Seoul Gangseo-gu Produces and Distributes 3,000 Transparent PET Bottle Label Removal Sticks

Published 05 Jul.2021 08:45(KST)

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Gangseo-gu, Seoul (Mayor Noh Hyun-song) has created a tool called the ‘Transparent PET Bottle Label Removal Stick’ that makes it easier to remove plastic labels attached to PET bottles.

Since the end of last year, it has been mandatory to remove labels when disposing of transparent PET bottles in apartment complexes, and it was judged that the label removal stick could be usefully applied.

Furthermore, starting this December, the separate disposal of transparent PET bottles will be expanded not only in apartment complexes but also in single-family homes and commercial areas. To promote this and encourage residents’ interest and participation, the project was planned.

The label removal stick is 15cm long and is equipped with a bottle opener function and a magnet to enhance practicality and portability. It is also designed so that the blade is not exposed externally for safe use.

The usage is simple. Just insert the label removal stick between the PET bottle and the plastic label and pull. The blade can also be replaced with a regular cutter blade for continuous use.

A total of 3,000 units will be produced and distributed mainly to apartment complexes where the label removal mandate was first implemented. They will also be delivered to frontline cleaning sites such as back road cleaning helpers and recycling stations.

The district office will continuously monitor the usage status of the removal sticks and the actual label removal situation, and will also consider additional production through future surveys.

An official from the district said, “Even just by separating waste, we can achieve environmental protection and economic cost reduction,” and added, “We hope everyone actively participates in the separate disposal of transparent PET bottles.”