[The Hwankyung Ilbo] A ‘plan to reduce disposable single-use items’ will be implemented, to reduce disposable products by 35% by 2022.

Starting in 2021, paper cups (except vending machine paper cups) will be banned if they can be replaced with multi-use cups (mugs).

Plastic bags that are banned from large stores (more than 3,000 square meters) and supermarkets (165 square meters) will also be banned from use in general retail and confectionery stores from 2022. Except where inevitable, plastic bags will be banned from all industries from 2030.

Plastics-made straws will be banned from 2022. Plastic coverings for wet umbrellas distributed at government offices will be prohibited from 2020, and at large stores from 2022.

The government will first pursue voluntary agreements with industries starting next year, and will seek to find and spread excellent models and come up with concrete alternatives to improve the system.

In order to implement the plan, the government plans to closely consult with related ministries and agencies to minimize any possible negative impact on the implementation process.

The government plans to lead the participation and practice of the entire nation and improve the consumption culture to reduce disposable products

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