability can seem slightly counterintuitive (we’d still recommend buying secondhand and vintage where possible!), you’ll be pleased to learn that it’s possible to build yourself a new wardrobe and still be environmentally conscious. Many local sustainable fashion brands in Hong Kong are working to bridge that disconnect, be it through their commitment to using deadstock fabrics (leftover and unwanted materials that would otherwise go to waste) or the adoption of a slow production model that elongates the durability of the fabric. Ahead, we’re spotlighting some of our favourites…

Sassy Tip: To further minimise textile waste, focus on your needs and wants. We only use about 20 percent of the clothes in our closet (that’s less than a quarter!). And when discarding old clothes, donate instead of simply throwing them away.

Local Sustainable Fashion Brands In Hong Kong

Zanteia – A one-stop shop for the fashion-forward and eco-conscious

Voted the Best Brand Making Sustainability Waves in the 2023 Sassy Reader Awards, Zanteia is a fantastic online platform that brings together fashion-forward brands that are committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Find fabulous new pieces to add to your closet from brands you can feel good wearing, including international labels and homegrown favourites like KRSV, Tove & Libra and Love From Blue. What’s more, the site provides information on where the items it stocks are made, how they’re made and what they’re made of for those on a mission to shop more consciously.

Zanteia, 5993 9136, Instagram: @zanteia_official, www.zanteia.com

Tove & Libra – Minimalist clothing made with upcycled deadstock fabrics

Effortless daily chic is yours for the taking, thanks to Tove & Libra. Inspired by the minimalist Scandi aesthetic, the brand brings together style and sustainability for clothing that is better for your closet and the planet. Cue a commitment to upcycling deadstock fabrics, as well as the introduction of carbon offsetting for all online orders. Style-wise, we love how versatile everything is, with many pieces having been designed for multi-way dressing.

Tove & Libra, various locations across Hong Kong, 9662 9923, www.toveandlibra.com

Róu So – Inclusive and sustainable Hong Kong fashion brand

Effortless everyday fashion abounds at Róu So — a contemporary womenswear brand best known for its classic, sustainable chic style. The team here take a view towards mindful production, using only natural, recycled or plant-based fabrics which have been salvaged from over-produced inventory and trim waste from vendors, manufacturers and fabric mills. The best part? Róu So makes a point of celebrating women of all shapes, sizes and ethnicity for a clothing collection that truly suits us all.

Róu So, rousoshop.com

Good Days – High-performance activewear made with recycled polyester and nylon

This local brand is making waves by transforming plastic bottles into chic, high-performance activewear. Think versatile and modern leggings, sports bras, crop tops and more, all consciously created using recycled polyester and nylon. By doing so, Good Days hopes to contribute to a circular economy, diverting plastic waste away from oceans and landfills, and repurposing it into activewear you’ll use for years to come.

Good Days, gooddaysactivewear.com

EARTH.er – Accessories made with natural, renewable materials

This sustainable fashion brand was founded in 2012 in Hong Kong’s very own Tai O fishing village. Founder and designer, Benny Yuen, creates designs that are inspired by the outdoors using traditional Southeast Asian craft techniques and materials that are eco-friendly. The company merges sustainable production processes with all-natural, renewable materials. Think hemp backpacks and a line of ‘Down to EARTH.er’ shoes, made by upcycling rubber tires.

EARTH.er, G/F, 83 Kat Hing Street, Tai O, Lantau Island, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.earthertaio.com

SAU LEE – Local dress brand that uses eco-friendly materials

Sustainable fashion gets fancy with Insta-famous local dress brand SAU LEE. Head here for stunning occasion and day dresses, designed with a unique East meets West aesthetic in mind. In terms of sustainability, the brand is dedicated to using fabrics comprised of natural raw materials, biodegradable Rayon and Viscose, and overstock base fabrics that would otherwise end up in landfills. Plus, it operates a lean production practice in an effort to minimise waste.

SAU LEE, Shop H314, Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.sau-lee.com

Love From Blue – Small production statement knitwear

It’s all about statement knitwear at local label Love From Blue — and its commitment to sustainable production is the cherry on top! Crafted with purpose, care and consciousness, the designs here take inspiration from Hong Kong’s urban landscapes, incorporating cosy textures and rich hues for a selection of jumpers and sweater vests you’ll love for years to come. Each piece is made using deadstock cashmere and wool yarns, and is available in small production runs.

Love From Blue, lovefromblue.com

PYE – Eco-consciuos seed-to-shirt brand

Helmed by Dee Poon (the daughter of Harvey Nichols owner Dickson Poon and Esquel Group chairman Marjorie Yang), dress shirt specialist PYE brings us timeless formal attire with a sustainable seed-to-shirt philosophy at its core. Over the last decade, PYE has proudly reduced its water and energy consumption by 57% and 43% respectively.

