Hankyochong Carbon Neutrality Symposium: "Protestants Aware of Environmental Issues but Passive"

[Asia Economy Reporter Seomideum] “Protestants have a higher awareness of climate and environmental issues than the general public, yet their level of proactiveness remains passive.”

On the 20th, at Zoe Hall on the 2nd floor of the Korea Christian Hall, Kim Jinyang, Vice President of GNCom Research, who presented at the ‘Carbon Neutral Creation Restoration Church Symposium’ (Carbon Neutral Symposium), stated this. He shared the results of a survey conducted from April 27 to May 9 at the request of the Korea Christian Council (HanGyoChong).

The symposium was part of the ‘2022 Carbon Neutral Creation Restoration Church Campaign’ project, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, hosted by the Korea Christian Council (HanGyoChong), and organized by the HanGyoChong Climate and Environment Committee.

The theme was “It was very good in His sight.” Representative Ryu Youngmo said, “Solving this crisis is not merely a policy issue but a theological one, so the church must take the lead,” and asked for participation in restoring the created world that is very good in God’s sight. Chairman Kim Jinbeom expressed concern in his welcoming remarks, saying, “The current situation is gradually worsening from the world that was good in God’s sight.”

The presentations were given by Pastor Lee Jinhyung, Vice President Kim Jinyang of GNCom Research, and Secretary General Shin Pyungsik of HanGyoChong. Pastor Lee diagnosed the causes of the climate crisis under the theme ‘Climate Crisis and the Response of the Korean Church.’ As solutions, he introduced ‘carbon emission reduction and a shift in awareness.’ Secretary General Shin introduced the ‘2022 Carbon Neutral Creation Restoration Church Campaign Operation Plan,’ explaining the joint sermon texts and joint prayers available for use in churches, as well as the research papers to be conducted by HanGyoChong and the themes of columns to be published over 20 installments in the future.