Attendees listen to a briefing on Korea's extended producer responsibility system, or EPR, during the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in Busan, Nov. 27. Courtesy of the Ministry of Environment

Korea's extended producer responsibility (EPR) system has become a fundamental aspect of recycling and sustainability efforts here, reinforcing the accountability of companies regarding their recycling efforts.

Introduced in 2003 to replace the previous waste deposit system, the EPR model requires companies to cover recycling costs based on their production volume. The system is designed to revitalize the recycling industry by mandating that producers fulfill recycling quotas tied to their output, directly supporting recycling firms, and bear the financial burden of waste recovery and processing.

Over 20 years since its introduction, the system has driven a significant transformation. Recycling rates have surged from 40.6 percent in 2002 to 72.9 percent by 2021. Economically, the system has generated an estimated 12 trillion won ($9 billion) in benefits. It has also contributed to environmental sustainability, achieving a cumulative reduction of 11.19 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

The EPR system is seen as a pivotal mechanism of the circular economy, encouraging companies to design products with recyclability in mind.

It gained international recognition during the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) held in Busan in November, where delegations highlighted the need to adopt the system worldwide.

Korea also pledged to share its experience and assist other countries in implementing similar initiatives.

The Korea Environment Corp. (K-eco) and the Korea Resource Circulation Service Agency (KORA) are promoting international cooperation efforts, such as sharing the country's EPR system expertise and best practices with developing nations.

In April, K-eco organized an EPR study tour for Philippine officials in collaboration with the World Bank. In July, it also signed a business agreement with Vietnam's National EPR Committee Secretariat, conducting an EPR training session for the secretariat's staff in September.

In December, K-eco, KORA and five collection and recycling companies signed a business agreement aimed at advancing global cooperation, including the development of household waste collection and recycling systems.

During the INC-5, Korea's delegation, alongside the World Bank, hosted consultations to introduce its EPR model to nations with limited waste management capabilities, drawing significant interest and engagement from attendees.