PYE (Admiralty), Shop 111, Pacific Place, Admiralty, Hong Kong, 2152 9288

PYE (Central), Shops 19 & 22, Central Building, Central, Hong Kong, 2152 9168, pyeshirts.com

Flow With Me – Athleisure clothing fashioned from recycled fabrics

With its motto of inspiring Hongkongers to be happier and healthier through fitness, there’s a lot to love about local activewear brand Flow With Me. And sustainability is the cherry on top. To be featured on the site, brands must have a focus on eco-friendly practices, be that through the careful use of resources or ethical production. Head here for a curated selection of athleisure clothing and accessories fashioned from recycled fabrics.

Flow With Me, www.flowwithmehk.com

The R Collective – Circular fashion brand that reduces textile waste

Sister charity of Redress (25 percent of proceeds go towards the brand), The R Collective aims to reduce textile disposals by rescuing, reusing and recycling fashion waste. This circular fashion brand upcycles deadstock fabric from luxury fashion companies and gives them a new life with versatile dresses, jackets, pants and bags. What’s more, fabrics unsuitable for reuse find a second life through the team’s fibre recovery system where they get shredded to fibres to create a new piece.

The R Collective, thercollective.com

Lane Eight – Unisex trainers made with recycled plastic

Lane Eight is hard to miss, with its bright coral walls and shoes of the prettiest colours! It specialises in workout shoes that fit comfortably, look stylish and do good for the planet. The unisex trainers are made of lightweight vegan microfiber and recycled plastic yarn (that’s about 11 single-use plastic water bottles), and the midsole is made of harvested algae blooms — how cool is that? Plus, the shoes come packaged in boxes made of recycled material and water-soluble mailer bags.

Lane Eight (Wan Chai), LG/F, 14 St. Francis Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Lane Eight (Sha Tin), Shop 537, Level 5, New Town Plaza Phase 1, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2811 2068, laneeight.hk

Read More: The Best Shoe Shops In Hong Kong

Paper Shades – Eco-friendly sunglasses made from recycled paper

Founded by brother and sister duo, Madi and James Chu, this sustainable fashion brand brings us eco-friendly, customisable sunglasses made from recycled paper. Built to be functional and durable, with personalisation that makes it perfect for everything from Clockenflap to corporate giveaways, these durable shades leave a minimal amount of carbon footprint whilst still providing UV400 protection.

Paper Shades, www.papershades.net

MiliMilu – Eco-friendly, durable and effortlessly stylish clothing brand

Meaning “LoveLove” in Latvian (to show its appreciation to Mother Nature), MiliMilu makes various sustainable fashion brands from around the world accessible to Hong Kong shoppers. From light and flowy dresses and floral swimwear for the beach to more put-together and sophisticated looks, we love how effortlessly stylish the pieces are whilst remaining eco-friendly and durable.

MiliMilu, milimilu.com

Skin of Nature – Nature-loving active-lifestyle brand

Active-lifestyle brand Skin of Nature brings dynamic, durable and sustainable apparel to the forefront in Hong Kong. Founder Elena Beraldo specialised in sustainable fashion before moving to Hong Kong, looking at the reality behind the apparel industry, but also the positive direction it was beginning to take. You’ll see her love for nature reflected in the ethos of the company, as well as the colours and patterns of the pieces in each collection.

Skin of Nature, skinofnature.co

HULA – Local consignment store for womenswear

HULA founder Sarah Fung, who previously worked at Lane Crawford, has curated a selection of pre-loved designer accessories and clothing (many of which haven’t even been worn!). It’s a platform to buy and re-sell amazing luxury items with the aim to reduce fashion waste and share a sense of timeless style rather than following trends.

HULA, 56-58 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2544 1511, www.instagram.com/joinhula

Editor’s Note: “Local Sustainable Fashion Brands” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in April 2023. With thanks to Tania Shroff and Fashila Kanakka for their contribution.

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Sustainable Period Products: Reusable Pads, Organic Tampons, Menstrual Cups & More

Sakina Abidi — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 22:00:41 +0000

Looking for sustainable period products in Hong Kong? We’ve got you covered with reusable pads, organic cotton tampons, menstrual cups and discs, leak-proof period underwear and more…

For those looking to switch from your not-so-eco-friendly disposable tampons and pads, we’ve rounded up the best sustainable period products in Hong Kong, giving you plenty of options — from reusable pads and period underwear to eco-friendly tampons and menstrual cups and discs — so you can find something comfortable for you and better for the environment. It’s a small change that could have a massive impact!

Most people with a vagina are going through some sort of period product every single month. It’s estimated that over the course of a lifetime, a single menstruator will use up to 15,000 pads and tampons, with the vast majority filling up landfills as both plastic and medical waste. But it’s 2023, so your only sustainable period product option is not just one scary-looking “cup” (though we do love a menstrual cup!). Here are the best sustainable period products in Hong Kong, from leak-proof period underwear and reusable pads to organic cotton tampons and pads, menstrual cups and more…

Jump To:
Organic Cotton Tampons, Pads And Liners
Reusable Pads
Menstrual Cups & Menstrual Discs
Period Underwear

Read Nore: Your Guide To Zero Waste & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong

Organic Cotton Tampons, Pads And Liners

LUÜNA naturals — Hong Kong brand with organic cotton tampons, pads, liners and menstrual cup

LUÜNA naturals’ super soft tampons, pads and liners are all made with hypoallergenic organic cotton produced without the harmful chemicals used in conventional farming. The brand is all about ethical production, so your purchase hasn’t come at someone else’s cost, and features 1oo percent recyclable cardboard outer packaging. Plus, the organic cotton line is biodegradable and features a water-soluble wrapper.

