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Applying Material Flow Analysis for Sustainable Waste Management of Single-Use Plastics and Packaging Materials in the Republic of Korea

Author

Listed:
  • Hyeong-Jin Choi

    (National Institute of Environmental Research, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea)

  • Donggun Hwang

    (National Institute of Environmental Research, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea)

  • Young-Sam Yoon

    (National Institute of Environmental Research, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea)

  • Tae-Wan Jeon

    (National Institute of Environmental Research, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea)

  • Seung-Whee Rhee

    (Department of Environmental Engineering, Colleage of Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon 16227, Republic of Korea)

Abstract

This study involves a material flow analysis (MFA) of single-use plastics (SUPs) and packaging materials in the Republic of Korea, focusing on their short lifespans and significant contributions to plastic waste. Based on the MFA results, recommended policies for managing packaging materials and SUPs were proposed. In 2021, 6.340 Mt of synthetic resin were produced, with 39.7% (2.518 Mt) utilized for packaging materials and SUPs. The per capita consumption of these materials was 48.7 kg/year, surpassing global averages. The separate collection rate was 54.6%, with films (26.2%) and manufacturing facilities (10.6%) exhibiting the lowest rates. The overall recycling rate was 52.7%, and 981 t of recycled waste was directly placed in soil. The reliability of the MFA results was estimated to be 83.1%, which is an improvement compared to previous studies. Recommendations include reducing plastic use, expanding recycling infrastructure, raising public awareness, and implementing stricter regulations to control soil contamination.

Suggested Citation

  • Hyeong-Jin Choi & Donggun Hwang & Young-Sam Yoon & Tae-Wan Jeon & Seung-Whee Rhee, 2024. "Applying Material Flow Analysis for Sustainable Waste Management of Single-Use Plastics and Packaging Materials in the Republic of Korea," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:16:p:6926-:d:1455133
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Meherishi, Lavanya & Narayana, Sushmita A. & Ranjani, K.S., 2021. "Integrated product and packaging decisions with secondary packaging returns and protective packaging management," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 292(3), pages 930-952.
    2. Nnorom, Innocent Chidi & Osibanjo, Oladele, 2008. "Sound management of brominated flame retarded (BFR) plastics from electronic wastes: State of the art and options in Nigeria," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 52(12), pages 1362-1372.
    3. Mohamed Chaker Necibi & Driss Dhiba & Souad El Hajjaji, 2021. "Contaminants of Emerging Concern in African Wastewater Effluents: Occurrence, Impact and Removal Technologies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-12, January.
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