As the fear of COVID-19 lingers on, consumers and restaurants have become more dependent on single-use plastic bags and containers as they rely on food delivery services during the pandemic.
The volume of plastic waste is surging while recycling rates are dropping.
Joseph Kim reports.


This is (협재) Hyeopjae Beach crowded with vacationers.


Many of them are holding a single-use plastic container for cold drinks.
Some enjoy food taken out from a restaurant.
All of the bowls and dishes are disposable plastic.


Consumers and restaurants have become more dependent on single-use plastic bags and containers due to health concerns prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.


The Ministry of Environment has rolled back the ban on single-use plastic packaging because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Plastic waste is surging.


More than 200 tons of single-use packaging trash is carried to the Jeju City's landfill in (회천) Hoecheon every month.



The recycle rate for plastic waste has dropped significantly.


Prices for used plastic and paper have dropped nationwide, therefore recycling facilities have rejected them. This contributes to the piled up plastic trash.


The COVID-19 pandemic is unleashing a tidal wave of plastic waste as the situation is prolonged.

Joseph Kim, KCTV