Food Waste in South Korea

By Kayla Lee

According to The Guardians, most food waste ends up in landfills in the US while South Korea recycles close to 100% annually. South Korea is recognized for its significant achievements in recycling and environmental programs, yet food waste remains a serious concern with far-reaching effects on the environment, economy, and public policy.

Countries are employing different strategies to tackle food waste. For instance, the United States generates approximately 40 million tons of food waste annually, accounting for nearly 30-40% of the total food supply. The European Union has made significant progress through strict regulations and campaigns focused on reducing food waste, but still discards around 88 million tons annually. Comparatively, South Korea’s annual food waste, estimated at over 5.5 million tons in 2023, appears lower, but the per-capita waste remains significant due to its dense population and food-centric culture.

BloombergNEF, OECD

To combat food waste, the South Korean government has enacted policies aimed at minimizing environmental impact. The PAYT (pay-as-you-throw) system, introduced in 2013, mandates that residents are charged based on the weight of their food waste. This policy effectively incentivizes individuals and businesses to minimize waste and has led to a reduction in food disposal since its implementation. South Korea's approach also includes turning food waste into resources, such as animal feed, compost, and biogas.

In addition, the effective usage of technology in South Korea has reduced food waste. The country developed smart waste bins equipped with sensors that monitor waste levels and encourage responsible disposal. These bins can be found in residential areas and public spaces, supporting the PAYT system and promoting transparency in waste management.

Reduction of food waste helps lower greenhouse gas emissions since decomposing food contributes significantly to methane production, a potent greenhouse gas. Economically, cutting down on food waste can save households and businesses money by maximizing resource use. These efforts contribute to more sustainable practices and a healthier planet.

Works Cited

“Food Loss and Waste Reduction.” United Nations, www.un.org/en/observances/end-food-waste-day#:~:text=Why%20is%20it%20important%20to,and%20capital%20%2D%20go%20to%20waste. Accessed 03 Nov. 2024.

“South Korea Has Almost Zero Food Waste. Here’s What the US Can Learn.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 20 Nov. 2022, www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/nov/20/south-korea-zero-food-waste-composting-system. Accessed 03 Nov. 2024.

“Pay-As-You-Throw Schemes: South Korea.” NetZero Pathfinders, www.netzeropathfinders.com/best-practices/pay-as-you-throw-schemes-south-korea. Accessed 03 Nov. 2024.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse