South Korea: The Korea Cement Association (KCA) says its members will increase the use of coal ash from local thermal power plants or source alternative raw materials from domestic clay mines. The decision follows a trade dispute between South Korea and Japan, according to the Aju Business Daily newspaper.
The Environment Ministry started to tighten rules concerning the import of coal ashes from Japan in August 2019 citing fears of radioactive and heavy metal contamination. Importers are now required to submit an authorised radioactive inspection report and the analysis of heavy metal components. The KCA said its members use 3.15Mt/yr of coal ash and 1.28Mt/yr is imported from Japan.