LUÜNA naturals, available online at its website or in-store at one of the brand’s stockists (including Watsons and select Wellcome), luuna-naturals.com

Pacha Care — Hong Kong brand with organic cotton daytime and nighttime pads and liners

We love Pacha Care’s recyclable packaging and gender-inclusive branding (it’s so refreshing to see “everyone with a vagina” right on the box!). You can pick up its 90 percent biodegradable organic cotton daytime pads (240mm), nighttime pads (290mm) and liners — all made without unnecessary plastic, harsh chemicals, dyes or fragrances that could irritate your body and pollute the planet.

Pacha Care, available online at its website, HKTV Mall and Panda Mart, and in-store at select stockists

Tsuno — Australian brand with organic cotton tampons, and sustainable bamboo sanitary pads and liners

Australian brand Tsuno sells organic cotton tampons and sustainable sanitary pads made from natural bamboo and corn fibre, making them naturally absorbent, breathable, soft and antibacterial. The pads are individually wrapped in biodegradable sleeves and are packaged in beautiful recyclable cardboard boxes. Plus, 50 percent of Tsuno’s profits are donated to charities dedicated to empowering women.

Tsuno, available online and in-store at Slowood, www.tsuno.com.au

More Organic Cotton Tampons, Pads and Liners:

DAME. — Sells 100 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton tampons that are free from toxins and plastic, alongside its reusable tampon applicator. www.wearedame.co

Reusable Pads

Aisle — Canadian brand stocking reusable pads, liners, period underwear, menstrual cups and more

Established in 1993, Canadian company Aisle (formerly Lunapads) touts itself as one of the very first companies in the world to make reusable period products! Its eco-friendly pads and period underwear are washable and reusable, functional and fashionable. Take your time browsing — you’ll find pads, liners, underwear, cups and more, with its pads being eight times as absorbent as the average disposable pad.

Aisle, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), periodaisle.com

BamPads! — Hong Kong social enterprise selling reusable cloth menstrual pads

Founded by City University student Sakshi Vasudev, social enterprise BamPads! sells reusable cloth menstrual pads in Hong Kong, holds workshops to raise awareness on sustainable period care products, and donates sets of pads to women in need (in Hong Kong, India and Nepal!). The pads are made of layers of micro fleece, super absorbent microfiber and waterproof PUL — to ensure a slim pad that’s comfortable and leak-proof.

BamPads!, available online at its website, bampads.com

DAME. — Reusable period pads and pants, reusable tampon applicators and organic cotton tampons

DAME. is best known for being the creator of the world’s first reusable tampon applicator, an award-winning hygienic tool that’s medical-grade, antimicrobial and lasts for over 3,000 uses. It works like any applicator, and with any tampon. The brand also stocks reusable pads, continuing its mission of reducing plastic waste, this time by providing a drier, more comfortable alternative to traditional pads.

DAME., available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong for free for orders above $500), wearedame.co

Dharti Mata Sustainable Workshop — Social enterprise stocking eco-friendly reusable pads handmade by rural Nepali women

A social enterprise based in Nepal with a team in Taiwan, Dharti Mata Sustainable Workshop’s studio is located in the HASERA Agriculture Research and Training Center, just outside of Kathmandu. Its eco-friendly reusable pads are handmade by local Nepali women with natural materials — so with every pad you buy, you’re supporting the employment of rural women as well as helping to create a more sustainable future.

Dharti Mata Sustainable Workshop, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong) and Hong Kong store Happeriod, and in-store at Hong Kong store Lively Life, www.dhartimata.com

Hold Me Pad — Red Dot Design Award Winner selling ultra-thin reusable sanitary pads made with recycled plastic bottles

A Red Dot Design Award Winner (the German international design prize, not to be confused with the period poverty awareness project), Hold Me Pad was developed to help reduce waste and provide an affordable alternative to disposable pads. Designed in Taiwan, the sanitary pad is ultra-thin, breathable and completely antibacterial — and it’s made with recycled plastic bottles!

Hold Me Pad, available online and in-store at Slowood, and at Hong Kong store Happeriod, www.holdmepad.com

More Reusable Pads

JuJu — Reusable pads sold alongside menstrual cups and period underwear, available to buy in Hong Kong at LiveZero. www.juju.com.au
Knix — Reusable pads that offer the brand’s acclaimed leakproof protection in a new sanitary pad form. The brand ships to Hong Kong. www.knix.com
GladRags — 100 percent cotton reusable cloth pads that come in box sets of three so you can customise your picks to suit your flow, available to buy online and at NineLife. www.gladrags.com
Live Zero’s own brand of reusable menstrual pads.
Lunette – The cult favourite menstrual cup brand also offers an organic cotton reusable pad. www.lunette.com
Slowood’s own brand of reusable sanitary pads.

