SOUTH KOREA. Shinsegae Duty Free is set to phase out single-use plastic bags at its stores starting from July, replacing them with eco-friendly paper bags.
The retailer will, however, keep the 92-litre size plastic bags for large items.
The initiative forms an important part of the company’s commitment to promote sustainable travel.
The eco-friendly paper bags from the travel retailer are made from kraft paper (uncoated and unbleached) and use ink derived from soybean oil.
Initially introduced in March last year, these eco-friendly bags minimise the need for chemical materials. However, they were previously used alongside plastic bags due to product-specific requirements and safety concerns during transportation, noted the retailer.
In addition, the retailer will increase its range of paper bags from three types to six, with enhanced specifications.
Shinsegae Duty Free will offer larger paper shopping bags, with the weight increased from 120g to 175g, to ensure shoppers can carry their items more safely.
Estimates from the travel retailer suggest that the increased use of eco-friendly paper bags will eventually replace the annual usage of 3.2 million plastic bags (figure as of 2023).
To strengthen its ESG commitment, Shinsegae Duty Free rolled out reusable eco-friendly packaging called Green Bag in 2020.
The company took a step forward in its sustainability drive in March 2023 by actively promoting the use of eco-friendly paper bags and launching the ‘No Bag Campaign’ in June.
Furthermore, Shinsegae Duty Free has implemented eco-friendly practices throughout its entire logistics network.
Among these sustainability efforts are minimising the use of plastic bubble wrap by using moving racks and green bags. The company has also introduced electronic receipts to reduce waste from printed receipts and waiting tickets, and repurposed damaged paper boxes as recyclable packaging material.
Shinsegae Duty Free noted that these efforts have received positive responses from customers.
A Shinsegae Duty Free representative said: “This policy reflects our commitment to raising increasing environmental awareness among customers and promoting sustainable consumption.
“We consider it our important mission to help customers make more environmentally conscious choices. Shinsegae Duty Free aims to be a role model for both environmental protection and social responsibility, benefitting both current and future generations.” ✈
