CJ CheilJedang has partnered with the Korea Zero Waste Movement Network and CJ Foodville to promote sustainable practices by replacing single-use petroleum-based plastic straws with biodegradable PHA straws at 20 participating stores
CJ CheilJedang announced that it is launching the “Be Straw Free” campaign to reduce the use of single-use, petroleum-based plastic straws, in collaboration with the environmental NGO Korea Zero Waste Movement Network and CJ Foodville.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about resource circulation and encourage everyday actions that help address the climate crisis, with the goal of accelerating the transition toward a carbon-neutral society. Participating stores will no longer provide single-use, petroleum-based plastic straws at the counter. Instead, biodegradable PHA straws will be offered upon customer request. Starting November 10, the initiative was rolled out across 20 locations, including 18 cafés in Gangneung and two CJ Foodville-operated TOUS les JOURS stores.
Through this campaign, CJ CheilJedang seeks to encourage consumers to actively reduce their use of single-use petroleum-based plastic straws, while promoting biodegradable PHA straws as a sustainable alternative. PHA, which is compostable, is gaining attention as a material well-aligned with the trend of de-plasticization. It also has the advantage of leaving no microplastic residue in the environment.
Recently, global franchise chains have started to ramp up their adoption of PHA straws. In line with this movement, CJ CheilJedang secured a marine biodegradable certification last month from the global certification body TÜV AUSTRIA for its PHA-based straw material, laying the groundwork for broader commercial adoption both in Korea and abroad.
PHA is a biopolymer naturally produced when microorganisms consume plant-derived ingredients and store them within their cells. It can break down not only in industrial and home composting environments but also in soil and marine conditions. Beyond straws, PHA is already being used in areas such as cosmetic packaging and infill for artificial turf, and its applications can expand further to new uses like paper coatings and cutlery. CJ CheilJedang began commercial production of PHA in 2022 under its biodegradable materials brand PHACT.
A CJ CheilJedang spokesperson said, “PHA straws are biodegradable and highly durable, allowing them to overcome the limitations of traditional petroleum-based plastic and paper straws. We will continue to strengthen our ESG initiatives to help build a circular economy, leveraging the advantages of PHA as we move forward.”
