“Adopt a beach? I had no idea. That’s something new,” remarked a tourist when asked if they knew that Masian Beach had been adopted. On Sept. 21, the beach on Yeongjong Island in Incheon appeared pristine at first glance. However, a closer look revealed broken glass, plastic scraps, and other debris littering the shore. Masian Beach was first adopted by CJ CheilJedang in August 2021, followed by the U.S. Embassy in June 2022 and the Incheon Facilities Corporation in May 2023.
Now, the Adopt-a-Beach program, which encourages companies and organizations to voluntarily clean and manage coastal areas, faces an uncertain future. The government’s complete budget cut for the program has led to the indefinite suspension of new adoptions. While existing adopters continue their efforts, the lack of government support casts doubt on the program’s viability.
Inspired by the U.S. “Adopt-A-Beach” program launched in Texas in 1986, the initiative was reimagined for South Korea by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in 2020. Similar to adopting a pet, organizations commit to taking care of a beach, ensuring its cleanliness and sustainability. Any company, group, or school can participate, with adopters required to conduct at least three cleanup activities annually during their two-year commitment. They must also organize an environmental campaign at least once a year. If these requirements are met, their adoption can be extended; failure to comply results in disqualification.
The program expanded rapidly, transitioning from a regional initiative to a national one by 2022. Currently, 239 organizations, companies, schools, and groups manage 151 beaches across the country, with a cumulative total of 125,318.18 kg of marine waste collected through these efforts. However, the recent budget cuts have brought this momentum to a halt. According to the Marine Environment Information Portal under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, the issuance of beach adoption certificates—confirming a specific organization or group’s responsibility for a beach—has been suspended. Furthermore, the Ocean Care platform, which provides logistical support and information to adopters, is currently offline for a service overhaul.
The challenge is particularly pressing in South Korea, which boasts a coastline spanning 14,962 kilometers, dotted with numerous islands. Citizens, NGOs, and public agencies have worked tirelessly to combat marine debris, but the sheer volume and variety of waste complicate the issue, making it difficult for administrative bodies to tackle alone. For instance, Incheon’s coastline stretches 1,066 kilometers and includes over 100 islands. Last year alone, 5,512 tons of marine waste were collected from the city’s coastal waters.
Despite these financial setbacks, some local governments are taking proactive steps. South Gyeongsang Province, for example, announced in July its goal of designating 10 new beaches for adoption each year, urging companies, public institutions, and groups to get involved. Yoon Hwan-gil, head of the province’s Ports and Maritime Affairs Division, stated, “The Adopt-a-Beach program empowers residents to take ownership of the beaches, ensuring their preservation. We hope to see continued participation from public institutions, companies, and groups.”
According to the Gyeongnam Institute, a policy research facility in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea generates approximately 145,000 tons of marine waste annually, with 65.3% originating from land and 34.7% from maritime activities like fishing. It is estimated that 80% of marine debris is plastic. The amount of waste collected varies with the frequency of typhoons and floods each year but has generally been on the rise. In 2022, 125,000 tons of marine waste were collected, representing a 257% increase from the 49,000 tons collected in 2013.
The program’s rapid expansion and subsequent stagnation due to budget cuts reveal deeper systemic issues. While some local governments are taking proactive measures, the long-term success of the program hinges on restoring financial support and incentivizing new adopters. Experts emphasize that collaboration between public agencies and private entities is crucial for addressing the ongoing marine debris crisis.
Korean fishing community organizations warn that unchecked marine waste poses serious threats to biodiversity and local ecosystems. At a seminar hosted by the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) in June, focusing on the role of civil society in addressing marine waste, Ji Wook-cheol, director of the Tongyeong-Geoje Environmental Movement Association, suggested changes in the program’s operational management.
“While private entities can’t completely solve marine waste issues, local governments must assist in waste transport and management. The budget structure for non-profit organizations is weak, and we need to discuss and explore ways to secure funding.” He said, “We cannot resolve marine debris issues without mutual cooperation. I hope we can find a way to protect our invaluable beaches together.”
