Paper straw manufacturers are facing significant challenges following the government’s decision to extend the “notice period” preceding the plastic straw ban. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 17 (Korea Bizwire) – Paper straw manufacturers are facing significant challenges following the government’s decision to extend the “notice period” preceding the plastic straw ban. Expressing their trust in the government, these companies find themselves in a crisis and are urgently seeking emergency funding.
The Paper Straw Survival Plan Council, comprising 11 paper straw companies, released a press statement on Thursday outlining the adverse effects of the Environmental Protection Agency’s indefinite extension of the notice period for the plastic straw ban. According to the council, its member companies currently hold 140 million straws in stock, with an estimated total of 200 million when non-council members are included.
The council noted that its members collectively produce 270 million straws per month. However, following the announcement of the delay of the plastic straw ban, sales came to a halt, and production machines were shut down.
Emphasizing that most paper straw companies are small and medium-sized enterprises, the council urgently called for immediate government support in the form of emergency funds. They also stressed the importance of establishing a market for their existing inventory.
The council insisted on the need for the government to announce an exact timeline for the implementation of the plastic straw ban. On November 7, the Ministry of Environment effectively extended the notice period for the ban on plastic straws in cafes and restaurants indefinitely, leading to criticism from some who accuse the government of abandoning efforts to reduce plastic waste and placing undue strain on paper straw manufacturers.
In response to the criticism, the Ministry of Environment has urged food and beverage franchisees to continue using paper straws whenever possible. Additionally, the ministry has committed to devising a plan to support paper straw companies during this challenging period.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