Menstrual Cups And Menstrual Discs

FemmyCycle — Reusable menstrual cup that sits lower in the vaginal canal for improved comfort

There are so many good reasons to switch to a menstrual cup: you’re saving your wallet with a single buy that lasts you at least two years’ worth of periods (not to mention avoiding the “pink tax”), helping the environment, and being kinder to your body. FemmyCycle is a physician-designed menstrual cup that sits lower in the vaginal canal for improved comfort. Available in three sizes according to your cervix height (for your best fit!), it’s a next-generation product that promises a comfortable, leak-free period experience.

FemmyCycle, available online at its Hong Kong website, Happeriod, MCup HK and NineLife, www.femmycycle.com.hk

Read More: How To Love Your Vulva

INTIMINA Lily Cup & INTIMINA Ziggy Cup— Menstrual cup that comes in two sizes plus a compact collapsible version, and a menstrual disc

Promising to roll “as thin as a tampon”, the INTIMINA Lily Cup comes in two sizes — taking into account giving birth, giving birth by caesarean, your pelvic floor and your flow — and a “compact” collapsible version that folds flat, fitting right into a pocket. It’ll reduce both your carbon footprint and your contribution to landfills. The brand also stocks a menstrual disc, the Ziggy Cup.

INTIMINA, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), HKTV Mall, Happeriod and MCup HK, www.intimina.com

Lunette — Cult favourite menstrual cup designed for a better fit and a better grip, reusable organic cotton pads and period panties and more

The Lunette menstrual cup was designed for a better fit and a better grip, and boasts a 100 percent clean record — that means no chemicals in your body as you do your part to save the environment. It has an easy-to-clean stem, ridges for grip and secure removal (very important!), and a smooth interior, all combining to make a user-favourite product.

Lunette, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), HKTV Mall, Happeriod, iHerb and Live Zero, www.lunette.com

nixit — Suction-free and BPA-free flexible menstrual disc

Disc-shaped menstrual cups are slowly making their way to the market, and we love the look of nixit — a completely suction-free (perfect if suction has been an issue for you, or has been putting you off!) and BPA-free menstrual cup that promises to fit you. It’s soft and flexible, holds up to four tampons worth (70ml) and won’t dry you out or disrupt your vagina.

nixit, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), nixit.com

Where To Buy: You can purchase products online — the brand ships to Hong Kong.

Ruby Cup — Reusable menstrual cup that fights period poverty, with donations and education

Ruby Cup’s mission is to “enable all people to live their periods safely and with dignity”, which it does by providing a sustainable menstrual health solution (an easy-to-use reusable cup, of course!) and donating one cup for every Ruby Cup sold. To date, that’s over 110,000 menstrual cups donated to people in need!

Ruby Cup, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), Happeriod, HKTV Mall and LiveZero, rubycup.com

Saalt — Menstrual cups and menstrual discs in a variety of colours and sets, and period underwear

Saalt offers menstrual discs and cups, in beautiful colours (just because it’s going inside of you, doesn’t mean it can’t look nice!) and sets. Designed with the “doer” in mind, if you’re someone who likes to swim, run, bike, hike and more on your period — this might be the cup for you! It’s comfortable, holds 3x as much as a tampon, and promises to last “as long as your passport”

Saalt, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong) and Revolve, saalt.com

More Menstrual Cups

Aisle — Menstrual cups made without BPA, latex, dyes and phthalates, providing up to 12 hours of leak-free wear, available in two sizes on its website. www.periodaisle.com
The DivaCup — One of the first on the market to really become mainstream, available to purchase through iHerb. www.shopdiva.com
Lena Cup — Ideal for beginners, available to purchase through its website and NineLife. www.lenacup.com
LUÜNA — Menstrual cups made with medical-grade silicone and designed with flexy-fit tech which moulds to your unique shape, available in two sizes on its website. www.luuna-naturals.com

Period Underwear

Kiri — Hong Kong-designed brand selling leakproof period panties

The idea behind Hong Kong-designed brand Kiri is to help you say goodbye to the stress and anxiety that comes with bleeding, stains and everything in between. Softer than a pad and far more reliable (thanks to its unique four-layer leak-proof technology), this high-quality, well-fitted period underwear will make your life easier. Plus, it’s reusable, replacing your disposable products with an eco-friendly buy.

Kiri, available online at its website and in-store at select stockists, www.kirijourney.com

Knix — Leakproof reusable period underwear, leggings, shorts and even swimwear

Not everyone wants to or can put a period product inside them, and it’s important to be comfortable! If you lean towards pads over tampons, you may want to consider period underwear. Knix designs beautiful wireless bras, ultra-soft underwear, maximum support activewear and more — including an incredible leakproof range that covers everything from period underwear to leggings, shorts and even swimwear.

