Urgent Call for Sustainable Oyster Shell Management in Tongyeong
Tongyeong, renowned for its significant contribution to global oyster production, is facing a critical challenge: the responsible disposal of oyster shells. As the city produces 70-80% of the world's oysters after China, the increasing volume of discarded oyster shells poses environmental and aesthetic concerns.
The city's oyster processing facilities, particularly in Gwangdo-myeon, are encountering difficulties managing the aftermath of the oyster harvest season. With thousands of tons of oyster shells accumulating daily, Tongyeong is grappling with the unsightly and environmentally problematic "oyster mounds." These mounds, reaching heights comparable to an adult male, emit a pungent odor as the organic matter in the shells decomposes.
Tongyeong's struggle highlights a broader issue arising from the booming consumption of seafood. The per capita seafood consumption has more than doubled from 36.7 kilograms in 2000 to 68.4 kilograms in 2021, leading to a surge in fishery by-products. Unfortunately, only a fraction, 19.5%, of these by-products, including bones, fins, intestines, and shells, are recycled.
In Tongyeong's case, the disposal challenge is particularly pronounced for oyster shells. The city's attempt to utilize recycling options has been hindered by odor complaints, leading to a ban on bringing oyster shells to recyclers since 2020. With limited options, some shells are being dumped into the sea, exacerbating environmental concerns.
To address this pressing issue, there is a call for governmental intervention. Suggestions include relaxing standards to facilitate oyster shell recycling as building and landfill materials or supporting the development of high-value-added products utilizing the calcium present in the shells. Stakeholders propose collaboration with major industries like POSCO and Hyundai Steel to explore innovative solutions. More than 90% of oyster shells consist of calcium carbonate, similar to limestone.
Recognizing the urgency of the matter, the government is exploring solutions, including supporting pretreatment facilities for oyster shell recycling and potential amendments to laws allowing the use of oyster shells as landfill material in shared waters. The commitment is to expand oyster shell recycling options and secure markets, fostering a sustainable and responsible approach to manage this critical by-product of the seafood industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the major issue faced by Tongyeong regarding oyster shells? A: Tongyeong struggles with the disposal of oyster shells, facing challenges due to their increasing quantity and environmental concerns.
Q: Why are oyster shells being dumped into the sea? A: With limited recycling options, some oyster shells are being dumped into the sea, contributing to odor complaints and environmental issues.
Q: How much oyster shells does Tongyeong produce annually? A: Tongyeong produces approximately 250,000 to 300,000 tons of oyster shells each year.
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