Act on Promotion of Resource Recycling of Plastics (Act No. 60 of 2021).

This Act promotes the circular use of plastic resources by implementing measures such as reducing and rationalizing the use of plastic products, establishing systems that support municipalities in collecting and recycling plastic waste, and encouraging businesses to voluntarily collect and recycle used plastic items. Its overarching aim is to respond to environmental challenges posed by plastic waste and contribute to both environmental protection and sustainable economic development.
The Act provides clear definitions of key terms—including plastic products, used plastic products, plastic waste, and recyclable materials—and sets out the respective responsibilities of the national government, local governments, businesses, and consumers. It emphasizes waste reduction, proper separation, reuse, and recycling. Additionally, the Act introduces design guidelines to help manufacturers reduce plastic usage and improve product recyclability. It also regulates businesses that distribute certain plastic items and establishes frameworks to promote effective waste collection, recycling programs, and voluntary recovery efforts by manufacturers.