South Korea has a new problem to deal with: namely the disposal of plastic waste.
The government is looking to sharply reduce the use of plastic in the nation.
They hope to prevent the buildup of waste we saw at apartment complexes earlier this year when garbage trucks stopped picking up it up as it was no longer cost-effective.
The Environment Ministry is stepping up to the plate to deal with this problem.
Hong Yoo reports.
People reach for plastic bags for their groceries despite signs urging them to help the environment by using fewer bags.
But from October, plastic bags will no longer be used in South Korean supermarkets.
This is part of the government's measures, announced last Thursday, to manage recyclable waste.
"Reducing the use of disposable products and increasing recycling to become a society with sustainable resource circulation is an inevitable choice."
The countermeasures differ from the past because they also aim to reduce waste right from when the products are made.
"To make recycling easier, all colored plastic drinks bottles must be replaced by clear plastic bottles by 2020, and their labels must be easily detachable."
"It was a proper decision. Thoughtless exaggerated packaging and the endless use of plastic bags are contaminating our environment. So it is a good countermeasure."
"I bring my own shopping bag to help the environment at least a little bit."
To reduce the use of plastic cups in fast-food restaurants and cafes, the Environment Ministry will offer a 10 percent discount to customers who bring their own tumblers, and free refills to those that use mugs inside stores.
Along with the countermeasures, cooperation from the public and related businesses is crucial in order to reduce the amount of plastic waste.
Hong Yoo, Arirang News.
