Korea dangles $0.60 discount to push coffee drinkers away from plastic

Hoping to nudge consumers away from a deeply ingrained culture of convenience, Korea's environment ministry announced a sweeping pact, Tuesday, with 23 of the country’s largest food and beverage chains to phase out single-use plastics across more than 22,000 stores nationwide.

The agreement, signed at the Seoul Upcycling Plaza, brings together global giants like Starbucks and McDonald’s alongside major domestic brands such as Paris Baguette and Ediya Coffee, as well as 150 independent cafes.

Organized by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, the initiative represents a highly coordinated effort to normalize eco-friendly habits in a country famous for its bustling, fast-paced coffee culture.

Under the new guidelines, which will take effect in September, participating outlets will offer substantial financial incentives to customers who bring their own tumblers.

By combining store-specific discounts with the government’s "carbon neutrality points," consumers can save up to 800 won ($0.60) per beverage.

To further reduce daily waste, single-use items like plastic straws wil