Busan Environmental Health Center Operated by Dong-A University Runs 'Environmental Health VR Experience Booth'

The Busan Environmental Health Center (Director: Hong Youngseup, professor at Dong-A University) and other regional environmental health centers operated an 'Environmental Health VR Experience Booth' to raise awareness among citizens about the risks of exposure to hazardous substances in celebration of World Environment Day, receiving a positive response.

This event was held at the site of the '2025 Environmental Hanmadang Festival' in Jeju Island on June 4 and 5, to commemorate World Environment Day (June 5). The festival was co-hosted by Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, the Ministry of Environment, and the National Institute of Environmental Research.

The experience booth, jointly operated by the regional environmental health centers of Busan, Jeju, and Chungbuk, featured VR (virtual reality) content themed around hazardous substances found in daily environments, such as phthalates, bisphenol A, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The experience content consisted of exposure pathways, health effects, and response measures, allowing citizens to virtually experience exposure scenarios and learn methods for prevention and mitigation.

Citizens who visited the booth commented, "It was beneficial to learn about hazardous chemicals that I was not previously aware of," and "It was the most interesting VR content I have experienced so far."

In addition to the VR experience, the Environmental Health Center also operated eco-friendly experience programs such as making pot holders from waste glass, creating keyrings by recycling coffee grounds, and producing plaster air fresheners using waste glass and seashells, providing opportunities for participants to directly experience the value of resource circulation and environmental protection.

The directors of the three regional centers stated, "This joint booth operation is an effective example of risk communication through inter-regional cooperation," and added, "We will continue to expand collaboration and communication with citizens for global environmental protection and a sustainable future."

Busan Environmental Health Center operated by Dong-A University is running an 'Environmental Health VR Experience Booth' and taking commemorative photos. Provided by Dong-A University