New Environment Minister Han Jeong-ae: "This Year Is the First to Turn Carbon Neutrality Declaration into Action"

Minister of Environment Han Jeong-ae. (Photo by archive)

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Joo Sang-don] Minister of Environment Han Jeong-ae emphasized on the 22nd that "2021 is the first year to turn the carbon neutrality declaration into action."

On this day, the new minister held an inauguration ceremony at the Government Complex Sejong and made this statement in her inaugural address.

Minister Han evaluated that this year the Ministry of Environment "stands at a historic turning point." She said, "The international community is launching a new climate regime, and Korea's transition to carbon neutrality is beginning in earnest," adding, "The future of the Republic of Korea will change depending on how we fasten the first button of carbon neutrality this year."

She cited carbon neutrality, performance, and inclusion as the policy directions for the Ministry of Environment this year. Minister Han stated, "We must share the necessity and vision of carbon neutrality with the public so that it becomes a goal for all citizens, and establish laws and systems for the carbon neutrality transition, such as annual greenhouse gas reduction implementation checks and climate change impact assessments," emphasizing, "Proactive practical efforts and challenges are needed to transform the existing economic and social structures."

Minister Han said that the Ministry of Environment will create visible achievements in areas that have laid the foundation for transition, such as reducing fine dust, which has increased public awareness, the Green New Deal, plastic reduction, and integrated water management. She said, "In core Green New Deal tasks such as the distribution of electric and hydrogen vehicles, environmental industry innovation, and smart green cities, we must definitely achieve results to serve as a catalyst for the carbon neutrality transition," adding, "As awareness of the plastic problem is rising, policies must be promoted from the perspective of the public."