5 Reasons Why Embracing a Greener Lifestyle is Essential for South Korea
Plastic waste has become a critical issue worldwide. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) highlights the urgent need to reduce plastic waste in order to protect the environment, marine life, and communities. Each year, over 430 million tons of plastic are produced, with about 66% discarded after just one use. If current habits persist, this amount is expected to triple by 2060. Transitioning to a greener lifestyle is essential, and APP Group is taking meaningful steps to support this global effort.
In 2016, the average plastic consumption in South Korea was 98.2 kg per person annually. By 2019, a Statista report revealed that South Koreans used an astonishing 23.5 billion single-use plastic items, including 23.5 billion plastic bags (460 per person), 4.9 billion PET bottles (96 per person), and 3.3 billion plastic cups (65 per person). On average, each person used 11.5 kg of single-use plastic per year. In 2022, the South Korean Ministry of Environment implemented a ban on single-use plastics in convenience stores, cafes, and small businesses. However, this policy was retracted just a year later due to complaints from small business owners who claimed they could not survive without single-use plastics.
Here are five reasons why South Korea should eliminate single-use plastics for a sustainable future:
A Significant Threat to Marine Life
Plastic waste poses a serious danger to marine ecosystems. It disrupts habitats and is often ingested by sea creatures, leading to severe health problems. Reports indicate that some endangered species are particularly affected by plastic consumption. APP Group has recognized the importance of reducing plastic waste to protect marine ecosystems and is dedicated to providing alternatives that lessen environmental impact.
Health Risks for Humans
The dangers in our waters also affect land-dwelling species, including humans. People may unknowingly consume microplastics through seafood. These microplastics can contain harmful chemicals like styrene and phthalates, which are linked to various health issues, including cancer, hormonal disruption, and cardiovascular diseases. By promoting sustainable packaging, APP Group helps reduce the risk of microplastic contamination in food sources.
Concerns about Energy and Emissions
In addition to being difficult to decompose, plastic production has significant environmental impacts. Manufacturing processes emit gases and pollutants, and UNEP estimates that plastics could contribute to 19% of the global carbon budget if current production and disposal trends continue. Reducing the carbon footprint associated with plastics can be achieved by opting for more eco-friendly packaging, an area in which APP Group is actively pioneering.
Future Economic Benefits
Transitioning from plastic to sustainable alternatives can lead to economic advantages. With rising plastic taxes and production costs, stakeholders could save up to 4.5 trillion won in environmental and social expenses over the next 17 years, according to UNEP. Additionally, fostering a culture of recycling and reusing will create countless new opportunities, promoting an ecosystem for recycling, waste management, and the development of sustainable materials that benefit workers worldwide.
Act Now, Act Together to Maintain Momentum
The movement to reduce single-use plastic has gained global traction. Two years ago, the UN facilitated a historic agreement among nations to tackle plastic pollution, uniting all 193 member states in this effort.
As an alternative to plastics, APP Group showcased eco-friendly food packaging solutions at Seoul Food & Hotel 2023. Innovations like Foopak aim to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Paper-based packaging is easier to decompose or recycle compared to plastic, promoting a shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle. Changing our habits may be challenging, but it is achievable. Each of us can contribute to this ongoing effort by making small, sustainable changes that, when multiplied, can lead to significant impact.
