한국과 대만의 역물류 시스템 비교 분석 연구-폐건전지를 중심으로-

Abstract

Over the past 20 years, the challenge of proper disposal methods for waste batteries is an escalating concern due to its potential to pose environmental hazards. In 2006, the European Union (EU) promulgated the Battery Directive and introduced the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system, which stipulates the roles and responsibilities of battery manufacturers and related industries in the operation of reverse logistics of waste batteries in manufacturing, distribution and sales, and recycling. This has prompted the transformation of waste battery disposal in many countries from burial to full recycling of waste batteries, as well as the long-term goal of the sustainable development of resources. South Korea is one of the centers of technological development in the modern world. High-tech products made by domestic manufacturers are loved worldwide. In Asia, Taiwan shares similar technological strength with South Korea, the two often being compared. In recent years, South Korea and Taiwan have considerable exchanges in the operation of the reverse logistics system of waste batteries. To provide an efficient solution to improve current waste batteries reverse logistics management, this study will explore the operation mode of the two countries, through investigating and analyzing the disposal behavior and environmental awareness of the waste batteries of the two nationals. Research methods: First, this study reviews the current status of government policies and regulations, management organization and operating methods, and current operating results of the reverse logistics system in South Korea and Taiwan. Next, a questionnaire survey focuses on waste battery recycling was conducted in both countries. The content of the survey includes three levels. 1. The current status of battery usage habits in both countries 2. The current status of using conventional battery recycling boxes and the inconveniences during use. 3. Average knowledge level of waste battery recycling and acceptance of relevant information in the sample population. Survey results are examined and analyzed through t-test and cross-analysis. Research results: After comparing the current status of the waste battery reverse logistics system between South Korea and Taiwan, this study found that although the central government of South Korea has comprehensive policy planning, it is hard for the regional government to implement those regulations. Potential reasons include the lack of incentive programs and low waste batteries recycling sites. The results of the questionnaire survey show that Korean citizens have a better understanding of the use of batteries compared to Taiwan nationals, but they are less concerned regarding environmental pollution caused by waste batteries. On the other hand, multiple defects of waste battery recycling facilities in South Korea include the poor design of the recycling box, incomplete disposal instruction, insufficient disposal locations, all lead to the result of a low overall recycling rate of used batteries. This study recommends that South Korea should establish a convenient waste battery recycling system, and actively educate and promote knowledge about waste battery recycling through incentives to achieve environmental protection and sustainable development of society.