In South Korea, plastic waste is increasing yearly, with a government plan to reduce it by 30% by 2030 amidst ongoing debates about regulations on single-use cups and delivery packaging.
Plastic waste in South Korea is rising by 7% annually, with only 9% of it being recycled. Half of the plastic products used are temporary packaging or containers. In response to this issue, the South Korean government unveiled a comprehensive plan in December to reduce plastic waste by 30% by 2030, but debates continue about regulations concerning single-use cups and delivery packaging. An expert from Greenpeace has raised multiple concerns about the government's approach and has suggested alternatives to address the plastic problem.
Recently, an experience at an IKEA store highlighted the influence of European regulations, where customers encountered a 'tethered cap' design on European beverages that attached the lid to the bottle. This design, although initially awkward, serves as an example of the European Union’s single-use plastic directive being implemented in the market, indicating how international standards are penetrating daily life.
A common question arises regarding why European regulations should be accepted as the benchmark. Even within Europe, there is debate over the pace of regulations and their impact on industries, indicating that a straightforward adoption of these rules may not be prudent due to differing industrial structures and policy environments across countries. However, the 'Brussels Effect' signifies that European regulations are becoming global standards, compelling companies wishing to enter the European market to comply, thereby reducing dual production burdens.
