Major retailers are joining a campaign to reduce gift wrapping and adornments to save costs and protect the environment ahead of the the Sept. 18-20 Chuseok holidays, according to the Ministry of Environment.

Major department stores, large supermarkets and online shopping malls promised to replace expensive ribbons and packaging with environmentally friendly materials for food gift packages.

The new practice aims to reduce the environmental impact and cut production costs for retailers. Getting rid of paper bands, which are usually put around fruit, is expected to save 1,500 won ($1.37) per package.

The ministry added that the participating firms would comply with environment-conscious packaging rules including the use of recyclable gift wrap.

Participating retailers include Hyundai, Shinsegae, Lotte and Galleria department stores and Emart, Homeplus and Hanaro Mart discount stores.

(monicasuk@heraldcorp.com)