Gyeongbuk Provincial Council member Yeon Gyusik (People Power Party, Pohang) announced on the 2nd that he has proposed the “Gyeongsangbuk-do Ordinance on Wetland Conservation and Management” to efficiently preserve and manage wetlands, which are a repository of biodiversity.
Gyeongbuk Province possesses 366 wetlands, including two designated wetland protection areas such as Sangju Gonggeomji and Mungyeong Dolline Wetland. In particular, the Mungyeong Dolline Wetland was designated as a Ramsar Wetland in February this year, highlighting its high value and the urgent need for conservation. Accordingly, this ordinance was proposed to establish an institutional foundation necessary for the systematic preservation and management of wetlands.
The main contents of the new ordinance include requiring the governor to establish a wetland conservation action plan every five years, and stipulating matters related to wetland surveys and the Wetland Conservation Committee.
Additionally, the ordinance allows for the implementation of projects necessary to increase residents’ income and promote welfare in wetland protection areas, and specifies the designation and management of outstanding wetlands with high ecological value for systematic conservation and management. It also includes provisions for fostering and supporting private organizations for wetland conservation, as well as education, publicity, information disclosure, and the promotion of international cooperation.
Yeon Gyusik stated, “Wetlands are a repository of biodiversity and are called the ‘kidneys of nature’ because they break down and filter various pollutants, playing an essential role in maintaining the environment and ecosystem,” adding, “Wetland conservation goes beyond simple environmental protection; it is the path to creating a sustainable future, including carbon neutrality.”
This ordinance is scheduled to be finally approved at the 2nd plenary session of the 349th Gyeongbuk Provincial Council temporary meeting on the 6th.
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