Knix, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong), knix.com

Modibodi — Size-inclusive brand with bamboo washable underwear for periods and all leakage

Modibodi’s washable leak-proof underwear has a soft bamboo top layer that wicks away moisture while fighting odour and bacteria, making it ideal for your period as well as regular vaginal discharge and even light bladder leakage. Its breathable Modifier Technology allows the underwear to hold up to 20ml — and it’s only 3mm thick!

Modibodi, available online at its website (the brand ships to Hong Kong) and Zalora, and in-person and online at Live Zero, us.modibodi.com

More Period Underwear:

Aisle — Period underwear available in various styles including boxers, briefs, hipsters and more, made with a multi-layered leakproof lining featuring Truetex fabric technology — absorbing at least four tampons’ worth of menstrual fluid.
You can also purchase the brand’s (formerly Lunapads) LunaUndies at Happiperiod, which is under the One4Her Programme and helps girls in East Africa receive pads and educational materials to support their reproductive health. www.periodaisle.com
Nike — An ultrathin Nike One Short with “Leak Protection” technology, coming soon. www.nike.com.hk
Saalt Wear — Silky-soft leakproof underwear for your period. The brand ships to Hong Kong. www.saalt.com
Thinx — One of the first period underwear brands on the market, stocks plenty of super absorbent machine-washable styles. It’s available in Hong Kong through ASOS. www.thinx.com

Plus, here are a few sites and stores we like to keep an eye on:

Editor’s Note: “Sustainable Period Products – Reusable Pads, Organic Tampons, Menstrual Cups & More” was originally published by Nicole Moraleda and was most recently updated in April 2023 by Sakina Abidi.

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Sassy Supports: Teen’s Key Hong Kong On How To Support Marginalised & Vulnerable Young Women

Nicole Moraleda — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 22:00:37 +0000

Unlocking new beginnings for marginalised and vulnerable young women…

This year, we’re excited to spotlight young women-led charity Teen’s Key Hong Kong in this special International Women’s Day edition Sassy Supports. While there are a few non-profit organisations committed to supporting “traditional” adult female sex workers, there is a lack of support for sex workers who are under the age of 25 and/or in their early teens in Hong Kong. Teen’s Key aims to fill that gap. Read on to find out more about what the charity does to provide support and empower vulnerable young women in the city.

Tell us about Teen’s Key. What is it you do?

Established since 2011, Teen’s Key is the first recognised young women-led registered charity committed to helping young women who encounter sexual health crises and providing a safe space where these women can feel empowered to build the next phase of their lives through mentorship programmes, counselling and peer education.

In 2019, Teen’s Key launched a 24/7 emergency helpline for young women and girls seeking assistance, and at the end of 2021, the charity was able to move into a bigger safe space in Jordan, where young women can have access to free STD testing and participate in the Post-Crisis Life Enrichment Programmes at the Teen’s Key Development Service Hub.

How has Teen’s Key been improving the lives of young women in Hong Kong?

Through community outreach, intervention and prevention programmes, a developmental support hub and a peer-to-peer Young Mother’s Club, Teen’s Key works to help empower vulnerable young women to become independent and realise their potential. The charity also conducts joint research with other non-profit organisations to raise public awareness on the rights of young women, and also young female sex workers on sexual reproductive health matters.

This International Women’s Day, Teen’s Key collaborated with Hong Kong-based Mexican photographer Marissa Reyes Beckmann for a 12-hour street photography project, in which participants would post a photo taken around the city every hour for 12 hours. The event took place on Saturday, 4 March, but donations are still open if you wish to help them reach their goal.

What issues are important to Teen’s Key?

There are only a few non-profit organisations in Hong Kong that support “traditional” adult female sex workers, but there is a lack of support for those workers who are specifically under the age of 25 and/or in their early teens. Teen’s Key was established to fill this gap, focusing on addressing young women’s sexual and reproductive health, and to provide holistic treatment for young women in crisis.

The charity seeks to nurture the potential of these young women and believes that every young woman deserves access to information and services to care for their sexual and reproductive health.

How can we get involved?

Teen Key’s ongoing initiative, “Empower Young Women, Unlock New Beginnings”, encourages us all to exercise our compassion and work together to create a better place where young women can realise their potential and have the freedom to choose their future.

Aside from donating to the charity, you can support its endeavours by working as a volunteer, ambassador or fundraiser. If you’re interested in learning more about Teen’s Key, email the team to book an Impact Day Tour to visit the Service Hub and learn more about what they do a daily basis.

Teen’s Key Hong Kong, 2302 0068, teenskey.org

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How To Give Back This Christmas: Charity Initiatives, Where To Donate & More

Sakina Abidi — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 22:00:46 +0000

Looking to give back over the festive season? Here’s how you can help make a difference with volunteering opportunities, where to donate in Hong Kong and more…

As the festive season approaches, it’s more important than ever to spread the holiday cheer and support our local community. From volunteering at food banks and supporting charity initiatives to fostering a furry friend or simply shopping for stocking fillers at local homegrown businesses, here are just a few ways that you can get involved and help give back to the city. Ahead we’ve rounded up ways to help make a difference, including volunteering opportunities, where to donate in Hong Kong and more…

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Shop Local

The strain of the global pandemic and Hong Kong’s fast-moving shopping industry has hit even the biggest, most prominent brands (how many closures can you count — we know we’ve lost some of our favourite outposts over the past couple of years!). So it’s no surprise that some smaller businesses are struggling to recover losses and stay afloat. That’s why it’s so important to band together and show our support for homegrown local businesses!

