Gwangju

1. Overview of the Waste Management System in Gwangju

South Korea operates a "Volume-Based Waste Fee System" (종량제, Jongryangje), which means residents pay for waste disposal based on the amount of waste they generate. This system encourages recycling and proper waste separation. Gwangju follows this national system, with some local variations.

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2. Categories of Waste

Waste in Gwangju is divided into several categories, each with specific disposal rules:

a. General Waste (일반쓰레기)

• Definition: Non-recyclable waste, such as used tissues, sanitary products, and food-contaminated items.
• Disposal: Must be placed in designated "Volume-Based Garbage Bags" (종량제 봉투, Jongryangje Bongtu), which are color-coded and sold at local convenience stores, supermarkets, and district offices.
• Cost: The price of the bags depends on their size (e.g., 5L, 10L, 20L, etc.). A 10L bag typically costs around 300-500 KRW.
• Collection: Place the bag at designated collection points (usually near your residence) on the scheduled collection days.

b. Food Waste (음식물 쓰레기)

• Definition: Leftover food, fruit peels, vegetable scraps, etc. (excluding bones, shells, and other non-biodegradable items).
• Disposal: Food waste must be separated and disposed of in special food waste bags (음식물 쓰레기 봉투, Eumsikmul Sseuregi Bongtu), which are also sold at local stores.
• Cost: These bags are smaller and cheaper than general waste bags, costing around 200-300 KRW for a 2L bag.
• Collection: Dispose of food waste in designated food waste bins, which are often located in residential areas or apartment complexes.

c. Recyclables (재활용)

• Definition: Items such as paper, cardboard, plastics, glass bottles, cans, and Styrofoam.
• Disposal: Recyclables do not require special bags. Instead:
  • Clean and sort items by type (e.g., paper, plastic, glass).
  • Flatten cardboard boxes and remove any tape or non-paper materials.
  • Rinse containers to remove food residue.
• Collection: Place recyclables in designated recycling bins or areas, which are often separate from general waste collection points.

d. Large Waste Items (대형폐기물)

• Definition: Bulky items such as furniture, mattresses, appliances, and electronics.
• Disposal: Requires a special disposal sticker (대형폐기물 스티커, Daehyeong Pyegimul Sticker), which can be purchased at local district offices or online through the Gwangju city website.
• Cost: Fees vary depending on the item. For example, disposing of a small chair might cost around 2,000 KRW, while a refrigerator could cost 10,000 KRW or more.
• Collection: After purchasing the sticker, attach it to the item and place it at the designated collection point on the scheduled day.

e. Hazardous Waste (유해 폐기물)

• Definition: Batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and other hazardous materials.
• Disposal: These items should be taken to designated drop-off points, often found at community centers, district offices, or recycling stations.

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3. Collection Procedures

• Schedules: Waste collection days and times vary by neighborhood. Check with your local district office or apartment management office for the specific schedule.
• Placement: Waste should be placed at designated collection points (usually near residential buildings or on the street) the evening before or early on the morning of the collection day.
• Enforcement: Improper disposal (e.g., using the wrong bags or mixing recyclables with general waste) can result in fines ranging from 50,000 KRW to 1,000,000 KRW.

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4. Costs and Fees

• Volume-Based Garbage Bags: Prices vary by size and type (general waste vs. food waste). Expect to spend around 10,000-20,000 KRW per month for a small household.
• Large Waste Disposal Stickers: Fees depend on the item being disposed of.
• Recyclables: Free to dispose of, provided they are properly sorted and cleaned.

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5. Cultural and Local Considerations

• Community Responsibility: Waste management is taken very seriously in South Korea. Neighbors may report improper disposal, so it’s important to follow the rules carefully.
• Language Barrier: Most waste bags and instructions are written in Korean. If you’re unsure, ask a local or use a translation app to understand the labels and instructions.
• Apartment Complexes: Many apartment buildings have their own waste disposal areas with clear signage and separate bins for each type of waste.
• Food Waste Recycling: South Korea has one of the highest food waste recycling rates in the world. Be diligent about separating food waste, as this is a key part of the system.

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6. Tips for Visitors and New Residents

• Buy the Right Bags: Look for the correct garbage bags for your district (e.g., 동구, Dong-gu; 서구, Seo-gu). Each district may have its own designated bags.
• Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about the rules, ask your landlord, building manager, or a local resident for guidance.
• Use Apps: Some apps, like "iRecycling" or local government apps, provide information on waste disposal schedules and procedures.
• Be Mindful of Timing: Avoid leaving waste out on non-collection days, as this can lead to fines or complaints.

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By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to navigate Gwangju’s waste management system effectively and contribute to the city’s environmental sustainability efforts.