South Korean counties launch agricultural waste management initiatives

Local governments in South Korea are implementing measures to manage agricultural waste and prevent forest fires during the autumn harvest season.

Seongju County has announced a concentrated collection period for agricultural waste running from October 6 to November 6. The initiative aims to reduce the burden on farmers, prevent illegal incineration that poses wildfire risks, and maintain a clean rural environment. The county will provide free disposal for specific items, including thermal covers, shading nets, reflective films, and beehives, while other materials will incur a fee. Collected waste will be processed through recycling, incineration, or landfilling depending on its characteristics.

In Boseong County, authorities are accepting applications for an agricultural byproduct shredding support project through October 28. This program targets farmers to reduce fine dust and prevent wildfires caused by burning residues such as pepper stalks, sesame stalks, and fruit tree prunings. The county will provide free on-site shredding services from November 2 to December 10, prioritizing elderly, disabled, and female farmers located near forested areas. Shredded materials can then be recycled as compost.