Shopping online, especially on big brand marketplaces, can feel easy and the lure of free shipping is always an added bonus but we believe in Hong Kong retailers! Not only is shopping locally a great way to give back to the community, it’s also a surefire way to avoid fast fashion companies that are causing havoc on the environment and withholding pay from workers.

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Whether you’re looking for stocking fillers, luxurious beauty gifts, an alternative to that Zara satin dress or a trinket that doubles as an ode to #homekong — local brands (including sustainable fashion brands!) stock it all! Plus, you could always gift restaurant gift cards, boutique homeware vouchers and passes to Hong Kong’s health and wellness scene that can be used in the near future; it’s a great way to give local businesses some much-needed love and revenue this year.

Sassy Tip: Why not do good with your wrapping paper too? Support hunger relief charity Foodlink Foundation and local artists by purchasing their charity wrapping paper. One roll of four sheets ($40) can provide six meals to a hungry family (plus they’re eco-friendly too!). We love the festive designs by Christine Wong, Zony and Ditto Ditto. Order your rolls here.

A few Christmas products to shop this year from local brands:

Sustainable shopping platform ethikaal has launched responsibly-produced Gift Boxes for the festive season, inspired by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, to support people in need. You can also browse its charity products.
This year’s Zubin Crackers by The Zubin Foundation was created by Hong Kong’s diverse youth, and each contain a crown, a joke, and a novelty item. They make for fantastic decorations on Christmas trees or dinner tables during the holidays. All proceeds go towards The Zubin Foundation’s work for Hong Kong’s ethnic minorities in mental health, support for women and girls, and providing jobs and opportunities.
For its 10th year, The Lion Rock Press is proudly supporting Mother’s Choice with 100 percent of the profits from its Charity Christmas Cards going directly to the organisation.
You can support Love21 Foundation — a Hong Kong charity empowering the Down Syndrome and autistic community with sport and nutrition programmes — by buying the Love21 Charity Card Pack at Bookazine.
The Society for the Relief of Disabled Children is also selling Greeting Cards to support its work to create and fund medical, surgical, rehabilitation and educational services for differently-abled children in Hong Kong.

Volunteer Your Time

We’re not always in a position where we can lend monetary help but we might have the ability to lend our time this holiday season. So many charitable organisations and initiatives in Hong Kong would truly benefit from an extra pair of hands. Aside from time, you could also prove to be particularly useful as cause-driven organisations are often looking for people to support with marketing, design, legal work, education, translation, event management and fundraising.

Check out this list of inspiring, worthwhile charities and organisations that may need a little extra assistance this time of year.

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Donate Food And Hygiene Supplies

Reduce food waste by supporting local charities striving to feed Hong Kong — it’s a win-win! Perhaps you stocked up on cans earlier in the year or were gifted too many Christmas treats. Whatever it may be, there are various organisations working tirelessly throughout the year to collect, sort, store and redistribute surplus food items to those in need.

This Christmas, Feeding Hong Kong is running a Santa Sack Food Drive 2022 calling for key staples: essential food items like rice, noodles, cooking oil, and canned food, which are in high demand in the community. Other than food, the non-profit also welcomes casual chain restaurant vouchers. Have a look at its volunteer calendar here to see which areas you might be able to help in.

If you would like to donate multiple items, be sure to also get in touch with these Hong Kong organisations and food banks below:

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Take Part In Local Christmas Initiatives

Angels for Children

Angels for Children — formerly known as Angels for Orphans — raises awareness and funds for charities in Hong Kong, Cambodia and Indonesia that work tirelessly on the ground to improve the lives of the many children in their care. its Secret Santa wish list gifting campaign may be over but you can still purchase a School Shoes Voucher and a Book Voucher for donation.

Box of Hope

Box of Hope’s mission is to give a child in extreme poverty the chance to experience the joy of receiving a gift. To support this, schools, businesses and individuals all over Hong Kong (including Team Sassy!) actively get involved each year to put together special boxes of toys and personal items (such as toothbrushes and soap) that will then be distributed over the festive period. The 2022 campaign has already ended, but this is a good one to keep in mind for next year!

Cookie Smiles’ Gingerbread for Good 2022

Local social enterprise Cookie Smiles is bringing its Gingerbread for Good campaign back this year — in partnership with LANDMARK and 23 celebrated chefs, who have all created their own take on a Mrs Claus cookie. The pop-up aims to fundraise at least $600,000 for Box of Hope and Vocational Training Council’s Shine Skills Centre.

