[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City (Mayor Kim Samho) is seeing an increase in citizens participating in the ‘Cigarette Butt Collection Reward Program’ launched to create clean streets and prevent environmental pollution.
According to Gwangsan-gu on the 14th, in August when the cigarette butt collection reward program started on August 17, the collection amount was 21 cases weighing 10.2 kg, but last month it increased fourfold to 89 cases weighing 41.3 kg.
Accordingly, the reward payments also increased from 158,000 won in August to 815,300 won in September.
It is analyzed that the number of participants is gradually increasing as the program becomes known through Gwangsan-gu’s active promotional efforts.
Considering that the Chuseok holiday was included in September, the collection performance in October is expected to increase further.
Meanwhile, cigarette butts discarded on the streets not only spoil the appearance but are also considered a major cause of environmental pollution due to microplastics contained in the filters.
The cigarette butt collection reward program implemented to solve this issue is a project that pays rewards based on the weight of collected cigarette butts. Residents aged 20 or older who are not involved in cleaning work can collect 250 to 500 grams of cigarette butts per day and receive 100 won per 5 grams, up to a maximum of 50,000 won per month.
To apply for the reward, bring the collected cigarette butts, ID card, and bankbook to the nearest neighborhood administrative welfare center.
A Gwangsan-gu official said, “As the cigarette butt collection reward program enters its second month, it is gaining momentum through word of mouth,” and added, “We will continue to promote the project and encourage participation so that many residents can take part.”
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