[2022 National Audit] Han Hwajin "Nationwide Implementation of Single-Use Cup Deposit System, Introduction After 2024"

Hanwha-jin, Minister of Environment, is attending the Government Policy Coordination Meeting held at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 30th. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Dongwoo Lee] Han Hwajin, Minister of Environment, predicted that the nationwide implementation of the disposable cup deposit system would be possible in two years.

On the 21st, Minister Han responded to a related inquiry from Yoon Geonyeong, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, during the comprehensive audit of the Ministry of Environment by the National Assembly's Environment and Labor Committee, saying, "After analyzing the monitoring effects of the pilot regions."

Previously, the nationwide implementation of the disposable cup deposit system, originally scheduled for June, was postponed by six months due to the impact of COVID-19 and other factors. Subsequently, the Ministry of Environment revised its plan to conduct pilot projects in Sejong and Jeju in December, citing institutional deficiencies.

In response to Yoon's question about the expected duration of the pilot projects for the disposable cup deposit system in Jeju and Sejong, Minister Han said, "It is difficult to specify an exact period," but added, "We believe a minimum period of one year is necessary."

When asked whether the Ministry of Environment's position is to implement the system nationwide after mid-2024, he explained, "There is no fixed schedule," but added, "We intend to observe the pilot regions for more than one year and aim to implement it within three years."

Minister Han stated, "There are many issues with the deposit system as currently designed," and added, "We need to monitor overall consumer awareness and other factors comprehensively and consider revising the law."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.