Why are Hong Kong businesses still giving us paper receipts?
Jenni Marsh wonders how Hong Kong can do some things so efficiently while retaining archaic practices in other areas, such as shopping
I recently read about a therapy that could revolutionise cancer treatment. Scientists now believe it is possible to harness our own immune systems to fight cancer, potentially making traumatic treatments such as chemotherapy redundant. It's mind-bogglingly futuristic, fantastic stuff.
Why is it we are so ahead on some issues, and so archaic on others?
Take receipts, for example. At a time when most governments - even that of China - admit we need to battle climate change, shops, bars and restaurants globally still print off a piece of paper nearly every time we buy something.
What good is a receipt for a glass of wine? For an Indian takeaway? For a pack of chewing gum? Am I going to be able to get a refund if it isn't chewy enough?
At my local supermarket, there is a huge bin after the checkouts, overflowing with unwanted receipts.
