Trash Collection Initiative Unites Hongcheon Village, Fostering Community Bonds

In the small village of Mulgeol 2-ri in Hongcheon, South Korea, residents have devised an innovative solution to their escalating waste problem: a community-driven system called 'Moa,' which translates to 'gather.' This initiative tackles the challenge of managing household trash, particularly after stricter regulations on burning waste led to unsightly accumulations.

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The phone calls to houses where no bags are out become a check-in on their well-being.

The 'Moa' system operates with designated residents taking on specific roles. 'Moazzangs,' like Choi Jong-hwa, a 74-year-old resident, collect trash directly from homes of those who are unable to bring it to the central point due to lack of a car or mobility issues. This daily collection, often taking about an hour, also serves as a welfare check, with Moazzangs calling residents if no trash bags are visible.

Recyclables are then brought to a central collection point at the village hall, managed by 'Moajigis.' These volunteers sort the materials, ensuring that the collected waste is properly processed through the local government's system. The collection point, housed under a solar panel structure, is kept meticulously clean by the Moajigis, dispelling initial concerns about it becoming an eyesore or a source of pests.

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I wasn't against the work itself. I just suggested a different location.

Initially, there was some resistance to placing the collection point near the village hall, considered the 'face of the village.' However, the project, which began as a pilot in 2022 with support from a regional problem-solving platform, gained traction after a village meeting and resident surveys. Now, even former critics are actively involved, like Jang Young-il, who now serves as the treasurer. The system has not only improved waste management but also fostered a stronger sense of community, with residents interacting more frequently at the collection point and sharing village news.

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Before, trash was just left in front of the house and that was the end of it, but now we bring it to the village hall, greet each other, and meet more often, which is nice.