The transformation in South Korea's approach to food waste management has shifted from landfill dumping to resource utilization. After collection, food waste is sent to treatment facilities where it undergoes grinding, fermentation, and dehydration, ultimately being converted into fertilizers or biogas. These operations adhere to stringent environmental standards, reducing the negative impacts of landfills on the environment. Despite facing challenges such as odor issues and technological upgrades, this system has become an important step towards waste reduction and environmental protection, offering hope for sustainable development in South Korean society.
Background and Policies of Food Waste Management in South Korea
The Importance of Food Waste Management
Food waste management plays a crucial role in achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to Dr. Kim, managing food waste not only directly impacts the reduction of food waste (SDG Goal 12) but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and efficiently utilizes water and land resources.
The State of Food Waste in South Korea
Between 1996 and 2014, food waste accounted for approximately 22%-29% of household waste in South Korea, with around 14,000 tons of food waste generated daily in 2014. This situation is primarily due to the increase in single-person households, changes in dietary habits, and South Korea's unique food culture.
South Korea’s Food Waste Management System
South Korea was the first country to introduce a volume-based waste fee system starting from 1995. This system incentivizes waste reduction through economic mechanisms, charging citizens based on the weight of their waste.
Phase One (1994-2004): The initial implementation of the volume-based waste fee system led to a significant reduction in urban waste generation by nearly 14%.
Phase Two (2005-2012): The focus shifted to promoting the separate collection and recycling of food waste, resulting in a further 15% reduction in waste generation.
Phase Three (2012-Present): The comprehensive volume-based fee system for food waste was fully implemented, leading to a further 30% reduction in food waste generation by 2015.
In addition, the South Korean government encourages citizen participation in volunteer activities aimed at reducing food waste and has implemented programs for recycling food waste into biogas and fertilizers.
Through a combination of mandatory policies, economic incentives, and social engagement, South Korea has achieved significant success in food waste management. These measures have not only reduced the amount of waste but also increased the rate of resource utilization and heightened environmental awareness. The positive impacts of these strategies extend beyond South Korea, offering valuable insights and experiences for other countries aiming to enhance their food waste management practices. Overall, South Korea's innovative approach demonstrates how integrated policies and community involvement can drive substantial environmental improvements and support global sustainability efforts.
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