[News AS] Is Forcing Disabled People to Wash Reusable Cups at Cafes Abuse?

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[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] ◇ Article Summary: The Ministry of Science and ICT's Korea Post Headquarters held a public interest project idea contest last month and selected the "Reusable Cup Washing Project" as the winning entry. The idea is to replace disposable plastic cups used in cafes and coffee shops with reusable cups, and have people with disabilities take charge of washing them. This concept aims to reduce plastic pollution and create jobs for people with disabilities. The Korea Post Headquarters is currently reviewing the actual implementation of the project through the Korea Post Public Interest Foundation. (Asia Economy online report dated September 17)

◇ Reader Opinions and Criticisms.

1. Isn't this abusive to people with disabilities since even ordinary people find it difficult?

2. Similar projects for jobs for people with disabilities have already been carried out. Is this a copy?

◇ News AS

The idea was submitted by a religious organization involved in job projects for people with developmental disabilities. Many people with developmental disabilities are already performing similar tasks in cafes and restaurants. Contrary to prejudice, there are areas where, with proper vocational education, training, or assistance, they can perform the same tasks as non-disabled people. Above all, the proposed Reusable Cup Washing Project is not like existing job projects for people with disabilities that support employment at individual cafes, but is based on a specialized washing facility equipped with automated systems. The system collects cups from cafes, transports them by vehicle to the facility, washes them with washing machines, and then delivers them back. Some local governments in Seoul and other areas already have general companies addressing plastic pollution through similar business models. People with developmental disabilities will be assigned appropriate tasks within this system. The Korea Post Public Interest Foundation is considering a business model that financially supports the installation and operation of such facilities. Public interest project experts thoroughly reviewed the submissions during the contest judging process and selected the winning entry accordingly.