Han Jeong-ae "2030 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target Increase, 추진 Within Moon Government Term"

Environment Minister nominee Han Jeong-ae is attending the confirmation hearing held by the Environment and Labor Committee at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the morning of the 20th. 2021.1.20
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Son Sun-hee] Han Jeong-ae, the nominee for Minister of Environment, stated that her top priority will be to raise the 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target (NDC) and revise related legislation.

On the 20th, the National Assembly's Environment and Labor Committee held a confirmation hearing for nominee Han, verifying her qualifications and morality. In her written responses submitted to the National Assembly prior to the hearing, when asked about the "top priority of the Ministry of Environment," she said, "The most important focus should be on establishing a solid foundation for carbon neutrality to prevent the increasingly visible climate crisis, such as prolonged monsoon seasons."

She added, "Based on reduction scenarios, I will strive to raise the 2030 reduction target within the government's term through sufficient discussions with industry, civil society, and the National Assembly."

To this end, she also announced plans to establish a control tower within the ministry. The current Office of Living Environment Policy will be reorganized into the "Climate Carbon Policy Office (tentative name)" to lead and promote climate and carbon neutrality-related policies such as climate impact assessments and the introduction of climate funds.

The "2050 Carbon Neutrality" declared by President Moon Jae-in is a cross-ministerial task. Nominee Han said, "The Ministry of Environment will do its best to serve as the central hub in the cross-ministerial cooperation system as the practical lead ministry for carbon neutrality."

Regarding concerns that the ruling party's "Gadeokdo New Airport" project will cause environmental destruction and increase greenhouse gas emissions, she expressed a general stance, saying, "We will thoroughly conduct environmental impact assessment consultations to minimize environmental impacts." Nominee Han explained, "Through strategic environmental impact assessments and environmental impact assessments of the airport plan and project, we will closely review the validity of the location, the appropriateness of the plan, and environmental impacts to enhance environmental soundness."

At the same time, she added, "I believe the Gadeokdo New Airport is a necessary project for reducing logistics costs and balanced development in the southeastern region," thereby supporting the project's promotion.