Busan Port to Undertake Major Cleanup of Submerged Waste Tires

South Korea's Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is launching a major operation to clear submerged waste tires from the seabed of Busan Port, a critical hub for maritime activity. The initiative, set to run from July 22 to September 2, involves a budget of 375 million won (approximately $280,000 USD).

The primary focus will be on the southern and northern harbors of Busan Port, where a significant accumulation of discarded tires has been identified. These tires were largely used as protective fenders for ships to absorb impact during docking. Over time, they have fallen into the sea, contributing to marine pollution and potentially releasing microplastics. Additionally, submerged tires can pose a risk to the safe navigation of vessels.

An investigation conducted last year across major national ports revealed that Busan Port has the largest concentration of submerged waste tires. The upcoming collection effort is based on detailed surveys and design work completed between March and May. The operation aims to retrieve approximately 131 tons of tires, estimated to be around 1,200 individual units, from a total area of 77 hectares. Specific zones include the waters around Busan South Port (35 hectares, 86 tons) and areas near North Port's Pier 5, Gamman Citizen Pier, and Cheonghak Wharf (42 hectares, 45 tons).

Professional divers will be deployed for the underwater retrieval, using ropes to secure the tires before they are lifted by crane. The work in North Port is scheduled to conclude by August 23, while the South Port operation will continue until September 2. Hwang Jun-seong, Director of Marine Environment Policy at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of responsibility. "To reduce submerged waste tires, it is crucial for ship owners to replace old fenders promptly to prevent loss and to take responsibility for collecting them if they are lost," Hwang stated. The ministry plans to continue tire removal operations while also working to enhance accountability among those operating in the maritime sector.

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To reduce submerged waste tires, it is crucial for ship owners to replace old fenders promptly to prevent loss and to take responsibility for collecting them if they are lost. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will continue tire removal operations while also working to enhance accountability among those operating in the maritime sector.