A community worker in Yuhang district, Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, puts up a poster encouraging people to use serving chopsticks. [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn]

A delegate to the fourth session of the 11th Hangzhou Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) suggested establishing a Serving Chopsticks Day on Double 11th (which falls on November 11) during the session, which commenced on April 24.

Ge Jihong, a professor at Zhejiang University of Media and Communications and a delegate to the session, said his proposal was meant to encourage Chinese people to use serving chopsticks for the sake of public health.

He said that many places across the country are having trouble convincing people to adopt new table manners, as many Chinese people regard it as unnecessary.

Ge also noted that it is not easy to distinguish serving chopsticks from regular chopsticks, as they look almost the same, making things even more difficult.

Ge also noted that the date 11/11 looks similar to two pairs of chopsticks, making it easier for people to remember.

He said that government departments should collaborate and encourage families and dining halls to use serving chopsticks.

He also suggested making serving chopsticks more easily distinguishable from regular ones by adding some cultural designs to them.