Gift set packaging
| Packaging | Where it goes | Note |
|---|---|---|
| White styrofoam box | Styrofoam | Tape and labels off, clean |
| Colored or dirty styrofoam | General waste | Strong fish smell too |
| Fruit foam net | General waste | App guidance |
| Plastic tray and lid | Plastic | Rinsed |
| Paper box, shopping bag | Paper | Remove string and plastic handles |
| Non-woven gift bag | General waste | Reuse if still good |
Ice packs and insulation
The national guideline says whole ice packs go in the trash bag. Seoul adds that water-filled packs can be cut open, the water poured out and the plastic put in film recycling, while gel packs go to dedicated collection bins. Insulated pouches that combine foil and plastic are mixed material and go in general waste. Never pour gel down the drain.
Kimjang scraps
- Outer cabbage leaves, radish peel → food waste (drained)
- Green onion and water parsley roots; onion, garlic and ginger skins → general waste (Seoul’s rule)
- Chili powder and salted seafood bags → plastic film if rinsed clean, otherwise general
- Salted seafood glass jars → glass once rinsed, lid separately
Sort it in the app
Check each piece
Search each piece of packaging in Waste Sorting Guide: insulated pouches, white styrofoam, fruit foam nets and cup noodle containers each have their own entry and category.
Eco stats
Eco stats, from the chart icon at the top, counts correct quiz answers and finished checklist items as correct sorts and shows a rough estimate of greenhouse gas saved. The app labels it as an estimate based on average recycling figures. Share it with family as an eco card.
FAQ
The styrofoam box is huge.
If it’s clean with tape removed, put it out as is in styrofoam recycling. You can cut it down to save space.
I have a pile of unused ice packs.
Some districts and local shops collect them for reuse. Check your district office.
Waste Sorting Guide - Recycle
Search offline, no sign-up. Free on Android.