Where: Shop 305, 3/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

ImpactHK’s “No One Forgotten this Winter” Crowdfunding Campaign

Play your part in ending homelessness! This winter, ImpactHK is aiming to raise $1 million to serve food on the streets, promote inclusion by reducing stigma and eradicate misconceptions about people experiencing homelessness and help people get off the streets and into safe shelters. Make a contribution here.

Operation Santa Claus

Operation Santa Claus is an annual fundraising campaign jointly organised by the South China Morning Post and RTHK which hosts a variety of events in aid of select beneficiaries. This year’s fundraising Christmas events include parades, street fairs, charity auctions and more. The campaign also accepts direct donations through its website.

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Foster A Furry Friend For The Holidays

Animal rescue shelters are always looking for people who can sign up as foster families and relieve some of the pressure off kennels and shelters, giving them space for another dog or cat while you help your furry friends actively socialise!

There is no shortage of charities to choose from — our sister site Sassy Mama Hong Kong has a great list of animal charities and rescue organisations. If you’re interested, be sure to get in touch and ask any questions before filling out a standard questionnaire. Warning: exposure to belly rubs, wet noses and slobbery chops could result in long-term adoption (welcome to the “foster fail” family!).

Bear in mind that you may not be able to specify which dog you would like to foster, and it will heavily depend on the individual needs of the animal (as well as the space you have available for that breed).

Already adopted a dog? Consider changing up your pup’s food to a brand that gives back to shelters in Hong Kong. For every 2kg ordered, dog food subscription service Buddy Bites donates 1kg to its shelter partners! Don’t forget to consult your veterinarian first if you have any allergy or food intolerance concerns.

Give The Gift Of Giving

Charitable Choice

Gift a charity eGift Card with Charitable Choice, where your recipient chooses the charity! You’ll just need two minutes to log on and select your gift card design, the value intended and the recipient’s address details. Once it arrives in the post, they’ll be able to choose which initiative or charity they would like to support with the money (or you can also select an organisation on their behalf). You can also send a couple of pre-loaded cards to yourself.

Twopresents

A Hong Kong-based online social enterprise, Twopresents allows you to host a virtual celebration where you invite others to contribute towards a gift fund, of which a percentage will be donated to a charity of your choice. View the charities here.

Make A Blood Donation

One single blood donation can save the lives of three or more people. If you’re in good health, weigh over 41kg and are over the age of 16 (and below 66), this guide is here to help you navigate all the specifics — like what to expect and where to go.

The Red Cross has a daily target of 1,100 donations per day, with the need for blood more prevalent than before as COVID has resulted in a drop in donations over the past year. With that in mind, Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service is doing all it can to ensure blood safety and the safety of those donating.

Editor’s Note: “How To Give Back To Hong Kong This Christmas” was originally published by Lexi Davey and was most recently updated in December 2022 by Team Sassy. Have a Christmas charity initiative you think we missed? Get in touch with us at editorial@sassyhongkong.com

The post How To Give Back This Christmas: Charity Initiatives, Where To Donate & More appeared first on Sassy Hong Kong.

Sassy Supports: Clean Waterways Initiative

Nicole Moraleda — Sun, 05 Jun 2022 22:00:41 +0000

One couple on a mission to clean Hong Kong’s most polluted waterways.

With its fleet of solar-powered boats, Clean Waterways Initiative has been tirelessly working to prevent rubbish and plastic debris in Hong Kong’s waterways from making its way into the open ocean. The non-profit was set up by Ellen Ogren and her husband Angus Harris who saw first-hand how bad the water pollution problem has become. They’re on a mission to clear the seas for their two children and future generations (marine life included!).

With the backing of HSBC, they’ve stationed their boats in two of the city’s most polluted waterways – Aberdeen and Victoria Harbour – and hope to expand their operation to clear other areas. We spoke to Ellen to learn more about the initiative and what we can do to help keep our waters clean.

Tell us about Clean Waterways Initiative. What inspired the idea?

My husband Angus and I set up Clean Waterways Initiative in 2019. Living by the beach in Shek O Village with our two young children, we are constantly reminded of Hong Kong’s marine plastic pollution problem. We saw a dire need for more efficient trash-collecting boats in Hong Kong, so we set out to design a solar-powered boat that could efficiently collect, sort and unload trash from Hong Kong’s waterways.

Our boat, which is a complete re-think of the refuse collection boats that are currently in operation, is a uniquely designed catamaran with a two-stage filtration system. This includes a primary rake for collecting larger items’ debris and a secondary filter for removing small broken up waste particles such as polystyrene. Our boats are 100% solar powered with zero-emission outputs.

In partnership with HSBC, we have so far built four boats which collect plastic and waste from Hong Kong’s heavily polluted waterways. As a Hong Kong-based corporation with a global outlook, and a shared vision and values, we are really grateful to have joined forces with HSBC on this project.

Our main goal is to prevent rubbish and plastic debris from making its way from the densely populated waterways of Hong Kong into the open ocean where it will have a harmful effect on marine ecosystems. We are starting by targeting trash hot spots in Aberdeen and Victoria Harbour, stationing two boats in each location, and hope to expand the operation both in Hong Kong and across borders.

