SEOUL, March 24 (AJP)-Leaving cars behind once a week and tightening garbage supply are emerging as everyday inconveniences for South Koreans, as prolonged Gulf tensions begin to disrupt factories.
The government on Tuesday rolled out nationwide energy-saving measures, urging both public and private sectors to cut consumption as supply uncertainties deepen.
A voluntary five-day vehicle rotation system was introduced for private cars, alongside 12 practical guidelines — from using public transport to maintaining indoor temperatures and switching to high-efficiency appliances.
In the public sector, authorities will strengthen inspections of the mandatory vehicle rotation system already in place. Institutions that fail to comply may face warnings and other administrative measures. The government also called on the private sector to participate voluntarily.
The move comes as energy supply uncertainties have increased due to instability in the Middle East. The same factors have also disrupted naphtha imports, prompting domestic petrochemical companies to cut production and worsening raw material supply conditions.
At a plastic film manufacturing plant in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province, some production lines have been halted due to unstable polyethylene supply. Several companies have also reduced their workforce as operational pressures mount.
The government said it will continue to closely monitor the energy supply situation and stressed the need for public participation in conservation efforts.
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