Jae-Hong Kang Raises Questions at Hwasun County Council
Increase in Waste Generation, Shortage of Personnel
The need to inspect working conditions related to the management and field operations of municipal solid waste in Hwasun County, Jeonnam, has been raised.
On December 15, Jae-Hong Kang, a member of the Hwasun County Council, pointed out the seriousness of the overall municipal solid waste management system and on-site working conditions during a plenary session, urging the administration to conduct thorough inspections and establish practical countermeasures.
Kang stated, "Challenges are accumulating across the environmental sector, including the increase in household waste generation, the limited capacity of landfill sites, and structural issues in the recycling system." He further pointed out, "Poor working environments and safety issues for sanitation workers, garbage truck drivers, and employees at landfill and recycling sorting facilities are being neglected simultaneously."
He specifically highlighted the following as key issues: ▲ the daily volume of municipal solid waste generated and reduction measures ▲ the remaining capacity of landfill sites and their projected closure dates ▲ the processing capacity and workforce management at public recycling sorting facilities ▲ problems related to odor, fire, leachate, and gas at landfill sites ▲ the effectiveness of budget allocations for the Naju SRF facility ▲ and the shortage of road maintenance personnel and their working conditions.
Kang emphasized, "These issues are not merely administrative matters; they are directly linked to the daily lives and safety of residents, as well as the quality of life for future generations." He stressed, "Waste management is not a task that can be postponed any longer; it is a current crisis that must be addressed immediately."
He continued, "Creating a pleasant living environment that residents can truly feel, and protecting the safety and rights of on-site workers, are fundamental responsibilities of the administration." He called for "a clear roadmap and a responsible action plan based on the voices from the field."
In conclusion, Kang stated, "I hope that today's raising of these issues will not end as a one-off criticism, but will serve as a turning point in changing the direction of Hwasun County's waste management administration." He added, "Until the problems are resolved, I will stand by the residents and on-site workers, monitoring and holding the administration accountable."
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