Why should we care?

The world’s oceans are in the depths of a plastic crisis. Globally, nine million tonnes of plastics are dumped into the ocean every year and it is estimated that by 2050, plastic will outweigh fish in the sea.

Tonnes of trash enters Hong Kong’s waterways each day, spreading to the outlying coastlines and the South China Sea. Our beaches are awash with litter, studies have shown that microplastic levels here are 40% higher than the global average. Without action, many marine species and habitats globally face extinction – Hong Kong alone is home to over 6,000 marine species. Also at risk is the health of the people that rely on seafood as their main source of protein.

How can we help?

We realise that cleaning up our waterways will not solve the plastic pollution crisis alone and that’s why educating the next generation is a key element of our mission. The HSBC Clean Waterways Programme includes a series of community education and volunteer programmes that help address and raise awareness of the global plastic waste issue.

If you are a teacher or parent, ask your school/children’s school if they’d like to join our harbour observation tour. Together with local environmental charity Plastic Free Seas, we host educational harbour tours where participants will learn about plastic pollution, marine science and overfishing, as well as get tips on recycling and how to reduce single-use plastic in everyday life. For more information and to make a booking, please contact us at info@cleanwaterwayshk.com.

Ocean pollution needs collective action and as consumers, we hold the power to impact change. Tweaks to our lifestyle habits can make a huge difference. Starting off when we shop, be more aware of how each product is packaged and make conscious decisions. Carry a tote or two when shopping to avoid using single-use plastic bags.

Disposable takeaway items make up a huge percentage of the waste dumped in Hong Kong’s landfills (100 million items are used every week!). If you grab a takeaway meal, use reusable containers and utensils. There are some great steel and bamboo sets available online and in stores around Hong Kong. Lastly, carry a reusable bottle – an estimated 5.2 million plastic bottles are dumped in Hong Kong every day.

To stay up to date with our future activities and volunteer programmes, sign up to our newsletter on our website or contact us directly info@cleanwaterwayshk.com.

Clean Waterways Initiative, info@cleanwaterwayshk.com, www.cleanwaterwaysinitiative.com, www.facebook.com/cleanwaterwaysinitiative, www.instagram.com/cleanwaterwaysinitiative

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Sassy Supports: Pink Alliance

Nicole Moraleda — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 22:00:33 +0000

Advancing dignity, acceptance and equal rights for people of different sexual orientations…

This month we’re shining a light on Pink Alliance, a local charity organisation promoting equal rights for LGBT+ people in Hong Kong. Acting as a link between organisations and individuals that support its cause, the charity has been a powerful catalyst for unity and collaboration in the local LGBT+ community.

The LGBT+ scene is certainly growing in strength thanks to the effort of organisations such as Pink Alliance, but there is still a long way to go before we will see an end to discrimination in the city. We spoke to Jerome Yau, Pink Alliance’s Vice Chair and CEO, about the charity organisation and how we can support its cause.

Tell us about your charity. What does Pink Alliance do?

Pink Alliance is a non-profit LGBT+ organisation, whose mission is to advance dignity, acceptance and equal rights for people of different sexual orientations and gender identities in Hong Kong through community engagement and public education.

We were built on the momentum created by the Tongzhi Community Joint Meeting, an alliance of LGBTQI+ groups formed in 1999 on the back of Hong Kong’s first LGBTQI+ festival. TCJM evolved into an organisation in its own right. In 2011, we rebranded as Pink Alliance, and in 2017 we became a registered charity.

Aside from our advocacy and educational efforts, we organise Asia’s premier LGBTQI+ festival Pink Season, monthly professional networking event Fruits in Suits, and commemorative events for the annual International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT).

Why should we care?

Despite a series of legal victories, LGBTQI+ people continue to face discrimination in their daily lives. For example, there is no protection from unjust dismissal in the workplace if an employee comes out and is fired by his or her employer. And when it comes to same-sex relationships, Hong Kong does not recognise gay marriage or civil partnership.

Also, transgender individuals face considerable hurdles in affirming their gender identities. In a nutshell, there is unequal treatment in law, and this goes against the shared values of Hongkongers – equality and justice.

How can we help?

Whether you are able to commit to a long-term position as a recruiting officer, assist in organising the next Pink Season, or are keen to volunteer in your spare time, offering your skills as a photographer, videographer, or translator, there are many opportunities to support the work of Pink Alliance. Those are just a few examples of how you can help. For more information head to our website or email info@pinkalliance.hk to show your interest.

Pink Alliance, info@pinkalliance.hk, www.pinkalliance.hk

Editor’s Note: Charities are constantly looking for volunteers, donations and support – and they need it now more than ever. To help them during this difficult time, we’re putting a spotlight on a different charity each month. If you’re a charity, or know of one that could use a shout-out, feel free to reach out to us at sassy@sassyhongkong.com and we’ll try our best to feature them in one of our upcoming Sassy Supports!

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