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Starting today, the use of disposable cups in cafes and bakeries has been banned once more.
However, there were many places in the field that used disposable cups as they decided not to be fined for a while even if they violated it.
I understand the situation in the field, but there are concerns that the system introduced to reduce waste and protect the environment may become obsolete.
Reporter Cha Hyun-jin looked around the stores.
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Lunchtime today, a cafe in Guro-dong, Seoul.
Customers drink drinks from disposable plastic cups inside the cafe.
The cafe owner apologizes to the guests.
[이준영/카페 업주]
“Next time you come, we’ll help guide you so that we can use the ‘Mug’.”
However, all the customers use in the cafe are disposable cups.
No further guidance is attempted by the owner.
Another large franchise cafe this time.
“From today, it is difficult to use disposable cups in the store.”
In front of the checkout counter, there is a sign that says that not only disposable cups but also forks and spoons can be used.
Nevertheless, there are still many customers who prefer disposable cups.
[박종국/카페 이용객]
“I understand from an environmental point of view, but in the era of Corona 19, I’m a bit reluctant to use a multi-use cup for hygiene reasons…”
In some coffee shops, a fight broke out between a customer who asked for a disposable cup and the owner who said no.
However, there were citizens who said that single-use garbage is increasing too much in the era of Corona, and that they would cooperate with government regulations.
[임지현/카페 이용객]
“As the number of times we eat delivered food increases, we can definitely feel that the amount of garbage is increasing… from the government’s point of view, it’s a natural trend to come up with such a policy…”
The Ministry of Environment is planning to proceed with guidance-centered ‘leading-up’ instead of crackdowns such as imposition of fines until the COVID-19 situation improves.
However, the deposit system for disposable cups will be revived from June, and restrictions on the use of paper cups and plastic bags are scheduled from November.
It is pointed out that it is necessary to establish regulations that have already started in order to prevent eco-friendly policies from becoming unpopular.
This is Cha Hyun-jin from MBC News.
Video coverage: Kim Jun-hyung / Video editing: Yang Hong-seok
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