Challenge / Goal
This use case was initiated to address the critical issue of plastic waste from ships being dumped into the ocean or incinerated. With around 11,000 ships arriving annually at Gwangyang Port, managing plastic waste is challenging, often resulting in environmental harm. The primary goal is to establish a circular economy for marine waste plastics, preventing offshore dumping, and ensuring plastics like PET bottles are collected and recycled. By processing collected plastics into recycled polyester yarn, the project aims to protect the environment, create added value, and generate jobs. It involves collaborations with coastal guards, textile manufacturers, and social enterprises to produce high-value products, ultimately promoting sustainability and innovation in waste management.
Solution
To address the challenge of marine plastic waste, a comprehensive solution was developed by the Yeosu Gwangyang port ocean bound plastic circular economy project, involving the following five key steps:
- Step 1: Networking and Campaigns
Collaborated with the Korea Coast Guard to inspect arriving vessels, guide plastic discharge, and run public campaigns to prevent marine plastic dumping.
- Step 2: Collaboration with Cleaning Companies
Partnered with oil hold cleaning companies to sign MOUs, select efficient collection sites, and manage separate plastic collection facilities.
- Step 3: Organized Collection Systems
Designated managers to record daily plastic collection activities, manage collection amounts, and conduct on-site inspections in cooperation with Hyosung TNC for fabric production.
- Step 4: OBP Certification
Obtained Ocean Bound Plastic certification from Control Union and Zero Plastic Oceans to validate and add value to the recycled plastics.
- Step 5: Producing Recycled Goods
Developed and sold goods made from recycled marine plastic fabrics in collaboration with fashion companies and social enterprises, promoting ethical consumption and sustainability.
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Log inTime period
Implementation time
1 to 2 years
Implementers
Port of Yeosu Gwangyang
Service providers
Port of Yeosu Gwangyang
End users
The port, the city, partner social enterprises