By Honorary Reporter Fotini Chatzoudi from Greece
Photos = Fotini Chatzoudi

I entered the calendar and wallpaper contest for Korea.net's mascot Kocnuni under the theme ''Going Green'' after being impressed by the Korean recycling system. The contest began on March 15 and ended on March 29. What left the biggest impression on me was how Koreans use specific waste bags to separate their trash, like those for discarded food. I created wallpaper featuring recycling bins in Korea such as those for plastic, aluminum and paper. Kocnuni wears a necklace with the universal recycling symbol, one of the world's most recognizable. Behind Kocnuni, I drew a plant to symbolize the environment that needs protection. For the wallpaper, I chose a city-shaped design to match the theme and minimal illustrations. 

My Kocnuni calendar and wallpaper

Differences in recycling between Greece and Korea 
Like most Greek cities, Thessaloniki, where, I live has one type of recycling bin to handle trash, though entertainment venues such as bars have separate bins to handle glass waste. Korea, however, has approximately six types of recycling bins and separate garbage cans for food waste, and biodegradable waste bags are used.

Greece has one type of recycling bin while Korea has six. 

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.