The South Korean government has partnered with local authorities and private sector leaders to transform discarded election banners into valuable materials for various industries.

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety officially announced the signing of the multi-stakeholder pact. This collaboration brings together four industry leaders: SK Chemicals, Sejin Plus, Revelop, and Kakao—alongside five local governments, including Sejong City and Gangneung in Gangwon Province.

Each year, South Korea generates approximately 6,000 tons of banners used for political and public events, with an estimated 70% ending up incinerated or buried, adding to carbon emissions and environmental pollutants. With banner production expected to surge ahead of the 2025 presidential election and the local elections scheduled for June 2026, this initiative aims to foster a circular economy.

Image Credit: Yonhap News Agency